Program and information processing system

Abstract

To make it easy for a user to transmit a specific value to another user.SOLUTION: A program causes a computer to function as: display control means which causes display means to display a list of images associated with distributors; and accepting means which accepts user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of transmitting a specific value from the user to a distributor associated with the specific image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There are known video distribution services that allow a particular value, such as a gift, to be sent to a distributor (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7272570 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in such services, the method of sending the specific value is limited, and it may be difficult to send the specific value to other users.

[0005] The present invention aims to make it easier to send a specific value to another user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment shown in the present disclosure, Computer, A display control means for displaying a list of images associated with a distributor on a display means; and a receiving unit that receives a user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of sending a specific value from the user to a distributor related to the specific image. The program is provided. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to facilitate the sending of a specific value to another user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the information processing system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a home screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a first program guide screen. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a second screen of a program guide. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining sending of a gift from the viewing screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining sending of a gift from the thumbnail list screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining sending of a gift from the thumbnail list screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining sending of a gift from the thumbnail list screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a display related to a broadcaster's reaction to the sending of a gift. [Figure 11] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining other operations that can be performed from the thumbnail list screen. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for sending a gift. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] <Hardware configuration of information processing system> As shown in FIG. 1, an information processing system 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of terminal devices 10 and a server 20.

[0011] The terminal device 10 and the server 20 are connected via a network 2. The network 2 may be configured by, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication system (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE (Long Term Evolution), etc.), WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth (registered trademark), other communication lines, or a combination of these. In addition, the connection between the terminal device 10 and the server 20 may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0012] The server 20 (in other words, a computer, an information processing device) may be, for example, a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The server 20 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a storage 23, a communication IF (interface) 24, and an input / output IF 25. These components included in the server 20 are connected to each other by a communication bus.

[0013] The processor 21 controls the overall operation of the server 20. The processor 21 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc. The processor 21 reads a program from the storage 23 and loads it in the memory 22. The processor 21 executes the loaded program.

[0014] The memory 22 is a main storage device. The memory 22 is composed of storage devices such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory 22 temporarily stores the programs and various data read by the processor 21 from the storage 23, thereby providing a working area for the processor 21. The memory 22 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 21 is operating according to the programs.

[0015] In this embodiment, the program may be a program that realizes a game by the terminal device 10. The program may also be a program that realizes the game through cooperation between the terminal device 10 and the server 20. The game realized through cooperation between the terminal device 10 and the server 20 may be, for example, a game executed on a browser launched in the terminal device 10. The program may also be a program that realizes the game through cooperation between a plurality of terminal devices 10. The various data include, for example, data related to the game, such as user information and game information, and instructions and notifications transmitted and received between the terminal device 10 and the server 20.

[0016] The storage 23 is an auxiliary storage device. The storage 23 is configured with a storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk drive (HDD), etc. The storage 23 stores various data related to the game.

[0017] The communication IF 24 controls transmission and reception of various data between the server 20 and the terminal device 10 etc. via the network.

[0018] The input / output IF 25 is an interface through which the server 20 receives input of data and also an interface through which the server 20 outputs data. The input / output IF 25 may include, for example, an input unit that is an information input device such as a mouse or a keyboard, and a display unit that is a device that displays and outputs an image.

[0019] The terminal device 10 (in other words, a computer, an information processing device) may be, for example, a smartphone, a feature phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet computer, a personal computer, a wearable terminal, or a game device. The terminal device 10 may be a mobile terminal. The terminal device 10 may be a portable terminal that a user uses when playing a game.

[0020] The terminal device 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a storage 13, a communication IF 14, an input / output IF 15, an input unit 17, and a display unit 18. These components included in the terminal device 10 are connected to each other via a communication bus.

[0021] The processor 11 controls the overall operation of the terminal device 10. The processor 11 may include a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, etc. The processor 11 reads a program from the storage 13 and loads it in the memory 12. The processor 11 executes the loaded program.

[0022] The memory 12 is a main storage device. The memory 12 is composed of storage devices such as a ROM and a RAM. The memory 12 temporarily stores the programs and various data that the processor 11 reads from the storage 13, thereby providing a working area for the processor 11. The memory 12 also temporarily stores various data that the processor 11 generates while it is operating according to the programs.

[0023] The storage 13 is an auxiliary storage device. The storage 13 is configured with a storage device such as a flash memory or a HDD. The storage 13 stores various data related to the game.

[0024] The communication IF 14 controls transmission and reception of various data between the terminal device 10 and the server 20 etc. via the network.

[0025] The input / output IF 15 is an interface through which the terminal device 10 receives input of data and also an interface through which the terminal device 10 outputs data. The input / output IF 15 may input and output data via, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or the like. The input / output IF 15 may include an input unit 17, a display unit 18, or the like.

[0026] The input unit 17 accepts input from a user. The input unit 17 may be, for example, a pointing device such as a touch pad. The display unit 18 displays an image. The display unit 18 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The terminal device 10 includes, for example, a touch screen 16 which is an electronic component combining the input unit 17 and the display unit 18.

[0027] The input unit 17 has a function of detecting a position input on the input surface by a user operation (for example, a touch operation, a tap operation, a slide operation, a swipe operation, a flick operation, a pinch-in operation, a pinch-out operation, etc.) and transmitting information indicating the detected position as an input signal. The touch panel as the input unit 17 may be of a capacitive type or a resistive film type, or may be of another type.

[0028] The input unit 17 may be, for example, a keyboard, various physical buttons, various sensors (for example, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a motion sensor, a gaze sensor, a bioelectric potential sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a breath sensor, a pressure sensor, an image sensor, or the like), an operation stick, a camera, a microphone, etc. The display unit 18 may be, for example, a projector, etc.

[0029] <Functional configuration of information processing system> 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 20 and the terminal device 10. The server 20 in this embodiment has, for example, a function of providing each of the terminal devices 10 with various data and programs required to realize a game, a function of collecting and managing data related to the game from each of the terminal devices 10, and a function of performing synchronization processing between the multiple terminal devices 10.

[0030] In this embodiment, the server 20 identifies each user and the terminal device 10 using a user account that is registered in advance. The method of registering the account is not particularly limited. For example, the terminal device 10 or another device such as a personal computer may transmit information required for registering a user account to the server 20 based on a user's operation, and the server 20 may create and store an account for each user based on the received information.

[0031] 2, the server 20 functions as a control unit 210 and a storage unit 220 through cooperation of a processor 21, a memory 22, a storage 23, a communication IF (interface) 24, an input / output IF 25, etc. The storage unit 220 stores various data used by the control unit 210. The various data include, for example, a game program, game information, and user information.

[0032] The game program is a program for implementing the game. The game information and user information are data that the control unit 210 refers to when executing the game program.

[0033] In this embodiment, the game program may include a game program executed on the terminal device 10 side, in addition to a game program executed on the server 20 side. Furthermore, the storage unit 220 may store a game program executed on the server 20 side and a game program executed on the terminal device 10 side.

[0034] The game information is information common between accounts. The game information includes, for example, information for defining various virtual spaces (in other words, game spaces). The virtual space is a space in which objects of characters that can be operated by a user (hereinafter also referred to as "player characters") are placed. The game information also includes, for example, various setting information related to objects common between accounts, such as background objects such as buildings, trees, and stones placed in the virtual space, and the placement positions, sizes, colors, and shapes of non-player characters (NPCs). The game information also includes, for example, setting values ​​of various parameters of NPCs. Hereinafter, the object of a character placed in a virtual space may be simply referred to as a "character".

[0035] User information is information managed for each game account. User information includes, for example, information about the player character, information about owned assets, and information indicating the progress of the game. Owned assets can be said to be value owned by the user in the virtual space. Examples of such value (in other words, in-game value, owned assets) include electronic currency, items, and characters. Examples of electronic currency include in-game currency that can be used in the game and cryptocurrency.

[0036] The control unit 210 controls various processes related to the game by executing a game program stored in the memory unit 220. The control unit 210 has, for example, a transmission / reception unit 211, a game progression unit 212, a user relationship management unit 215, and a gift processing unit 216.

[0037] The transmission / reception unit 211 transmits and receives various types of data. For example, the transmission / reception unit 211 receives requests to transmit various types of data and programs, requests for synchronization processing to support the multiplay function, data to be subject to synchronization processing, and the like from each terminal device 10, and passes them to the game progression unit 212. Furthermore, the transmission / reception unit 211 transmits various types of data and programs, including instructions for achieving synchronization, to each terminal device 10 in accordance with the control of the game progression unit 212.

[0038] In this embodiment, the multiplay function is a function that synchronizes game processing by multiple accounts. When multiple accounts logged in to the information processing system 1 participate in the same game, the server 20 and the terminal device 10 of the information processing system 1 execute various processes to support the multiplay function.

[0039] The game progression unit 212 provides a game to the terminal device 10 by executing calculations described in the game program in response to requests from the terminal device 10, etc.

[0040] The game progression unit 212 defines a virtual space based on information for defining a virtual space, which is included in the game information. The game progression unit 212 places objects in the virtual space based on setting information for the objects, which is included in the game information. The game progression unit 212 controls the objects placed in the virtual space. Specifically, the game progression unit 212 changes the position, orientation, shape, color, etc. of the objects in the virtual space, and causes the objects to perform predetermined actions.

[0041] Furthermore, the game progression unit 212 places the player characters of the multiple players in the virtual space based on the play information transmitted from each terminal device 10. In other words, the game progression unit 212 performs processing to enable a game space, which is an example of a virtual space, to be shared by multiple users. Furthermore, the game progression unit 212 performs various determination processing related to the progress of the game based on the play information transmitted from each terminal device 10. In other words, the game progression unit 212 controls objects and performs various determination processing based on the user's input operation. The play information is output in response to the user's input operation. As an example, the play information may include, as the operation content of the player character, coordinate information of the player character, information regarding the action of the player character, information indicating a button operated by the user, or the like. Furthermore, the play information may include information regarding the setting of the player character. As an example, the character coordinate information is information indicating the position of the character in the game space. As an example, the action information is information regarding the action of the character. As an example, the character action may include the character's posture, use of an item, use of a skill, attack, defense, or jump, or the like. For example, information regarding character settings may include information regarding the character's equipment, appearance, etc. Furthermore, the character settings may be changed by the user.

[0042] Furthermore, when the game progression unit 212 receives, for example, a request for synchronization processing to support the multiplay function or data to be the subject of synchronization processing from the terminal device 10 via the transmission / reception unit 211, it executes synchronization processing to support the multiplay function. Furthermore, the game progression unit 212 issues a command to the transmission / reception unit 211 to instruct the transmission / reception unit 211 to transmit game information or user information. For example, when the server 20 transmits information to multiple terminal devices 10, the game progression unit 212 synchronizes the game progressing between the terminal devices 10 by simultaneously transmitting information to each terminal device 10. By executing synchronization processing, it becomes possible to simultaneously reflect an event in the game resulting from an operation input on one terminal device 10 on the other terminal devices 10.

[0043] The user relationship management unit 215 manages information related to friends and follows. For example, the user relationship management unit 215 associates a certain user (e.g., a first user) with another user (e.g., a second user) based on a request from the user relationship processing unit 115 described later, and stores information related to the relationship between the users in the storage unit 220.

[0044] The terminal device 10 in this embodiment has, for example, a function as an input device that accepts input operations by a user, and a function as an output device that outputs images and sounds of a game.

