Information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide technology to provide a user with more interesting experiences.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes at least one device. The information processing system includes at least one processor capable of executing a program so that the following steps can be performed. In a first reception step, position information on a specific user that is at least one of a plurality of users is received from the specific user. The position information is included in a region based on a predetermined section. On the predetermined section, transaction information on a transaction performed by a plurality of users is managed on a block chain. In an update step, a virtual space corresponding to the region is updated on the basis of the position information received from the specific user. In an imparting step, a reward is imparted to at least one of the plurality of users on the basis of the transaction information when the position information is received or the virtual space is updated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a video game processing program. In this video game processing program, when the progress of a video game is controlled using a virtual space corresponding to a real map and position information of a user terminal, the positions of objects appearing in the video game are registered in association with the user. The object associated with the user is displayed in the virtual space when the user selects it. When the object associated with the user is selected by the user, an event corresponding to the object occurs. When the user satisfies a predetermined condition related to an object located in the virtual space, points are given to the user. In exchange for consuming points owned by the user, an event corresponding to the object occurs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-10974 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is still room for improvement in the known techniques.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure provides a technology that can provide a more interesting experience to a user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing system is provided that includes at least one device. The information processing system includes at least one processor that is capable of executing a program to perform the following steps. In a first receiving step, location information of a specific user, which is at least one of a plurality of users, is received from the specific user. The location information is included in an area based on a predetermined section. Transaction information of transactions performed by the multiple users with respect to the predetermined section is managed on a blockchain. In an updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information received from the specific user. In a granting step, a reward is granted to at least one of the multiple users based on the transaction information when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a more interesting experience to the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a first information processing device 2a according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 shows an example of an AR game progressed by the first information processing device 2a, and in particular FIG. 4A shows manholes 51 and 52 included in the imaging data IM, and FIG. 4B shows a state in which AR information IF4 is superimposed. [Diagram 5] This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 6] This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 7]This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a city-building game progressed by a first information processing device 2a. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0010] Incidentally, a program for realizing the software appearing in one embodiment may be provided as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, or may be provided so as to be downloadable from an external server, or may be provided so that the program is launched on an external computer and its functions are realized on a client terminal (so-called cloud computing).

[0011] In one embodiment, the term "unit" may include, for example, a combination of hardware resources implemented by a circuit in the broad sense and software information processing that can be specifically realized by these hardware resources. In one embodiment, various information is handled, and this information is represented by, for example, physical values ​​of signal values ​​representing voltage and current, high and low signal values ​​as a binary bit collection consisting of 0 or 1, or quantum superposition (so-called quantum bits), and communication and calculation can be performed on the circuit in the broad sense.

[0012] In addition, a circuit in the broad sense is a circuit realized by at least appropriately combining a circuit, circuitry, a processor, and a memory, etc. In other words, it includes an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), etc.

[0013] 1. Game Description Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1, a plurality of information processing devices 2 and a plurality of user terminals 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the user terminals 3. That is, the information processing system 1 is composed of at least one device.

[0014] The game according to one embodiment is an online game executed by the information processing system 1. In this game, a user of a user terminal 3 causes one or more player characters to act in a virtual game space, and causes the player characters to fight against enemy characters that are non-player characters. The characters are an example of objects.

[0015] The above-mentioned game is executed using a user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 is a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), or an electronic device such as a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. Preferably, the user terminal 3 is a smartphone having a camera function and a GPS (Global Positioning System) function. With the camera function, outside world information is captured as an image. With the GPS function, position information IF1 (for example, latitude and longitude information IF1a, etc.) of the user terminal 3 in real space is grasped.

[0016] 2. Overview of Information Processing System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, an information processing system 1 is composed of a plurality of information processing devices 2 and a plurality of user terminals 3. Of the plurality of information processing devices 2, a first information processing device 2a stores game programs and game data, and manages game data (for each account information described below) of the user terminal 3. The information processing device 2 is composed of, for example, a server. In particular, each of the user terminals 3 for playing a game has the same configuration as each other. Note that, in one embodiment, a system is composed of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, even the information processing device 2 or the user terminal 3 described below alone can be an example of the information processing system 1.

[0017] The user terminal 3 executes a predetermined game based on the user's operation. To this end, the user terminal 3 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the first information processing device 2a via the communication network 11. Each user is assigned account information including identification information and a password in association with the user terminal 3. This account information is transmitted from the user terminal 3 to the first information processing device 2a at the time of login, and is used for user authentication in the first information processing device 2a.

[0018] After user authentication, it becomes possible for the first information processing device 2a to communicate with the user terminal 3. After logging in, the user terminal 3 receives data required for game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the first information processing device 2a, and progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and speaker 4b based on the user's operation.

[0019] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware component of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0020] <Information processing device 2> 1, the information processing device 2 includes a first information processing device 2a that is mainly managed by a person who creates a game, and a second information processing device 2b that is mainly managed by a person who provides a digital twin environment (a virtual space VS including an open environment or a closed environment), both of which have approximately the same configuration. In other words, the first information processing device 2a is a game server, and the second information processing device 2b is a server that manages the virtual space VS. The information processing device 2 has a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The communication unit 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a communication bus 20.

[0021] The communication unit 21 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to each user terminal 3 via a communication network 11 such as the Internet and a LAN. Main information received by the first information processing device 2a of the information processing devices 2 via the communication unit 21 includes download request information for a game program, a request for a gacha lottery in response to a user's operation, a request for executing a quest, a request for executing / ending autoplay, account information, game data, etc. Main information transmitted by the first information processing device 2a via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the user terminal 3 has received the game program, information regarding the game media obtained by the gacha, etc.

[0022] The storage unit 22 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs including a part of the game program according to one embodiment, various data related to the game, etc.

[0023] Specifically, for example, the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a stores a user DB, a lottery list, and the like. In the user DB, for each identification number (account information) of a user who plays a game, information such as a user name, a user rank, information on the status of a player character operated by the user, the amount of consumable media usable in the virtual game space, information on parameters, and the like are stored in association with each other. The lottery list is used for a lottery process generally called gacha, and includes a plurality of pieces of information on game media to be selected. In the lottery list, information on the game media (such as name, ability parameters, rarity, and level) is associated with a selection ratio by lottery. In addition, the ability parameters include, for example, fighting power, HP, attack power, defense power, intelligence, speed, and the like when the game media is a player character.

[0024] The control unit 23 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and a semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the information processing device 2, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit 23 realizes various functions related to the information processing device 2, which is the device itself, by reading out a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 22. That is, information processing by the software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, so that each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and may be implemented to have multiple control units 23 for each function. Also, a combination of these may be used. In other words, the information processing system 1 has at least one processor capable of executing a program that causes each unit described below to function.

