Program and system

Abstract

To prevent a malfunction caused by the state of location information acquisition.SOLUTION: A program causes a computer to proceed with an event using first location information associated with an account used by a user, and when the first location information cannot be acquired, output an operation GUI, proceed with the event with information input by the user through the operation GUI, and restrict the progress of the event through the operation GUI.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, games or application software that utilize position information such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) are known. Specifically, an operation terminal operated by a user acquires position information. Then, a technology is known that changes the position of an object on a virtual map based on the user's position information (for example, Patent Document 1, etc.). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6075489 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, as the game progresses, there are cases where location information cannot be acquired depending on the user's location or the surrounding circumstances, etc. When location information cannot be acquired in this way, there is a problem that the game is interrupted or an error occurs.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to prevent problems caused by the state of location information acquisition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a program comprising: On the computer, The event is carried out based on the first location information associated with the account used by the user; if the first location information cannot be acquired, outputting an operation GUI, and progressing the event according to information input by the user through the operation GUI; It is possible to restrict the progress of events through the GUI for the operation. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent problems caused by the state of location information acquisition. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a system configuration. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the progress of an event. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of an overall process. [Diagram 5] 13 is a usage example of the second location information. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of movement history information. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing an example of notification of use of second location information. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of remuneration. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of remuneration reservation. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual putt. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example in which a second information processing terminal is used. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

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

[0010] [System configuration example] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration. For example, the system 1 includes a first information processing terminal 3, a server 4, and the like.

[0011] The first information processing terminal 3 is, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, a game machine, smart glasses (a glasses-type terminal), a wristband-type terminal, or another wearable device attached to the body.

[0012] The server 4 is an information processing device used to operate a game or the like. For example, the server 4 is an information processing device used to operate a game managed by an administrator or the like. The server 4 also stores account information for each user. For example, when the user 2 registers personal information or the like before starting a game, an account is generated and the account information is stored in the server 4. Thereafter, the user 2 can use the account to use a service such as a game.

[0013] An application such as a game is executed by retrieving information in response to an instruction from the first information processing terminal 3 used by the user 2. In other words, even if the information processing device used by the user 2 is different, as long as the account used is the same, it is possible to progress with the same game data. Of course, from the viewpoint of security, it is also possible to use identification information (e.g., a physical address, etc.) specific to the hardware of the first information processing terminal 3 so that the account can be used only from a registered, predetermined information processing device.

[0014] The account may be linked to security information such as an email address, a social networking service (SNS), a phone number, or biometric information. When logging in, the user 2 is authenticated using information that has been linked to the account in advance. In this way, security is ensured when using the account.

[0015] Additionally, data from other services associated with the same account can be linked as appropriate.

[0016] The first information processing terminal 3 acquires location information by GNSS. Specifically, a satellite 5 measures the location of the first information processing terminal 3 from the sky and sends the result to the first information processing terminal 3, and the first information processing terminal 3 acquires location information indicating the current location. Note that the location information may be acquired via the server 4, etc. Also, the location information is associated with the account of the running app.

[0017] The system 1 may include devices other than those described above. For example, the system 1 may have a so-called stand-alone configuration in which the system 1 does not include the server 4 and is configured only by the first information processing terminal 3. On the other hand, the system 1 may have a configuration in which there are multiple servers 4, for example.

[0018] [Example of information processing device] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. For example, the first information processing terminal 3 and the server 4 are information processing devices having the hardware configuration shown in the figure. However, the first information processing terminal 3 and the server 4 may have different hardware configurations. The following description will be given taking the first information processing terminal 3 as an example.

[0019] The first information processing terminal 3 has a hardware configuration including a Central Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "CPU 3H1"), a storage device 3H2, a sensor 3H3, an input / output device 3H4, and a communication device 3H5.

[0020] The CPU 3H1 is an example of a calculation device and a control device, and therefore performs various processes and controls based on programs.

[0021] The storage device 3H2 is a main storage device (which is volatile) that stores data, etc. The storage device 3H2 may also include an auxiliary storage device (which is nonvolatile) such as a solid state drive (SSD) or a hard disk.

[0022] The sensor 3H3 acquires position information and the like by sensing. The sensor 3H3 differs depending on the type of information to be acquired. Also, there may be a plurality of sensors 3H3.

[0023] The input / output device 3H4 is a device that inputs operations by the user 2 and outputs processing results to the user 2. Specifically, the input / output device 3H4 is a touch panel or the like. However, the input / output device 3H4 may be a combination of an input device and an output device, or the like.

[0024] The communication device 3H5 transmits and receives data to and from an external device. For example, the communication device 3H5 is an antenna, etc. However, the communication device 3H5 may use wired communication.

[0025] The hardware configuration of the information processing device is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the first information processing terminal 3 may further include an external or internal arithmetic unit, a control unit, a storage unit, an input unit, an output unit, and an auxiliary unit.

[0026] [Event example] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the progress of an event. Hereinafter, an example in which the progress of an event is reflected in a game, that is, in a virtual space, will be described.