[0045] The terminal device 10 functions as a control unit 110 and a storage unit 120 through cooperation of the processor 11, memory 12, storage 13, communication IF 14, input / output IF 15, etc. The storage unit 120 stores various data used by the control unit 110. The various data include, for example, a game program, game information, and user information. The game program is a program for implementing a game on the terminal device 10 side. The game information and user information are data referenced when the control unit 110 executes the game program. The game information and user information stored in the storage unit 120 may include information similar to the game information and user information stored in the storage unit 220.

[0046] The control unit 110 executes a game program stored in the memory unit 120, thereby controlling various processes related to the game executed on the terminal device 10. The control unit 110 has, for example, an operation reception unit 111, a transmission / reception unit 112, a game progression unit 113, a display control unit 114, a user relationship processing unit 115, and a distribution unit 116.

[0047] The operation reception unit 111 receives an operation (hereinafter, also referred to as an "input operation") input by the user via the input unit 17. Specifically, when an input operation is performed on the input unit 17, the operation reception unit 111 detects the coordinates of the input position and the type of the input operation. Examples of the types of input operations include various operations using fingers, such as a touch operation, a tap operation, a slide operation, a swipe operation, a flick operation, a pinch-in operation, and a pinch-out operation. The input operation is not limited to an operation of physically contacting the input unit 17 (for example, the touch screen 16), but may also include a non-contact operation. Note that an operation of ending a previously performed input operation, such as a touch-off operation of ending contact with the touch screen 16, can also be considered as one aspect of the input operation.

[0048] Here, the operation reception unit 111 can also receive an input operation performed using an operation device connected via the input / output IF 15 in the same manner as an input operation to the input unit 17 .

[0049] The transmitting / receiving unit 112 transmits or receives various data. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 112 transmits various data and various requests to the server 20. As an example, the data transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 112 to the server may include play information, game information, and user information. In other words, the transmitting / receiving unit 112 transmits information related to the input operation accepted by the operation accepting unit 111 to the server 20.

[0050] Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 112 receives various data, programs, and various requests from the server. As an example, the data that the transmitting / receiving unit 112 receives from the server 20 may include the type of one or more characters to be placed in the game space, character coordinate information, character action information, information regarding character settings, and other information. As an example, the data that the transmitting / receiving unit 112 receives from the server may include data for synchronization to support a multiplay function. The data for synchronization may include, for example, data to be synchronized, the type of the data, data for specifying the time of synchronization, and the like.

[0051] The game progression unit 113 executes various processes related to the progress of the game. The game progression unit 113 identifies the user's instruction content based on the coordinates of the input position and the type of input operation detected by the operation reception unit 111. The game progression unit 113 controls objects, a virtual camera, and the like based on the results of various determination processes related to the progress of the game performed based on the identified instruction content, and the like. The game progression unit 113 updates, adds, or deletes game information and user information according to the progress of the game.

[0052] The game progression unit 113 defines a virtual camera for specifying an area of ​​the virtual space to be presented to the user. The game progression unit 113 places the virtual camera in the virtual space by defining the position and orientation of the virtual camera in the virtual space. The game progression unit 113 instructs the display control unit 114 to generate an image that depicts the field of view defined by the virtual camera and the objects placed in this field of view.

[0053] The position and orientation of the virtual camera can be appropriately determined for each virtual space. For example, the game progression unit 113 uses the position and orientation of a specific object as a reference and positions the virtual camera so that the specific object is located in the center of the field of view in a specific orientation. At that time, the game progression unit 113 adjusts the position and orientation of the virtual camera using the direction, distance, and angle relative to the specific object. The specific object may be, for example, a dynamic object such as a player character or a non-player character, or a static object such as a building, tree, or stone. Dynamic objects include player characters that act based on the operation of each user and non-player characters that act based on a game program.

[0054] The user relationship processing unit 115 executes various processes relating to the friend function and the follow function.

[0055] The distribution unit 116 executes various processes related to distribution, which will be described later.

[0056] The display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display an image. A specific example will be described below.

[0057] The display control unit 114 generates an image that depicts the area of ​​the field of view of the virtual camera defined by the game progression unit 113 in the virtual space and objects present in that area, and displays it on the display unit 18. The display control unit 114 can superimpose and draw objects related to a UI (User Interface) required for various operations of the game, such as icons, buttons, and menus showing various parameters, on the image to be displayed on the display unit 18.

[0058] The control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may arrange objects in the virtual space based on data of the objects sent from the server 20 and information indicating the positions of various objects in the virtual space, and may display a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space on the display unit 18. The control unit 210 of the server 20 may arrange objects in the virtual space and control the virtual camera, generate an image to be displayed on the display unit 18, and transmit the image to the terminal device 10, and the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may display the image on the display unit 18. In other words, various processes related to control of objects based on a user's input operation, control of the virtual camera, generation of an image to be displayed on the display unit 18, etc. may be performed by the server 20 or the terminal device 10.

[0059] The functions of the terminal device 10 and the server 20 shown in FIG. 2 are merely an example. Each of the terminal device 10 and the server 20 may have at least a part of the functions of the other device. In other words, the server 20 may have some or all of the functional blocks of the terminal device 10 in this embodiment, and the terminal device 10 may have some or all of the functional blocks of the server 20. In addition, each device such as the terminal device 10 and the server 20 may not be realized by an integrated device, and may be realized by, for example, multiple devices connected via a network or the like. In addition, the information processing system 1 may be configured by, for example, only the terminal device 10 or the server 20. In other words, the information processing system 1 may not be realized by multiple devices connected via a network. In addition, the functions of the terminal device 10 of the distributor and the terminal device 10 of the viewer, which will be described later, may be different.

[0060] <Processing according to this embodiment> Next, the processing according to this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the processor 11 of the terminal device 10 or the processor 21 of the server 20 executes the game program stored in the information processing system 1 to perform each processing described later. However, at least a part of the processing described later and performed by the processor 11 may be executed by a processor other than the processor 11. Also, at least a part of the processing described later and performed by the processor 21 may be executed by a processor other than the processor 21. In other words, the computer that executes the game program in this embodiment may be either the terminal device 10 or the server 20, or may be realized by a combination of multiple devices.

[0061] In the following, a case where the configuration according to this embodiment is applied to a game in which a plurality of users form a team will be described as an example. Specifically, a case where the configuration according to this embodiment is applied to a game in which a plurality of users are divided into a plurality of teams and compete against each other (for example, a GvG (Guild Versus Guild) game or an FPS (First Person Shooter) game, etc.) will be described as an example. In the game of this embodiment, a team of six users competes against another team. Note that the configuration according to this embodiment may be applied to any game including a role-playing game, an action game, and a sports game. Also, the configuration according to this embodiment may be applied not only to a game corresponding to a multi-play, but also to a game played by one person, etc.

[0062] In the game of this embodiment, each user can operate his / her own character to play against an opponent. Here, the opponent is another user (in other words, the team to which the other user belongs), but the opponent may be a non-player character or the like.

[0063] In addition, in the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, a user can register another user as a friend. A friend refers to a relationship in which a certain user and another user are associated with each other. In other words, a friend refers to a relationship in which one user is associated with another user, and the other user is associated with one user. That is, when a second user is a friend from the perspective of a first user, the first user is a friend from the perspective of the second user. A friend may be a relationship established based on mutual consent between a certain user and another user.

[0064] In addition, in the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, a user can follow other users. Following refers to a user registering another user in association with the user. In other words, when a first user follows a second user, the second user does not necessarily follow the first user. Following may be a relationship that can be established based on the will of one party.

[0065] Information indicating other users associated with each user is stored as user information in the storage unit 220 or the storage unit 120. In other words, the storage unit 220 or the storage unit 120 stores users who have a predetermined relationship with the first user (specifically, users who are friends of the first user, or users followed by the first user).

[0066] In the following, a user associated with a certain user (for example, a first user) (for example, a friend or a user who follows the first user) is also referred to as a "related user" of the certain user.

[0067] A user can register another user as a friend by performing a predetermined input operation on the terminal device 10. A user can also follow another user by performing a predetermined input operation on the terminal device 10. Specifically, for example, when a first user performs an input operation (for example, an operation of touching a predetermined button related to the registration) related to registering (or following) a second user as a friend on his / her own terminal device 10, the user relationship processing unit 115 transmits a friend registration (or follow) request to the server 20. Then, the user relationship management unit 215 of the server 20 performs a process of associating the first user with the second user based on the signal, and stores the second user in a predetermined storage unit as a friend (or a user to be followed) of the first user. In addition, when performing the process based on the signal, the user relationship management unit 215 may transmit a signal to the terminal device 10 of the second user to notify that a friend registration request has been made, and may perform the process when the second user performs a predetermined input operation to accept the request on the terminal device 10 that has received the notification signal. In other words, in order for the first user to register the second user as a friend, the consent of the second user to be registered may be required. In further other words, the friend registration may be established only when the first user applies for friend registration to the second user and the second user accepts the application. In addition, the friend registration and following may be automatically performed based on a predetermined condition without the operation of the user (for example, one or both of the first user and the second user referred to here).

[0068] FIG. 3 shows an example of a home screen 30 displayed on the display unit 18 in the game of this embodiment. The home screen 30 is a basic screen on which a user performs operations to progress through the game. The home screen 30 displays a plurality of menu items related to the game. The home screen 30 is displayed first, for example, when the game (in other words, an application related to a predetermined service) is started on the terminal device 10. Note that "displayed first when started" here includes a case where the home screen 30 is displayed after various displays related to the start (for example, a title display, a display related to loading, etc.). Note that the home screen 30 is displayed not only at the time of start, but also at a predetermined opportunity. For example, the home screen 30 may be displayed when an input operation is performed on the home button 49, when an in-game match is ended, etc.

[0069] The display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display a home screen 30. A game space (in other words, a virtual space) and objects present in the game space are displayed on the home screen 30. Specifically, a character 33 owned by the user of the terminal device 10 displaying the home screen 30 is displayed on the home screen 30.

[0070] Also displayed on the home screen 30 are a battle button 40 for accepting an operation to start a battle with an opponent, a button for accepting an operation to move to a screen for equipping items to the character 33 (in other words, settings for the character 33), etc. Also displayed on the home screen 30 is a broadcast button 44 for accepting an operation to start broadcasting the game (in other words, the battle).

[0071] In addition, a menu button 48 for displaying a menu screen is displayed on the home screen 30. When an operation (for example, a tap operation) is performed on the menu button 48, the display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display the menu screen. The menu screen may display, for example, a user list display button for displaying a list of registered friends or followed users, a profile button for displaying a profile screen related to the character 33, a ranking button for displaying a predetermined ranking related to users using the game (for example, a ranking related to battles), an option button operated when changing settings related to the game, a help button operated when receiving an explanation on how to use the game, and the like. The screen displaying the list of registered friends or followed users can be said to be a screen on which one's related users can be confirmed.

[0072] The game progression unit 212 starts a battle (in other words, an event) based on an operation (for example, a tap operation) on the battle button 40. Note that when engaging in a battle, the opponent, teammates, etc. may be selected by the user, or the information processing system 1 (for example, the game progression unit 212) may automatically select them from among multiple users.

[0073] The rules of the game of this embodiment will be described. In the game of this embodiment, each team aims to achieve a predetermined goal. Specifically, each team aims to win against the opponent team. The game of this embodiment may be a game in which the player aims to win against a predetermined enemy character, a game in which the player aims to reach a predetermined destination, or a game in which the player aims to obtain a predetermined object. The "enemy character" here may be an NPC or a character operated by another user. The game of this embodiment may be a game in which a single user aims to achieve a predetermined goal, rather than a game in which the player aims to play in teams.

