Game system and program

Abstract

To provide a game system for interesting a player in a game of new feeling in which a timing game and another game are interlinked.SOLUTION: A game system S according to an embodiment provides a rap battle game of new feeling in which a word game by a song input game and a rhythm music game evaluating an operation input timing are interlinked. The system controls the song input game based on an operation input by a player, controls the rhythm music game receiving an operation input by the player based on an instruction of an operation input timing to the player, executes a specification determination processing for determining a game specification including a specification on the instruction of the operation input timing in the rhythm music game in accordance with a game situation of the song input game, and controls the rhythm music game based on the game specification determined by the specification determination processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system, a program, and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, timing input games have become known as a type of game genre in which input operations are performed in time with the rhythm of output music.

[0003] Among such timing input games, not only pure music games in which the player executes operational inputs based on music data, but also games in which the game progresses based on the accuracy of presented operational inputs, including the timing of the operational inputs, are known.

[0004] In particular, recently, as a game in which the progress of the game is based on the accuracy of such operational input, the game progresses in a session-like manner in which a plurality of players play cooperatively (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4838379 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the game described in Patent Document 1 above or the game system that provides it does not link two different games, and there is room for further consideration regarding the development potential of the game.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a game system that allows players to enjoy a new type of game that links a timing game with another game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides A game system that controls a given first game and a second game different from the first game based on an operation of a player, a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input of the player; a first game control means for controlling the first game based on an operation input of the player accepted by the acceptance process; a second game control means for controlling the second game to receive an operation input from the player based on an operation input timing instruction indicating an instruction on the operation input timing to the player; an evaluation processing means for executing a second game evaluation process for evaluating a result of an operation input by the player based on an operation input timing when an operation input by the player in the second game is received; a specification determination means for executing a specification determination process for determining game specifications including a specification related to the operation input timing instruction in the second game in accordance with a game status of the first game; Equipped with The second game control means Controlling the second game based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process. It has a structure that:

[0009] With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the other game in the specifications of the timing game based on operational input and the other game, thereby providing a new type of game that links the timing game with the other game.

[0010] It should be noted that the "given first game" includes various types of games, such as competitive games (fighting games and sports games), music games (so-called rhythm games), RPGs, shooting games, racing games, simulation games, training games, or puzzle games.

[0011] The "second game" is preferably a game in which the player performs operations in time with the sounds and rhythms of a music game or the like, and the accuracy of the timing of the operation input by the player is evaluated. However, the second game is not limited to these games, and may be a sports game, a puzzle game, a training game, or the like, and is applicable as long as it evaluates the timing of the player's operations.

[0012] An "operation timing instruction" refers to an instruction to, for example, execute display control of an object for instructing the player's operation input and the operation content, and to inform the player of the timing of the operation input.

[0013] Furthermore, the "operation input result" indicates, for example, the accuracy of the input timing based on the operation input contents of the specified player, and whether or not the operation contents match.

[0014] The "game status" includes an evaluation of the first game, the progress of the first game, and the values ​​of parameters used in the first game, etc. In particular, the progress of the first game includes the cleared stage level, number of stages, and tasks, the type and number of items acquired, the level or degree of evolution of the player character, etc.

[0015] In addition to the above, the "game specifications related to operation input timing instructions" include, for example, the number and type of operation timing instructions, the input timing itself (input timing on the time axis) such as a predetermined number of seconds after the start, the position on the image when the input timing is displayed using the image, and the evaluation method.

[0016] (2) The present invention also provides The specification determination means: The specification determination process is configured to determine different specifications regarding the operation input timing instruction in the second game in accordance with at least two different game elements as the game status of the first game.

[0017] With this configuration, the present invention can create a sense of unity between the two games by associating two specifications that are adjusted by two game elements, and can accurately link the two games, thereby improving the interest of the game.

[0018] The "different game elements" include the type and number of input elements in the first game, elements related to time, and parameters that vary in the game, etc. In particular, elements related to time include evaluations in a predetermined period of time and game results in a predetermined period of time.

[0019] In addition, the "different specifications regarding operation input timing instructions in the second game" refer to, for example, evaluation criteria such as the specifications of operation timing instructions and the timing of determining operation inputs. In addition, the different specifications regarding operation input timing instructions in the second game are preferably specifications respectively associated with different elements of the first game.