[0027] For example, the first information processing terminal 3 starts a game application and progresses the game using an account in which progress information of the user 2 is recorded. If there are multiple accounts that the user 2 can select, the first information processing terminal 3 allows the user 2 to select which account to use to start playing the game.

[0028] Also, at the time of startup, the account of user 2 is synchronized with sensor information such as position information acquired by the information processing terminal. Next, a game screen 10 is output to display the progress of the event to user 2. Specifically, as user 2 moves in real space, an event in which a character 11 (one example of an object) moves in virtual space progresses. That is, in the game, an event in which the character 11 moves progresses according to the position information of user 2.

[0029] For example, if it is determined based on the position information that user 2 has "moved 1 m north (by walking)," then the direction (which may be the direction of travel, etc.), distance (which may be the number of steps, etc.), speed, and elevation difference of user 2 are taken into consideration and reflected in the virtual space, such as character 11 having "moved 100 steps north (in the virtual space)."

[0030] The event is not limited to the movement of the character 11, and may be other events in the game that are set in advance. For example, the event may be the acquisition of an item 12, arrival at a destination, capture of a base, a match with another user, collaboration with another user, or a battle with an enemy character 13 during the movement of the character 11.

[0031] However, the items 12, enemy characters 13, etc. are placed on a map in the virtual space in advance, and events such as the acquisition of the items 12 occur depending on the movement of the character 11.

[0032] Therefore, as the event progresses, the position of the character 11 in the virtual space changes, the parameters of the character 11 change (for example, the character 11 recovers or is strengthened), or the story changes.

[0033] [Sequence example] 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the overall process. For example, the overall process is executed in the following procedure.

[0034] In step S01, the first information processing terminal 3 acquires location information (hereinafter referred to as "first location information"). The method of acquiring the first location information, etc., is set in advance. The first location information is associated with the account of the running application.

[0035] In step S02, if the first information processing terminal 3 is unable to acquire the first location information (this is the case when it is determined that "the first location information cannot be acquired" in the figure), it acquires location information different from the first location information (hereinafter referred to as "second location information").

[0036] The second location information is associated with the account of the running application, just like the first location information. In addition, the account may also be stored in association with a determination result such as "the first location information cannot be obtained."

[0037] In step S03, the first information processing terminal 3 transmits the first location information or the second location information to the server 4. That is, if the first information processing terminal 3 is able to acquire the first location information, it transmits the first location information to the server 4. On the other hand, if the first information processing terminal 3 is unable to acquire the first location information, it transmits the second location information to the server 4.

[0038] In step S04, the server 4 transmits the first location information or the reflection result of the second location information to the first information processing terminal 3. That is, step S04 is a reply to the transmission in step S03.

[0039] In step S05, the first information processing terminal 3 progresses the event based on the reflection result. That is, in step S05, the first information processing terminal 3 displays the progress result of the game reflecting the first location information or the second location information to the user 2. The progress status of the event or the progress result of the event is associated with the account of the running app.

[0040] The first location information is acquired, for example, by communicating with a GNSS satellite 5. For example, if the first information processing terminal 3 is located underground or in a place with many people (for example, a fireworks venue or a crowded train), the first information processing terminal 3 may not be able to acquire the first location information.

[0041] Therefore, if the first location information cannot be acquired (it may be retried several times), the first information processing terminal 3 switches to the second location information.

[0042] It is preferable that the switching between the first location information and the second location information (including both the switching from the first location information to the second location information and the switching from the second location information to the first location information. In FIG. 4, this corresponds to step S02, etc.) is automatically performed based on a preset setting. In other words, it is preferable that the switching between the first location information and the second location information is performed without any operation by the user 2.

[0043] When switching between the first location information and the second location information is performed without the need for operation by the user 2, the user 2 can be prevented from taking actions such as looking at the screen of the first information processing terminal 3, thereby reducing the so-called "walking while using a smartphone."

[0044] How to acquire the first location information and the second location information is set in advance. Note that the first location information and the second location information may be a combination of multiple types.

[0045] [Examples of first location information and second location information] The first position information is, for example, position information acquired using GNSS. Note that the first position information may be position information obtained by correcting the position information by GNSS using sensor data or the like. Therefore, the first position information may be position information acquired using a source other than GNSS.

[0046] The second location information is, for example, a location determination result by a camera, location information obtained by a satellite different from the first location information, a measurement result by a pedometer, a measurement result by an acceleration sensor, a geomagnetic measurement result, a measurement result by an atmospheric pressure sensor, a location determination result by radio, location information converted into the amount of movement based on changes in biometric information (e.g., the amount of sweating or the amount of calories burned), or a combination of these.

[0047] Both the first location information and the second location information are information that identifies the location of the user 2, but the methods of generating the information are different. For example, the first location information and the second location information are generated by information sources or different types of sensors. Therefore, even if a sensor for the first location information cannot generate information for some reason, a sensor for the second location information may be able to generate information.

