Method for providing game service and apparatus thereof

Abstract

To provide a method for providing a game service and an apparatus thereof which prevent sniping of a game item, alleviate a load on a server, and encourage users to bid on the game item at an appropriate price with sufficient time before the end of bidding.SOLUTION: A method of providing a game service by a game providing apparatus includes the steps of: obtaining auction information associated with an auction for a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction; obtaining an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction ends based on the auction time information; and determining an auction end time point for the game item to be any time point within the auction end time range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a game service, and more particularly to a method and apparatus associated with auctioning game items within a game service. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, many games in various genres have been developed, which has led to an explosive increase in users. With the development of games in various genres and the improvement of the performance of devices for enjoying games, games have been highlighted as a mainstream hobby.

[0003] In the game industry, various systems related to game items have been introduced to allow users to build various game strategies using game items. For example, a user in a game may use an in-game auction system to secure a desired game item.

[0004] In addition, with the development of in-game auction systems, there is a demand for an improved auction system that provides equal bidding opportunities to a large number of users and prevents excessive competition in relation to the auction system. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for providing a game service that diversifies the manner in which game items are auctioned. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for a game providing device to provide a game service, the method including the steps of: acquiring auction information related to an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information related to the time of the auction; acquiring an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; and determining an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the auction time information may include at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, an auction end time for the game item, an auction start time for the game item, and an auction end time range for the game item.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the game items also include a nickname for the character.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the method further includes a step of identifying whether a condition for registering the game item for sale is met, and a step of deciding to register the game item for sale based on identifying that the condition for registering the game item for sale is met.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the method further includes providing information that the auction for the game item may end at any time if the auction deadline for the game item has passed.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the method further includes a step of providing information that the game item cannot be registered for sale based on identifying that the conditions for registering the game item for sale cannot be met.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the auction information also includes at least one of a name of the game item, a type of the game item, a quantity of the game item, a minimum bid price, and a maximum bid price.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the conditions for sales registration include at least one of whether the number of auctions within a specified period assigned to each user is exceeded, whether the user holds goods equal to or greater than the sales registration deposit, and whether the game item is a tradable item or an auctionable item.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the auction information also includes the nickname that the character will use after the nickname is listed for sale on the auction site.

[0015] According to one embodiment, game items may be searched for using at least one of language, character count, and price range.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the method also includes providing information regarding the remaining time of the auction for the game item if the auction for the game item is about to end.

[0017] According to one embodiment, a game providing device may be provided that includes a memory storing instructions and at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions, the at least one processor may execute the instructions to obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction, obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information, and determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the auction time information may include at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, an auction end time for the game item, an auction start time for the game item, and an auction end time range for the game item.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the game items also include a nickname for the character.

[0020] According to one embodiment, at least one processor may execute instructions to identify whether a condition for registering a game item for sale is met, and decide to register the game item for sale based on identifying that the condition for registering the game item for sale is met.

[0021] According to one embodiment, at least one processor may execute instructions to provide information that an auction for a game item may end at any time if an imminent end time for the auction for the game item has passed.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may execute the instructions and provide information that the game item cannot be registered for sale for auction based on identifying that the conditions for registering the game item for sale cannot be met.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the auction information also includes at least one of a name of the game item, a type of the game item, a quantity of the game item, a minimum bid price, and a maximum bid price.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the conditions for sales registration include at least one of whether the number of auctions within a specified period assigned to each user is exceeded, whether the user holds goods equal to or greater than the sales registration deposit, and whether the game item is a tradable item or an auctionable item.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the auction information also includes a game provider that includes a nickname that the character will use after the nickname is listed for sale at the auction house.

[0026] According to one embodiment, game items may be searched for using at least one of language, character count, and price range.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor may execute instructions to provide information regarding the time remaining in an auction involving the game item if the auction involving the game item is not about to end.

[0028] According to one embodiment, a server may be provided that includes a memory storing instructions and at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions, the at least one processor may execute the instructions to obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction, obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information, and determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0029] According to one embodiment, a user terminal may be provided that includes a memory storing instructions and at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions, the at least one processor may execute the instructions to obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction, obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information, and determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0030] According to one embodiment, a method for a game providing device to provide a game service includes the steps of: acquiring auction information related to an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information related to the time of the auction; acquiring an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; and determining an auction end time for the game item as an arbitrary time point within the auction end time range. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the method for providing a game service on a computer is provided. Effect of the Invention

[0031] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an auction progress method in an in-game auction system, which allows users to place bids on game items just before the auction ends, thereby preventing sniping of game items and reducing server load. In addition, various embodiments of the present disclosure may encourage users to bid on game items at a price they consider fair, with sufficient time left from the end of the bidding. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating a game providing system including a server and a user terminal according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining auction time information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing game services according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a sales registration interface for listing an auction item for sale according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 illustrates a bidding interface for bidding on an auction item according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 illustrates a rebid interface for rebidding an auction item according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 illustrates a filter interface for searching auction items according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a game providing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Also, a method of constructing and using an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers or characters shown in the various drawings indicate parts or components that perform substantially the same functions.

[0034] In this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of a, b, or c" may refer to "a," "b," "c," "a and b," "a and c," "b and c," "any of a, b, and c," or variations thereof.

[0035] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first and second may be used to describe various elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be named a second element, and similarly, the second element may be named the first element, without departing from the scope of the invention. The term "and / or" includes a combination of two or more associated items or any one item of two or more associated items.

[0036] The terms used in this specification are used to describe the present embodiment and are not intended to limit and / or restrict the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, the terms "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, and should be understood not to preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0037] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be connected to another part, this includes not only direct connection but also electrical connection with another element in between. Furthermore, when a part includes a certain component, it does not mean excluding other components, but also includes other components, unless otherwise specified to the contrary. Furthermore, terms such as "unit" and "module" in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be realized by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0038] In the following disclosure, the game providing device may be a game server, a user terminal, a game system including a game server and a user terminal, or an independent device.

[0039] In the following disclosure, the server controlling a user terminal may mean that the server provides the output of the user terminal (all output devices of the user terminal, such as screen display, audio output, vibration output, and lamp light) and data for the user terminal to perform a predetermined operation through communication with the user terminal. Here, it goes without saying that the user terminal can also control the output of the user terminal using already stored data, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0040] In the following disclosure, the meaning of transmitting or receiving information or data to or from a user (or a user account) also includes the meaning of transmitting or receiving information or data to or from a device (or a user terminal) that corresponds to or is linked to the user (or user account).

[0041] In the following disclosure, the terms "user", "player", "user account" and "gamer" may be used interchangeably. It should be understood that in the present disclosure, a user terminal may refer to a user, a player, a user account, or a gamer, or a device used by them, depending on the context. It should be understood that in the present disclosure, a user, a player, a user, a user account, or a gamer may refer to an avatar or character that they operate, or a device used by them, depending on the context.

[0042] In the following disclosure, a "game object" may refer to a virtual object that exists in a game space. For example, the game object may include, but is not limited to, a user's character (e.g., an avatar), a user's item, and the like, and may refer to all objects embodied in the game space, such as a background and a terrain.

[0043] In the following disclosure, "character" may mean a specific object within a game that can be controlled by a user.

[0044] In the following disclosure, "game items" includes any goods, merchandise, content, etc., including equipment worn by in-game characters such as weapons, defensive gear, accessories, clothing, and crystals, vehicles ridden by in-game characters, consumable items such as food and potions, and all digital content and cyber objects that users can acquire in the game, such as experience points and buffs, but is not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0045] In the following disclosure, "game goods" or "goods" may refer to currencies used and accepted in a game, and may refer to goods that a user can obtain for a fee or free of charge. In other words, game goods may refer to all types of goods used for trading or purchasing in a game, such as items and game times. The game goods may include paid goods and free goods. The game goods may include multiple types of goods. In addition, paid goods may include multiple types of goods, and free goods may include multiple types of goods.

[0046] In the following disclosure, "auction information" also includes all information related to the decision to register for sale a game item to be auctioned, including, for example, but not limited to, the disclosed examples, information related to the game item and already stored in the game providing device or information obtained from a user.

[0047] In the following disclosure, "auction time information" refers to information included in the auction information, and includes all information related to the time of the auction related to the game item. For example, the auction time information may include information related to the game item and already stored in the game providing device or information obtained from the user, but is not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates a game providing system including a server and a user terminal according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] The game providing system 100 of the present disclosure also includes a server 170 and at least one user terminal 110 to 160. The server 170 may provide various online activities to at least one user terminal 110 to 160 via a network. The server 170 may provide online activities to at least one user terminal 110 to 160 simultaneously.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the server 170 may include, but is not limited to, a single server, a collection of servers, a cloud server, etc. The server 170 provides various online activities to at least one of the user terminals 110-160 and includes a database that stores data for the online activities of at least one of the user terminals 110-160. The server 170 also includes a payment server that generates and processes payment events. As described above, the server 170 is also a game providing device.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a network may refer to a connection established (or formed) using any communication method, and may refer to a communication network connected via any communication method for transmitting and receiving data between terminals or between a terminal and a server.