[0020] (3) The present invention also provides The first game control means Controlling a first game to recognize an input element input by the player; The specification determination means: The game device is configured to execute the specification determination process for determining game specifications for the second game in accordance with a situation related to the recognized input element as a game situation of the first game.

[0021] With this configuration, the present invention can use, for example, words (lyrics) or the results of selection from options as input elements, and therefore the first game can be executed as an input game of predetermined input elements.

[0022] Therefore, the present invention can combine, for example, a first game in which input elements (such as words) to be used in a second game are input with a second game that is a rhythmic music game such as a music game, thereby providing, for example, a new type of game such as a rap battle that combines both word play and music.

[0023] It should be noted that the "input element" includes, for example, an option selected from among a plurality of option candidates, text in text input, and voice in voice input.

[0024] (4) The present invention also provides The context of the recognized input element includes a type of the input element; The specification determination means: The type of the operation input timing instruction included in the game specifications relating to the operation input timing instruction is determined according to the type of the input element.

[0025] With this configuration, the present invention can link the game play of the first game and the second game via the types of input elements and the types of operation input timing instructions, thereby increasing the interest of the player in the games.

[0026] (5) The present invention also provides The evaluation processing means If two or more input elements are recognized, determine the common elements of each input element; The apparatus is configured to execute at least one of a first game evaluation process for evaluating the first game based on the determined common elements, and an overall game evaluation process for evaluating the entire game combining the first game and the second game.

[0027] With this configuration, the present invention can accurately evaluate a game that combines, for example, a first word game and a second music game.

[0028] The "common elements of each input element" include the attributes of the input element, the number of characters, the vowels, the meaning, etc. In particular, the attributes of the input element, for example, when the input element is a word (lyric), include the person who uttered each word and the regionality (dialect, etc.) of each word.

[0029] (6) The present invention also provides the first game and the second game are competitive games, The first game control means setting candidates for the input element of the player based on the input element recognized in the first game of the opponent player; The input element candidate selected from the set input element candidates is recognized as the input element.

[0030] With this configuration, the present invention allows a player to select input elements to match the input elements of the other player, thereby providing a new type of game similar to a rap battle by playing word games in the first game and playing a timing-based music game in the second game.

[0031] In particular, the present invention makes it possible to play a first game against each other as a competitive game based on input elements entered by each player, and by providing the input elements as options, for example, it is possible to realize a competitive game based on simple inputs.

[0032] In addition, "setting candidate input elements for the player based on the recognized input elements" includes, for example, setting candidate input elements for the player based on the input elements of the opposing player by using table data in which the input elements of the opposing player are associated with candidate input elements for the player, or determining a theme based on the input of the opposing player and setting input elements belonging to that theme as candidate input elements for the player.

[0033] (7) The present invention also provides The first game control means setting candidates for input elements of a player based on an outcome of the second game; The input element candidate selected from the set input element candidates is recognized as the input element.

[0034] With this configuration, the present invention can link the first game and the second game, for example by adjusting the number of candidate input elements depending on the evaluation of the second game, thereby increasing the player's interest in the games.

[0035] (8) The present invention also provides The first game control means In the case where a candidate input element selected from a plurality of candidate input elements is recognized as an input element, and if given conditions are met, the configuration allows the player to select the candidate input element, or adds a new candidate to the candidate input elements.

[0036] With this configuration, the present invention allows the input elements of the first game to be selected using various game elements such as a specified operation, a selected player character, or the outcome of the second game, thereby adding various entertainment value to the game and making the game more lively.

[0037] It should be noted that the "given conditions" include, for example, operation input conditions for the player's operation input accepted in the acceptance process, conditions for the outcome of the second game, environmental conditions related to the game environment, and attributes of each game.

[0038] For example, the operation input conditions include turning the operation means itself that performs the player's operation input, or pressing a specific button (including pressing multiple buttons and the order in which they are pressed), etc.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, conditions for the result of the second game may include receiving a predetermined evaluation, obtaining a predetermined score, and completing a predetermined task.