[0025] Examples of information processing executed by the control unit 23 include a charge settlement process, a user account authentication process, and a gacha lottery selection process. The charge settlement process is executed, for example, based on a request for a charge required to restore a predetermined amount of parameters during the game. The user account authentication process is executed, for example, using user identification information received from the user terminal 3. The gacha lottery selection process is a process in which, in response to a gacha lottery request, one or more game media are selected by lottery from a lottery list based on the selection probability for each game medium. According to the gacha lottery selection process, information on the selected game media and identification information of the user who performed the operation that is the source of the lottery request are associated in the user DB, and the user is thereby granted the game media that he or she won as a result of drawing the gacha.

[0026] Here, to further supplement the above, the "game medium" is electronic data representing elements related to the game, including the name of the character used as the player character, items (weapons, armor, tools) used by the player character in the virtual game space, etc. The user can obtain the game medium by a lottery method called gacha, in addition to direct purchase by charging or clearing a quest. The obtained game medium is stored and managed in the user DB in association with the identification information of the user who has come to own the game medium. Furthermore, "gacha" is a method in which the information processing device 2 selects an arbitrary game medium from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection ratio by lottery. The arbitrary selected game medium is given to the user terminal 3 (stored in association with the account information). "Giving the game medium selected by gacha to the user / the user owns it" is synonymous with "associating / being associated with the game medium selected by the lottery process with the identification information indicating the user."

[0027] <User terminal 3> 1, a display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c are externally connected or built into the user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 also has a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, a graphic processing unit 34a, an audio processing unit 34b, and an operation unit 34c. The communication unit 31, the storage unit 32, the graphic processing unit 34a, the audio processing unit 34b, and the operation unit 34c are electrically connected to the control unit 33 via a communication bus 30.

[0028] The communication unit 31 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to the communication network 11 in order to transmit and receive various data between the user terminal 3 and the information processing device 2. Examples of main information that the user terminal 3 receives through the communication unit 31 include account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, and a quest execution request. Examples of main information that the user terminal 3 transmits through the communication unit 31 include new game data sent from the information processing device 2 in response to the download request information, and information on the game medium selected by the lottery process. In particular, the communication unit 31 is configured to acquire latitude and longitude information IF1a (an example of location information IF1) through a GPS function. Note that GPS is a system composed of multiple GPS satellites 12 and a terrestrial receiver. The communication unit 31 is an example of a terrestrial GPS receiver. The communication unit 31 receives signals from at least four GPS satellites 12 and measures the delay of the signal from each GPS satellite 12. Using this delay information, latitude and longitude information IF1a, which is the current location of the user holding the user terminal 3, is acquired.

[0029] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 32 stores game data downloaded from the first information processing device 2a, various programs including a part of the game program, account information of the user terminal 3 which is the device itself, user information, etc. The user information is at least a part of the information in a user DB stored in the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a. The user DB manages a master of the user information, and the storage unit 32 of the user terminal 3 stores at least a part of the information in the master that is distributed from the first information processing device 2a.

[0030] The control unit 33 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and a semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the user terminal 3, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit 33 realizes various functions related to the user terminal 3, which is the device itself, by reading out a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 32. That is, information processing by the software stored in the storage unit 32 is specifically realized by the control unit 33, which is an example of hardware, so that each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 33 is not limited to being single, and may be implemented with multiple control units 33 for each function. Also, a combination of these may be used.

[0031] In particular, the control unit 33 is configured to execute the game according to the operation of the input device 4c by the user of the user terminal 3, which is the own device. Specifically, the control unit 33 reads out data such as virtual game space objects and textures included in the game data from the storage unit 32, or generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information using data received from the first information processing device 2a. The game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 34a, and the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 4a. In other words, the control unit 33 is configured to perform display control of the display 4a and audio output control of the speaker 4b according to the operation of the user of the user terminal 3, which is the own device, when executing the game.

[0032] The graphic processing unit 34a renders game images including characters and various objects related to the virtual game space in a moving image format according to game image information output from the control unit 33. The graphic processing unit 34a is connected to the display 4a, which is, for example, a liquid crystal type, and the game images rendered in a moving image format are displayed on the display 4a as a game screen. The audio processing unit 34b is connected to the speaker 4b, and reproduces and synthesizes game sounds according to instructions from the control unit 33, and outputs the sounds from the speaker 4b. The operation unit 34c is connected to the input device 4c, and transmits and receives data related to operation inputs between the input device 4c and the input device 4c. The user inputs operation signals to the user terminal 3 by operating the input device 4c. The input device 4c is a general term for a touch panel integrated with the display 4a, an external game pad, a mouse, a keyboard, and the like. As described above, in a preferred embodiment, the user terminal 3 is a smartphone with a camera function, and the input device 4c includes a built-in camera 41 that can obtain information of the outside world as an image.

[0033] <Blockchain BC> Blockchain BC is a system in which transaction data showing the history of past processing is divided into blocks of a certain capacity, and these blocks are arranged and linked in order. Each block of blockchain BC has a hash value of the previous block, and is managed in a distributed manner by each of multiple user terminals 3 that serve as nodes. This improves tamper resistance. The P2P network to which these multiple user terminals 3 are connected is a network that shares blockchain BC.

[0034] In addition, there are DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) formed with a common purpose through these blockchains BC. A plurality of users belong to the DAO, and transaction information IF2 based on rules agreed upon between the users is managed on the blockchain BC as, for example, smart contract information IF2a. In other words, the transaction information IF2 is smart contract information IF2a that is automatically executed based on rules agreed upon within the DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) to which a plurality of users belong. According to this embodiment, autonomous efforts can be managed with high reliability for the development of the virtual space VS described below.

[0035] 2.2 Functional Configuration Next, the functional configuration of the first information processing device 2a of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0036] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a first information processing device 2a according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the control unit 23 (processor) executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22 to function as a reception unit 231, a game control unit 232, a calculation unit 233, an update unit 234, an assignment unit 235, and a display control unit 236. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 23.

[0037] The reception unit 231 is configured to receive various information as a first or second reception step. For example, the reception unit 231 receives user account information, game data, input from the user, and the like from the storage unit 22, the user terminal 3, or other external devices. For example, the reception unit 231 receives position information IF1 (for example, latitude and longitude information IF1a) of a specific user who is at least one of the multiple users from the specific user as a first reception step. Details will be described later.

[0038] The game control unit 232 is configured to control the progress of various games as a game control step. For example, the game control unit 232 progresses a game played by multiple users as a game control step. Details will be described later.

[0039] The calculation unit 233 is configured to execute, as a calculation step, calculations or processes relating to various information processing.

[0040] As an update step, the update unit 234 updates various information managed by the device itself, or makes the external device update information managed by the external device. For example, as an update step, the update unit 234 updates the virtual space VS corresponding to the area based on the position information IF1 received from a specific user. Details will be described later.