[0052] The term "all communication methods" includes all communication methods such as communication via a specific communication standard, a specific frequency band, a specific protocol, or a specific channel. For example, it includes Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity), Zigbee, 3G (3rd generation), LTE (long term evolution), and a communication method via ultrasonic waves, but also includes short-distance communication, long-distance communication, wireless communication, and wired communication. It goes without saying that the above examples are not limiting.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the short-distance communication method means a communication method in which communication is possible only when the communicating device (terminal or server) is within a predetermined range, and includes, for example, Bluetooth, NFC (near-field communication), etc. The long-distance communication method may mean a communication method in which the communicating devices can communicate regardless of the distance. For example, the long-distance communication method means a method in which two devices communicating through a repeater such as an AP (access point) can communicate even when the distance is greater than a predetermined distance, and includes a communication method using a short message service (SMS) or a cellular network such as a telephone (3G, LTE). It goes without saying that the above examples are not limited. The meaning of providing online activities using a network also includes the meaning that communication between a server and a terminal can be performed through all communication methods.

[0054] Throughout the specification, the at least one user terminal 110-160 includes not only a personal computer (PC) 110, a tablet PC 120, a cellular phone 130, a notebook computer 140, a smartphone 150, and a television (TV) 160, but also various electronic devices such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, an MP3 player, a digital camera, a refrigerator, a washing machine, and a cleaning machine, but is not limited to the above examples. As mentioned above, the at least one user terminal 110-160 is also a game providing device.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the online activities include online games, portal services, and SNS (social network services), but are not limited to the above examples. The online games also include various genres such as sports, MMORPG, AOS, FPS, TCG, and CCG. The online games may be games in which users compete against each other, or games in which users compete against a computer (e.g., artificial intelligence). It goes without saying that the above examples are not limited to the form of the online games.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a game providing device may acquire auction information related to an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information related to a time of the auction. The game providing device may acquire an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The game providing device may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the game providing system 100 may acquire auction information related to an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information related to the time of the auction. The game providing system 100 may acquire an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The game providing system 100 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, server 170 may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information associated with the time of the auction. Server 170 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. Server 170 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the user terminals 110-160 may obtain auction information related to an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information related to a time of the auction. The at least one of the user terminals 110-160 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The at least one of the user terminals 110-160 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0060] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, some or all of the operations of the server 170 may be performed by the user terminals 110 to 160. For example, a method for providing a game service according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be performed by the user terminals 110 to 160 without communication with the server 170.

[0061] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining auction time information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] In one embodiment, the game provider may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item, the auction information also including auction time information associated with the time of the auction.

[0063] In one embodiment, the auction time information 200 may include at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, a start time for the auction for the game item, a time range 210 for the end of the auction for the game item, and an end time for the auction for the game item.

[0064] In one embodiment, the game providing device may obtain at least one of the auction information from a user input. The game providing device may obtain at least one of the auction time information from a user input.

[0065] In one embodiment, the game provider may obtain or determine the remainder of the auction time information based on a portion of the auction time information.

[0066] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire or determine, based on the auction information, a time within a predetermined time from the time when the auction information was acquired or the time when the sale registration of the game item was decided, as the auction start time. For example, if the game providing device decides to register the sale of the game item at 13:48 on November 28, it may determine the auction start time to be 14:00 on November 28.

[0067] In one embodiment, the game providing device may obtain or determine the auction progress time based on the auction information. The game providing device may obtain or determine the auction progress time as a preset time depending on the game item, or as a preset auction progress time for the game providing device.

[0068] In one embodiment, the auction progress time indicates the approximate time between the start and end of the auction. The auction progress time may include a small margin of error in the time between the start and end of the auction. For example, if the auction starts at 13:00 on November 24th and ends at 13:02 on November 25th, the game providing device may display the auction progress time as 24 hours.

[0069] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire or determine the time when the user input is acquired as the auction start time. The game providing device may acquire the auction progress time from the user input. The game providing device may determine the auction end time range 210 based on the acquired auction start time and auction progress time. The auction end time range 210 may mean a time within a predetermined range including a time from the auction start time to a time when the auction progress time has elapsed, or a time close to a time from the auction start time to a time when the auction progress time has elapsed. For example, the game providing device may acquire 12:00 on November 24, 2023 as the auction start time, and acquire the auction progress time as 48 hours based on the user input. In this case, the game providing device may acquire the time range from 11:55 on November 26 to 12:05 on November 26 as the auction end time range 210.

[0070] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire an auction end time as the auction time information. The game providing device may acquire or determine a predetermined range of time including the acquired auction end time as the auction end time range 210. For example, if the game providing device acquires the auction end time as 14:35 on November 24, it may acquire or determine a time range from 14:30 on November 24 to 14:40 on November 24 as the auction end time range 210.

[0071] In one embodiment, the game providing device may obtain the auction end time range 210 directly from a user input. For example, the game providing device may obtain the auction end time range 210 from November 26th, 11:55 to November 26th, 12:05.

[0072] The game providing device can directly acquire the auction time information or indirectly acquire the auction time information, but is not limited to the disclosed example.

[0073] In one embodiment, the game providing device may determine the auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range 210. For example, if the auction end time range is from 12:58 on November 25th to 13:02 on November 25th, the auction end time may be any time within the time period from 12:58 on November 25th to 13:02 on November 25th. Note that the auction end time range 210 is not limited to the disclosed example. The game providing device may determine the auction end time to be a time that is earlier or later than the time when the auction progress time has elapsed from the auction start time.

[0074] In addition, the auction end time determined as an arbitrary time within the auction end time range and the auction end time included in the auction time information may differ.

[0075] In one embodiment, the game providing device determines the end of the auction as any time within the auction end time range 210, thereby allowing bids for the game item to be made immediately before the end of the auction, preventing sniping of the game item and reducing the load on the server. Also, by determining the end of the auction as any time within the auction end time range 210, it is possible to induce users to bid for the game item at what they consider to be a fair price, with a sufficient amount of time left after the end of the auction.

[0076] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing game services according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] In step S310, the game provider may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item.

[0078] In one embodiment, the game provider obtains auction information associated with an auction of the game item, the auction information also including auction time information associated with the time of the auction.

[0079] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire auction information related to the auction of the game item or auction time information related to the time of the auction from a user input. The game providing device may acquire the auction information or the auction time information based on previously acquired information. The game providing device may acquire the auction information or the auction time information based on identifying a sales registration request. For example, the sales registration request may include a user input to a sales registration interface for sales registration of the game item. The user input may include, but is not limited to, touch input, voice input, gesture input, etc. The sales registration interface will be described in detail in FIG. 4.

[0080] In one embodiment, the game items to be auctioned include goods, products, and content that can be traded in the game, as well as nicknames of in-game characters, but the game items to be auctioned are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0081] In one embodiment, the auction information also includes at least one of the name of the game item, the type of the game item, the quantity of the game items, the minimum bid price, and the maximum bid price. If the game item is a character's nickname, the auction information also includes the nickname that the character will use after the nickname is registered for sale. If the game item is a character's nickname, the name of the game item may correspond to the character's nickname. For example, if the character's nickname is "Nickname A," the name of the game item is also "Nickname A."

[0082] In one embodiment, the auction time information may include at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, a start time of the auction for the game item, a time range for the end of the auction for the game item, and an end time of the auction for the game item.

[0083] The auction information and the auction time information may be obtained directly or indirectly, but are not limited to the disclosed examples. Also, the same contents as those disclosed in FIG. 2 will be omitted to avoid duplication.

[0084] In step S320, the game providing device may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end, based on the auction time information.

[0085] In one embodiment, the game providing device may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction ends directly based on the auction time information, For example, the game providing device may obtain the auction end time range from a user input.

[0086] In one embodiment, the game providing device may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end indirectly based on the auction time information. The game providing device may obtain or determine the auction end time range based on the auction start time and the auction progress time included in the auction time information. The game providing device may determine the auction end time range to be a time range within a predetermined range including a time from the auction start time to a time that has passed the auction progress time, or a time close to a time from the auction start time to a time that has passed the auction progress time.

[0087] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire the auction end time range in a preset manner. The game providing device may acquire or determine the auction end time range based on the length of the auction end time range and the acquired auction information. For example, if the length of the auction end time range is 4 minutes, the game providing device may acquire or determine the auction end time range as a time range from 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the auction end time included in the auction time information. The length of the auction end time range may be preset or acquired based on the auction information.