[0048] In this way, the first location information and the second location information are in a relationship in which they indicate the same time point for the same user 2. Therefore, the first location information and the second location information are not, for example, a combination of location information that is generated using GPS and differs only in the time point at which the measurement was performed (this is the case where both are the first location information). Therefore, how the first location information and the second location information are generated is set in advance, but it is desirable that the second location information be generated by a sensor or the like that has a high possibility of being acquired even in an environment in which the first location information cannot be used.

[0049] The position determination by the camera is, for example, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) or the like. That is, if the first information processing terminal 3 is equipped with a camera, the camera captures an image of the surroundings of the user 2. After capturing the image, the surrounding buildings and the like are image-recognized based on the captured image data. When such image recognition is performed, the surrounding buildings and the like can be identified, and the position and traveling direction of the user 2 can be identified based on the addresses and positional relationships of the buildings and the like.

[0050] For example, the second position information is obtained using a quasi-zenith satellite, etc. In Japan, a system that uses a quasi-zenith satellite is the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). For example, when the first position information uses the Global Positioning System (GPS), if the second position information, i.e., the position information is obtained using a satellite different from the first position information, the second position information may be obtained even if the first position information cannot be obtained.

[0051] The current position (i.e., second position information) is estimated by, for example, measuring the movements of user 2 using a sensor such as a pedometer or an acceleration sensor from the last position at which the first position information was obtained, adding the measurement results to the results of measurements using a pedometer, an acceleration sensor, or the like.

[0052] If the direction of travel is unknown in a pedometer or the like, the current position may be estimated by assuming that the direction of travel up to the last position will remain the same thereafter. On the other hand, if the elevation difference or direction of travel can be specified by geomagnetism or atmospheric pressure, the current position may be estimated by assuming that the speed of travel up to the last position will remain the same thereafter.

[0053] The wireless communication is, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). In other words, when wireless communication is used, it may be possible to identify the position and direction based on the range of radio waves. Specifically, with Bluetooth (registered trademark), it is possible to identify the direction based on the reception angle (AoA: Angle of Arrival) and the emission angle (AoD: Angle of Departure), etc. In this way, when wireless communication is used to identify the position of the user 2, particularly indoors, it is often possible to identify the position with high accuracy.

[0054] The wireless standards may be standards for short-range communication other than those mentioned above.

[0055] The location information may be generated using sensor information other than those described above. For example, the location information may be generated using measurement results from a sensor that measures sound, light, radio waves, speed, or the like.

[0056] The first location information and the second location information may be generated by calculating a statistical value, such as an average value, from a plurality of data.

[0057] 5 shows an example of how the second location information is used. For example, it is assumed that the user 2 is moving around while carrying the first information processing terminal 3.

[0058] Assume that the first location information cannot be acquired from the time point when the user 2 moves and reaches a certain position (hereinafter referred to as "first time point T1"). For example, the first time point T1 is the time point when the user 2 enters an underground passage.

[0059] From the first time point T1 to the time point when acquisition of the first location information can be resumed next (hereinafter referred to as "second time point T2"), the first information processing terminal 3 acquires the second location information instead of the first location information. Therefore, from the first time point T1 to the second time point T2, the game progresses based on the second location information.

[0060] Then, at a second time point T2, for example, when the user 2 leaves the underground passage, acquisition of the first position information is resumed. Therefore, after the second time point T2, that is, when acquisition of the first position information is resumed, the first information processing terminal 3 progresses with the game based on the first position information.

[0061] In addition, it is preferable to use the second location information only when the first location information has been acquired. In other words, it is preferable to use the second location information only when the first location information has been acquired immediately before.

[0062] If the game is started in a state in which the first location information cannot be acquired from the beginning, the first location information may be intentionally prevented from being acquired, which may lead to fraudulent operations in the game. Therefore, the first information processing terminal 3 switches to using the second location information on the condition that there is a history of the game progressing using the first location information, such as the time up to the first time point T1 shown in Fig. 5. By making it a condition that there is a history of acquiring such first location information, fraud can be prevented.

[0063] Incidentally, the history is recorded in the background of the game progress, along with the time, such as whether the location information is the first location information or the second location information.

[0064] [Example of movement history information] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of movement history information. For example, the movement history information is stored as a past route 20. Note that the map shown in Fig. 6 is a map of the real space.

[0065] The past route 20 is assumed to be composed of a first route 21, a second route 22, and a third route 23. Among the first route 21, the second route 22, and the third route 23, the first route 21 and the third route 23 are assumed to be routes identified based on the first location information. On the other hand, the second route 22 is assumed to be a route identified based on the second location information.

[0066] For example, when the user 2 walks a route in which the user 2 enters an underground passage at a first point P1 and then exits the underground passage at a second point P2, the previous route 20 is recorded. That is, the previous route 20 is an example in which the second position information is used between the first point P1 and the second point P2.

[0067] When the previous route 20 is recorded, the first information processing terminal 3 may use the previous route 20 as the second location information.