[0041] The granting unit 235 is configured to grant various rewards to the user as a granting step. The reward is some kind of benefit or privilege that the user can enjoy in real space or virtual space. It is not limited to objects or media, but also includes advantageous effects and rights given to the user. The privilege is, for example, a digital asset issued by NFT, virtual currency, game media that can be used in a game, an item that can be used in a virtual space, etc. The right is, for example, a right to hold a lottery called gacha. Note that virtual spaces that are different from the real world include game spaces, digital twins, metaverse spaces, etc., and are spaces in which avatars and the like are active in the virtual world. In addition, the advantageous effects given to the user include effects for improving the interest of the user in the virtual space compared to normal times. In other words, the advantageous effects include effects for improving the interest of the virtual space through the user's five senses, such as displaying special visual effects on the display 4a, enriching the display of images, generating special background music and sound effects, and imparting vibration to the input device 4c.

[0042] The display control unit 236 is configured to execute a process for displaying, as a first display step or a second display step, various pieces of information stored in the storage unit 32 or screens including the same in a visible manner on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. As an example, the display control unit 236 may generate visual information itself generated in a manner visible to humans, such as a screen, an image (e.g., a still image or a video), an icon, text, etc., or may generate rendering information for displaying the visual information on the display 4a, for example, and transmit the same.

[0043] 3. Overview of information processing An information processing system 1 according to an embodiment includes at least one device. The first information processing device 2a is a game server, and the second information processing device 2b is a server that manages the virtual space VS. The blockchain BC is a system in which distributed management is performed with a plurality of user terminals 3 as nodes. The user has an account for a game provided by the first information processing device 2a, and belongs to a DAO for supporting a predetermined real-world division. Here, the predetermined division is a predetermined local government (hereinafter, a local government). The local government includes an ordinary local government and a special local government. The virtual space VS managed by the second information processing device 2b is a so-called digital twin environment. That is, at least a part of buildings, facilities, infrastructure, etc. in the real space is also reproduced in the virtual space VS. The virtual space VS includes a digital twin environment of a predetermined local government supported by the user.

[0044] The information constituting the virtual space VS can be updated by the material provided by the user. The user takes an image of a building or infrastructure equipment (an example of outside world information) currently existing in a specific municipality using the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3, and directly or indirectly transmits the image data IM together with latitude and longitude information IF1a obtained by the GPS function of the user terminal 3 to the second information processing device 2b, thereby updating the information of the virtual space VS corresponding to the outside world information. Updating the information of the virtual space VS is not limited to updating the information itself constituting the virtual space VS, but also includes changing a flag indicating that new information is included from 0 to 1. In summary, in the following description, a situation is assumed in which multiple users, under the common motivation of wanting to support a specific municipality, take part in voluntary activities such as moving their legs, and as a result, a digital twin environment corresponding to the municipality develops. In particular, since the virtual space VS is a digital twin environment, such an embodiment can further popularize and develop the digital twin environment in society.

[0045] 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1. Below, the flow of a series of information processing will be outlined with reference to this sequence diagram.

[0046] First, assume that a new user joins a DAO to support a specific local government (step S001). Specifically, a governance token of the DAO is issued to the new user.

[0047] Next, transaction information IF2 including rules within the DAO for the specified local government is defined or updated (step S002). Specifically, various information such as the name, address, age, and game account of a new user may be added to the blockchain BC as information on members of the DAO supporting the specified local government. The transaction information IF2 may be updated not only when a new user joins, but also whenever new rules are defined. In other words, transaction information IF2 of transactions executed by multiple users for a predetermined area (here, the specified local area itself) is managed on the blockchain BC.

[0048] Next, within the DAO, a task ticket is issued for updating information in the virtual space VS of a specific local government (step S003). Then, the task ticket is assigned to at least one user constituting the DAO (step S004). Hereinafter, the user to whom the task is assigned will be referred to as a specific user. Note that the content of the task included in the task ticket may be determined by the opinions of multiple users constituting the DAO. In other words, the task ticket is an example of task information IF3 that manages tasks agreed upon by multiple users constituting the DAO. Then, task information IF3 is further managed on the blockchain BC.

[0049] Next, the specific user performs the task specified in the task ticket. In this task, the specific user is required to actually visit a building or the like currently existing in a specific municipality and capture the building or the like as a landscape (an example of outside world information). That is, the specific user captures the specified landscape with the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3, and the captured image data IM is stored in the storage unit 32. The captured image data IM may be still image data or video data. The specific user's behavior is based on the idea of ​​wanting to support or liven up a specific municipality, and the specific user does not necessarily need to be a resident of the specific municipality. It can be said that the specific user is a user who has registered the local municipality corresponding to the location information IF1 in his / her account. According to this aspect, a specific user who wants to support a local municipality can develop the local municipality even if he / she is not a resident. Preferably, a level of activity is set for each user belonging to the DAO according to the number of actions or comments made within the DAO. The type, number, and timing of acquisition of task tickets that can be acquired may differ depending on the level. This embodiment can encourage more activity within the DAO.

[0050] Furthermore, following the imaging in step S005, without leaving the location, the specific user shares the imaging data IM captured by the external device in order to update the virtual space VS. In one embodiment, the user terminal 3 transmits the imaging data IM to the first information processing device 2a, which is a game server, and the information is also shared with the second information processing device 2b, which manages the virtual space VS, via the first information processing device 2a. At this time, the user terminal 3 transmits the imaging data IM and position information IF1 relating to the current position to the first information processing device 2a via the communication unit 31 and the communication network 11 (step S006). In other words, this position information IF1 is included in an area based on a predetermined section (a predetermined local area itself).

[0051] In other words, the reception unit 231 receives, as a first reception step, location information IF1 (for example, latitude and longitude information IF1a) of a specific user who is at least one of the multiple users from the specific user. The reception unit 231 further receives imaging data IM including outside world information captured by the specific user. In this manner, it is possible to guarantee the authenticity of the transmitted imaging data IM that has been captured by the specific user himself. More specifically, the reception unit 231 receives location information IF1 corresponding to task information IF3 from the specific user. Since the authenticity of the task information IF3 is guaranteed on the blockchain BC, it is possible to prevent fraud such as tampering with the task. According to such an embodiment, autonomous efforts can be managed with high reliability for the development of the virtual space VS.

[0052] Next, the first information processing device 2a receives the position information IF1 and the imaging data IM from the user terminal 3, and the game in which the specific user has an account progresses (step S007). Then, the specific user experiences the progress of the game through the user terminal 3 (step S008). The content of the game is not limited, but it is preferable that the game is a game in which multiple users belonging to the DAO become players. In other words, the game control unit 232 progresses the game played by multiple users as a game control step. In addition, the game here may be one that gives the user an augmented reality (a so-called AR game), and in the progress of the game, a virtual object (an example of AR information IF4) may be superimposed on at least a part of the imaging data IM captured by the specific user. This will be described in more detail later.