[0088] The method for determining the auction end time range is not limited to the disclosed example.

[0089] The auction end time range may be obtained directly or indirectly, but is not limited to the disclosed example. Also, the same content as that disclosed in FIG. 2 will be omitted to avoid duplication.

[0090] In step S330, the game providing device may determine the end time of the auction for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0091] In one embodiment, the game providing device may determine the end time of the auction for the game item as any time within the auction end time range, where the end time determined as any time within the auction end time range is different from the end time of the auction included in the auction time information.

[0092] In one embodiment, the game providing device may determine the auction end time as any time within the auction end time range, and may determine the auction end time by taking into consideration various factors related to the game items. For example, if the number of bids for the game item is 0, the game providing device may determine the auction end time as any time within a latter time range of the auction end time range. If the number of bids for the game item exceeds a preset threshold number of bids, the game providing device may determine the auction end time as any time within a general time range of the auction end time range.

[0093] In one embodiment, the game providing device may determine whether a condition for registering a game item for sale is met. The game providing device may determine whether a condition for registering a game item for sale is met based on the auction information or the identification of a request for registering a game item for sale. The condition for registering a game item for sale may include whether a condition for registering a game item for sale associated with a user or a condition for registering a game item for sale that is the subject of an auction is met.

[0094] In one embodiment, the conditions for sales registration associated with a user include at least one of whether a security environment is established for the game providing device of the user who inputs the sales registration request, whether the number of auctions within a given period of time is exceeded, and whether the user owns goods equal to or greater than the sales registration deposit. The sales registration deposit has the nature of an auction house usage fee and is an amount that is deducted at the time of sales registration. The sales registration deposit is an amount that cannot be refunded in the event of a failed sale or cancellation of registration, which may discourage sales registration itself, but since it is a fee that is refunded in the event of a successful sale, it may encourage only names with high commercial value to be registered. The sales registration deposit may be referred to as a registration deposit.

[0095] In one embodiment, the conditions for sale registration associated with a game item include whether the game item is a tradeable item or an auctionable item. If the game item is a character nickname, the conditions for sale registration associated with a game item to be auctioned include at least one of whether a predetermined period of time has passed since the character's creation for the character whose nickname is being sold, whether a predetermined period of time has passed since the character's nickname was changed, and, if the character's nickname is to be resold at auction, whether a predetermined period of time has passed since the nickname was purchased. Note that the conditions for sale registration are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0096] In one embodiment, the game providing device may decide to register the game item for sale based on identifying that the condition for sale registration is met. When the game providing device decides to register the game item for sale, the game providing device may display the game item on an auction site interface. When the game providing device decides to register the game item for sale, the game providing device may subtract the amount of goods for the game item for sale registration from the amount of goods owned by the user. When the game item is a character's nickname, the game providing device may change the nickname of the character registered for sale from the nickname included in the auction information to the nickname used by the character after the sale registration.

[0097] In one embodiment, when an auction for a game item begins, public bidding for the game item may be conducted during the auction progress time. The game providing device may receive a bid request during the auction progress time. Based on receiving the bid request, the game providing device may determine to deduct the bid price from the amount of goods of the users who bid on the game item as a bid deposit. If the auction end time has passed, the highest bidder up until the auction end time may be determined as the successful bidder, and the game item may be provided to the successful bidder.

[0098] In one embodiment, based on the game providing device identifying that the conditions for registration for sale cannot be met, the game providing device may provide information that the game item cannot be registered for sale.

[0099] In one embodiment, the conditions for sales registration can be expected to have technical effects such as preventing server overload, preventing exclusive sales in an in-game auction system, minimizing unnecessary sales registrations, and preventing hoarding.

[0100] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a sales registration interface for listing an auction item for sale according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] 4 illustrates a screen displaying a sales registration interface 400 in a game providing device. Through the sales registration interface 400 in FIG. 4, the game providing device can obtain a sales registration request for a game item auction and obtain auction information related to the game item.

[0102] In one embodiment, the sales registration interface 400 includes at least one of an item information interface 410, a minimum bid price interface 420, an auction time interface 430, a nickname change interface 440, a price interface 450, and a request interface 460. Note that the sales registration interface 400 is not limited to the example of FIG. 4, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 4, and some configurations of FIG. 4 are not disclosed.

[0103] In one embodiment, the item information interface 410 is also an interface that displays the game items to be auctioned, such as the name and image of the game items to be auctioned. The item information interface 410 includes a character nickname "nickname A" as the game item to be auctioned, but is not limited to the disclosed example. For example, the game items to be auctioned can be equipment items and consumable items.

[0104] In one embodiment, the minimum bid price interface 420 is also an interface for acquiring a minimum amount of goods that the user wishes to acquire in exchange for selling a game item. The minimum bid price may be limited to an amount equal to or greater than the amount of goods that the user must provide to the game service in order to sell the game item. For example, if the transaction fee is 3,000 and the registration deposit is 2,000, the game providing device may input a price that is at least equal to or greater than the minimum bid price of 5,000.

[0105] In one embodiment, the auction time interface 430 is also an interface for the game providing device to obtain the auction progress time related to the game item. For example, the game providing device may obtain a user input to determine the auction progress time as 24 hours or 48 hours from the user. Note that the auction time interface 430 is not limited to the disclosed example, and may be an interface for obtaining at least one of the auction start time, the auction end time, and the auction end time range to obtain auction time information.

[0106] In one embodiment, when the game item is a character's nickname, the nickname change interface 440 is also an interface for acquiring a nickname to be used by the character instead of the nickname to be auctioned. For example, the game providing device may acquire "nickname B" as a nickname to be used instead of "nickname A" through the nickname change interface 440 included in the sales registration interface 400 for auctioning "nickname A".

[0107] In one embodiment, the price interface 450 is also an interface including information regarding the amount of goods that a user must pay to the game service to register a game item for sale. For example, the price interface 450 includes information that a registration deposit of 1% of the lowest bid price and a sales commission of 10% of the successful transaction amount must be paid to the game service to register a game item for sale. The price interface 450 also includes information that if the game item is a nickname and a commission must be paid when changing a character's nickname in the game, a commission for changing the character's nickname must be paid in addition.

[0108] In one embodiment, the sales registration request interface 460 is also an interface for acquiring a sales registration request related to a game item. For example, the game providing device may acquire the sales registration request through a user input, such as a touch input, to the sales registration request interface 460. In addition, whether or not the conditions for sales registration are met based on the sales registration request has been described in detail in FIG. 3, and the same content will not be repeated.

[0109] In one embodiment, when the game providing device receives a sales registration request via the sales registration request interface 460, it may provide a notice related to the auction of the game item.

[0110] For example, the precautions related to the auction of a game item may include at least one of the following: information that once the game item has been registered for sale, cancellation due to a change of mind is not possible; information that the registration deposit may be returned if the bid is not successful; information that due to the limited number of times that a game item may be registered for sale at the auction house, other game items may not be registered for sale during a certain period of time; and information related to the amount of goods to be deducted when the game item is registered for sale.

[0111] For example, when the game item is a nickname, the game providing device may provide a notice related to the auction of the nickname. For example, the notice related to the auction of the nickname may include at least one of the following: information that the nickname is restored after the auction and the right to use the nickname is transferred to the successful bidder; information that the nickname may be restored when the bid is lost; and information that the sales registration may be forcibly cancelled if the nickname registered for sale at the auction site is confirmed to contain a prohibited word. In addition, the notice related to the sale of the nickname may include at least one of information that if the nickname is changed through the sale registration of the nickname, the nickname cannot be changed for a predetermined period of time; information that the nickname cannot be changed to an existing nickname; and information that the nickname cannot be changed to a nickname containing a prohibited word.

[0112] It should be noted that the precautions associated with the auction of game items are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0113] In this disclosure, for the sake of convenience, game items have been described using character nicknames as an example, but are not limited to the disclosed example.

[0114] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] 5 shows a screen of the game providing device displaying an auction site interface 500. The auction site interface 500 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0116] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 500 may include at least one of a user information interface 510, a search interface 520, a search box interface 530, an item list interface 550, a winning bid information interface 570, a preference interface 580, and a transaction summary interface 590. Note that the auction site interface 500 is not limited to the example of FIG. 5, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 5, and some configurations of FIG. 5 are not disclosed.

[0117] In one embodiment, the user information interface 510 is an interface that includes information associated with the user provided with the auction house interface 500. For example, the user information interface 510 may include at least one of the following: a nickname of a character owned by the user, a character's occupation, a character's level, and an amount of wealth owned by the character, but is not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0118] In one embodiment, the search interface 520 is also an interface for obtaining user input to provide information related to the game items being auctioned. For example, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 500 including the item list interface 550 based on obtaining touch input from a user on the search interface 520. When providing the auction floor interface 500, the game providing device may also be pre-configured to provide the auction floor interface 500 including the item list interface 550 of FIG. 5 without user input on the search interface 520. Note that the disclosed examples are not limiting.