[0068] For example, if the first position information can be acquired up to the vicinity of the first point P1 and acquisition of the first position information can be resumed near the second point P2, the first information processing terminal 3 searches for the recorded route(s) data. The first information processing terminal 3 then estimates that the route is similar to the route near the point where the first position information could not be acquired and the point where acquisition of the first position information was resumed. The first information processing terminal 3 then estimates that the estimated past route 20 represents a similar movement this time as well, and sets this as the second position information. If the estimation result based on such movement history information can be used, the first information processing terminal 3 can proceed with the event without using a sensor or the like.

[0069] It is preferable that the past route 20 is limited to a case where there are multiple (for example, three or more) records. A plurality of similar past routes 20 are recorded when the user 2 uses a similar route frequently.

[0070] Specifically, the multiple similar past routes 20 recorded are so-called "commuting routes" or "school routes," etc., which are routes that the user 2 often uses in his / her daily life, etc. For such routes, there is a high possibility that the estimated result will match the route that the user 2 actually traveled.

[0071] In other words, when there are multiple pieces of movement history information, the information can be identified by the first position information, such as the first point P1 and the second point P2, and the position information for a period when the first position information cannot be obtained can be accurately compensated for by an estimation result based on the movement history information.

[0072] For example, artificial intelligence (AI) may be used to determine the route. That is, the route may be learned in advance by AI, and the learned model may estimate what route will be taken.

[0073] [Examples of restrictions on the use of secondary location information] It is desirable to limit the time, number of times, or amount of movement when using the second location information. Also, it is desirable to limit the progress of an event using the second location information (hereinafter, the degree of progress of an event based on the second location information is referred to as the "degree of progress of the event").

[0074] For example, the time for using the second location information is limited. The time limit is set in advance, for example, to "one hour." When such a limit is set, the progress of the game using the second location information is limited to a maximum of one hour. In other words, with this limit, during the time when the first location information cannot be acquired, the second location information is used instead for a maximum of one hour from the time when the first location information cannot be acquired.

[0075] Similarly, when limiting the number of times, for example, the number of times in one day that the event progresses is limited using the second location information, etc. Note that the unit of limitation is not limited to "day (one day)" and may be limited by time, month, geographical range, distance, or the like.

[0076] The amount of movement is, for example, a distance by which the character 11 is moved in the virtual space based on the second position information. Note that the amount of movement may be an amount by which the user 2 moves in the real space, that is, a distance measured based on the second position information.

[0077] The progress of an event is, for example, the number of events to be progressed based on the second location information. Specifically, if an event is acquisition of an item, the number of items that can be acquired based on the second location information is limited. In addition, for example, an important scene in an event (for example, a scene where a "battle" with a boss character starts or ends) may be limited to temporarily stop the progress, such that the event is not progressed based on the second location information.

[0078] Thus, an event may be any type of occurrence that occurs within the game, such as the movement of the character 11 within the virtual space, a scenario that occurs within the game, a "battle" with an enemy character 13, or a combination of these.

[0079] As described above, the time, the number of times, the amount of movement, or the progress of an event during which the second location information is used instead of the first location information may be limited.

[0080] The second position information may have a lower position accuracy than the first position information. Therefore, if the second position information is used for a long time, inconsistencies may occur in the game. For example, if the second position information is generated based on data with low accuracy for measuring speed or position, etc., the user 2 may move at a speed that is difficult to actually move. If such position information is used for a long time, inconsistencies may occur, such as the user 2 being located in a position where it is impossible to walk. Therefore, it is desirable to limit the use of the second position information.

[0081] [Example of notification] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of notification of the use of the second location information. It is desirable to notify the user 2 of the state in which the second location information is being used. Below, an example will be described in which a message-formatted Graphical User Interface (GUI) is output on the game screen 10 to notify the state in which the second location information is being used. However, the notification is not limited to the message format. For example, the notification may be output by vibration, sound, light, or a function outside the game.

[0082] Figure 7 differs from Figure 3 in that it displays a first message 14 and a second message 15. Below, the differences will be mainly described, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

[0083] The first message 14 is a GUI that notifies the user that the first location information cannot be acquired.

[0084] The second message 15 is a GUI that notifies the player that the game is progressing using the second position information.

[0085] The notification may be output when switching between the first location information and the second location information. For example, a GUI for switching whether to switch to the second location information, or when multiple types of second location information are available, the user 2 may be able to operate which type to use as the second location information.

[0086] Specifically, when multiple types of second location information can be obtained (for example, both step count information and wireless identification information are possible), a GUI such as a button for selecting the type may be displayed when switching. The type of second location information may be selected in advance. For example, the type of second location information may be associated with an account. Also, the order of priority (so-called "priority") for the type of second location information to be selected may be set.

[0087] When the above-mentioned notification is made, the user 2 can be informed of the type of location information being used, etc.

[0088] [Example of notification that an event will proceed using secondary location information] When the first location information cannot be acquired and the event is switched to proceed by acquiring the second location information instead of the first location information, it is desirable for the first information processing terminal 3 to notify the user 2 that the first location information has been switched to the second location information.

[0089] The notification may be in a form other than visual information (including, for example, a pop-up, an email, or a blinking message) such as second message 15. Specifically, the notification may be tactile information such as vibration. Alternatively, the notification may be auditory information such as sound. In this way, when there is a notification informing the user of the switch from the first location information to the second location information, the user 2 can notice that the location information has been switched.