[0053] Next, the first information processing device 2a further transmits the position information IF1 and the imaging data IM shared in step S006 to the second information processing device 2b via the communication unit 21 and the communication network 11 (step S009).

[0054] Next, the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b updates the information of the virtual space VS stored in the storage unit 22 based on the information shared in step S009 (step S010). That is, the relevant part in the virtual space VS is updated so as to correspond to the outside world information captured by the specific user. In other words, the update unit 234 of the first information processing device 2a, as an update step, causes the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b to update the relevant part (the virtual space VS corresponding to the area) based on the position information IF1 and the imaging data IM received from the specific user. According to this aspect, the virtual space VS can be developed by a plurality of users who want to support an area based on a predetermined section, based on the imaging data IM captured by each of them. After that, the fact that the relevant part of the virtual space VS has been updated is registered on the blockchain BC (step S011).

[0055] Next, smart contract information IF2a, which is one of the transaction information IF2 previously managed in the blockchain BC, is activated. Note that a smart contract is an automated contract based on blockchain technology. The smart contract information IF2a is written as a program code and is automatically executed when a predefined condition is achieved. Since the smart contract information IF2a is stored on the blockchain BC, its contents are transparent and difficult to tamper with. By adopting such technology, it is possible to eliminate a centralized intermediary and reduce the cost of transactions, although a fee (so-called gas fee) is incurred. In one embodiment, the smart contract information IF2a is information that automates a contract that, when the virtual space VS is updated, a specific user who captured the imaging data IM that contributed to the update of the corresponding part is given a predetermined reward. In other words, a reward is given to the specific user by the activation of the smart contract information IF2a in step S012.

[0056] In addition, the contract contents of the smart contract information IF2a are not particularly limited as long as they are determined among multiple users belonging to the DAO, and the predefined conditions may be other than the update of the virtual space VS. For example, the predefined conditions may be the transmission of the imaging data IM and the transaction information IF2 to the first information processing device 2a in step S006. Furthermore, the predefined conditions may be such that a reward is given to a user other than the specific user. In other words, the granting unit 235 may grant a reward to at least one of the multiple users (e.g., a specific user) based on the smart contract information IF2a (an example of the transaction information IF2) as a granting step when the location information IF1 is received or when the virtual space VS is updated.

[0057] In one embodiment, the granting unit 235 grants a reward related to the game. For example, a reward related to the game progressed in step S007 is granted as a reward. That is, information processing related to the granting of the reward is executed in the first information processing device 2a (step S013). Specifically, the calculation unit 233 of the first information processing device 2a that manages the game associates the reward related to the game with the account of the specific user and stores it in the storage unit 22. In addition, the specific user can check the content of the granted reward via the display 4a of his / her own user terminal 3 as necessary (step S014).

[0058] In summary, an information processing method according to an embodiment includes the following steps. In the receiving step, location information IF1 of a specific user, which is at least one of a plurality of users, is received from the specific user. The location information IF1 is included in an area based on a predetermined section. The location information IF1 is managed on the blockchain BC as transaction information IF2 of transactions performed by a plurality of users with respect to the predetermined section. In the updating step, the virtual space VS corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information IF1 received from the specific user. In the granting step, when the location information IF1 is received or the virtual space VS is updated, a reward is granted to at least one of the plurality of users based on the transaction information IF2. Also, a program for executing each of the above steps may be provided to at least one computer. According to such an embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0059] For example, economic effects such as increased attention to a given local government and an increase in the actual population can be realized. This leads to regional revitalization, such as attracting people to regional areas, increasing the income of people in regional areas, and promoting the attractions of regional areas. In addition, it is possible to expose various users to the attractions of places other than tourist spots, and to provide health benefits through walking, etc. In addition, by outsourcing the collection of regional data, the administrator of the first information processing device 2a can reduce the cost of managing and maintaining information on the virtual space VS, and can also improve the quality of the virtual space VS.

[0060] 4. Details of data processing In this section, the details of the information processing outlined in the previous section will be explained using additional figures etc.

[0061] 4.1 AR games FIG. 4 shows an example of an AR game progressed by the first information processing device 2a, and in particular FIG. 4A shows manholes 51 and 52 included in the imaging data IM, and FIG. 4B shows a state in which AR information IF4 is superimposed. Both manholes 51 and 52 are under the jurisdiction of a specific local government, and may be included in the outside world information specified as a task. When a specific user holds the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3 over the manholes 51 and 52, a screen 6 shown in FIG. 4B is displayed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. In the screen 6, in addition to the physically existing manholes 51 and 52, characters 61 and 62 and text information 61a, 62a, and 63, which are AR information IF4, are superimposed and drawn.

[0062] In one embodiment, the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a stores image data of objects (external world information) such as manholes 51 and 52, latitude and longitude information IF1a of the objects, and AR information IF4 to be superimposed in advance in association with each other. For example, when the external world information visually recognized through the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3 and the latitude and longitude information IF1a match information previously stored in the storage unit 22, the display control unit 236 of the first information processing device 2a may display the AR information IF4 on the display 4a of the user terminal 3 in a superimposed manner. Of course, the condition does not necessarily require a match of the latitude and longitude information IF1a.

[0063] Furthermore, different AR information IF4 may be added according to a combination of a plurality of objects stored as outside world information in the storage unit 22. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, both manhole 51 and manhole 52 are reflected in the screen 6. In this case, not only AR information IF4 corresponding to manhole 51 (for example, character 61 and text information 61a) and AR information IF4 corresponding to manhole 52 (for example, character 62 and text information 62a) are drawn, but also text information 63 with "VS" written on it is drawn. After that, a battle game between character 61 and character 62 may be started. In other words, the receiving unit 231 receives at least one image data IM including different pieces of outside world information from a specific user. The AR information is determined to be different according to the combination of the plurality of pieces of outside world information. According to such an embodiment, it is possible to allow the user to experience various augmented realities.

[0064] More preferably, the user who plays such an AR game may be a user who has completed the above-mentioned task. Such an AR game may be progressed as step S007 in FIG. 3. Also, AR information IF4 may be added to the actually captured imaging data IM after the fact. For example, in the example of FIG. 4, the manholes 51 and 52 are drawn on the same screen 6, but may be acquired as separate imaging data IM, and the user may specify these imaging data IM to add AR information IF4 corresponding to the combination. In other words, the display control unit 236, as the first display step, displays AR information different from the external world information superimposed on the external world information included in the imaging data IM after capturing the imaging data IM. According to such an embodiment, when the user transmits the imaging data IM, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0065] The manholes 51 and 52 are infrastructure components, and the purpose of investigating the deterioration of such infrastructure components can be achieved. The manholes 51 and 52 are examples, and utility poles, electric wires, signs, gas facilities, water facilities, roads, railroad networks, park playground equipment, etc. are also assumed. The AR information IF4 of the characters 61 and 62, etc. is merely an example, and images or videos of real people such as 3D model objects, entertainers, or popular YouTubers may be added as the AR information IF4, or game music, etc. may be played.