[0119] In one embodiment, the search box interface 530 is also an interface for searching for a game item. For example, the search box interface 530 may include an interface for acquiring a name related to an item to be auctioned. If the game item to be auctioned is a nickname, the game providing device may search for a nickname containing a predetermined word through the search box interface 530.

[0120] In one embodiment, the search window interface 530 also includes a filter search interface 540. The filter search interface 540 is also an interface for displaying a filter interface for filtering and searching auction items according to detailed conditions. The filter interface displayed through a user input to the filter search interface 540 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8.

[0121] In one embodiment, the item list interface 550 is also an interface that displays a list of at least one item registered for sale in the auction house. The game providing device can also provide a search result using the search box interface 530 via the item list interface 550.

[0122] In one embodiment, the item list interface 550 also includes a game item interface 560. The game item interface 560 is an interface that displays auction progress information related to one game item. The auction progress information includes at least one of the name of the game item being auctioned, the maximum bid price for the game item, and information related to the time remaining in the auction for the game item.

[0123] In one embodiment, if the auction end time for a game item has not yet passed, the game providing device may provide information regarding the remaining time of the auction for the game item.

[0124] In one embodiment, the information regarding the remaining time may indicate approximate time information from the current time when the game item interface 560 is displayed until the end of the auction. The game providing device determines the end of the auction as an arbitrary time within the auction end time range, and when the auction end imminent time for the game item has passed, the game providing device may provide information that the auction for the game item may end at any time via the game item interface 560. For example, the game providing device may provide information that the auction for the game item may end at any time by displaying "Ending soon" as the information regarding the remaining time.

[0125] In one embodiment, the game providing device may acquire information related to a previously set time when the auction is about to end. Alternatively, the game providing device may acquire information related to a time when the auction is about to end from a user. For example, the game providing device may determine the time when the auction is about to end as the start point of the auction end time range or a time prior to the auction end time. For example, the game providing device may determine the time when the auction is about to end as a time 5 minutes prior to the start point of the auction end time range. Alternatively, the game providing device may determine the time when the auction is about to end as a time 10 minutes prior to the start point of the auction progress time. Note that the time when the auction is about to end may be determined based on a time other than the disclosed example, but is not limited to the disclosed example.

[0126] In one embodiment, the winning bid information interface 570 is also an interface for acquiring a user input in order to provide information related to a recently won game item via the auction site interface 500. For example, the game providing device may provide information related to an auction of a recently won game item via the auction site interface of Fig. 9 based on acquiring a touch input from a user to the winning bid information interface 570. Note that the item list interface displayed via a user input to the winning bid information interface 570 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 9.

[0127] In one embodiment, the preference interface 580 is also an interface for acquiring user input in order to provide information related to the auction of a game item that is preferred by the user provided with the auction floor interface 500. For example, the game providing device may provide information related to the auction of a game item that is preferred by the user through the auction floor interface of Fig. 10 based on acquiring mouse input from the user to the preference interface 580. Note that the item list interface displayed through the user input to the preference interface 580 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 10.

[0128] In one embodiment, the transaction details interface 590 is also an interface for acquiring user input to provide information related to the auction of a game item traded through the in-game auction system. For example, the game providing device may provide information related to the auction of a game item traded by a user through the in-game auction system based on acquiring a voice input to the transaction details interface 590. The item list interface displayed through a user input to the transaction details interface 590 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13.

[0129] It should be noted that the item list interfaces in Figures 5, 9, 10, and 11-13 may each display different information.

[0130] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a bidding interface for bidding on an auction item according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] 6 illustrates a screen of a game providing device displaying a bid interface 600. The bid interface 600 is also an interface that is displayed on the game providing device when the game providing device receives a user input associated with a bid on a game item.

[0132] In one embodiment, the bidding interface 600 is also an interface displayed by the game providing device when the game providing device acquires a user input for an interface related to a game item provided in the auction house interface 500. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the bidding interface 600 is also an interface provided by the game providing device in response to acquiring a user input for a game item interface including the nickname "Arcane" included in the item list interface 550. Note that the manner in which the game providing device provides the bidding interface 600 is not limited to the disclosed example, and the game providing device may provide the bidding interface 600 when identifying a user input for bidding.

[0133] In one embodiment, the bidding interface 600 includes at least one of a bid item information interface 610, a bid price interface 620, a bid confirmation interface 630, and a bid request interface 640. Note that the bidding interface 600 is not limited to the example of FIG. 6, and may further include components different from those disclosed in FIG. 6, and some components of FIG. 6 are not disclosed.

[0134] In one embodiment, the bid item information interface 610 is also an interface that displays information related to the game item being bid on. Note that the user who registered the game item for sale at the auction site and the user who is bidding on the game item may be different.

[0135] In one embodiment, the bid item information interface 610 also includes information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the number of bids, the highest bid price, the time remaining in the auction, the lowest bid price, and the minimum bid increment. If the auction closing time has passed, the game providing device also includes information that the auction for the game item may be closed at any time via the bid item information interface 610. It should be noted that the bid item information interface 610 is not limited to the disclosed example.

[0136] In one embodiment, the bid price interface 620 is also an interface for a user to obtain information regarding the amount of a commodity that the user is willing to pay to bid on a game item. For example, the game provider may obtain information from a user that the user is willing to pay 22,500 to bid on the nickname "Arcane." When the game provider recognizes a user input to the bid request interface 640, the game provider may obtain information including the amount of a commodity that the user is willing to pay listed in the bid price interface 620.

[0137] In one embodiment, when the game item is a character nickname, the bid confirmation interface 630 is also an interface that assists a user who bids on the character nickname to clearly confirm the character nickname before purchasing. For example, the game providing device may receive a user's input of the character nickname to be bidded via the bid confirmation interface 630. The game providing device may identify whether the input character nickname is the same as the nickname of the character to be auctioned. The bid confirmation interface 630 is not limited to the disclosed example, and may also include information suggesting reconfirmation of the character nickname to be bidded.

[0138] In one embodiment, the bid request interface 640 is also an interface for obtaining a bid request for a game item. For example, the game provider may obtain a bid request via mouse input to the bid request interface 640.

[0139] In one embodiment, when the game provider receives a bid request via the bid request interface 640, the game provider may identify whether the conditions for bidding on the game item are met.

[0140] In one embodiment, the conditions for bidding on game items include at least one of whether or not a security environment is established for the game providing device of the user who requested the bid, whether or not the number of transactions within a predetermined period is below a limit, and whether or not the user has goods worth more than the bid price inputted. Note that the conditions for bidding on game items are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0141] In one embodiment, the game providing device may provide a note associated with a bid for a game item when a bid request is received via the bid request interface 640. For example, the game providing device may identify whether a condition for bidding on a game item is met based on receiving the bid request, and may provide a note associated with a bid for a game item when the game providing device identifies that the condition for bidding on a game item is met.

[0142] In one embodiment, the notices associated with the bid for the game item may include information that a bid cannot be cancelled due to a change of mind, that a bid can be re-made at a higher price until the end of the auction, and that the game item that has been won cannot be resold within a certain period of time. If the game item is a nickname, the game providing device may provide notices associated with the nickname bid. For example, the notices associated with the nickname bid may include information that the number of nickname transactions may be limited for a certain period of time, that if a nickname is won and received, the character's nickname may be immediately changed and existing character nicknames may be deleted, and that names containing prohibited words may be recalled, but are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0143] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a rebid interface for rebidding an auction item according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] 7 illustrates a screen of the game providing device displaying a re-bid interface 700. The re-bid interface 700 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when the game providing device acquires a user input for re-bid from a user who has bid on a game item.

[0145] In one embodiment, the re-bid interface 700 is also an interface displayed by the game providing device when the game providing device receives a user input for the game item interface provided in the auction house interface 500 from a user who has bid on a game item. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the re-bid interface 700 is also an interface provided by the game providing device in response to further receiving a user input for the game item interface including the nickname "Arcane" included in the item list interface 550 after receiving a bid request for the nickname "Arcane". Note that the manner in which the game providing device provides the re-bid interface 700 is not limited to the disclosed example, and the game providing device may provide the re-bid interface 700 when identifying a user input for re-bid.

[0146] In one embodiment, the rebid interface 700 may include at least one of a rebid item information interface 710, a previous bid price interface 720, a rebid price interface 730, a rebid confirmation interface 740, and a rebid request interface 750. Note that the rebid interface 700 is not limited to the example of FIG. 7, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 7, and some configurations of FIG. 7 may not be disclosed.