[0090] Note that the switching from the first location information to the second location information may be performed when the user 2 is inquired of and the user 2 gives permission.

[0091] For example, the first information processing terminal 3 displays a GUI for operating whether or not to permit switching from the first location information to the second location information together with a notification notifying switching from the first location information to the second location information. For example, the GUI displays an "Allow button" and a "Reject button."

[0092] Then, when the user 2 presses the "permission button", that is, when the user permits the switching from the first location information to the second location information, the first information processing terminal 3 switches from the first location information to the second location information. In this way, by making the user 2 operate whether or not to permit the switching from the first location information to the second location information, it is possible to prevent location information that is not intended by the user 2 from being used.

[0093] In addition, there may be a time period during which switching from the first location information to the second location information or switching from the second location information to the first location information is prohibited. If switching from the first location information to the second location information and switching from the second location information to the first location information occurs frequently, processing is likely to become complicated. Therefore, even if the first location information can be acquired after switching from the first location information to the second location information, the second location information may not be immediately switched to the first location information for a while, and the event may continue to progress with the second location information.

[0094] [Example of combination of movement amount based on second position information and direction based on first position information] When the first location information cannot be obtained, the event may proceed based on a combination of the amount of movement based on the second location information and the direction of progress based on the first location information.

[0095] For example, when the type of second location information is step count information or the like, even if it is possible to convert the second location information into the amount of movement, it may be difficult to identify the traveling direction from the second location information.

[0096] In such a case, the direction of travel is determined based on the most recent first location information (for example, the last location information that was obtained is stored). If the first location information cannot be obtained thereafter, the direction of travel is assumed to be maintained. Meanwhile, the amount of travel is calculated from the second location information. In this way, the event may proceed using a combination of the amount of travel based on the second location information and the direction of travel based on the first location information.

[0097] However, the traveling direction may be corrected by the second position information. The second position information may include information indicating the traveling direction depending on the type. Hereinafter, the traveling direction identified based on the first position information is referred to as the "first traveling direction." On the other hand, the traveling direction identified based on the second position information is referred to as the "second traveling direction." For example, when the second position information is generated using an acceleration sensor or the like, the second position information can indicate the second traveling direction.

[0098] Specifically, assume that the first traveling direction indicates "north". Meanwhile, assume that the second traveling direction indicates "east". In such a case, the first traveling direction is corrected to a traveling direction of "northeast". This is an example of a correction between the first traveling direction and the second traveling direction, but the correction is not limited to this. For example, the first traveling direction as a reference may be weighted highly and corrected toward the first traveling direction. In this example, the corrected traveling direction becomes "north-northeast" or the like.

[0099] Also, the first traveling direction may be used as a reference at first, and the traveling direction may be gradually corrected toward the second traveling direction over time.

[0100] [Example of withheld rewards] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a reward. For example, a reward in the game is granted when the character 11 passes through or reaches a reward point 31, reflecting the movement of the user 2. The reward point 31 is set in advance.

[0101] The reward may be, for example, recovery of the character 11. The reward points 31 are so-called "recovery points." Note that the reward is not limited to recovery of the character 11. For example, the reward may be obtaining some kind of item, obtaining points such as experience points (which may be currency that can be used in the game), improving the parameters of the character 11, temporarily improving the parameters of the character 11 (referring to a state in which a so-called "buff" is applied), or the progress of an event (so-called "checkpoint").

[0102] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of withholding a reward. Below, an example will be described in which the acquisition state of the first location information changes at the same time point as in Fig. 5. In addition, in Fig. 9, the time point at which the reward point 31 is passed is set as "third time point T3".

[0103] When the first position information cannot be acquired, that is, from the first time point T1 to the second time point T2, it is determined that an "error" has occurred. During the error state, it is preferable to suspend the provision of a reward. Note that what is suspended is not limited to the reward, and the movement (movement amount, etc.) of the character 11 based on the second position information, or other events may also be suspended.

[0104] Therefore, in the pending state, the effect of the reward is not reflected during the error state. For example, if the reward given at the third time point T3 is the recovery of the character 11, in the pending state, the character 11 is in a state before the physical strength, etc. are recovered.

[0105] After the error is released (at the second time point T2 in FIG. 9) after the pending state, the first information processing terminal 3 additionally grants the pending reward based on the judgment condition whether or not to grant it. Specifically, if the reward granted at the third time point T3 is recovery of the character 11, if the judgment condition is satisfied, the effect is granted retroactively to the character 11 as if its stamina was recovered at the second time point T2.

[0106] The judgment condition is set in advance. For example, the judgment condition takes into consideration the time of the error, the strength of the character 11 at the third time point T3, the strength of the enemy character 13 encountered at the third time point T3, or the operation content of the user 2 (such as the speed of tapping).

[0107] In other words, the judgment condition judges the reality that the reward would have been given if there had been no error. Therefore, when the character 11 encounters an enemy character 13 that the character 11 cannot defeat with the strength at the third time point T3, the reward for defeating the enemy character 13 is not given based on the judgment condition.