[0040] Furthermore, for example, environmental conditions include attributes such as the type of player character used by the player and attributes such as the player's game level, as well as various environments such as matches against real players or matches against NPCs.

[0041] (9) The present invention also provides The game device further includes a setting unit for setting attributes of the player in the game, The first game control means The device is configured to provide an advantageous effect to the player based on the attributes of the player and the attributes of the input elements.

[0042] With this configuration, the present invention can provide game element to the first game input as well, thereby making the game more interesting for the player.

[0043] It should be noted that "attributes" include character attributes, such as the type of player character used by the player, and player attributes, such as the player's game level.

[0044] In addition, "providing an advantageous effect to a player based on the attributes of the player and the attributes of the input element" basically means, but is not limited to, providing an advantageous effect to the player when the attributes of the player and the attributes of the input element match.

[0045] In addition, the "advantageous effect" includes, for example, the provision of benefits such as bonus points.

[0046] (10) The present invention also provides The device further comprises output control means for executing an output control process for outputting an input element recognized by the first game during execution of the second game.

[0047] With this configuration, the present invention can, for example, execute a second music game using words entered in a first game, thereby providing a new type of game similar to a rap battle that combines both word play and music.

[0048] The "output control process" refers to image display control and sound output control.

[0049] (11) The present invention also provides The specification determination means: The game device is configured to execute a specification determination process for determining game specifications for the second game based on an evaluation of the first game during execution as a game status of the first game.

[0050] With this configuration, the present invention can link the game characteristics of the first game and the second game, thereby making the game more interesting for the player.

[0051] It should be noted that the "game evaluation" includes, for example, the play time, the evaluation of the first game, and the player's operation input or history regarding the first game.

[0052] (12) The present invention also provides The evaluation processing means The apparatus is configured to execute a comprehensive game evaluation process for evaluating the entire game based on the evaluation of the first game and the evaluation of the second game.

[0053] With this configuration, the present invention can provide a new type of rap battle-like game that combines both the first game, which is a word game, and the second game, which is a music game, by evaluating the overall gameplay that is achieved by linking the first game and the second game.

[0054] (13) The present invention also provides The specification determination means: The musical piece to be used in the second game is determined based on the game status of the first game.

[0055] With this configuration, the present invention can provide a novel rap battle-like game that includes both a first word game and a second music game.

[0056] (14) The present invention also provides the first game and the second game are competitive games, The first game control means Controlling a first game of the player while a second game of the opponent player is being played; The second game control means The apparatus has a configuration in which the player controls the second game while the opponent player is playing the first game.

[0057] With this configuration, the present invention can provide, for example, a competitive game in which a player can compete against another player, as well as a new type of rap battle-like game that includes both a first word game and a second music game.

[0058] (15) The present invention also provides The first game control means The first game has a time limit.

[0059] With this configuration, the present invention can provide a new type of rap battle-like game that includes both a first word game and a second music game as a competitive game that also includes a second game, for example by setting a time limit on a first word game.

[0060] (16) The present invention also provides a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of: The first game control means and the second game control means, The first game and the second game are repeatedly executed.

[0061] With this configuration, the present invention can, for example, allow the game to progress by alternating between the first game and the second game, thereby providing a new type of rap battle-like game that includes both the first word game and the second music game as a competitive game that includes the second game.

[0062] (17) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides A program for controlling a given first game and a second game different from the first game based on an operation by a player, a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input of the player; a first game control means for controlling the first game based on an operation input of the player accepted by the acceptance process; a second game control means for controlling the second game to receive an operation input from the player based on an operation input timing instruction indicating an instruction on the operation input timing to the player; an evaluation processing means for executing a second game evaluation process for evaluating a result of an operation input by the player based on an operation input timing when an operation input by the player in the second game is received; and a specification determination means for executing a specification determination process for determining game specifications including a specification relating to the operation input timing instruction in the second game in accordance with a game status of the first game; The computer functions as The second game control means The second game is controlled based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process.