[0147] In one embodiment, the re-bid item information interface 710 is also an interface that displays information related to the game item to be re-bid. The re-bid item information interface 710 also includes information related to at least one of the name of the game item to be re-bid, the number of bids, the highest bid price, the time remaining in the auction, the lowest bid price, and the minimum bid unit. If the closing time has passed, the game providing device also includes information that the auction for the game item may be closed at any time via the bid item information interface 710. Note that the re-bid item information interface 710 is not limited to the disclosed example.

[0148] In one embodiment, the previous bid price interface 720 is also an interface that displays information related to the bid price previously placed. When there are multiple bids, the previous bid price interface 720 can display only the most recent bid price or can display all bid prices.

[0149] In one embodiment, the rebid price interface 730 is also an interface for acquiring information regarding the amount of goods the user is willing to pay for the game item to be rebid. For example, the game provider may acquire information from the user that the user is willing to pay 65,500 to rebid on the nickname "Arcane". When the game provider recognizes a user input to the rebid request interface 750, the game provider may acquire information including the amount of goods the user is willing to pay listed in the rebid price interface 730.

[0150] In one embodiment, the rebid confirmation interface 740 is also an interface for providing information regarding the amount of goods that will be the additional difference in the amount of goods to be added to a user who is rebidding a game item. For example, if the previous bid price for a game item is 22,500 and the rebid price is 65,500, the game providing device may provide information that the additional difference in goods may be about 43,000, which is the difference between the rebid price and the previous bid price.

[0151] In one embodiment, the rebid request interface 750 is also an interface for obtaining a rebid request for the game item. For example, the game provider may obtain a bid request via a touch input to the rebid request interface 750.

[0152] In one embodiment, when the game providing device receives a rebid request via the rebid request interface 750, the game providing device may identify whether the conditions for rebidding the game item are met. For example, the conditions for rebidding may include at least one of whether a security environment is established for the game providing device of the user who requested the rebid, and whether the user has assets equal to or greater than the difference between the rebid price and the previous bid price. Note that the conditions for rebidding the game item are not limited to the disclosed examples.

[0153] In one embodiment, the game providing device may provide a note associated with rebidding a game item when receiving a rebidding request via the rebidding request interface 750. For example, the game providing device may identify whether a condition for rebidding a game item is met based on receiving a rebidding request, and may provide a note associated with rebidding the game item when it identifies that the condition for rebidding the game item is met. The note associated with rebidding the game item may correspond to a note associated with bidding for the game item.

[0154] In one embodiment, the game providing device may provide information that an overbid has occurred when another user makes a bid at a higher price for the game item that the user has bid on. The game providing device may also receive a request to re-bid when another user makes a bid at a higher price for the game item that the user has bid on, end the auction, and receive a refund of the bid price that the user paid. The game providing device may also provide information that a user cannot request to cancel a bid simply because they have changed their mind.

[0155] In one embodiment, when the auction end time has passed, the game providing device may determine the highest bidder up to the end of the auction as the successful bidder. The game providing device may provide the user who registered for sale with goods equivalent to the successful bid price minus a transaction fee, and may also refund the registration deposit. The game providing device may provide a game item to the successful bidder who is the highest bidder. In addition, the goods provided to the user who registered for sale as a result of the auction or the game item provided to the user who is the successful bidder may disappear a predetermined time after the auction end time has passed.

[0156] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a filter interface for searching auction items according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0157] 8 illustrates a screen on which a filter interface 800 is displayed in a game providing device. The filter interface 800 is also an interface that the game providing device displays when the game providing device receives a user input for searching game items registered for sale in the in-game auction system through detailed filters. For example, the filter interface 800 is also an interface that the game providing device displays when the game providing device receives a user input for the filter search interface 540 included in the auction site interface 500.

[0158] In one embodiment, the filter interface 800 may include at least one of a language interface 810, a character count interface 820, a price filter interface 830, and a search request interface 840. Note that the filter interface 800 is not limited to the example of FIG. 8, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 8, and some configurations of FIG. 8 may not be disclosed.

[0159] In one embodiment, the game providing device may search for game items using at least one of a language, a character count, and a price range. The game items may be searched for using at least one of a language, a character count, a price range, and a type of game item.

[0160] In one embodiment, the language interface 810 is also an interface for acquiring information related to the language of the game item from a user searching for a game item. For example, if the game item is a character's nickname, the nickname may be written in Korean only, English only, or may contain both Korean and English. In this case, the game providing device may acquire information related to the language of the character's nickname via the language interface 810.

[0161] In one embodiment, the character number interface 820 is also an interface for acquiring information on the number of characters of a game item to be searched for from a user searching for a game item. For example, if the game item is a nickname, the game providing device may acquire a user input for limiting the number of characters of the nickname to 2 or 3 characters.

[0162] In one embodiment, the price filter interface 830 is also an interface for obtaining information regarding the highest bid price at the time of the search for the game item to be searched for. For example, the game providing device may obtain a user input to search for a game item whose highest bid price at the time of the search is 25,000 or less.

[0163] In one embodiment, the search request interface 840 is also an interface for obtaining a search request for searching for a game item. For example, the game providing device may obtain a bid request via a touch input to the search request interface 750.

[0164] Although not disclosed in the filter interface 800, when the game providing device searches for equipment items that a character can wear to improve ability values, the game providing device may provide results filtered by the classification of the game items, namely, "equipment items."

[0165] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] 9 shows a screen of the game providing device displaying an auction site interface 900. The auction site interface 900 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0167] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 900 includes at least one of a user information interface, a search interface, a search box interface, a preference interface, a transaction details interface, a winning bid information interface 910, and an item list interface 920. The user information interface, search interface, search box interface, preference interface, transaction details interface, and winning bid information interface 910 included in the auction site interface 900 correspond to the user information interface 510, search interface 520, search box interface 530, preference interface 580, transaction details interface 590, and winning bid information interface 570 included in the auction site interface 500 of FIG 5, respectively, and therefore the same content will not be repeated.

[0168] It should be noted that the auction site interface 900 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 9, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 9, and some configurations of FIG. 9 are not disclosed.

[0169] In one embodiment, the auction floor interface 900 is also an interface that is displayed when a user input is obtained for the winning bid information interface 910. For example, when a game providing device obtains a user input for the winning bid information interface 910, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 900. When providing the auction floor interface 900, the game providing device may also be pre-configured to provide the auction floor interface 900 including the item list interface 920 of FIG. 9 without a user input for the winning bid information interface 910. Note that the disclosed examples are not limiting.

[0170] In one embodiment, the item list interface 920 is an interface that displays a list of at least one item that has been sold. The item list interface 920 also includes a sold items interface 930.

[0171] In one embodiment, the won item interface 930 is also an interface that displays information related to the won game item if the game item is won. For example, the won item interface 930 may include information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the winning bid price, the total number of bids, and the end time of the auction. It should be noted that the disclosed examples are not limiting, and the won item interface 930 may include all information related to the won item.

[0172] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] 10 illustrates a screen of a game providing device displaying an auction site interface 1000. The auction site interface 1000 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0174] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 1000 includes at least one of a user information interface, a search interface, a search box interface, a winning bid information interface, a transaction details interface, a preference interface 1010, and an item list interface 1020. The user information interface, search interface, search box interface, winning bid information interface, transaction details interface, and preference interface 1010 included in the auction site interface 1000 correspond to the user information interface 510, search interface 520, search box interface 530, winning bid information interface 570, transaction details interface 590, and preference interface 580 included in the auction site interface 500 of FIG 5, respectively, and therefore the same content will not be repeated.

[0175] It should be noted that the auction site interface 1000 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 10, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 10, and some configurations of FIG. 10 are not disclosed.

[0176] In one embodiment, the auction floor interface 1000 is also an interface that is displayed when a user input is obtained for the preference interface 1010. For example, when a game providing device obtains a user input for the winning bid information interface 1010, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 1000. When providing the auction floor interface 1000, the game providing device may also be preconfigured to provide the auction floor interface 1000 including the item list interface 1020 of FIG. 10 without a user input for the preference interface 1010. Note that the disclosed examples are not limiting.

[0177] In one embodiment, the item list interface 1020 is an interface that displays a list of at least one item that the user has identified as a favorite item. The item list interface 1020 also includes a favorite items interface 1030.

[0178] In one embodiment, the favorite item interface 1030 is an interface that displays information related to the user's favorite game item when a given game item is identified as a favorite item of the user. For example, the favorite item interface 1030 may include information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the auction status of the game item, the highest bid price, the total number of bids, the time remaining, and the end time of the auction. It should be noted that the disclosed examples are not limiting, and the favorite item interface 1030 may include all information related to the user's favorite game item.