[0066] 4.2 DAO 5 to 7 show an example of a user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. For example, Discord (registered trademark) may be used to operate the DAO. Referring to FIG. 5, screen 7a (one of screens 7) includes areas 701 to 704 and buttons 705 to 707.

[0067] In area 701, text information "User ID: Ai" is drawn. In area 702, an icon associated with Ai is drawn. For example, if "Lin Tropical Fish Village" exists as a local government (local government) in Japan, then in area 703, text information "Lin Tropical Fish Village" is drawn as the local government in which the user is registered. In other words, a user with user ID Ai supports the local government called Lin Tropical Fish Village.

[0068] In the area 704, text information such as "Taking pictures of the Silver Star Club" and "Taking pictures of the Heroine Ranch of Memories" is drawn as tasks assigned to the user. That is, the user with the user ID Ai is assigned task information IF3 such as "Taking pictures of the Silver Star Club" and "Taking pictures of the inside of the Heroine Ranch of Memories." The accomplishment of these tasks corresponds to step S005 in FIG. 3.

[0069] The buttons 705 to 707 are configured to receive a pressing operation by the user. The pressing operation is, for example, a tapping operation or a clicking operation. When the buttons 705 to 707 are pressed by the user, a transition is made to another screen associated with each of the buttons 705 to 707. For example, when the button 705 on which the text information "Interact in the Guild" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a community tool screen (not shown) that allows information exchange by chat or voice with other users belonging to the same DAO. When the button 706 on which the text information "New Task" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a screen 7b shown in FIG. 6. When the button 707 on which the text information "Completed Task" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a screen 7c shown in FIG. 7.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 6, screen 7b (one of screens 7) includes areas 701-703, 708, and buttons 709a-709d, 710. Explanation of elements common to screen 7a will be omitted. In area 708, text information such as "Taking pictures of New Moon Hall", "Taking pictures of Cafe de Twinkle", "Taking pictures of Aitoma Junior High School" and "Taking pictures of Midnight Angel Drive" is drawn as new tasks currently being recruited. In other words, it is confirmed that these tasks (task information IF3) are not assigned to any users belonging to the DAO, and users who will perform the tasks are being recruited within the DAO. In addition, buttons 709a-709d on the right of each task are arranged, on which text information "Apply" is drawn. By pressing each of the buttons 709a-709d, it is possible to apply for the issuance of the corresponding task ticket. The task ticket may be issued immediately or via some kind of approval. When the button 710 on which the text information "Back" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7b back to the screen 7a shown in FIG.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 7, the screen 7c (one of the screens 7) includes areas 701-703, 711, a button 710, and attention displays 712a, 712b. Explanation of elements common to the screens 7a, 7b will be omitted. In the area 711, text information such as "Photographing Tremolo Community Center", "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery", and "Photographing Skyscraper Museum" is drawn as the user's completed tasks. That is, it is confirmed that these tasks have been completed by the user whose user ID is Ai. In addition, attention displays 712a, 712b, in which text information "Rewarded" is drawn, are arranged to the right of "Photographing Tremolo Community Center" and "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery" among the tasks. For "Photographing Tremolo Community Center" and "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery", the user can easily understand that the provision of reward (corresponding to step S013 in FIG. 3) has been completed. On the other hand, although the "photographing of the skyscraper museum" is completed, the user can easily understand that the reward has not been given to the user. When the button 710 on which the text information "Back" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7c back to the screen 7a shown in FIG. 5.

[0072] 4.3 City building games FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a city-building game progressed by the first information processing device 2a. The screen 8 is displayed by the display 4a of the user terminal 3, and shows the aspect of the city. The screen 8 includes building objects 81-84 and a road object 85. The building objects 81-84 are arranged so as to correspond to buildings of a predetermined local government that actually exists. The road object 85 is arranged so as to correspond to a road of a predetermined local government that actually exists. Preferably, the data of the city is the same as that of the virtual space VS managed by the second information processing device 2b. In other words, the game progressed by the first information processing device 2a is a game about infrastructure or city-building of the virtual space VS regarding an area based on a predetermined section (for example, a predetermined local government). According to such an aspect, there is consistency between the content of the game and the motivation to support the predetermined local government, and an environment in which the user actively participates in the game can be realized.

[0073] On the other hand, the virtual space VS (so-called digital twin) managed by the second information processing device 2b and the town dedicated to the game may exist independently. In such a case, the town dedicated to the game may be managed by the first information processing device 2a, not the second information processing device 2b. According to such an embodiment, the virtual space VS, which has high utility value as social infrastructure, and the town for the game, which is primarily intended to appeal to the user, can be compatible without being confused. Furthermore, the town dedicated to the game may not be a digital twin, but may be deformed based on some concept. For example, a town with an atmosphere of an RPG game with a medieval motif, a town with an atmosphere of the near future, a town inhabited by races other than humans, etc. may be mentioned.

[0074] Furthermore, the degree of progress of the game may be changed depending on the number of users participating in the game. For example, if the users who belong to the DAO and the users who participate in the game are the same, an increase in the number of users participating in the game means an increase in the number of users who support a specific local government. In other words, the game control unit 232 variably controls the degree of progress of the game according to the number of multiple users. According to such an embodiment, it is possible to further gather users who support a specific local government, and to provide an environment in which a local government that has gathered many users can be praised.

[0075] Specifically, for example, the aforementioned game town may exist independently, and the game town may be developed to a higher level than a specific local government in the real space or a specific local government in the virtual space VS (so-called digital twin). Specifically, a linear motor car station may be constructed, a taxi service using a flying car may be provided, and so on, within the game. In addition, the size of the town does not necessarily have to be the same as that of the real world, and the town may be developed appropriately based on activities within the DAO or within the game. For example, the capital of the game may be set to be Tropical Fish Village instead of Tokyo, and a country-conquering battle may be held in imitation of the Warring States period. This can further liven up local communities.

[0076] Conversely, the infrastructure standards of the game town may be set stricter than those of a specific local government in the real world or a specific local government in the virtual space VS, and the original infrastructure environment may not be reached unless a certain number of users participate in the game. Specifically, restrictions may be imposed such that electricity, water, and roads will not be built in the game town unless a certain number of users participate in the game. For example, a task in the DAO is completed when one person completes a task, and this is reflected in the information of the virtual space VS accordingly, but in order to reflect it in the game, multiple users may need to complete the same task. The number of people may be a fixed number, such as 10 people, or may be determined based on the number of people in the DAO or the population of the local government.