[0074] In the game of this embodiment, a match is played under the rule that a team that acquires a rule-related object (e.g., one or more rule-related objects) placed in a virtual space wins. More specifically, for example, a match is played under the rule that a team that acquires (in other words, seizes) a base (e.g., one or more bases) placed in the virtual space wins (including, for example, the case where a team that acquires a greater number of bases wins), or a rule that a team that acquires (in other words, collects) the most items (e.g., treasures, etc.) placed in the virtual space within a predetermined time wins. Note that the rule-related object may or may not move in the virtual space. Also, for example, a match may be played under the rule that a team that defeats all of the characters on the opponent's team wins.

[0075] During a match, the game progression unit 212 moves the player character based on input operations by the user. Specifically, based on input operations by the user, the game progression unit 212 moves the player character within the virtual space and causes the player character to perform actions related to an attack on the opponent's character. By attacking and damaging the opponent's character, the player can defeat the opponent's character, etc.

[0076] Note that the method of starting a match and the basic operation method of the player character (for example, processing related to movement and attacking a predetermined object) can be the same as in conventional games. In addition, in the game of this embodiment, the user may be able to set up his / her own player character, specifically, equip the player character with items (for example, weapons, armor, etc.) and select the type of player character to be used in the match, and the method of setting up such a player character can also be the same as in conventional games.

[0077] Furthermore, in the information processing system 1 of this embodiment, each user is able to distribute a video of a match in which he or she participates (hereinafter referred to as a "play video") to other users and to watch the distributed play video. Specifically, a function of distributing a match and a function of watching the match are provided as functions of an application for playing a game (e.g., a match, etc.). That is, in the information processing system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to distribute and watch an event held in a virtual space. Note that each user is also able to play a game (in other words, a match) without distributing. In other words, the game progression unit 113 is able to progress a match (in other words, a game) in a state where distribution is not being performed.

[0078] The distribution unit 116 starts distribution, for example, based on a user's operation (for example, a tap operation) on the distribution button 44. Specifically, the distribution unit 116 transmits to the server 20 data for displaying a video (in other words, a gameplay video) corresponding to the game play status of the user on the terminal device 10 of another user, based on the user's operation on the distribution button 44. That is, when the user operates the distribution button 44, the gameplay video of the user is distributed. Furthermore, the distribution unit 116 stops distribution, for example, based on a user's operation (for example, a tap operation) on the distribution button 44 while distribution is being performed.

[0079] The control unit 110 receives data for displaying (in other words, playing) the distributed play video on the terminal device 10 based on a user's input operation related to starting viewing of the distributed play video (for example, a tap operation on a thumbnail 60 for a specific broadcast, which will be described later) from the server 20, and instructs the display control unit 114 to display the play video on the display unit 18. In other words, the display control unit 114 displays the play video on the display unit 18 based on an operation related to starting viewing of the distributed play video. In other words, the display control unit 114 displays the video of the broadcast selected by the user from among the broadcasts that can be viewed on the display unit 18.

[0080] That is, when an input operation related to the start of video distribution is performed on the terminal device 10 of the first user and distribution is started, the video can be viewed on the terminal device 10 of the second user. Here, the video (in other words, distribution) viewed by the second user is a gameplay video of the first user, and shows the progress of the match in which the first user is participating. That is, on the terminal device 10 of the second user, it is possible to view the play content of the first user, in other words, the state in which the first user plays the game, in real time. Note that, on the terminal device 10 of the second user, a screen similar to the game screen displayed on the terminal device 10 of the first user may be displayed as the gameplay video of the first user. Note that known technologies can be adopted for the method of distribution and viewing of the gameplay video.

[0081] When a user wants to broadcast a match in which the user is participating to other users, the user operates, for example, the broadcast button 44 displayed on the home screen 30. The broadcast function may not be released to the user unless the user secures a predetermined required rank. Specifically, if the user does not reach a predetermined rank, the broadcast button 44 may not be displayed, or may be displayed but may not accept an input operation related to starting broadcasting. The rank may indicate the user's proficiency, or may indicate the relative positioning of users. The rank includes what is called a level in a general game. The user's rank may be the rank of the user himself or the rank of the character 33 used by the user.

[0082] Furthermore, when the user wishes to watch another user's broadcast, the user performs an operation (e.g., a tap operation) on the program guide transition button 46 displayed on the home screen 30. When this operation is performed, the display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display the program guide first screen 32 shown in Fig. 4. In other words, when this operation is performed, the display control unit 114 transitions the home screen 30 to the program guide first screen 32.

[0083] The first program guide screen 32 is the top screen of the program guide. The first program guide screen 32 is a screen that displays a list of broadcasts (in other words, programs) that can be viewed. The first program guide screen 32 displays thumbnails 60 of broadcasts that can be viewed, classified into a plurality of categories such as "popular," "favorite," and "new arrival." In addition, in the first program guide screen 32, by touching a portion corresponding to each category and performing an input operation of scrolling horizontally, the thumbnails 60 of that category (in other words, thumbnails 60 hidden outside the display screen) are displayed in sequence. The user can view the broadcast corresponding to the selected thumbnail 60 by selecting (for example, tapping) a specific thumbnail 60 (in other words, a specific broadcast) from such a list of thumbnails 60. Note that only a part of the broadcasts that can be currently viewed may be picked up and displayed in the area of ​​each category in the first program guide screen 32. Specifically, for example, in each category area in the first program guide screen 32, only broadcasts selected according to a predetermined index value (in other words, points, score) may be displayed. Such index value may vary depending on the actions of the distributor, the actions of the viewers with respect to the distributed video, etc. Specifically, for example, an index value indicating the popularity of a distribution may vary based on one or more of the distribution time, the viewing time, the number of viewers, the transmission of a specific value from the viewers with respect to the distribution, and the number of comments from the viewers, and among the distributions belonging to each category, distributions with a high index value may be displayed in each category area of ​​the first program guide screen 32.

[0084] In addition, in this embodiment, when an operation (for example, a tap operation) is performed on the category detail button 50 provided corresponding to each category on the first program guide screen 32, the display control unit 114 performs display control so as to switch to a screen in which only the broadcasts (in other words, thumbnails 60) of the category in which the operation was performed are displayed in a list. For example, when an operation is performed on the category detail button 50a corresponding to the "favorite" category, the display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display the second program guide screen 34 shown in FIG. 5, which displays a list of only the broadcasts belonging to the "favorite" category. That is, when the operation is performed, the display control unit 114 transitions the first program guide screen 32 to the second program guide screen 34. Then, by performing an input operation to scroll the screen, for example, vertically, on the second program guide screen 34, the thumbnails 60 of the broadcasts belonging to the "favorite" category (in other words, the thumbnails 60 hidden outside the display screen) are displayed in sequence. Note that in FIG. 4, an arrow mark button and a tab-shaped button on which a category name is written are shown as the category detail button 50.

[0085] That is, when the first program guide screen 32, which lists broadcasts in a plurality of categories, is displayed, and an input operation to select a specific category is performed, the display control unit 114 displays the second program guide screen, which lists broadcasts in the selected specific category. In addition, broadcasts in categories other than the specific category are not displayed in the second program guide screen 34. In other words, in this embodiment, only a part (here, one) of the categories displayed in the first program guide screen 32 are displayed in the second program guide screen 34. Broadcasts in categories other than the specific category may also be displayed in the second program guide screen.

[0086] Here, the multiple categories related to distribution include the "favorite" category as described above. The "favorite" category is a category corresponding to distributions of users who have a predetermined relationship with the user who is about to view (in other words, the user of the terminal device 10 on which the first program guide screen 32 and the second program guide screen 34 are displayed). Specifically, in this embodiment, only distributions of related users of the user who is about to view belong to the "favorite" category. In other words, only distributions of related users are displayed on the second program guide screen 34 for the "favorite" category.

[0087] In addition, the first program guide screen 32 may have a predetermined restriction on the display of information related to related users, compared to the second program guide screen 34. In this embodiment, the first program guide screen 32 has a limited number of broadcasts (in other words, thumbnails 60) displayed, compared to the second program guide screen 34. Specifically, in the second program guide screen 34, all broadcasts currently being broadcast by related users related to the user are displayed by scrolling the screen (specifically, scrolling vertically). On the other hand, in the first program guide screen 32, even if the screen is scrolled (specifically, scrolling horizontally at a location corresponding to the "favorite" category), only a maximum of five broadcasts by related users are displayed. Note that the maximum five broadcasts displayed in the first program guide screen 32 here are broadcasts selected based on a predetermined index (for example, the index value described above) for each category. In other words, in the first program guide screen 32, only broadcasts whose rankings determined based on a predetermined index are at or above a predetermined rank (here, up to 5th place) for each category are displayed.

[0088] In addition, only currently being distributed may be displayed on both or one of the program guide first screen 32 and the program guide second screen 34. In other words, past distributions may be displayed or not displayed on the program guide first screen 32 and the program guide second screen 34. In other words, in this embodiment, only real-time viewing of distributions (in other words, live distribution) may be possible. In addition, past distributions may be displayed on both or one of the program guide first screen 32 and the program guide second screen 34.

[0089] The display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of a user (i.e., a viewer) watching the broadcast causes the display unit 18 to display a viewing screen 70 for watching the broadcast, as shown in Fig. 6, based on a user's operation on the thumbnail 60. Specifically, based on a user's operation of selecting a specific thumbnail 60 from a list of thumbnails 60, the display control unit 114 causes the display unit 18 to display a viewing screen 70 for watching the broadcast corresponding to the specific thumbnail 60.

[0090] On the viewing screen 70, the gameplay video is played, and the user is able to view the broadcast corresponding to the selected thumbnail 60. Also, on the viewing screen 70, a chat section 72 that displays chat related to the broadcast being viewed is displayed. The chat section 72 displays comments entered by the broadcaster and comments entered by viewers (the user and other users) viewing the broadcast.

[0091] (Sending a specific value) In the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, so-called tipping is possible, similar to conventional video distribution services and the like. In other words, a user (in other words, a viewer) is able to send a specific value to another user (in other words, a distributor). Here, the "specific value" that can be sent to another user may be something that the user can purchase by consuming his / her own assets, or the asset itself. That is, the "specific value" may be, for example, money (in other words, electronic currency), a substitute for money, a predetermined item related to the game (for example, an item used in a match), etc. In other words, "sending a specific value" includes so-called tipping, sending an item, etc. In the following, sending a specific value is also referred to as "sending a gift."

[0092] In the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to send a gift to the distributor of a broadcast being viewed while watching the broadcast (in other words, within the broadcast), similar to conventional video distribution services, etc. The method of sending a gift while watching the broadcast can be the same as that of conventional video distribution services, etc., but may be, for example, as follows.

[0093] As described above, the display control unit 114 displays the viewing screen 70 on the display unit 18 for viewing a broadcast based on the user's operation on the thumbnail 60. On the viewing screen 70, as shown in FIG. 6(a), a play video is displayed in a predetermined area P, and a gift button 73 is displayed. Then, the user can send a gift to the broadcaster of the broadcast being viewed by operating the gift button 73. Note that the size of the predetermined area P (in other words, the ratio of the broadcast video to the entire display area of ​​the display unit 18) is larger than the size of one thumbnail 60 (in other words, the ratio of the thumbnail 60 to the entire display area of ​​the display unit 18). That is, in the first program guide screen 32 and the second program guide screen 34, an image related to the broadcast is displayed in a display mode smaller than that of the viewing screen 70. Note that, in the first program guide screen 32 and the second program guide screen 34, an image related to the broadcast may be displayed in a display mode equal to or larger than that of the viewing screen 70.