[0179] In one embodiment, with regard to information related to the auction status included in the favorite item interface 1030, the game providing device may display "On Sale" if the game item is currently being auctioned, display "Sold Completed" if the auction has ended with a successful bid, display "Not Sold" if the auction has ended with a failed bid, and display "Sale Cancelled" if the game item is identified as having an unhealthy nickname or the like and the auction has been forcibly canceled.

[0180] In one embodiment, the information regarding the remaining time included in the favorite item interface 1030 may also include approximate time information from the current time until the end of the auction for an item currently being auctioned. In addition, the game providing device may provide information that the auction for the game item may end at any time if the end imminent time has passed.

[0181] In one embodiment, the favorite item interface 1030 also includes a delete interface 1040. The delete interface 1040 is also an interface for receiving a delete request to delete a game item included in the item list interface 1020. For example, the game providing device may receive the delete request via a touch input to the delete interface 1040.

[0182] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] 11 shows a screen of a game providing device displaying an auction site interface 1100. The auction site interface 1100 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0184] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 1100 may include at least one of a user information interface, a search interface, a search box interface, a winning bid information interface, a preference interface, a transaction details interface 1110, a sale transaction interface 1120, a bid transaction interface, a completed transaction interface, an item list interface 1130, and a sale request interface 1150. The user information interface, search interface, search box interface, winning bid information interface, preference interface, and transaction details interface 1110 included in the auction site interface 1100 correspond to the user information interface 510, search interface 520, search box interface 530, winning bid information interface 570, preference interface 580, and transaction details interface 590 included in the auction site interface 500 of FIG 5, respectively, and therefore the same content will not be repeated.

[0185] It should be noted that the auction site interface 1100 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 11, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 11, and some configurations of FIG. 11 are not disclosed.

[0186] In one embodiment, the auction floor interface 1100 is also an interface that is displayed when a user input is obtained for the transaction details interface 1110. For example, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 1100 of FIG. 11 when a user input is obtained for the transaction details interface 1110. The game providing device may provide information related to game items being sold through the auction floor interface 1100 of FIG. 11. When providing the auction floor interface 1100, the game providing device may also be pre-configured to provide the auction floor interface 1100 including the item list interface 1140 of FIG. 11 without a user input for the sales transaction interface 1120. Note that the disclosed examples are not limiting.

[0187] In one embodiment, the sales transaction interface 1120 is also an interface for acquiring user input to provide information related to the game items being sold through the auction system. For example, the game providing device may provide information related to the game items being sold based on acquiring mouse input from the user to the sales transaction interface 1120.

[0188] In one embodiment, the item list interface 1130 is an interface that displays a list of at least one game item that is for sale through the auction system. The item list interface 1130 also includes a for sale item interface 1140.

[0189] In one embodiment, the item for sale interface 1140 is an interface that displays information related to the game item that the user is selling. For example, the item for sale interface 1140 may include information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the minimum bid price, the maximum bid price, the total number of bids, and the time remaining. It should be noted that the disclosed examples are not limiting, and the item for sale interface 1140 may include all information related to the game item that the user is selling.

[0190] In one embodiment, the information regarding remaining time included in the sale items interface 1140 corresponds to the information regarding remaining time included in the favorite items interface 1030 and is therefore omitted.

[0191] In one embodiment, the sales request interface 1150 is also an interface for acquiring user input to sell a game item in the auction system. For example, the game providing device may acquire information related to a game item that the user wants to sell through the auction system through a touch input to the sales request interface 1150, and provide a sales registration interface 400 related to the item that the user wants to sell through the auction system.

[0192] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0193] 12 illustrates a screen of a game providing device displaying an auction site interface 1200. The auction site interface 1200 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0194] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 1200 may include at least one of a user information interface, a search interface, a search box interface, a winning bid information interface, a preference interface, a transaction summary interface, a selling transaction interface, a bidding transaction interface 1210, a completed transaction interface, and an item list interface 1220. Content that is the same as in FIG. 11 will be omitted to avoid duplication.

[0195] It should be noted that the auction site interface 1200 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 12, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 12, and some configurations of FIG. 12 are not disclosed.

[0196] In one embodiment, the bidding transaction interface 1210 is also an interface for acquiring user input to provide information related to the bidded game items. For example, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 1200 of FIG. 12 based on acquiring a touch input to the bidding transaction interface 1210 from a user. The game providing device may provide information related to game items for which the auction has not yet ended among the game items for which the bid has been made via the auction floor interface 1200. When providing the auction floor interface 1200, the game providing device may be pre-configured to provide the auction floor interface 1200 including the item list interface 1220 of FIG. 12 without user input to the bidding transaction interface 1210. Note that the disclosed examples are not limited to the above.

[0197] In one embodiment, the item list interface 1220 is also an interface that displays a list of at least one game item for which a user has placed a bid. The item list interface 1220 also includes a bid item interface 1230.

[0198] In one embodiment, the bid item interface 1230 is also an interface that displays information related to the game item for which a bid has been made. For example, the bid item interface 1230 may include information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the highest bid price, the bid price of the user provided with the auction site interface 1200, the total number of bids, the remaining time, and a further processing method. However, the disclosed examples are not limited, and the bid item interface 1230 may include all information related to the game item for which a user has made a bid.

[0199] In one embodiment, information regarding remaining time included in bid items interface 1230 corresponds to information regarding remaining time included in favorite items interface 1030 of FIG. 10 and is therefore omitted.

[0200] In one embodiment, the additional processing method included in the bid item interface 1230 may be provided via the bid processing interface 1240. The bid processing interface 1240 may provide a processing method related to the auction to a user provided with the auction site interface 1200. For example, the game providing device may provide information that the user has bid at the ceiling price if the user's bid amount is the same as the highest bid price. If the user's bid amount is different from the highest bid price, the game providing device may provide the user with an interface for a re-bid request or a refund request. In addition, the game providing device may receive a re-bid request or a refund request, and provide the re-bid interface 700, or refund the amount of goods paid for the bid.

[0201] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an auction floor interface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] 13 shows a screen of the game providing device displaying an auction site interface 1300. The auction site interface 1300 is also an interface displayed on the game providing device when using an auction system provided within a game.

[0203] In one embodiment, the auction site interface 1300 may include at least one of a user information interface, a search interface, a search box interface, a winning bid information interface, a preference interface, a transaction details interface, a selling transaction interface, a bidding transaction interface, a closing transaction interface 1310, and an item list interface 1320. Content that is the same as in Figures 11 and 12 will be omitted to avoid duplication.

[0204] It should be noted that the auction site interface 1300 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 13, and may further include configurations different from those disclosed in FIG. 13, and some configurations of FIG. 13 are not disclosed.

[0205] In one embodiment, the end transaction interface 1310 is also an interface for acquiring a user input to provide information related to game items for which the auction has ended among game items for which the user has sold or bid through the auction system. For example, the game providing device may provide the auction floor interface 1300 of FIG. 13 based on acquiring a touch input to the end transaction interface 1310. The game providing device may provide information related to game items for which the auction has ended among game items for which the user has sold or bid through the auction floor interface 1300. When providing the auction floor interface 1300, the game providing device may be pre-configured to provide the auction floor interface 1300 including the item list interface 1320 of FIG. 13 without a user input to the end transaction interface 1310. Note that the disclosed example is not limited to the above.

[0206] In one embodiment, the item list interface 1320 is also an interface that displays a list of at least one game item that a user has sold or bid on through the auction system and for which an auction has ended. The item list interface 1320 also includes a ended item interface 1330.

[0207] In one embodiment, the ended item interface 1330 is an interface that displays information related to a game item for which an auction has ended among game items sold or bid on by a user. For example, the ended item interface 1330 includes information related to at least one of the name of the game item, the transaction date, the auction status, the total number of bids, the highest bid price, and the additional processing method. It should be noted that the ended item interface 1330 is not limited to the disclosed example, and may include all information related to a game item for which an auction has ended among game items sold or bid on by a user.

[0208] In one embodiment, the transaction date information included in the end item interface 1330 may include at least one of the date the auction ended, the date on which the retention period for the sold game item expires, and the date on which the retention period for the money for the sold game item expires.

[0209] In one embodiment, with regard to information related to the auction status included in the end interface 1330, the game providing device may display "not sold" when the auction ends without the game item sold by the user being sold, and may display "sold" when the auction ends with the game item sold by the user being sold. In addition, the game providing device may display "not sold" when the game item bid by the user is not sold, and may display "sold" when the game item bid by the user is sold. In addition, the game providing device may display "sale canceled" when the game item sold or bid by the user is identified as an unhealthy nickname and the auction is forcibly canceled.