[0108] As described above, when rewards are awarded based on the judgment conditions, realistically obtainable rewards are selected from among the reserved rewards and awarded. This makes it possible to prevent actions such as fraudulently obtaining high rewards by taking advantage of errors.

[0109] It is desirable that the reward given as described above has an upper limit set. That is, if the pending reward is equal to or greater than the upper limit, and if the reward is given based on the judgment result, the upper limit is given to the reward. In this way, it is desirable to limit the pending reward so that it is not given a value other than the upper limit.

[0110] In particular, if the reserved period is long, the situation may change suddenly if a large amount of the reserved reward is suddenly granted. In such a situation, the user 2 may become confused and unable to grasp the situation. Therefore, it is desirable to set an upper limit value to prevent the status of the character 11 from changing too suddenly.

[0111] Furthermore, the reward may be granted based on the statistical results of statistical processing of past reward history. For example, the reward may be granted experience points or the like (hereinafter, the granted value is referred to as the "granted value"). First, the past reward history records in advance the granted values ​​resulting from passing through several reward points 31 in the past (the locations of the reward points 31 may be different). Note that the past reward history is not limited to that of user 2, and may be data referencing the past reward history of other nearby users or other users of a similar level.

[0112] Next, the multiple award values ​​are statistically processed. For example, the statistical processing is a process of calculating an average value, a median value, a moving average value, or the like. Therefore, the statistical processing calculates statistical results such as an average value based on past reward history. Note that the type of statistical processing to be performed is set in advance.

[0113] When such statistical results are obtained, a reward value close to the proven reward value given in the past is given as a reward. Therefore, it is possible to prevent exceptional situations such as a large reward value that has never been given in the past being given based on the pending reward.

[0114] [Example of Virtual Putt] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual pad. In the following, an example in which the first position information cannot be acquired will be described, similarly to Fig. 7.

[0115] In a state where the first position information cannot be acquired, the first information processing terminal 3 may output a GUI for operation (hereinafter, an example of a "virtual pad 32"). Note that the interface for inputting operations is not limited to the virtual pad 32. For example, the interface may be hardware such as a game controller. Alternatively, the interface may be voice input by voice recognition, gesture input such as hand movements, gaze input by gaze detection, or the like.

[0116] The virtual pad 32 is a GUI for inputting an operation of the user 2. For example, when the finger of the user 2 touches the virtual pad 32, a direction or the like is input.

[0117] In this manner, during an error, the moving direction or the amount of movement of the user 2 may be input using the virtual pad 32 or the like.

[0118] The shape, output range, and output timing of the virtual pad 32 may be other than those described above. That is, the GUI may be of another type.

[0119] It is desirable to limit the amount of input, the number of times of input, or the input time, etc., using the virtual pad 32. For example, if the amount of movement can be input without any restrictions using the virtual pad 32, it may be possible to commit fraud, such as inputting a movement amount of several kilometers using the virtual pad 32 when the amount of movement actually requires several kilometers, but is actually only several meters. Therefore, if the amount of input, the number of times of input, or the input time, etc., using the virtual pad 32 is limited, the impact of fraudulent operations can be reduced.

[0120] [Modification using a second information processing terminal] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a modified example using a second information processing terminal. Fig. 11 differs from the system configuration shown in Fig. 1 in that a second information processing terminal 6 is added. The different configuration will be described below.

[0121] The second information processing terminal 6 is, for example, a watch-type information processing device. That is, the second information processing terminal 6 is preferably in a form that the user 2 wears.

[0122] The second information processing terminal 6 has a hardware configuration including a sensor such as a heart rate monitor or a vibration sensor. It is preferable that the second information processing terminal 6 has a hardware configuration including a sensor different from that of the first information processing terminal 3, or is an information processing device capable of measuring different types of data. However, the second information processing terminal 6 may be exercise equipment, a weight scale, or the like. In other words, the second information processing terminal 6 is not limited to being owned by the user 2, and may be an information processing device that can be connected at least temporarily. The second information processing terminal 6 may also be multiple devices.

[0123] The first information processing terminal 3 is connected to the second information processing terminal 6 via a network or by short-distance communication or the like. Therefore, the first information processing terminal 3 acquires information on the user 2 (hereinafter referred to as “external information”) from the second information processing terminal 6. The external information may be acquired via the server 4.

[0124] For example, if the second information processing terminal 6 can measure the heart rate of the user 2, the state of the user 2 (for example, whether the user is walking or running) can be estimated based on the biological information such as the heart rate.

[0125] The external information is, for example, sensor data indicating the moving speed of the user 2, the number of steps of the user 2, or the moving state of the user 2. In addition, the external information is not limited to a result of directly measuring the moving speed of the user 2, the number of steps of the user 2, or the moving state of the user 2, but may be an estimation result based on the sensor data.

[0126] In this way, if the external information can be acquired, the position or state, etc., of the user 2 can be estimated with high accuracy. The external information may be the second position information as it is, or may be auxiliary information in generating the second position information. Therefore, if the external information can be used in generating the second position information, the first information processing terminal 3 can specify the position, etc., of the user 2 with high accuracy.