[0094] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the display control unit 114 displays a selection UI 74 on the display unit 18 as a UI for selecting the contents of the gift to be sent (in other words, at least one of the type of value or the amount of value to be sent) based on an operation (e.g., a tap operation) on the gift button 73. The selection UI 74 displays a list of selectable gift contents. Then, by an operation of selecting a specific option from the listed options (e.g., a tap operation on a specific option) and an operation (e.g., a tap operation) on the execute button 75 included in the selection UI 74, a gift with the selected contents is sent to the broadcaster of the broadcast being viewed.

[0095] That is, the operation reception unit 111 receives the user's operation on the gift button 73 and the operation on the selection UI 74 as an operation to send a gift (specifically, the value of the content corresponding to the option selected in the selection UI 74) from the user to the broadcaster of the broadcast being viewed. The transmission / reception unit 112 transmits a request for sending a gift from the user to the broadcaster to the server 20 based on the operation on the gift button 73 and the selection UI 74. Based on the request, the gift processing unit 216 increases the assets held by the broadcaster by the amount of the gift sent from the user, and decreases the assets held by the user by the amount corresponding to the gift sent to the broadcaster (in other words, the amount equivalent to the consideration). In other words, the gift processing unit 216 transmits a gift from the user to the broadcaster based on the user's operation on the gift button 73 and the selection UI 74.

[0096] In addition, in the game of this embodiment, it is possible to send a gift to a broadcaster when the broadcast is not being viewed (in other words, outside the broadcast). Specifically, it is possible to send a gift to a broadcaster associated with a specific thumbnail 60 when thumbnails 60 are displayed in a list. In other words, it is possible to send a gift to a broadcaster associated with a specific thumbnail 60 when the first program guide screen 32 or the second program guide screen 34 is displayed on the display unit 18. Hereinafter, the first program guide screen 32 and the second program guide screen 34 are also referred to as thumbnail list screens. Note that the "broadcaster associated with the thumbnail" can also be said to be the broadcaster of the broadcast corresponding to the thumbnail. Note that, in the thumbnail list screen, some or all of the thumbnails 60 may be in a state where the video corresponding to the thumbnail 60 is being played, but such a state can also be said to be a state where the broadcast viewing has not yet started (in other words, outside the broadcast).

[0097] A gift button 82 is displayed on the thumbnail list screen, as shown in Fig. 7. The user can then operate the gift button 82 to send a gift to a distributor associated with a specific thumbnail 60 among the multiple thumbnails 60 displayed in the list.

[0098] Specifically, the display control unit 114 displays a selection UI 83 as a UI for selecting the contents of the gift to be sent (in other words, at least one of the type of value or the amount of value to be sent) on the display unit 18 based on a tap operation on the gift button 82. The selection UI 83 displays a list of selectable gift contents.

[0099] In this embodiment, the contents of the gift to be sent are determined by an operation of selecting a specific option from the options displayed in a list on the selection UI 83. Also, the recipient of the gift is determined by an operation of selecting a specific thumbnail 60 from the thumbnails 60 displayed in a list on the thumbnail list screen.

[0100] That is, the operation receiving unit 111 receives an operation of selecting a specific option from the options displayed in a list in the selection UI 83 (for example, a tap operation on the specific option) as an operation of determining the content of the gift to be sent. The gift processing unit 216 determines the content of the gift to be sent based on the operation of selecting the specific option.

[0101] In addition, the operation receiving unit 111 receives an operation of selecting a specific thumbnail 60 from the thumbnails 60 listed on the thumbnail list screen (for example, a tap operation on a specific thumbnail 60) as an operation of determining the recipient of the gift.

[0102] 7(b), the selection UI 83 allows selection of a first type of gift (e.g., 1000 yen worth of electronic currency), a second type of gift (e.g., 500 yen worth of electronic currency), a third type of gift (e.g., a gift that looks like a flower), and a fourth type of gift (e.g., a gift that looks like a firework). In this case, when the user selects a specific type of gift on the selection UI 83 and then performs a touch operation on a specific thumbnail 60 among the thumbnails 60 displayed in a list, the specific type of gift is sent from the user to the distributor related to the distribution of the specific thumbnail 60.

[0103] That is, the operation receiving unit 111 receives a user's operation on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 as an operation to send a gift from the user to a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60. The transmitting / receiving unit 112 transmits a request to the server 20 to send a gift from the user to the broadcaster based on the operation on the specific thumbnail 60. Based on the request, the gift processing unit 216 increases the assets held by the broadcaster by the amount of the gift sent from the user, and decreases the assets held by the user by an amount corresponding to the gift sent to the broadcaster (in other words, an amount equivalent to the consideration). In other words, the gift processing unit 216 transmits a gift from the user to a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60 based on the user's operation on the specific thumbnail 60. That is, in the information processing system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to send a gift from the user to a broadcaster related to the thumbnail 60 operated by the user by an operation on the thumbnail 60.

[0104] In addition, an operation on the thumbnail 60 when an operation to determine the contents of the gift to be sent (in other words, an operation on the selection UI 83) has been performed is accepted as an operation to send a gift to the broadcaster associated with the thumbnail 60, while an operation on the thumbnail 60 when an operation to determine the contents of the gift to be sent (in other words, an operation on the selection UI 83) has not been performed may be accepted as an operation to start viewing the broadcast corresponding to the thumbnail 60.

[0105] The sending of a specific value in response to an operation on the thumbnail 60 may be performed as follows.

[0106] (Operation example 1) For example, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation of tracing one or more thumbnails 60 displayed in the list of thumbnails 60 (in other words, an operation of sliding a finger so as to pass over the thumbnails 60 related to the broadcaster to whom a gift is to be sent) as an operation of sending a gift from the user to the broadcaster related to the traced thumbnail 60. Then, when an operation of tracing a plurality of thumbnails 60 displayed in the list of thumbnails 60 (in other words, a sliding operation of passing over the plurality of thumbnails 60 in sequence) is performed, the transmitting / receiving unit 112 may transmit a request to the server 20 to send a gift to each of the broadcasters related to each of the passed plurality of thumbnails 60. Then, based on the request, the gift processing unit 216 may increase the assets held by each broadcaster by the amount of the gift sent from the user, and may decrease the assets held by the user by the amount corresponding to the gift sent to each broadcaster (in other words, the amount equivalent to the consideration). In other words, it may be possible to send gifts to a plurality of broadcasters corresponding to a plurality of broadcasts with a single operation.

[0107] Specifically, for example, as shown in Fig. 8(a), when a user moves a finger F touching the display unit 18 (in other words, the touch screen 16) along a trajectory R shown by a dotted line while still touching the display unit 18, that is, when the finger F passes through thumbnails 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d displayed on the thumbnail list screen, gifts are sent to the respective distributors associated with thumbnails 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d. At this time, the display control unit 114 may display an image 84 representing a gift (in Fig. 8(a), an image representing money in the case where electronic currency is sent as a gift) on the display unit 18 along the movement of the finger F.

[0108] Here, the contents of the gifts sent to each of the broadcasters associated with each of the multiple thumbnails 60 may be determined as follows. That is, for example, a specific type of gift selected in advance on the selection UI 83 may be sent to each of the broadcasters associated with each of the traced thumbnails 60. At this time, the amount of gifts sent to each broadcaster may be an amount according to the time during which an operation is performed on the corresponding thumbnail 60 (for example, the time during which a finger is touching the thumbnail 60). Specifically, the amount of gifts sent to the corresponding broadcaster may be greater the longer the operation is performed. Also, the amount of gifts sent to each broadcaster may be constant (in other words, the same) regardless of the time during which an operation is performed on the corresponding thumbnail 60. Also, gifts may be sent without selecting a type of gift on the selection UI 83. That is, for example, when an operation is performed on the gift button 82, an operation of tracing the thumbnail 60 becomes effective without an operation on the selection UI 83, and a predetermined gift may be sent to the broadcaster by the tracing operation. In other words, the type of gift to be sent to the distributor may not be selectable.

[0109] The sending of the amount of gifts according to the time of the operation may be, for example, as follows. That is, for example, while the user's finger touches a specific thumbnail 60, a certain amount of gifts may be sent to the broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60 at certain time intervals. Also, for example, the total amount of gifts sent by a series of tracing operations may be separately determined before or after the series of tracing operations are performed, and the broadcaster related to each thumbnail 60 operated in the series of tracing operations may receive gifts in an amount according to the proportion of the time during which the operation was performed in the series of tracing operations (in other words, the user's finger touched the thumbnail 60) out of the separately determined total amount. The process of determining the content of the gifts to be sent to each broadcaster according to the time during which the operation was performed may be performed by the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 or the control unit 210 of the server 20.

[0110] It should be noted that if the time during which an operation is performed on a specific thumbnail 60 is less than a predetermined time, a gift may not be sent to the broadcaster associated with the specific thumbnail 60. This configuration makes it possible to prevent a gift from being sent by mistake to a broadcaster associated with a thumbnail 60 that is accidentally touched by a finger for a moment when tracing the thumbnail 60.

[0111] (Operation example 2) Also, for example, a specific value may be sent by an operation on the thumbnail 60 without an operation on the gift button 82 or an operation on the selection UI 83. That is, for example, the operation acceptance unit 111 may accept a first operation on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 (for example, a long press operation, a double tap operation, or an operation of rotating a finger touching the specific thumbnail 60 in a circular motion on the screen, etc.) as an operation of sending a gift to a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60. Note that the operation acceptance unit 111 may accept a second operation on the specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 (for example, a tap operation, etc.) as an operation of starting viewing of a broadcast corresponding to the specific thumbnail 60. Then, the transmission / reception unit 112 may transmit a request to the server 20 to send a gift to a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60 based on the first operation on the specific thumbnail 60.

[0112] Here, the display control unit 114 may display the selection UI 83 on the display unit 18 based on the first operation on the specific thumbnail 60. Then, based on the first operation on the specific thumbnail 60 and the user's operation on the selection UI 83, the gift processing unit 216 may send a gift from the user to a distributor related to the specific thumbnail 60, the gift having the content specified by the operation on the selection UI 83.

[0113] Note that a first operation on a specific thumbnail 60 (e.g., a long press operation, a double tap operation, or an operation of rotating a finger that has touched the specific thumbnail 60 in a circular motion on the screen, etc.) performed after an operation on the gift button 82 or an operation on the selection UI 83 has been performed may be accepted as an operation of sending a gift to a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60. Then, a second operation on the specific thumbnail 60 (e.g., a tap operation, etc.) performed after an operation on the gift button 82 or an operation on the selection UI 83 has been performed may be accepted as an operation of starting viewing of the broadcast corresponding to the specific thumbnail 60.

[0114] In this way, the user may be able to set whether or not to enable an operation related to sending a gift (in other words, a first operation) and an operation related to starting viewing (in other words, a second operation) as an operation on the thumbnail 60. That is, the control unit 110 may be able to switch, based on a user operation, between a state in which the second operation is accepted but the first operation is not accepted as an operation on the thumbnail 60, and a state in which both the second operation and the first operation are accepted.

[0115] In this embodiment, the broadcaster may be a user of an account that is broadcasting (in other words, that has operated the broadcast button 44), a user of another account linked to the account that is broadcasting, a user appearing in the broadcast, or a user operating a character appearing in the broadcast (in other words, an avatar or a player character). For example, each user can register in advance in the storage unit 220 broadcasters and the like who will appear in a broadcast that the user starts by operating the broadcast button 44 from his / her own terminal device 10, and the gift processing unit 216 may determine the recipient (in other words, the broadcaster) to whom the gift is sent based on the registered information. In other words, when a gift is sent for a broadcast that is to be started, it may be possible to register which user will receive the gift as the broadcaster from among the user who operates to start the broadcast, the user who will appear in the broadcast, and the user who operates the character who will appear in the broadcast, from a specific terminal device (for example, the terminal device 10 that performs an operation related to the start of the broadcast). In addition, it is possible for a user to invite other users as guests to a broadcast that has been started by operating the broadcast button 44, and a user who participates in the broadcast based on such an invitation may be included in the broadcaster. In this way, a specific user set by a predetermined operation by the user can become the distributor associated with the thumbnail 60 .