[0210] In one embodiment, the game providing device may provide information related to the additional processing method included in the end item interface 1330 through the end processing interface 1340. If the auction status is "unsold", the end processing interface 1340 may provide an interface for a request for return or resale registration of the game item. In addition, the game providing device may receive a request for return or resale registration of the game item and decide to return the game item or further register it for sale. If the user has already returned the game item, the game providing device may display information that the user has returned the game item.

[0211] In one embodiment, the end processing interface 1340 also includes an interface for a receipt request to receive goods as a consideration for the auction of the game item when the auction status is "sold". The game providing device may receive the receipt request and provide a predetermined goods to the user who sold the game item. In addition, when the user has received the goods, the game providing device may display information that the user has already received the goods.

[0212] In one embodiment, the end processing interface 1340 also includes an interface for requesting a refund of the goods paid for bidding on the game item when the auction status is "unsuccessful". The game providing device may receive the refund request and decide to refund the bid price to the user. In addition, when the game providing device receives the refund request and decides to refund the bid price and returns the goods to the user, the game providing device may display information that the user has received the refund of the bid price.

[0213] In one embodiment, the end processing interface 1340 also includes an interface for a receipt request for the game item when the auction status is "successful". The game providing device may obtain the receipt request and provide the game item to the user who won the bid for the game item. In addition, when the user who won the bid for the game item receives the game item, the game providing device may display information that the user has received the game item.

[0214] In one embodiment, the termination processing interface 1340 may include a step in which, if the auction status is "sale cancelled," the game provider may provide information that the sale has been cancelled.

[0215] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a game providing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0216] As shown in Fig. 14, the game providing device 1400 according to some embodiments includes at least one processor 1410 (hereinafter referred to as "processor"), a communication unit 1430, and a memory 1450. However, none of the components shown in Fig. 14 are essential components of the game providing device 1400. The game providing device 1400 may be implemented with more components than those shown in Fig. 14, or may be implemented with fewer components than those shown in Fig. 14. The game providing device 1400 may be a user terminal, a server, a game network system, or a separate device.

[0217] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 1410 generally controls the overall operation of the game providing device 1400. For example, the processor 1410 may generally control the communication unit 1430, the memory 1450, etc. by executing a program stored in the memory 1450. The processor 1410 may control the operation of the game providing device 1400 in this specification by controlling the communication unit 1430, the memory 1450, etc. The program stored in the memory is also an instruction for the operation of the game providing device.

[0218] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the processor 1410 may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information associated with a time of the auction. The processor 1410 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The processor 1410 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0219] According to one embodiment, the processor 1410 may identify whether a condition for registering the game item for sale is met, and may decide to register the game item for sale based on identifying that the condition for registering the game item for sale is met.

[0220] According to one embodiment, the processor 1410 may provide information that the auction for the game item may end at any time if the auction for the game item is about to end when the auction end time has passed.

[0221] According to one embodiment, the processor 1410 may execute the instructions and provide information that the game item cannot be registered for sale for auction based on identifying that the conditions for registering the game item for sale cannot be met.

[0222] According to one embodiment, the processor 1410 may execute instructions to provide information regarding the time remaining in an auction for a game item if the auction for the game item is not about to end.

[0223] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication unit 1430 may communicate with an external device under the control of the processor 1410. For example, the communication unit 1430 may communicate with an external device such as a payment server or an authentication server under the control of the processor 1410. The communication unit 1430 may also acquire user information or user input through communication with an external interface.

[0224] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1450 stores programs for processing and controlling the processor 1410, and may also store data input to or output from the game providing device 1400. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1450 may store auction information, auction time information, and information related to game items according to the present disclosure.

[0225] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, using a program stored in memory 1450, processor 1410 may execute a method for providing a game service. For example, processor 1410 may obtain auction information related to an auction of a game item based on at least one information stored in memory 1450, the auction information also including auction time information related to a time of the auction. Processor 1410 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the at least one information stored in memory 1450 and the auction time information. Processor 1410 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range based on the at least one information stored in memory 1450.

[0226] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1450 may include at least one type of recording medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., a secure digital (SD) memory or an extreme digital (XD) memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. Also, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the programs stored in the memory 1450 may be classified into a plurality of modules according to their functions.

[0227] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method of providing a game service is performed by the game providing device 1400, or by a server or a user terminal, and at least one component included in the game providing device 1400 may perform the embodiments described above in Figures 1 to 13. Also, the method of providing a game service may be performed by the server and the user terminal individually or together. The components of the server and the user terminal will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 15 and 16.

[0228] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0229] As shown in Fig. 15, a server 1500 according to some embodiments includes at least one processor 1510, a communication unit 1530, and a memory 1550. However, none of the components shown in Fig. 15 are essential components of the server 1500. The server 1500 may be embodied with more components than those shown in Fig. 15, or may be embodied with fewer components than those shown in Fig. 15.

[0230] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 1510 generally controls the overall operation of the server 1500. For example, the processor 1510 may generally control the communication unit 1530, the memory 1550, etc., by executing a program stored in the memory 1550. The processor 1510 may control the operation of the server 1500 herein by controlling the communication unit 1530, the memory 1550, etc.

[0231] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the processor 1510 may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information associated with a time of the auction. The processor 1510 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The processor 1510 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0232] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operation of the processor 1510 may correspond to the operation of the processor 1410 of the game providing device 1400 described in FIG. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0233] The communication unit 1530 may provide questions to the user terminal 1600 and receive response information to the questions under the control of the processor 1510. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication unit 1530 transmits and receives data to and from the user terminal 1600, and the data transmitted and received from the user terminal 1600 may include control data for controlling the user terminal 1600 or a program included in the user terminal 1600.

[0234] The memory 1550 stores a program for processing and control of the processor 1510, and may also store data input to or output from the server 1500. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1550 may store at least one piece of information that the memory 1450 of the game providing device 1400 of FIG.

[0235] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, using a program stored in memory 1550, processor 1510 may execute a method for providing gaming services.

[0236] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1550 may include at least one type of recording medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD memory or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. Also, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the programs stored in the memory 1550 may be classified into a plurality of modules according to their functions.

[0237] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the game providing method may be performed separately by the server 1500 and the user terminal 1600, may be performed individually by the server 1500 and the user terminal 1600, or may be performed by the game providing device 1400.

[0238] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of a user terminal according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0239] As shown in Figure 16, a user terminal 1600 according to some embodiments may include at least one processor 1610, a communication unit 1630, a memory 1650, and a user interface 1670. However, none of the components shown in Figure 16 are required components of the user terminal 1600. The user terminal 1600 may be embodied with more components than those shown in Figure 16, and may be embodied with fewer components than those shown in Figure 16.

[0240] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 1610 generally controls the overall operation of the user terminal 1600. For example, the processor 1610 may generally control the communication unit 1630, the memory 1650, the user interface 1670, etc., by executing a program stored in the memory 1650. The processor 1610 may control the operation of the user terminal 1600 herein by controlling the communication unit 1630, the memory 1650, the user interface 1670, etc.

[0241] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the processor 1610 may obtain auction information associated with an auction of a game item. The auction information may also include auction time information associated with a time of the auction. The processor 1610 may obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information. The processor 1610 may determine an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

[0242] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operation of the processor 1610 may correspond to the operation of the processor 1410 of the game providing device 1400 described in FIG. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0243] The communication unit 1630 may provide queries to the server 1500 and receive response information to the queries under the control of the processor 1610. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication unit 1630 may transmit and receive data to and from the server 1500, and the data transmitted and received from the server 1500 may include control data for controlling the user terminal 1600 or a program included in the user terminal 1600.

[0244] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication unit 1630 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) (wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi)) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0245] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication unit 1630 transmits and receives wireless signals to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server in a mobile communication network, where the wireless signals include various types of data such as a voice call signal, a video call signal, or a text / multimedia message transmission / reception.

[0246] The memory 1650 stores a program for processing and control of the processor 1610, and may also store data input to or output from the user terminal 1600. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1650 may store game-related information. For example, the memory 1650 may store at least one piece of information that the memory 1450 of the game providing device in FIG. 14 may store.

[0247] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, using a program stored in memory 1650, processor 1610 may execute a method for providing gaming services.

[0248] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory 1650 may include at least one type of recording medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD memory or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. Also, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the programs stored in the memory 1650 may be classified into a plurality of modules according to their functions.

[0249] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 may include various interfaces. For example, the user interface 1670 may include various interfaces such as a key pad, a dome switch, a voice input interface, a fingerprint input interface, a touch input interface (contact type electrostatic capacitance type, pressure type resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral type tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a camera, a jog wheel, and a jog switch, and various sensors such as an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a temperature sensor, and a light sensor may be linked to the user interface. It goes without saying that the user interface is not limited to the above examples.