[0127] In the above configuration, a device that acquires the first location information, such as the first information processing terminal 3, is referred to as a "first device." On the other hand, a device that acquires the second location information and cooperates with the first information processing terminal 3, such as the second information processing terminal 6, is referred to as a "second device."

[0128] The first device and the second device do not have to be information processing devices. For example, the first device and the second device may be sensors. In addition, the first device and the second device differ depending on the method of generating the first location information and the second location information.

[0129] Furthermore, the first device and the second device may be configured as hardware that does not have a computing device, etc., and an information processing device connected to the first device and the second device may perform calculations based on sensing results by the first device and the second device to generate the first location information and the second location information.

[0130] [Example of functional configuration] 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the first information processing terminal 3. For example, the first information processing terminal 3 has a functional configuration including a first location information acquisition unit 3F1, a second location information acquisition unit 3F2, a switching unit 3F3, and an event progression unit 3F4.

[0131] The first location information acquisition unit 3F1 performs a first location information acquisition procedure for acquiring the first location information. For example, the first location information acquisition unit 3F1 is realized by the communication device 3H5 or the like.

[0132] The second position information acquisition unit 3F2 performs a second position information acquisition procedure to acquire the second position information. For example, the second position information acquisition unit 3F2 is realized by a sensor 3H3 or the like.

[0133] When the first location information cannot be acquired, the switching unit 3F3 performs a switching procedure for switching the location information used by the event progression unit 3F4 from the first location information to the second location information. For example, the switching unit 3F3 is realized by the CPU 3H1 or the like.

[0134] The event progression unit 3F4 performs an event progression procedure for progressing the event based on the first location information or the second location information. For example, the event progression unit 3F4 is realized by the CPU 3H1 or the like.

[0135] With the above configuration, even if the first location information cannot be acquired due to GPS being blocked, etc., the event can proceed using the second location information instead. For example, in a game that uses location information, if the first location information cannot be acquired, problems may occur due to the state of location information acquisition, such as the amount of movement not being reflected, the acquisition of items not being reflected, or inconsistencies in the development of the story in the game.

[0136] On the other hand, if the event can proceed by using the second location information instead, it is possible to prevent problems caused by the state of location information acquisition.

[0137] [Other embodiments] The event is not limited to a game. For example, the event may be a process in a smartphone application software for a restaurant. For example, the present invention may be applied to a case where the application software authenticates the location of the user 2 and executes an event such as granting a coupon.

[0138] The virtual space is not limited to a game. For example, the virtual space may be a metaverse. The metaverse is a combination of the words "meta" (transcendence) and "universe." The metaverse refers to a three-dimensional virtual space on a computer network in which multiple people can participate and in which participants can act freely. Therefore, the character that the user 2 can operate may be an avatar in the metaverse space.

[0139] The above-described processes and data used in the processes executed in this embodiment may be executed and stored by an information processing system. For example, the information processing system may execute or store the data in a plurality of information processing devices in order to realize redundant, distributed, parallel, or a combination of these processes or storage. Therefore, the present invention may be realized in devices other than the hardware configurations shown above and in systems other than the devices shown above.

[0140] In addition, the program according to the present invention is not limited to a single program, but may be a collection of multiple programs. The program according to the present invention is not limited to being executed by a single device, but may be executed by multiple information processing devices. Furthermore, the role allocation of each information processing device is not limited to the above example. In other words, a part or the whole of the above information processing method may be executed by an information processing device different from the above information processing device.

[0141] Furthermore, a part or all of each unit realized by the program can be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit. Furthermore, the program may be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium readable by a computer. The recording medium refers to, for example, a hard disk, an SD card (registered trademark), an optical disk such as a DVD, or a server on the Internet. Therefore, the program may be distributed via a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0142] Furthermore, the information processing devices that make up the information processing system may be located overseas.

[0143] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. Therefore, the present invention allows the addition of components, partial deletion, combination or modification of the embodiments, without departing from the technical gist of the present invention. Therefore, all technical matters included in the technical ideas described in the claims are subject to the present invention. The above-mentioned embodiments are preferred examples. And, a person skilled in the art can realize various modifications from the disclosed contents, and such modifications are included in the technical scope described in the claims.

[0144] [Additional Note] The present invention includes the following inventions.

[0145] <1> On the computer, The event is carried out based on the first location information associated with the account used by the user; If the first location information cannot be acquired, an operation of inputting second location information different from the first location information is accepted; The event is progressed according to the second location information. program.

[0146] <2> When acquisition of the first location information is resumed after the first location information cannot be acquired, The event is progressed according to the first location information. <1> The program described in.

[0147] <3> When the event is progressed according to the second location information, There is a limit to the progress, time, number of times, or amount of movement of the event. <1> The program described in.

[0148] <4> The reward acquired while the first location information was not acquired is put into a pending state; When the first location information becomes available again, determining whether or not to grant the reward in the pending state based on a determination condition; If the determination condition is met, the reward in the pending state is additionally granted. <1> The program described in.