[0116] (Processing when there are multiple distributors) A plurality of broadcasters may be set for one broadcast. In other words, a plurality of broadcasters may be associated with one thumbnail 60. In addition, when a plurality of broadcasters are set for one broadcast, a user who sends a gift may be able to specify which of the plurality of broadcasters the gift should be sent to when sending the gift.

[0117] For example, as shown in FIG. 8(b), the display control unit 114 may display a display (hereinafter, referred to as a "destination confirmation UI 86") on the display unit 18 to confirm which of the multiple broadcasters the gift should be sent to, based on an operation related to sending a gift being performed on a specific thumbnail 60 associated with multiple broadcasters among the multiple thumbnails 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen. For example, the destination confirmation UI 86 displays the user names of the multiple broadcasters. Then, the operation acceptance unit 111 may accept an operation to select a specific broadcaster among the multiple broadcasters displayed on the destination confirmation UI 86 (in other words, candidates for the gift destination) as an operation to specify the destination of the gift. The gift processing unit 216 sends the gift to the person specified by the operation to specify the destination of the gift.

[0118] Also, the destination of the gift may be determined depending on which area of ​​the thumbnail 60 is operated. For example, when a touch operation is performed on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 as an operation for determining the destination of the gift, if the touch operation is performed on a first area of ​​the specific thumbnail 60, the operation reception unit 111 may accept the touch operation as an operation of sending a gift to a first broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail. Also, if the touch operation is performed on a second area of ​​the specific thumbnail 60, the operation reception unit 111 may accept the touch operation as an operation of sending a gift to a second broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60. Here, the first area and the second area may be areas obtained by dividing the entire thumbnail 60 by the number of users related to the thumbnail 60, such as the left half area and the right half area of ​​the thumbnail 60. The first area and the second area may be, for example, a part of the thumbnail 60 where the face of the first broadcaster is shown and a part of the thumbnail 60 where the face of the second broadcaster is shown. The first area and the second area may be, for example, a part of the thumbnail 60 where the character (in other words, an avatar or a player character) of the first broadcaster is shown and a part of the thumbnail 60 where the character (in other words, an avatar or a player character) of the second broadcaster is shown. The broadcaster related to the thumbnail 60 may be able to set in advance which area of ​​the thumbnail 60 corresponds to which broadcaster. The control unit 210 of the server 20 or the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user who sends the gift may identify the part of the thumbnail 60 where the face of each broadcaster is shown and the part of each character is shown by image recognition, and determine each area. Such image recognition may be performed by pre-storing images of the face of each broadcaster in the memory unit 220 of the server 20 or pre-storing images of characters corresponding to each broadcaster, and using these images.

[0119] (Prevention of erroneous operation) When a predetermined operation is performed on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60, the display control unit 114 may cause the display unit 18 to display a display (hereinafter referred to as an "intention confirmation UI 87") for confirming whether the operation performed by the user was intended to send a gift, as shown in Fig. 9(a). For example, the display control unit 114 may cause the display unit 18 to display the intention confirmation UI 87 based on the operation of tracing the thumbnail 60 (see Fig. 8(a)) illustrated in the operation example 1. Also, for example, the display control unit 114 may cause the display unit 18 to display the intention confirmation UI 87 based on the first operation on a specific thumbnail 60 illustrated in the operation example 2.

[0120] The intention confirmation UI 87 may display, for example, a character string for confirming whether or not to send a gift. The intention confirmation UI 87 may also include an accept button for accepting an operation to accept the sending of the gift and a reject button for accepting an operation to reject the sending of the gift. When the accept button is operated, the gift processing unit 216 sends the gift. When the reject button is operated, the gift processing unit 216 does not send the gift. With this configuration, when the user performs an operation related to sending a gift without intending to send the gift, it is possible to prevent the gift from being sent by mistake. The intention confirmation UI 87 may be for confirming whether to send a gift or to start watching the distribution. That is, the reject button here may be for accepting an operation to start watching the distribution related to the operated thumbnail 60.

[0121] (Gift sending restrictions) It may be possible to set an upper limit (in other words, a limit amount) in advance for sending gifts in a state where a list of thumbnails 60 is displayed (in other words, outside of distribution).

[0122] For example, the operation receiving unit 111 receives an input operation by the user related to the setting of the upper limit in a state where a setting screen related to the setting is displayed on the display unit 18. Specifically, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation to set an upper limit amount of gifts that can be sent to a broadcaster (specifically, one or more broadcasters) at one time. For example, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation to set an upper limit amount of gifts that can be sent per operation of tracing the thumbnail 60 illustrated in the operation example 1. In addition, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation to set an upper limit amount of gifts that can be sent to a broadcaster (specifically, one or more broadcasters) within a predetermined period. The gift processing unit 216 sets an upper limit of gifts that can be sent to a broadcaster at one time or within a predetermined period based on the operation by the user, and restricts the sending of gifts by the user based on the setting.

[0123] (Bulk gift delivery) It may be possible to send a gift to a plurality of (for example, all) thumbnails 60 displayed on a thumbnail list screen all at once. Specifically, it may be possible to send a gift to a plurality of thumbnails 60 displayed on a thumbnail list screen that lists thumbnails 60 of a predetermined type (in other words, having a predetermined attribute). For example, it may be possible to send a gift to each of a plurality of distributors associated with each of a plurality of thumbnails 60 displayed on the second program guide screen 34 for the "favorite" category, which lists thumbnails of broadcasts belonging to the "favorite" category.

[0124] For example, as shown in Fig. 9(b), the selection UI 83 displayed based on an operation on the gift button 82 displayed on the second program guide screen 34 may display a batch sending button 88 that accepts an operation to send gifts collectively to each of the multiple distributors associated with each of the multiple thumbnails 60 displayed on the second program guide screen 34. Then, the gift processing unit 216 may send gifts collectively to each of the multiple distributors associated with each of the multiple thumbnails 60 displayed on the second program guide screen 34 based on an operation on the batch sending button 88 accepted by the operation accepting unit 111. Here, the contents of the gift to be sent may be selectable from options displayed in a list on the selection UI 83.

[0125] In addition, in sending gifts in a lump sum, the same amount of gifts may be sent to each of the multiple broadcasters to which the gifts are sent, or a larger amount of gifts may be sent to some broadcasters than to the other broadcasters. For example, the allocation of the total amount of gifts sent in a lump sum to each broadcaster may be set by the user. Specifically, for example, the gift processing unit 216 may send gifts in an allocation designated by the user based on a user's operation that designates the allocation to each broadcaster, which is accepted by the operation acceptance unit 111. In addition, the allocation of the total amount of gifts sent in a lump sum to each broadcaster may be determined by the gift processing unit 216 according to a predetermined rule (in other words, automatically). Specifically, for example, the gift processing unit 216 may send a larger amount of gifts to a broadcaster who has a predetermined relationship with the user than to a broadcaster who does not have the predetermined relationship. Here, a "broadcaster who has a specific relationship with the user" may be, for example, the user's friend, a broadcaster that the user follows, a broadcaster that the user has registered as a favorite broadcaster, or a broadcaster whose broadcasts are frequently viewed by the user (in other words, a specific user identified based on the user's viewing history).

[0126] (Thumbnail display format) The broadcasts may include broadcasts in which a predetermined benefit is given to the user who sent the gift, and broadcasts in which the predetermined benefit is not given. In addition, the thumbnail list screen may display each thumbnail 60 in a manner that allows the user who sent the gift to distinguish between the thumbnail 60 corresponding to the broadcast in which the predetermined benefit is given to the user who sent the gift and the thumbnail 60 corresponding to the broadcast in which the predetermined benefit is not given to the user who sent the gift. For example, one of the former thumbnail 60 and the latter thumbnail 60 may be displayed in a manner surrounded by a frame of a specific color or with a predetermined mark. In addition, for example, the thumbnail list screen may display a thumbnail 60 corresponding to a broadcast in which the user who sent the gift is given the predetermined benefit in a manner that allows the user to distinguish whether or not a gift has already been sent for the broadcast related to that thumbnail 60. With this configuration, when sending a gift outside of a broadcast, the user can be given information to decide which broadcast to send a gift to.

[0127] In addition, on the thumbnail list screen, thumbnails 60 related to broadcasters who have a relatively high request for sending gifts and thumbnails 60 related to broadcasters who have a relatively low request for sending gifts may be displayed in a distinguishable manner. For example, one of the former thumbnail 60 and the latter thumbnail 60 may be displayed in a manner surrounded by a frame of a specific color or with a specific mark. With this configuration, when sending gifts outside of a broadcast, a user can be given information to decide which broadcast to send a gift to. Here, the relative level of request may be determined, for example, as follows. That is, for example, in a case where a broadcaster can tag his / her broadcast with a tag such as "looking for friends", "please spread", or "please give me a gift", a broadcaster who is broadcasting with a tag such as "please give me a gift" requesting the sending of gifts may be a broadcaster who is broadcasting without a tag requesting the sending of gifts. Also, for example, in a case where a broadcaster is able to make a setting to refuse the sending of gifts, a broadcaster who has not made such a setting may be considered to have a relatively higher level of demand than a broadcaster who has made such a setting.

[0128] (Reaction to gift delivery) The display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of a distributor who is currently distributing causes the display unit 18 to display a currently distributing screen 90, as exemplified in FIG. 10(a). The currently distributing screen 90 displays the content being distributed to other users in a predetermined area Q. In other words, the currently distributing screen 90 allows other users who are watching the distribution to confirm the display content displayed on their terminal devices 10. The currently distributing screen 90 also displays a chat field 92 that displays chats related to the distribution. The chat field 92 displays comments entered by the distributor and comments entered by viewers who are watching the distribution. The content being distributed and the chat box 92 may be displayed without overlapping, or may be displayed overlapping. In the currently distributed screen 90 of this embodiment, a game screen for the distributor to play the game is displayed as the content being distributed, and the distributor progresses through the game by operating a player character while viewing the game screen. The distributor may be able to distribute an image (e.g., the distributor's face, etc.) taken by a camera equipped in the terminal device 10. In this case, the content being distributed displayed on the currently distributed screen 90 is the image taken by the camera.

[0129] When a user sends a gift to a broadcaster, the broadcaster who received the gift is notified that the gift has been sent. Specifically, when a gift is sent to a broadcaster based on a predetermined operation by the user, the gift processing unit 216 transmits a signal notifying the broadcaster that the gift has been sent to the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster. Then, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster notifies the broadcaster that the gift has been sent based on the signal. Specifically, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster displays a display notifying the broadcaster that the gift has been sent in the chat field 92 of the broadcasting screen 90. More specifically, the display control unit 114 displays the user name of the user who sent the gift and the contents of the sent gift in the chat field 92. In addition, when the gift is sent from outside the broadcast (in other words, when the gift is sent based on an operation on a specific thumbnail 60 on the thumbnail list screen), the display control unit 114 displays a display indicating that the gift has been sent from outside the broadcast (the display of the characters "outside the broadcast" in FIG. 10(a)) in the chat field 92. That is, when notifying the broadcaster that a gift has been sent, the control unit 110 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 displays on the broadcasting screen 90 a display that allows identification of the status of the user who sent the gift (specifically, whether the user was watching the broadcast at the time the gift was sent or currently). As will be described later, in this embodiment, a user can also send a gift anonymously, and when a gift is sent anonymously, the user name of the user who sent the gift is not displayed. The control unit 110 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 may notify the broadcaster that a gift has been sent by, for example, outputting a predetermined sound from the speaker of the terminal device 10.