[0077] [others] The information processing system 1 according to an embodiment may adopt the following aspects.

[0078] At least one of the devices included in the information processing system 1 may be installed outside Japan. For example, the first information processing device 2a may be installed in Japan, and the second information processing device 2b may be installed outside Japan. Similarly, a user may access various information processing devices 2 from outside Japan using his / her own user terminal 3. According to such an embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user through various management forms.

[0079] In one embodiment, the reception unit 231, the game control unit 232, the calculation unit 233, the update unit 234, the grant unit 235, and the display control unit 236 are described as functional units realized by the control unit 23 of the first information processing device 2a, but at least a part of them may be implemented as functional units realized by the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b. Alternatively, they may be implemented as functional units realized by the control unit 33 of the user terminal 3. Furthermore, the various information described in the above example may be stored in a distributed manner not only in the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a but also in other external devices. In such a case, distributed ledger management based on a blockchain BC or the like may be performed.

[0080] In one embodiment, the imaging data IM is shared with the first information processing device 2a together with the user's position information IF1 immediately after the imaging data IM is captured, but since there may be areas where lines such as LTE are not available, the imaging data IM may be shared after the fact. In recent years, position information IF1 based on latitude and longitude information IF1a obtained by a GPS function is often added to the imaging data IM as metadata. Therefore, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which the imaging data IM is transmitted after the fact by the first information processing device 2a or the second information processing device 2b accepting the metadata included in the imaging data IM as position information IF1.

[0081] An NFT gacha may be adopted as a reward. For example, when a specific user completes a task related to a task ticket, the specific user is granted the right to draw an NFT gacha, and an object (including an NFT image, an object that can be used in a game or a virtual space) is drawn based on a drawing request and given to the user (associated with the user's account). Preferably, location information IF1 is required when making a drawing request for such an NFT gacha. The strictness of the location information IF1 is not particularly limited, and may be limited to the latitude and longitude information IF1a at which the imaging data IM was captured, or may be satisfied if the location is within a specified local government (for example, within Tropical Fish Village). Furthermore, at the timing of transmitting the imaging data IM, the specific user may be notified of whether the above conditions regarding the latitude and longitude information IF1a are satisfied. Furthermore, the user may be requested to move to a location different from the imaging location of the imaging data IM. The correspondence between the NFT and the gacha may be one-to-one or one-to-many (multiple drawing). A single lottery request may be associated with multiple lotteries, or a single lottery may be executed multiple times at different times, such as once a day or once a week. In addition, when revealing, location information IF1 is also required, and the condition may be that the user is in the same location as the previous time, or that the user is in a different location. For example, the imaging data IM may be captured at "Ginsei Club," the data transmission of the imaging data IM may be performed at "Cafe de Twinkle," and the result display (reveal) of the gacha may be performed at "Skyscraper Museum." These locations may be determined randomly, or may be selected from locations that the user has visited in tasks that he or she has completed in the past. The locations determined or selected in this way are displayed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. Note that there are multiple objects to be drawn from the NFT gacha, and they are managed as a lottery list. The probability that the object will be drawn (selected) by lottery is set. These lottery lists and probabilities may change according to the user's activity history in the DAO. For example, the selection probability of an object with a high rarity (low selection probability) may be increased according to the number of imaging data IM, or new objects may be added to or removed from the lottery list.The lottery method may be a complete lottery, or an object selected once may be removed (or made not to be selected) from the next lottery, like a box gacha. This makes it easier for rewards to change automatically the more active the users are in the DAO. The probability of selecting an object from the lottery list may also be changed, and the object to be selected may be decided by a vote of users in the DAO.

[0082] In other words, the reception unit 231 receives, as a second reception step, first location information IF1-1 corresponding to a location different from the location where the image data IM was captured after the image data IM was captured. The granting unit 235 grants a reward when the first location information IF1-1 and the second location information IF1-2 corresponding to the image capture location satisfy a predetermined condition. More preferably, the reward is a right to hold a lottery. The game control unit 232 executes a lottery following the granting of the right to hold a lottery by the granting unit 235. The reception unit 231 receives, as a second reception step, third location information IF1-3 corresponding to a location different from the location where the lottery was held after the lottery was executed. The display control unit 236 displays, as a second display step, the result of the lottery when the third location information IF1-3 satisfies a predetermined condition. According to such an embodiment, a specific user is made to visit multiple locations, and support or attachment to the local government can be further promoted. In particular, by providing the right to draw a gacha as a reward, the granting of the right can be separated from the display of the gacha lottery results, further promoting the support or attachment mentioned above.

[0083] The rules managed by the DAO may be of various contents. For example, 100 NFTs are listed for each event, and 100 tickets are issued. In order to mint them, a user obtains a ticket and participates in the event. When material data such as imaging data IM is collected at the event and transmitted to the first information processing device 2a, the user can obtain an arrow list for purchasing NFTs, which is one reward. A user with an arrow list can mint an NFT by paying a predetermined price or for free. After minting, when a predetermined period of time has passed, the NFT is revealed and the NFT image can be displayed. The NFT may have various values, such as being able to be sold in secondary distribution, receiving a special discount, or being a right (ticket) to enter or participate in an event. For example, the NFT may be an object such as a character or an item that can be used in the game. In addition, it is preferable that the image of the NFT is related to the local area itself. In this case, the more tasks in the DAO are accomplished, the more objects used in the game will increase, and the game can be played more advantageously than other local governments. In addition, a portion of the revenue from the secondary distribution of NFTs (for example, 10%) may be used as financial resources for the operation of the DAO and for local governments. This would allow local governments to create and trade digital assets (intangible assets) such as NFT objects based on activities within the DAO, in addition to local specialty products and crafts, thereby contributing to regional revitalization.

[0084] The rewards given may be transferred to users other than those who belong to the DAO. For example, it may be assumed that a user who belongs to the DAO is an elderly person who actually lives in a specific municipality and transfers the reward to his / her grandchild. This type of embodiment can also effectively promote an area (specific municipality) based on a predefined district. In addition, the image data IM captured by the user is archived as the scenery at the time of shooting, and each image data IM is appropriately preserved as a digital asset of Japan. Furthermore, the user who captured (provided) this image data IM is stored on the blockchain. This allows the original scenery to be conveyed to future generations, and it can be conveyed to future generations as digital assets or as a history of the activities of ancestors. In addition, wallets of users who are related to each other by blood relationship or the like may be linked, or NFTs, etc. may be transferred or transferred (inherited). This can make people interested in the local area itself, and can inspire them to visit the area or contribute to the area.