[0250] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 further includes an output unit (not shown). The output unit may include at least one of a liquid crystal display, a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode, a flexible display, a three-dimensional display, and an electrophoretic display. When the display and the touch pad have a layered structure and are configured as a touch screen, the display may be used as an input device in addition to an output device. The output unit (not shown) may include, but is not limited to, an LED (light-emitting diode) lamp, a vibration motor, a speaker, a flash, etc.

[0251] Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 may output notifications related to game information as images, videos, sounds, vibrations, lights, and the like.

[0252] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 also includes the sale registration interface 400, the item information interface 410, the minimum bid price interface 420, the auction time interface 430, the nickname change interface 440, the price interface 450, and the request interface 460 of FIG.

[0253] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, user interface 1670, in one embodiment of FIG. 5, the auction house interface 500 also includes a user information interface 510, a search interface 520, a search window interface 530, a filter search interface 540, an item list interface 550, a game item interface 560, a winning bid information interface 570, a preferences interface 580, and a transaction summary interface 590.

[0254] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, user interface 1670 also includes the bid interface 600, the bid item information interface 610, the bid price interface 620, the bid confirmation interface 630, and the bid request interface 640 of FIG.

[0255] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, user interface 1670 also includes rebid interface 700, rebid item information interface 710, previous bid price interface 720, rebid price interface 730, rebid confirmation interface 740, and rebid request interface 750 of FIG.

[0256] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 also includes the filter interface 800, the language interface 810, the word count interface 820, the price filter interface 830, and the search request interface 840 of FIG.

[0257] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface 1670 also includes the auction floor interface 900 of FIG. 9, a user information interface, a search interface, a search window interface, a preferences interface, a transaction summary interface, a winning information interface 910, an item list interface 920, and a winning items interface 930.

[0258] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interfaces 1670 also include the auction floor interface 1000 of FIG. 10, a user information interface, a search interface, a search window interface, a winning bid information interface, a transaction summary interface, a preferences interface 1010, an item list interface 1020, a favorite items interface 1030, and a delete interface 1040.

[0259] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interfaces 1670 also include the auction house interface 1100 of FIG. 11, a user information interface, a search interface, a search window interface, a winning information interface, a preferences interface, a transaction summary interface 1110, a sale transaction interface 1120, a bid transaction interface, a completed transaction interface, an item list interface 1130, a sale items interface 1140, and a sale request interface 1150.

[0260] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interfaces 1670 also include the auction floor interface 1200 of FIG. 12, a user information interface, a search interface, a search window interface, a winning bid information interface, a preferences interface, a transaction summary interface, a sale transaction interface, a bid transaction interface 1210, a closing transaction interface, an item list interface 1220, a bid items interface 1230, and a bid processing interface 1240.

[0261] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interfaces 1670 also include the auction floor interface 1300 of FIG. 13 , a user information interface, a search interface, a search window interface, a winning information interface, a preferences interface, a transaction summary interface, a selling transaction interface, a bid transaction interface, a closing transaction interface 1310, an item list interface 1320, and a closing item interface 1330.

[0262] However, the above interfaces are merely examples of user interface 1670, and user interface 1670 of the present disclosure may include a variety of other interfaces.

[0263] The devices described above may be implemented using hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware and software components. For example, the devices and components described in the present embodiment may be implemented using one or more general-purpose or special-purpose computers, such as a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing and responding to instructions. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications executed on the operating system (OS). The processing device may also access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of software. For ease of understanding, the processing device is described as being used as a single processing device, but a person skilled in the art would know that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, the processing unit may include multiple processors, or a processor and a controller. Different processing configurations are also possible, such as parallel processors.

[0264] Software may also include computer programs, codes, instructions, or any combination of one or more thereof, and may configure a processing device to operate as desired, or may provide instructions to the processing device, either separately or collectively. The software and / or data may be embodied, permanently or temporarily, in some type of machine, component, physical device, virtual device, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave, to be analyzed by the processing device or to provide instructions or data to the processing device. The software may also be distributed on computer systems coupled to a network, and stored or executed in a distributed manner. The software and the data may be stored on one or more computer readable storage media.

[0265] The method according to the present invention may be embodied in the form of program instructions that can be executed by various computer means and recorded on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, and the like, alone or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be specially designed and constructed for the present invention, or may be well known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical media such as compact disc read only memories (CD-ROMs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs), and magneto-optical media such as floptical disks; and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of the program instructions include not only machine code, such as that produced by a compiler, but also high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The above hardware devices may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the present invention, and vice versa.

[0266] As described above, even if the present embodiment has been described by a limited embodiment and drawings, a person having ordinary skill in the art may make various modifications and variations from the above description. For example, the described techniques may be performed in a different order than described, and / or the components such as the described systems, structures, devices, and circuits may be combined or combined in a different manner than described, or may be replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents, and still achieve suitable results.

[0267] Accordingly, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents of the claims are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for providing a game service by a game providing device, comprising: obtaining auction information associated with an auction of a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction; obtaining an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; determining an auction end time for the game item as an arbitrary time within the auction end time range.

2. The auction time information is The method of claim 1 , further comprising at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, a start time for the auction for the game item, a time range for an end of the auction for the game item, and an end time for the auction for the game item.

3. The game item is 10. The method of claim 1, including a nickname for the character.

4. Identifying whether the conditions for registering the game item for sale are met; The method for providing a game service according to claim 1 , further comprising: determining to register the game item for sale based on identifying that the game item satisfies a condition for registering the game item for sale.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of providing information that the auction for the game item may end at any time if an imminent time for the auction to end has passed.

6. The method for providing a game service according to claim 4, further comprising the step of providing information that the game item cannot be registered for sale based on identifying that the conditions for the registration for sale of the game item cannot be met.

7. The auction information includes: The method of claim 1 , further comprising at least one of a name of the game item, a type of the game item, a quantity of the game items, a minimum bid price, and a maximum bid price.

8. The conditions for said sales registration are: The method for providing game services as described in claim 4, including at least one of whether the number of auctions within a specified period assigned to each user is exceeded, whether the user holds goods in excess of the sales registration deposit, and whether the game item is a tradable item or an auctionable item.

9. The auction information includes: The method for providing game services according to claim 3, further comprising the step of registering the nickname for sale and using the nickname by a character.

10. The game item is The method for providing a game service according to claim 3, wherein the game service can be searched using at least one of language, number of characters, and price range.

11. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing information regarding the remaining time of the auction for the game item if the auction closing time for the game item has not passed.

12. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions; The at least one processor executes the instructions; obtaining auction information associated with an auction for a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction; Obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; The game providing device determines the end time of the auction for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

13. The auction time information is The game providing device of claim 12 , comprising at least one of an auction progress time for the game item, an auction end time for the game item, an auction start time for the game item, and an auction end time range for the game item.

14. The game item is The game providing device of claim 12, further comprising a nickname for the character.

15. The at least one processor executes the instructions; Identifying whether the game item satisfies the conditions for registering the game item for sale; The game providing device according to claim 12 , further comprising: determining whether or not the game item is registered for sale based on whether or not the game item satisfies a condition for registering the game item for sale.

16. The at least one processor executes the instructions; The game providing device according to claim 12, further comprising information that the auction for the game item may be ended at any time if the auction for the game item is about to end when the auction for the game item is about to end.

17. The at least one processor executes the instructions; The game providing device according to claim 15, further comprising: providing information that the game item cannot be registered for sale based on identifying that the conditions for registering the game item for sale cannot be met.

18. The auction information includes: The game providing device according to claim 12 , wherein the information includes at least one of the name of the game item, the type of the game item, the number of the game items, a minimum bid price, and a maximum bid price.

19. The conditions for said sales registration are: The game providing device of claim 15, including at least one of whether the limit on the number of auctions per user within a specified period is exceeded, whether the user holds goods equal to or greater than the sales registration deposit, and whether the game item is a tradable item or an auctionable item.

20. The auction information includes: The game providing device according to claim 14 , further comprising a nickname to be used by a character after said nickname is registered for sale.

21. The game item is The game providing device according to claim 14, wherein the game can be searched for using at least one of language, number of characters, and price range.

22. The at least one processor executes the instructions; The game providing device according to claim 12, further comprising: providing information on the remaining time of the auction for the game item if the auction for the game item is about to end and the auction is about to end.

23. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions; The at least one processor executes the instructions; obtaining auction information associated with an auction for a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction; Obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; The server determines an auction end time for the game item as any time within the auction end time range.

24. a memory for storing instructions; at least one processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions; The at least one processor executes the instructions; obtaining auction information associated with an auction for a game item, the auction information including auction time information associated with a time of the auction; Obtain an auction end time range indicating a time range in which the auction will end based on the auction time information; A user terminal that determines an auction end time for the game item as an arbitrary time within the auction end time range.

25. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing the method for providing a game service according to any one of claims 1 to 11 on a computer.

Images