[0130] In addition, when a user sends a gift to a broadcaster, the display control unit 114 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 displays a display notifying the broadcaster that the gift has been sent on the broadcasting screen 90, and displays a reply button 93 on the broadcasting screen 90 as a UI for sending a response to the gift sending. When the reply button 93 is operated, the display control unit 114 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 displays an input field for inputting a reply comment as a response to the gift sending on the broadcasting screen 90. The control unit 110 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 accepts the operation on the reply button 93 and the operation on the input field as an operation for sending a reply comment to the gift sending, and transmits the reply comment to the terminal device 10 of the user who sent the gift via the server 20. Then, when the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user receives the reply comment, the control unit 110 displays the reply comment on the display unit 18.

[0131] For example, suppose that a user sends a gift by operating a thumbnail 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen, and the thumbnail list screen is still displayed thereafter, the broadcaster who received the gift sends a reply comment in response to the gift sent by the user. In this case, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user displays a reply comment 89 as a pop-up on the thumbnail list screen, as shown in Fig. 10(b). In other words, the display control unit 114 provides the user who sent the gift with the reaction of the person to whom the gift was sent based on the operation on the thumbnail 60, while the thumbnail list screen is still displayed.

[0132] The display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user who sent the gift may display a viewing screen 70 for viewing the broadcast by the broadcaster on the display unit 18 based on an operation (e.g., a tap operation) in response to a response from the broadcaster (in other words, a reply comment 89) displayed as a pop-up on the thumbnail list screen. In other words, the operation accepting unit 111 of the terminal device 10 of the user who sent the gift may accept an operation in response to a response from the broadcaster displayed as a pop-up on the thumbnail list screen as an operation to start viewing the broadcast by the broadcaster.

[0133] The reaction to the sending of the gift may be provided to the user who sent the gift in the form of a voice. The reaction to the sending of the gift may be provided to the user who sent the gift in the form of a video. For example, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster may accept an input of the broadcaster's voice as a reaction to the sending of the gift based on an operation of the reply button 93, and transmit the voice to the terminal device 10 of the user who sent the gift via the server 20. Then, when the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user receives the voice, the control unit 110 may output the voice from the speaker of the terminal device 10 while keeping the thumbnail list screen displayed.

[0134] In addition, a return gift may be sent to the user who sent the gift as a response to the sending of the gift. For example, when a user sends a gift to a broadcaster, the display control unit 114 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 may display a return button 94 as a UI for sending a response to the sending of the gift on the broadcasting screen 90 instead of or in addition to the reply button 93. Then, based on an operation on the return button 94, a return gift may be sent from the broadcaster to the user. Then, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user may display a pop-up display notifying the user that the return gift has been sent on the thumbnail list screen. Here, the return gift may be, for example, an image that the user who received the gift can see specially, a stamp that the user who received the gift can use as a comment to send to the broadcast, or a predetermined item related to the game (for example, an item used in a match), etc.

[0135] Furthermore, the distributor's reaction to the gift sent by the user, which occurred before the user started viewing, may be provided to the user based on the user starting to view the broadcast by the distributor, instead of or in addition to being provided with the thumbnail list screen displayed. Specifically, when the user starts viewing the broadcast, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user may display the above-mentioned various reactions sent based on the distributor's operation of the reply button 93, the return button 94, etc. on the viewing screen 70 (e.g., the chat box 72) or output them to the speaker. For example, suppose that after the distributor sends a reply comment in response to the gift sent by the user, the distributor or other viewers send comments to the target broadcast, and the amount of comments sent after the reply comment exceeds the amount of comments that can be displayed at one time in the chat box 72 at the time the user starts viewing the broadcast. In such a case, if the specifications allow past comments to be checked retroactively in the chat section 72, the user can view the reply comment. However, even with such specifications, the user must operate the chat section 72 to search for the broadcaster's reaction to the sending of the gift. However, with this configuration, the broadcaster's reaction is provided to the user based on the user starting to watch the broadcast of the broadcaster, so the broadcaster's reaction is automatically provided to the user without the need for such operations in the chat section 72, and the user can enjoy the broadcaster's reaction without any effort. Furthermore, without such specifications, conventionally, there is a risk that the broadcaster's reaction to the sending of the gift cannot be seen (or heard). However, with this configuration, such a situation in which the broadcaster's reaction cannot be seen or heard can be avoided.

[0136] The broadcaster's reaction to the gift sent to the user who sent the gift does not have to be sent to the user based on the broadcaster's operation on a predetermined UI such as the reply button 93 or the return button (in other words, generated based on the operation). For example, the control unit 110 of the broadcaster's terminal device 10 may automatically recognize the broadcaster's predetermined words and actions (e.g., a statement such as "Thank you") after the gift is sent as the broadcaster's reaction to the gift and send it to the user. Also, for example, a character operated by the broadcaster (in other words, an avatar or player character) may be set to perform a predetermined action (e.g., a happy action) when a gift is sent, and when a user sends a gift, a display of the character performing the predetermined action may be displayed on the user's terminal device 10 as the broadcaster's reaction to the gift. Also, for example, video and audio of the broadcast for a predetermined period immediately after the gift is sent may be provided to the user as the broadcaster's reaction to the gift. The acquisition of such broadcast video and audio may be performed based on the broadcaster's operation of a specific UI, or may be performed automatically.

[0137] (Anonymous gift sending) Gifts may be able to be sent anonymously. Specifically, at least one of sending gifts from within a stream and sending gifts from outside a stream may be able to be sent anonymously. For example, gifts may be sent anonymously by operating the thumbnail 60. Note that "being able to be sent anonymously" necessarily includes cases where gifts are sent anonymously.

[0138] For example, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may be able to set in advance (for example, before each operation related to gift sending is performed) whether sending of gifts based on various operations (in other words, sending of gifts from within a stream or from outside a stream) is to be performed anonymously or with one's own user name made public based on a user's operation. In other words, when a gift is sent based on an operation that is set to be sent anonymously, the gift may be sent anonymously.

[0139] Furthermore, when sending a gift based on various operations, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may accept an operation to set whether or not the gift is to be sent anonymously.

[0140] Also, for example, whether or not the gift is sent anonymously may be determined for each type of operation related to sending the gift (for example, depending on whether the gift is sent from within the stream or outside the stream). For example, when a gift is sent from within the stream, the user name may be made public, and when a gift is sent from outside the stream, the gift may be sent anonymously.

[0141] Also, for example, whether or not the gift is sent anonymously may be determined according to the type of gift. For example, when sending a gift by operating a specific thumbnail 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen, whether or not the gift is sent anonymously may be determined according to the type of gift selected in the selection UI 83.

[0142] When sending a gift anonymously, the username of the user who sent the gift is not made public. In other words, when sending a gift anonymously, as described above, the username of the user who sent the gift is not displayed in the chat field 91 or the like of the broadcast screen 90 of the broadcaster to whom the gift is being sent, and the broadcaster is not informed of who sent the gift.

[0143] (Gift disclosure range) Regarding sending a gift from outside the broadcast, the fact that the gift has been sent may not be visible to other users other than the broadcaster (in other words, other viewers). That is, in the past, when a user sends a gift to a broadcaster, not only is the fact notified to the broadcaster (for example, displayed in the chat box 92), but also other users (hereinafter referred to as "other viewers") who are watching the broadcast by the broadcaster are notified (for example, the user name of the user who sent the gift and the contents of the sent gift are displayed in the chat box 72 of the other users). In this embodiment, sending a gift from outside the broadcast may be possible without such notification to other viewers. In other words, sending a gift from outside the broadcast may be possible without disclosing the fact that the gift has been sent to other viewers.

[0144] For example, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may be able to set in advance (for example, before each operation related to gift sending is performed) based on a user's operation whether or not to make public to other viewers the sending of a gift based on various operations (in other words, each of gift sending from within a broadcast and gift sending from outside a broadcast). That is, when a gift is sent based on an operation set to not be made public to other viewers, the fact that the gift has been sent is not made public to other viewers (in other words, it is not displayed in the chat box 72 of other viewers), and when a gift is sent based on an operation not set to not be made public to other viewers, the fact that the gift has been sent may be made public to other viewers.

[0145] Furthermore, when sending a gift based on various operations, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may accept an operation to set whether or not to make the sending of the gift public to other viewers.

[0146] That is, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 may receive an operation to set the scope of disclosure of the fact that the gift has been sent. The scope of disclosure may be set in units of the broadcaster sending the gift, other users other than the broadcaster, or related users of the broadcaster, or may be set in units of users.

[0147] Also, for example, whether or not the sending of the gift is made public to other users may be determined for each type of operation related to sending the gift (for example, depending on whether the gift is sent from within the broadcast or outside the broadcast). For example, the sending of the gift from within the broadcast may be made public to other viewers, and the sending of the gift from outside the broadcast may not be made public to other viewers.

[0148] Also, for example, whether or not the sending of the gift is made public to other viewers may be determined according to the type of gift. For example, when sending a gift by operating a specific thumbnail 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen, whether or not the sending of the gift is made public to other viewers may be determined according to the type of gift selected in the selection UI 83.

[0149] Here, it has been described that sending a gift from outside the broadcast can be executed without disclosing to other viewers that the gift has been sent, but it may be possible to send a gift from outside the broadcast with the fact that the gift has been sent being made public to other viewers, but only the user name being kept private. That is, for example, when a user sends a gift to a broadcaster, the broadcaster is notified of the user's user name and the contents of the gift sent, but other viewers are notified of the contents of the gift but not of the user's user name (in other words, it is possible to recognize that someone has sent a gift, but not to identify who sent the gift). That is, the phrase "not disclosing the sending of the gift to other viewers" described here may be appropriately interpreted as disclosing the fact that the gift has been sent, but not disclosing who sent it.

[0150] In addition, when a user sends a gift in which the sending of the gift itself or who sent it is not made public, the sender to whom the gift was sent may be notified of the sending of the gift in a manner that makes it possible to identify that the gift was sent (i.e., that the gift was sent without being made public to other viewers) (for example, by displaying the word "private" in the same manner as the word "outside of broadcast" in FIG. 10(a) is displayed). In addition, when a user sends a gift in which the sending of the gift itself or who sent it is not made public, when notifying the sender to whom the gift was sent during broadcast, the sender may not be notified of who sent the gift (for example, when displaying in the chat section 92 of the broadcast screen 90 notifying the sender of the gift, the user name of the user who sent the gift may not be displayed). In this case, the sender may be notified of who sent the gift after the broadcast has ended. This configuration prevents the broadcaster from inadvertently reading out the username of the user who sent the gift during the broadcast, which can lead to other viewers finding out that the user sent the gift.

[0151] (Gift delivery) The type of gift is not particularly limited, but a type of gift (hereinafter referred to as a "first type gift") has been known in the past, in which when a user sends a gift, the fact that the gift has been sent and the contents of the sent gift are displayed in a predetermined chat field (for example, at least one of the chat field 72 of the user who sent the gift, the chat field 92 of the broadcaster to whom the gift was sent, or the chat field 72 of another viewer). Also, a type of gift (hereinafter referred to as a "second type gift") has been known in the past, in which when a user sends a gift, a predetermined animation is played in a predetermined terminal device 10 (for example, at least one of the terminal device 10 of the user who sent the gift, the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster to whom the gift was sent, or the terminal device 10 of another viewer). In the service of this embodiment, at least one of the first type gift and the second type gift may be transmittable. Note that the second type gift may be a gift in which not only a predetermined animation is played, but also the fact that the gift has been sent and the contents of the sent gift are displayed in a predetermined chat field. In other words, the first type gift may be a gift in which a predetermined animation is not played and only a predetermined display is displayed in a predetermined chat field.