[0085] In one embodiment, a specific user provides image data IM of a landscape (an example of outside world information) designated as a task together with location information IF1, but only location information IF1 may be provided without image data IM. In such a case, for example, image data IM required for constructing the virtual space VS may be prepared in advance by the administrator of the second information processing device 2b. In addition, the condition for reflecting the information of the virtual space VS may be the provision of location information IF1 from a user belonging to a DAO that supports a specific local government. In such an embodiment, a user belonging to a DAO can contribute to a specific local government in some way. In addition, some data that is a material other than the image data IM may be transmitted. For example, audio data recorded at the site, secondary data generated by performing a specific preprocessing on the image data IM, etc. may be included.

[0086] Other than games related to infrastructure and city development, some kind of game that promotes a specific municipality may be provided. For example, it may be a game to raise a character related to a specific municipality (a so-called local mascot character). A battle game between such characters may be provided.

[0087] An embodiment may be implemented without being related to games. Since the system involves movement and has a means for digitally recording original scenery in photographs, etc., it is also compatible with fields such as medicine, health care, architecture, civil engineering, urban planning, history, geography, culture, and education, and can be appropriately combined. For example, with the cooperation of local communities such as local residents, photography enthusiasts, and local students, photographs (one example of imaging data IM) covering various landscapes are taken. This can revitalize the community and preserve the landscapes of a wide range of regions as digital assets. In other words, the photographs taken are organized or stored as a high-quality digital archive. It is preferable that the photographs are stored in high resolution to minimize information loss.

[0088] Resolution conditions may be set for the imaging data IM shared as material data. Blockchain technology may be used to record the photographer, date and time of each photo, location information, etc. This ensures the reliability and authenticity of the imaging data IM, and allows accurate information to be conveyed to future generations. Digital archives of these imaging data IM may be made accessible so that they can be viewed on an online platform. This allows not only local residents but also people across the country and around the world to appreciate the beautiful local scenery. A viewing fee may also be charged for viewing. Educational programs utilizing such digital archives may be developed at schools or regional centers. Through lessons or workshops on history or the natural environment, the charm and importance of the local area can be conveyed to the younger generation. Exhibitions and events may be held, and the beauty of the local scenery can be widely known through regular exhibitions or events. By incorporating it into regional cultural festivals or tourist events, many people will participate, and it is expected that the population will flow into the region.

[0089] By providing digital licenses for the use of digital assets such as image data IM and receiving royalties for the use of photos as part of monetization, the sustainability of DAOs and local governments can be ensured. In addition, a portion of this revenue is used for regional development or the maintenance and management of infrastructure, etc. In this way, through one embodiment, beautiful scenery in the region can be preserved as digital assets and passed on to future generations, and it can also function as a comprehensive initiative that contributes to regional revitalization and cultural protection.

[0090] In one embodiment, the DAO (community) can be set not only to a section of a local government, but also to a school, a company, an organization, the whole of Japan, or a country in the world, as appropriate. Furthermore, it is not limited to being reflected in a game or a virtual space VS (for example, a digital twin), but also has the aspect of providing valuable data for academic research because the scenery of the region can be recorded in photographs and passed on to future generations. For example, in research fields such as geology and ecology, local landscape photos can be important data that visually records geological changes or changes in the natural environment. Geologists and ecologists can use these photos to investigate or analyze changes in the state of the natural environment and ecosystems in the region. In research fields such as urban planning and regional development, local landscape photos can be valuable materials that show the changes in urban planning or regional development from the past to the present. Urban planners and regional development researchers can study the development and changes of the region through photos and get ideas for sustainable development. In the research field of cultural anthropology, local landscape photos can be used as a means of visually capturing the culture or lifestyle of the region. Photographs can help people understand cultural transitions by studying the daily life, traditions, and festivals of local residents. In the field of historical research, local landscape photographs can be used to help people study changes in life, culture, history, etc. by remembering and utilizing the appearance of past landscapes and buildings. In the field of education or outreach activities, outreach activities can be carried out to disseminate the results of image data (IM) obtained within academic research communities to local education and the general public. Furthermore, lectures or workshops can be used to widely communicate the history of the region and the importance of nature.

[0091] The above-mentioned latitude and longitude information IF1a is an example of the location information IF1, and the location information IF1 may be location information based on a public wifi connection. The imaging data IM is not limited to images captured by the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3, and may be images captured by an external imaging device connected to the user terminal 3. The method of connecting the user terminal 3 and the external imaging device is not particularly limited, and may be a wired connection such as USB, short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth, or a connection via the communication network 11.

[0092] Regarding the addition of new users to the DAO, anyone may request (apply) to join, or application and approval conditions may be set for the application. For example, conditions may include being a resident of a specified local government, working for an entity located in a specified local government, having a registered domicile in the specified local government, or having a personal or family connection to the local government. Proof of these conditions may be required, or payment of taxes may be a condition. Furthermore, applications may be subject to screening, and approval by a majority of the DAO's members may be required.

[0093] Furthermore, a certain DAO may be merged with another DAO. Conversely, an existing DAO may be separated to form multiple DAOs later. Preferably, the possibility of merging or separating may be decided by voting within the DAO. When DAOs are merged, the DAO to be merged and the task information IF3 may be integrated. That is, it becomes possible to accept tasks related to a specific local government supported by the DAO to be merged. For example, a game space based on a local government supported by the DAO to be merged may be developed, or virtual in-game sections may form an alliance and be mutually inviolable. In addition, DAOs may not be merged, but the sections may be able to form the above alliance within the game. Furthermore, the game space managed by the first information processing device 2a may be merged or separated.

[0094] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects:

[0095] (1) An information processing system having at least one device, the system further comprising at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each of the following steps: in a first receiving step, location information of at least one specific user among a plurality of users is received from the specific user, the location information being included in an area based on a predetermined partition, transaction information of transactions performed by the plurality of users with respect to the predetermined partition is managed on a blockchain; in an updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information received from the specific user; and in a granting step, when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated, a reward is granted to at least one of the plurality of users based on the transaction information.

[0096] According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0097] (2) In the information processing system described in (1) above, the first reception step further receives imaging data including outside world information captured by the specific user, and the update step further updates the virtual space related to the area based on the imaging data.

[0098] According to this embodiment, a virtual space can be developed by a plurality of users who wish to support an area based on a predetermined section, based on the image data captured by each of them.

[0099] (3) In the information processing system described in (2) above, in the first display step, after capturing the imaging data, AR information different from the outside world information is superimposed on the outside world information included in the imaging data and displayed.

[0100] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience when transmitting imaging data.