[0149] <5> When the reserved reward is to be additionally granted, The upper limit of the reward is set. <4> The program described in.

[0150] <6> When the event is progressed according to the second location information, notifying the user to proceed with the event based on the second location information; <1> The program described in.

[0151] <7> A system having a first information processing terminal operated by a user, The first information processing terminal, proceeding with an event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; If the first location information cannot be acquired, an operation of inputting second location information different from the first location information is accepted; The event is progressed according to the second location information. system.

[0152] <8> An information processing method executed by a computer operated by a user, comprising: proceeding with an event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; receiving an operation of inputting second location information different from the first location information when the first location information cannot be acquired; progressing the event based on the second location information; An information processing method comprising:

[0153] the above <1> ~ <8> The invention is based on the description shown in FIG. 10, for example.

[0154] <9> On the computer, The event is carried out based on the first location information associated with the account used by the user; When the first location information cannot be acquired, the event is progressed based on second location information different from the first location information. program.

[0155] <10> When there is a history of acquiring the first location information, The event is progressed according to the second location information. <9> The program described in.

[0156] <11> When acquisition of the first location information is resumed after the first location information cannot be acquired, The event is progressed according to the first location information. <9> The program described in.

[0157] <12> When the event is progressed according to the second location information, There is a limit to the progress, time, number of times, or amount of movement of the event. <9> The program described in.

[0158] <13> The reward acquired while the first location information was not acquired is put into a pending state; When the first location information becomes available again, determining whether or not to grant the reward in the pending state based on a determination condition; If the determination condition is met, the reward in the pending state is additionally granted. <9> The program described in.

[0159] <14> When the reserved reward is to be additionally granted, The upper limit of the reward is set. <13> The program described in.

[0160] <15> When the reserved reward is to be additionally granted, The reward is: Awarded based on the statistical results of past reward history. <13> The program described in.

[0161] <16> When the event is progressed based on the second location information, notifying the user that the event is to be progressed based on the second location information; <9> The program described in.

[0162] <17> The second location information is At least one of the following is included: a position determination result by a camera, position information obtained by a satellite different from the first position information, a measurement result by a pedometer, a measurement result by an acceleration sensor, a measurement result by a geomagnetic field, a measurement result by a barometric pressure sensor, and a specific result by radio. <9> The program described in.

[0163] <18> The second location information is This is an estimation result based on movement history information. <9> The program described in.

[0164] <19> The second location information is The first location information is acquired from a second device linked to the first device that acquires the first location information. <9> The program described in.

[0165] <20> When the event is progressed according to the second location information, notifying the user to proceed with the event based on the second location information; <9> The program described in.

[0166] <21> In a case where a plurality of types of the second position information can be acquired, When the first location information cannot be acquired, Accepting selection of the type to be used as the second location information <9> The program described in.

[0167] <22> When the first location information cannot be acquired, The event is progressed based on the amount of movement based on the second position information and the direction of progress based on the first position information. <9> The program described in.

[0168] <23> When the first location information cannot be acquired, A movement amount according to the second position information; and The event is progressed based on a moving direction corrected by a second moving direction based on the second position information with respect to a first moving direction based on the first position information. <9> The program described in.

[0169] <24> A system having a first information processing terminal operated by a user, The first information processing terminal, proceeding with an event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; When the first location information cannot be acquired, the event is progressed based on second location information different from the first location information. system.

[0170] <25> An information processing method executed by a computer operated by a user, comprising: proceeding with an event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; if the first location information cannot be acquired, proceeding with the event using second location information different from the first location information; An information processing method comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 1: System 2: User 3: First information processing terminal 3F1: 1st location information acquisition section 3F2:Second location information acquisition section 3F3: Switching section 3F4: Event Management Department 4: Server 5: Satellite 6: Second information processing terminal 10: Game screen 11: Character 12:Item 13: Enemy characters 14: First message 15: Second message 20: Past Route 21: Route 1 22: Route 2 23: Route 3 31: Reward points 32: Virtual Putt P1: First point P2: 2nd point T1: Time 1 T2: Time point 2 T3: Time point 3

Claims

1. On the computer, proceeding with the event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; if the first location information cannot be acquired, outputting an operation GUI, and progressing the event according to information input by the user through the operation GUI; A program that enables the progress of an event to be restricted by the GUI for operation.

2. The program according to claim 1 , further comprising: limiting an amount of movement for progressing an event by the GUI for operation.

3. 2. The program according to claim 1, further comprising: limiting at least one of an input amount, an input count, and an input time period accepted by the operation GUI.

4. The program according to claim 1 , further comprising: restricting, for a predetermined time, the progress of the event based on the first position information or switching of the progress of the event based on the operation GUI.

5. A system having a first information processing terminal operated by a user, The first information processing terminal, proceeding with an event based on first location information associated with an account used by the user; if the first location information cannot be acquired, outputting an operation GUI, and progressing the event according to information input by the user through the operation GUI; The system enables limiting the progress of an event through the GUI for operation.

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