[0152] In this embodiment, when a second type gift is sent to a broadcaster who is broadcasting, an animation corresponding to the sent second type gift is displayed in the video of the broadcast (in other words, superimposed on the video of the broadcast). That is, for example, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster displays an animation corresponding to the sent second type gift on the broadcasting screen 90. Also, for example, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of a viewer (for example, the user who sent the gift or another viewer) who is watching the broadcast displays an animation corresponding to the sent second type gift on the viewing screen 70. For example, if the second type gift is a gift that looks like a flower, an effect is executed in which flowers appear in the video of the broadcast, and if the gift is a gift that looks like fireworks, an effect is executed in which fireworks appear in the video of the broadcast.

[0153] In this embodiment, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user who sent a gift to a broadcaster from outside the broadcast displays a specific effect corresponding to the sending of the gift on the display unit 18 based on the fact that the user has started viewing the broadcast of the broadcaster. For example, when the user sends a second type gift that looks like fireworks to the broadcaster by operating a specific thumbnail 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen and then starts viewing the broadcast of the broadcaster by operating the specific thumbnail 60, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user executes an effect in which fireworks appear on the viewing screen 70. Here, the specific effect is an effect that is provided to other viewers who are viewing the broadcast of the broadcaster when the user sends a gift, and when it is provided to the user based on the fact that the user has started viewing the broadcast, it is an effect that is not provided again to other viewers who are viewing the broadcast. That is, for example, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the distributor and the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the other viewers display a performance in which fireworks appear on the display unit 18 at the timing when the user sends a second type gift that looks like fireworks to the distributor by operating a specific thumbnail 60. On the other hand, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device of the distributor and the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the other viewers do not display a performance in which fireworks appear on the display unit 18 at the timing when the user starts watching the distribution thereafter. Note that the display control unit 114 of the terminal device of the distributor and the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the other viewers may display a performance in which fireworks appear on the display unit 18 (for the first time or again) at the timing when the user starts watching the distribution.

[0154] In addition, as the third type gift, a type of gift that can change at least one of the background of the video of the broadcast or the background of the thumbnail 60 may be prepared. When the third type gift is sent by an operation on the thumbnail 60 or a predetermined operation while watching the broadcast, the background of the thumbnail 60 or the video of the corresponding broadcast changes to a specific background. Here, the specific background may be an advertisement background. For example, when a user related to a company account sends a third type gift, the background of the thumbnail 60 or the video may change to a background that advertises the company. Specifically, as the advertisement background, the user name of the user who sent the gift may appear in the background of the thumbnail 60 or the video. In addition, as the advertisement background, a predetermined image that is set in advance by the user who sent the gift may appear in the background of the thumbnail 60 or the video. In addition, the third type gift may be a gift that changes only the thumbnail 60 and does not change the broadcast video itself. In this embodiment, the change of the thumbnail 60 or the background of the video to a specific background also occurs on the terminal devices 10 of other users other than the user who sent the gift and the broadcaster to whom the gift was sent (in other words, on the thumbnail list screen or viewing screen 70 viewed by the other users), and the specific background is also visible to the other users; however, the change may be made only on the terminal devices 10 of some users, such as the user who sent the gift and the broadcaster to whom the gift was sent.

[0155] (Effects based on sending gifts via multiple routes) A specific effect may be activated based on a user both sending a gift to a broadcaster by operating a specific thumbnail 60 and sending a gift to the broadcaster by a predetermined operation while watching a broadcast related to the specific thumbnail 60. In other words, a specific effect may be activated when a user sends gifts to a specific broadcast via multiple routes.

[0156] For example, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user may display a special effect on the display unit 18 based on the user performing both of these actions. Also, for example, the control unit 210 of the server 20 may grant a predetermined benefit to the user based on the user performing both of these actions. Also, whether or not a specific effect is activated, or the type of effect that is activated, may differ depending on the order in which the two actions are performed.

[0157] (Sending gifts to archived broadcasts) The sending of gifts by operating the thumbnail 60 may be performed not only for the thumbnail 60 related to the currently broadcasting broadcast, but also for the thumbnail 60 related to the past broadcast. The display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the broadcaster to which the gift is sent may be capable of displaying a screen displaying a list of predetermined gifts sent to the broadcaster on the display unit 18. The screen may also display all of the gifts sent by operating the thumbnail 60 corresponding to each of the broadcaster's multiple past broadcasts. Specifically, the screen may display all of the first gift sent by operating the thumbnail 60 corresponding to the broadcaster's first past broadcast, the second gift sent by operating the thumbnail 60 corresponding to the broadcaster's second past broadcast, and the third gift sent by operating the thumbnail 60 corresponding to the broadcaster's third past broadcast. This configuration can prevent the broadcaster from missing gifts sent for past broadcasts.

[0158] (Images associated with the distributor) As described above, in the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, a list of thumbnails 60 as images associated with a distributor is displayed, and an operation on a specific image in the list is accepted as an operation of sending a gift to a distributor related to the specific image. However, the list of images associated with a distributor is not limited to a list of thumbnails 60. That is, for example, a screen displaying a list of related users (for example, a list of friends) of the user may display a list of icons of the related users, and a gift may be sent to a related user (in other words, a distributor) corresponding to the specific icon by an operation on a specific icon. Also, for example, a screen displaying a predetermined ranking related to a game may display a list of images of characters of users included in the ranking, and a gift may be sent to a user corresponding to the specific character image by an operation on the specific character image.

[0159] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a broadcaster having a predetermined relationship with a user starts a broadcast, the display control unit 114 of the terminal device 10 of the user may display, on the display unit 18, a push notification informing the user that the broadcaster has broadcast a broadcast. Then, by performing an operation on the displayed push notification, it may be possible to send a gift to the broadcaster associated with the push notification. Furthermore, the display control unit 114 may be capable of displaying, on the display unit 18, a list of received push notifications. Then, by performing an operation on a specific push notification among the listed push notifications, it may be possible to send a gift to the broadcaster associated with the specific push notification.

[0160] That is, in this embodiment, the thumbnail 60 is given as an example of an image associated with a distributor, but the thumbnail 60 may be interpreted as an icon of the user, an image of the user's character, an image related to a push notification, or the like.

[0161] (Submitting comments based on actions taken on thumbnails) As described above, on the thumbnail list screen, it is possible to send a gift to a distributor based on an operation on the thumbnail 60. In the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment, in addition to or instead of this, it may be possible to send a comment to a distributor based on an operation on the thumbnail 60.

[0162] Specifically, the display control unit 114 may display a UI for inputting a comment (for example, an input field into which a comment can be input) on the thumbnail list screen, similar to the gift button 82 and the selection UI 83. The operation reception unit 111 may receive an operation on the UI as an operation for inputting a comment to be sent to the broadcaster, and may receive an operation for selecting a specific thumbnail 60 from the list of thumbnails 60 as an operation for determining a recipient to whom the comment is sent. That is, the control unit 110 of the user's terminal device 10 may send a comment to a broadcaster related to the operated thumbnail 60 based on an operation on the thumbnail 60. The sent comment is displayed, for example, in the chat box 92 of the broadcaster or the chat box 72 of other viewers. In other words, the control unit 110 of the user's terminal device 10 may send a comment to a broadcast corresponding to the operated thumbnail 60 based on an operation on the thumbnail 60, and the comment may be viewable by the broadcaster or other viewers.

[0163] Furthermore, when the distributor inputs a reply comment to a comment sent based on an operation on a thumbnail 60 displayed on the thumbnail list screen, the reply comment may be displayed as a pop-up on the thumbnail list screen. Note that the processing related to the input of the reply comment by the distributor, the transmission of the input reply comment, and the pop-up display of the transmitted reply comment may be similar to that of the reply comment 89 in response to the sending of a gift described above, for example.

[0164] (Joining a game based on thumbnail actions) It may be possible to affect the progress of the game (in other words, the match) being distributed based on an operation on the thumbnail 60.

[0165] Specifically, the display control unit 114 may display a UI related to an operation for assisting a broadcaster on the thumbnail list screen, similar to the gift button 82 and the selection UI 83. For example, the display control unit 114 may display an assist button 95 as the UI on the thumbnail list screen, as shown in FIG. 11(a). Then, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation on the assist button 95 and an operation on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 as an operation for assisting a broadcaster related to the specific thumbnail 60. For example, when the operation for assisting a broadcaster is performed, the control unit 110 of the user's terminal device 10 transmits operation information to the server 20. Based on the transmitted operation information, the game progression unit 212 causes a predetermined object to appear in the virtual space where the broadcaster is playing the game. In other words, based on the transmitted operation information, the game progression unit 212 causes a predetermined object to appear in the virtual space where the broadcaster's character and the broadcaster's opponent's character exist.

[0166] Specifically, it may be possible to assist the distributor by operating the assist button 95 and then repeatedly tapping a specific thumbnail 60. In this case, the game progression unit 212 may cause a specific object to appear in the virtual space when the number of operations on a specific thumbnail 60 reaches a specific number.

[0167] Here, the predetermined object may be, for example, an object for attacking (in other words, inflicting damage on) the opponent's character. As an example, the predetermined object may be a bomb that explodes a certain time after being placed and inflicts damage on surrounding characters. In other words, the user may be able to attack the distributor's opponent by operating the thumbnail 60. Note that the predetermined object may be an object that restores the distributor's character, an object that restricts the actions of the opponent's character, or the like.

[0168] Note that an operation to assist the broadcaster may be performed on the viewing screen 70. For example, the display control unit 114 may display an assist button 95 on the viewing screen 70. Then, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation on the assist button 95 as an operation to assist the broadcaster of the broadcast being viewed. Specifically, it may be possible to assist the broadcaster by repeatedly tapping the assist button 95. In this case, the game progression unit 212 may cause a predetermined object to appear in the virtual space when the number of operations on the assist button 95 reaches a predetermined number.

[0169] In addition, when both the distributor's assistance based on a predetermined operation on the thumbnail list screen (e.g., a repeated tap operation on the thumbnail 60) and the distributor's assistance based on a predetermined operation on the viewing screen 70 (e.g., a repeated tap operation on the assist button 95) are possible, the game progression unit 212 may increase the storage value of a predetermined storage area (in other words, a counter) based on the former operation being performed, and may increase the storage value of the predetermined storage area based on the latter operation being performed, and may execute a predetermined process (e.g., a process of making a predetermined object appear in a virtual space) that affects the progress of the game being distributed based on the storage value of the predetermined storage area reaching a predetermined value. In other words, the game progression unit 212 may execute a predetermined process that affects the progress of the game being distributed based on the total number of times both operations have been performed reaching a predetermined value. Here, both the predetermined operation on the thumbnail list screen and the predetermined operation on the viewing screen 70 may be performed by one user, or may be performed by different users. In addition, the predetermined operation on the thumbnail list screen and the predetermined operation on the viewing screen 70 may have different degrees of influence on the progress of the game. For example, the amount of increase in the storage value of the predetermined storage area when the operation is performed may differ between the former operation and the latter operation. Also, the type of processing that affects the progress of the game being distributed and executed by the game progression unit 212 (for example, the type of object to be made to appear in the virtual space) may differ between the former operation and the latter operation.

[0170] Furthermore, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive a user operation on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 as an operation for making a predetermined vote on the distribution related to the specific thumbnail 60. The content of the vote is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a predetermined prediction regarding the broadcast (in other words, the game) (for example, a prediction regarding the game results, specifically, a prediction of the winner or a prediction of the broadcaster's ranking, etc.), or it may be related to a predetermined survey, etc.