[0101] (4) In the information processing system described in (3) above, in the first reception step, at least one of the imaging data including a plurality of different pieces of outside world information is received from the specific user, and the AR information is determined to be different depending on the combination of the plurality of pieces of outside world information.

[0102] According to this embodiment, it is possible to allow the user to experience a variety of augmented realities.

[0103] (5) In the information processing system described in any one of (2) to (4) above, in the first receiving step, after the imaging data is captured, first location information corresponding to a location different from the imaging location where the imaging data was captured is received, and in the granting step, the reward is granted if the first location information and second location information corresponding to the imaging location satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0104] According to such an embodiment, a particular user can be encouraged to visit multiple locations, thereby further promoting support for or attachment to the local government.

[0105] (6) In the information processing system described in (5) above, the reward is the right to enter a lottery, and further, in a game control step, the lottery is executed following the awarding step, and in a second reception step, third location information corresponding to a location different from the location where the lottery was held is accepted after the lottery is executed, and in a second display step, the result of the lottery is displayed if the third location information satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0106] According to such an embodiment, a particular user can be encouraged to visit multiple locations, thereby further promoting support for or attachment to the local government.

[0107] (7) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (6) above, the predetermined area is a local government, and the specific user is a user who has registered the local government corresponding to the location information in his or her account.

[0108] According to this embodiment, a specific user who wishes to support a local government can develop the local government even if he or she is not a resident.

[0109] (8) In the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (7) above, the virtual space is a digital twin environment.

[0110] According to such an embodiment, a digital twin environment can be developed.

[0111] (9) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (8) above, further comprising, in the game control step, progressing a game played by the multiple users, and, in the awarding step, awarding a benefit related to the game as the reward.

[0112] According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0113] (10) In the information processing system described in (9) above, the game is a game about infrastructure or city development in the virtual space related to the area.

[0114] According to this embodiment, there is consistency between the content of the game and the motivation to support a specific local government, and an environment can be created in which users actively participate in the game.

[0115] (11) In the information processing system according to (9) or (10) above, in the game control step, a degree of progress of the game is variably controlled depending on the number of the plurality of users.

[0116] According to such an embodiment, it is possible to gather more users who support a particular local government, and to provide an environment in which the local government that has attracted the most users can be praised.

[0117] (12) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (11) above, task information for managing tasks agreed upon by the multiple users is further managed on the blockchain, and in the first reception step, the location information corresponding to the task information is received from the specific user.

[0118] In this manner, autonomous efforts can be reliably managed for the development of a virtual space.

[0119] (13) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (12) above, the transaction information is smart contract information that is automatically executed based on rules established within a DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) to which the multiple users belong.

[0120] In this manner, autonomous efforts can be reliably managed for the development of a virtual space.

[0121] (14) In the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (13) above, at least one of the devices is installed outside Japan.

[0122] According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user through various management formats.

[0123] (15) An information processing method comprising the steps of the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (14) above.

[0124] According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0125] (16) A program causing at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (14) above.

[0126] According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user. Of course, this is not the case.

[0127] Finally, various embodiments according to the present disclosure have been described, but these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the disclosure. The embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the disclosure, and are included in the disclosure and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Networks 12:GPS satellite 2: Information processing equipment 2a: First information processing device 2b: second information processing device 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 231: Reception 232: Game control unit 233: Arithmetic section 234: Update section 235: Granting section 236: Display control unit 3: User terminal 30: Communication bus 31: Communications Department 32: Storage section 33: Control section 34a: Graphics processing unit 34b: Audio processing section 34c: Operation section 4a: Display 4b: Speaker 4c: Input device 41: Built-in camera 6: Screen 51: Manhole 52: Manhole 61: Character 61a: Text information 62: Character 62a: Text information 63: Text information 7: Screen 7a: Screen 7b: Screen 7c: Screen 701 :Area 702 :Area 703 :Area 704 :Area 705: Button 706: Button 707: Button 708 :Area 709a: Button 709b: Button 709c: Button 709d: Button 710: Button 711 :Area 712a : Attention display 712b : Attention display 8: Screen 81: Building object 82: Building object 83: Building object 84: Building object 85: Road object BC: Blockchain IF1: Location information IF1a: Latitude and longitude information IF2: Transaction information IF2a: Smart Contract Information IF3 : Task Information IF4:AR Information IM: Imaging data VS: Virtual Space

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising at least one device, At least one processor capable of executing a program to perform the following steps: In the first receiving step, location information of a specific user, which is at least one of a plurality of users, is received from the specific user, The location information is included in a region based on a predetermined division, Transaction information of transactions executed by the plurality of users with respect to the predetermined section is managed on a blockchain; In the updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the position information received from the specific user; In the granting step, when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated, a reward is granted to at least one of the plurality of users based on the transaction information.

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, In the first reception step, imaging data including outside world information captured by the specific user is further received, In the updating step, the system updates the virtual space relating to the area further based on the imaging data.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, Furthermore, in the first display step, after capturing the imaging data, AR information different from the outside world information included in the imaging data is superimposed on the outside world information and displayed.

4. 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, In the first reception step, at least one piece of the imaging data including a plurality of different pieces of outside world information is received from the specific user; The AR information is determined differently depending on a combination of the plurality of pieces of outside world information.

5. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, In the first reception step, after the imaging data is captured, first position information corresponding to a location different from an imaging location where the imaging data is captured is received; In the providing step, the reward is provided when the first location information and the second location information corresponding to the image capturing location satisfy a predetermined condition.

6. 6. The information processing system according to claim 5, The reward is the right to enter a lottery, moreover In the game control step, the lottery is executed following the awarding step, In the second reception step, after the execution of the lottery, third location information corresponding to a location different from a location where the lottery was held is received; In a second display step, the system displays the result of the lottery when the third location information satisfies a predetermined condition.

7. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, the predetermined area is a local government; The system, wherein the specific user is a user who has registered the local government corresponding to the location information in his or her account.

8. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The virtual space is a digital twin environment, the system.

9. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, Furthermore, in the game control step, a game played by the plurality of users is progressed, In the providing step, a benefit related to the game is provided as the reward.

10. 10. The information processing system according to claim 9, The system, wherein the game is a game relating to infrastructure or city building in the virtual space relating to the area.

11. 10. The information processing system according to claim 9, In the game control step, a degree of progress of the game is variably controlled according to the number of the plurality of users.

12. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, On the blockchain, task information for managing tasks agreed upon by the plurality of users is further managed, In the first receiving step, the position information corresponding to the task information is received from the specific user.

13. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The transaction information is smart contract information that is automatically executed based on rules agreed upon within a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) to which the multiple users belong.

14. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The system, further comprising at least one of the devices being installed outside Japan.

15. 1. An information processing method, comprising: A method comprising the steps of an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A program, A program causing at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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