[0171] 11(b), the display control unit 114 may display a voting UI 96 as a UI related to a predetermined vote on the display unit 18 based on an operation performed on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60. The display control unit 114 may, for example, display the voting UI 96 on a thumbnail list screen. Then, the operation receiving unit 111 may receive an operation on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 and an operation on the voting UI 96 as an operation for making a predetermined vote for the broadcast corresponding to the specific thumbnail 60. For example, the voting UI 96 displays a list of options related to voting, and the user can cast a vote by an operation of selecting a specific option from the options displayed in the list.

[0172] By executing a vote, a predetermined benefit may be given to the user who has cast the vote. Specifically, for example, in the case where a vote is for making a predetermined prediction regarding a distribution, the control unit 210 of the server 20 may give a predetermined benefit to the user who has cast the vote if the prediction of the user who has cast the vote turns out to be correct. Furthermore, the control unit 210 of the server 20 may give a predetermined benefit to the user regardless of the selection of the user who has cast the vote (in other words, for the act of casting the vote itself).

[0173] (Processing related to sending gifts) Next, an example of a process related to sending a gift executed by the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Here, a case where user A sends a gift to user B, who is a distributor, will be described as an example.

[0174] First, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user A causes the display unit 18 to display a list of thumbnails 60 (for example, the first program guide screen 32 or the second program guide screen 34) based on a predetermined operation by the user A (step S101).

[0175] Next, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user A requests the server 20 to send a gift to a distributor associated with the specific thumbnail 60, based on a predetermined operation by the user A on a specific thumbnail 60 in the list of thumbnails 60 (step S102). Here, the specific thumbnail 60 is assumed to be a thumbnail 60 associated with the user B (in other words, a thumbnail 60 related to a distribution by the user B).

[0176] Next, the control unit 210 of the server 20 sends a gift from user A to user B based on a request from the terminal device 10 of user A (step S103).

[0177] Next, the control unit 210 of the server 20 transmits a signal to the terminal device 10 of the user B notifying that the gift has been sent from the user A to the user B (step S104).

[0178] Next, the control unit 110 of the terminal device 10 of the user B notifies the user B that a gift has been sent from the user A based on the signal transmitted from the server 20 (step S105).

[0179] When user B performs an operation to send a reply comment in response to the gift sent by user A, the control unit 110 of user B's terminal device 10 sends the reply comment to user A's terminal device 10 via the server 20 based on the operation (step S106).

[0180] In addition, when the control unit 110 of user A's terminal device 10 receives a reply comment while the list of thumbnails 60 is being displayed on the display unit 18, the control unit 110 causes the received reply comment to be displayed as a pop-up on the display unit 18 while keeping the list of thumbnails 60 displayed (step S107).

[0181] In this embodiment, the application for playing a game (e.g., a match) has functions of streaming the game and viewing the game, but at least one of the streaming and viewing may be performed by an application different from the application. For example, streaming and viewing may be achieved by using a video streaming service that does not have a function for playing the game. In this case, by linking a user's account in the video streaming service with a user's account in the game in advance, it becomes possible to reflect operations in the video streaming service in the game.

[0182] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 of the present embodiment does not necessarily have to have a function for playing games, and may have, for example, only a function for distributing and viewing videos.

[0183] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. Within the scope of the present invention, the components can be freely combined, any components can be modified, or any components can be omitted. The process flow described in this specification is merely an example, and the order and configuration of each process may be different. Some processes, such as the various determination processes described in this specification, may not exist. In other words, the process flow and specific determination processes may be different from those exemplified in this specification.

[0184] <Additional Notes> The matters described in the above embodiment can also be described as follows.

[0185] (Appendix 1) Computer, A display control means (e.g., a display control unit 114) that displays a list of images associated with a distributor on a display means; and functioning as a receiving means (e.g., an operation receiving unit 111) that receives a user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of sending a specific value from the user to a distributor related to the specific image. program. According to this configuration, it is possible to send a specific value to a specific distributor from a screen that displays a list of images associated with the distributor, so that a specific value can be sent to a specific distributor from outside of the distribution. Also, according to this configuration, it is possible to quickly specify the recipient to whom the specific value is to be sent and quickly send the specific value. Therefore, it is easy to send a specific value to other users.

[0186] (Appendix 2) The image associated with the broadcaster is a thumbnail of the broadcast. 2. The program described in Appendix 1. According to this configuration, when a list of thumbnails of distribution is displayed, it is possible to send a specific value by operating a specific thumbnail. Therefore, it is possible to send a specific value at a stage before starting distribution.

[0187] (Appendix 3) The computer, The display means functions as a providing means (e.g., the control unit 110) for providing the user with a response to the sending of the specific value from a distributor to which the specific value was sent by operating the specific image, while displaying the list on the display means. 2. The program described in Appendix 1. With this configuration, even if a user who sends a specific value from a screen that displays a list of images associated with a broadcaster has not started watching the broadcast of the person to whom the specific value was sent, the user can be provided with the other person's reaction.

[0188] (Appendix 4) The computer, Based on the user starting viewing of a broadcast by a broadcaster to which the specific value was sent by an operation on the specific image, the broadcaster's reaction to the sending of the specific value, which occurred before the user started viewing, is provided to the user (e.g., the control unit 110). 2. The program described in Appendix 1. According to this configuration, the other party's reaction that occurs before the user who sent the specific value starts watching the broadcast can be provided to the user after the user starts watching the broadcast. Therefore, the other party's reaction can be provided to the user at a timing that makes it easy for the user to enjoy the other party's reaction.

[0189] (Appendix 5) The display control means causes the display means to display a specific effect corresponding to the sending of the specific value, based on the user starting viewing a broadcast by a broadcaster to which the specific value was sent by operating the specific image. 2. The program described in Appendix 1. According to this configuration, the effect that occurs as a result of the delivery of the specific value can be provided to the user after the user starts watching the distribution. Therefore, the specific effect can be provided to the user at a timing that makes it easy for the user to enjoy the effect.

[0190] (Appendix 6) The specific effect is an effect that is provided to other users who are watching the broadcast of the broadcaster of the destination when the user sends the specific value, and when it is provided to the user based on the user starting to watch the broadcast, it is an effect that is not provided again to other users who are watching the broadcast. 6. The program described in Appendix 5. According to such a configuration, the effect generated by sending the specific value can be provided specially to the user who sent the specific value after the user starts watching the broadcast.

[0191] (Appendix 7) The sending of the specific value by the operation on the specific image can be done anonymously. 2. The program described in Appendix 1. According to this configuration, a specific value can be sent without revealing the name of the sender.

[0192] (Appendix 8) The computer, The control unit 110 and the control unit 210 function as an effect generating means for generating a specific effect based on the user's execution of both sending the specific value to a specific distributor by an operation on a specific thumbnail as the specific image and sending the specific value to the specific distributor by a predetermined operation while viewing a distribution related to the specific thumbnail. 2. The program described in Appendix 2. According to such a configuration, an incentive can be given to sending a specific value via multiple routes, and the sending of the specific value can be promoted.

[0193] (Appendix 9) The display control means causes the display means to display a display for confirming whether the operation performed by the user is intended to send the specific value, based on a specific operation performed by the user on a specific thumbnail as the specific image. 2. The program described in Appendix 2. This configuration can prevent a user from sending a specific value by mistake.

[0194] (Appendix 10) The accepting means accepts a specific operation by the user with respect to a specific thumbnail as the specific image as an operation for making a predetermined vote regarding distribution related to the specific thumbnail while keeping the list displayed on the display means. 2. The program described in Appendix 2. According to this configuration, when a list of thumbnails is displayed, a user can perform a predetermined vote for a broadcast related to a specific thumbnail by operating the specific thumbnail. This makes it possible to participate in a broadcast from outside the broadcast.

[0195] (Appendix 11) The computer, functioning as a game progression means (e.g., the game progression unit 113, the game progression unit 212) that executes processing related to the progression of a predetermined game; the image associated with the broadcaster is a thumbnail of a broadcast of the predetermined game; The game progress means executes a predetermined process that affects the progress of the predetermined game being distributed based on a specific operation of the user on a specific thumbnail as the specific image. 2. The program described in Appendix 1. According to this configuration, it is possible to participate in a game being distributed from outside the game distribution.

[0196] (Appendix 12) A display control means (e.g., a display control unit 114) that displays a list of images associated with a distributor on a display means; and a receiving unit (for example, an operation receiving unit 111) that receives a user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of sending a specific value from the user to a distributor related to the specific image. Information processing system. According to this configuration, the same effects as those of the program described in Supplementary Note 1 can be achieved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0197] 1 Information processing system, 10 Terminal device, 11 Processor, 12 Memory, 13 Storage, 17 Input unit, 18 Display unit, 20 Server, 21 Processor, 22 Memory, 23 Storage, 60 Thumbnail, 110 Control unit, 111 Operation reception unit, 112 Transmission / reception unit, 113 Game progression unit, 114 Display control unit, 115 User relationship processing unit, 116 Distribution unit, 120 Memory unit, 210 Control unit, 211 Transmission / reception unit, 212 Game progression unit, 215 User relationship management unit, 216 Gift processing unit, 220 Memory unit

Claims

1. Computer, A display control means for displaying a list of images associated with a distributor on a display means; and a receiving unit that receives a user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of sending a specific value from the user to a distributor related to the specific image. program.

2. The image associated with the broadcaster is a thumbnail of the broadcast. The program according to claim 1.

3. The computer, The display means functions as a providing means for providing the user with a response to the sending of the specific value from a distributor to which the specific value has been sent by operating the specific image, while displaying the list on the display means. The program according to claim 1.

4. The computer, and functioning as a providing means for providing, to the user, a response of the destination distributor to the sending of the specific value, which occurred before the user started viewing, based on the user starting viewing of the distribution of the destination distributor to which the specific value was sent by an operation on the specific image. The program according to claim 1.

5. The display control means causes the display means to display a specific effect corresponding to the sending of the specific value, based on the user starting viewing a broadcast by a broadcaster to which the specific value was sent by operating the specific image. The program according to claim 1.

6. The specific effect is an effect that is provided to other users who are watching the broadcast of the broadcaster of the destination when the user sends the specific value, and when it is provided to the user based on the user starting to watch the broadcast, it is an effect that is not provided again to other users who are watching the broadcast. The program according to claim 5.

7. The sending of the specific value by the operation on the specific image can be done anonymously. The program according to claim 1.

8. The computer, The device functions as an effect generating means for generating a specific effect based on the user's execution of both an operation on a specific thumbnail as the specific image to send the specific value to a specific distributor and a predetermined operation while viewing a distribution related to the specific thumbnail to send the specific value to the specific distributor. The program according to claim 2.

9. The display control means causes the display means to display a display for confirming whether the operation performed by the user is intended to send the specific value, based on a specific operation performed by the user on a specific thumbnail as the specific image. The program according to claim 2.

10. The accepting means accepts a specific operation by the user with respect to a specific thumbnail as the specific image as an operation for making a predetermined vote regarding distribution related to the specific thumbnail while keeping the list displayed on the display means. The program according to claim 2.

11. The computer, functioning as a game progression means for executing a process related to the progression of a predetermined game; the image associated with the broadcaster is a thumbnail of a broadcast of the predetermined game; The game progress means executes a predetermined process that affects the progress of the predetermined game being distributed based on a specific operation of the user on a specific thumbnail as the specific image. The program according to claim 1.

12. A display control means for displaying a list of images associated with a distributor on a display means; and a receiving means for receiving a user's operation on a specific image in the list as an operation of sending a specific value from the user to a distributor related to the specific image. Information processing system.

Images