[0063] With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the other game in the specifications of the timing game based on operational input and the other game, thereby providing a new type of game that links the timing game with the other game. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0064] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a game device main body according to an embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a game control process for executing a first game and a second game while linking the games together according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a combination game in one embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a combination game in one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a game control process based on a lyrics input game as a first game in one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a game control process based on a rhythm music game as a second game in one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration when a game system according to an embodiment is applied to a server system using a network. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of a game control process of a rap battle game (lyric input game and rhythm music game) executed by a game system of an embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of a game control process of a rap battle game (lyric input game and rhythm music game) executed by a game system of an embodiment. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of a game control process of a rap battle game (lyric input game and rhythm music game) executed by a game system of an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0065] The present embodiment will be described below. Note that the present embodiment described below does not unduly limit the contents of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0066] [1] Overview of the game system First, the outline and schematic configuration of the game system S of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of the game system S of this embodiment.

[0067] The game system S of this embodiment includes a first game in which the player inputs and sets lyrics, and a second game in which the player inputs and sets lyrics and plays a song along with predetermined music using the input lyrics. The device is configured to execute a rap battle game in conjunction with a second game that evaluates the timing of the player's operation input.

[0068] Specifically, the game system S of this embodiment includes a plurality of controllers 30 operated by each player, a game device main body 10 that performs game processing, and a display 40 that displays game images.

[0069] The game system S is configured to execute the music game based on a game program or game data read from a memory, which is an information storage medium, or on operation signals input from the controller 30, so that the player can enjoy the rap battle game while viewing the game screen displayed on the display 40.

[0070] For example, when the game system S receives operational input based on the joystick 32, cross key 33, and various buttons formed on the controller 30 operated by the player, the game system S starts a game, executes various game settings, and evaluates the player based on the settings of predetermined input elements such as lyrics and the timing of operational input received during game execution.

[0071] In this embodiment, the controller 30 and the game device main body 10 transmit and receive information via wireless communication. However, for example, the controller 30 and the game device main body 10 may be connected by a communication cable, and information may be transmitted and received via the communication cable.

[0072] The game device main body 10 executes game processing based on operational inputs by the player (or multiple players if multiple controllers 30 are connected) via the controller 30, and based on the results of that processing, causes the display 40 to display various game images and causes the speaker (not shown) to output various sounds such as background music during the game.

[0073] The controller 30 is provided on the front surface with a joystick 32, a cross key 33, and a plurality of buttons 34, 36, 37, and 38 formed on the entire surface.

[0074] In addition, the controller 30 is configured to be able to recognize as a special operation input when a player operation is input simultaneously using multiple buttons, or when a player operation is input by a combination of a button and the direction in which the cross key 33 is pressed (including diagonal directions and neutral).

[0075] In addition to the above, the controller 30 has a plurality of buttons (not shown) on the side surface, etc.

[0076] In addition to the above, the controller 30 may also be configured with a steering wheel, a microphone, a touch panel display, an acceleration sensor, and the like.

[0077] [2] Game console Next, the configuration of the game device main body 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of the game device main body 10 of this embodiment. However, the game device main body 10 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (parts) of Fig. 2 are omitted.

[0078] The card read / write unit 162 reads and writes data from and to the game card under the control of the processing unit 100 .

[0079] The storage unit 170 stores predefined programs and data, and serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, etc., and temporarily stores the results of calculations executed by the processing unit 100 in accordance with various programs, input data input from the controller 30, etc. This function can be realized by a RAM (VRAM) or the like.

[0080] In particular, the storage unit 170 includes a main memory unit 172 , an image buffer 174 , a music data storage unit 176 , and a player information storage unit 178 .

[0081] The main memory unit 172 stores various data including a system program for implementing various functions that enable the processing unit 100 to comprehensively control the game system S, a game program required to execute a composite game, and image data such as characters and musical scores.

[0082] The music data storage unit 176 stores music data that are challenge songs for the rhythm music game, and corresponding sheet music data that specifies the timing and operation contents for the player to execute operation inputs in accordance with each piece of music data.

[0083] In addition to the audio data, the song data includes bibliographic information such as the singer, composer and lyricist, the difficulty level or level, and information indicating the divisions of the bars, A-melody, B-melody, chorus and so on.

[0084] The score data includes information such as note information indicating the timing for the player to perform input operations in accordance with the music data, and the type of input (operational contents for an instrument).

[0085] The score data is extracted from the notes in the actual score of the corresponding music piece, taking into account the content of the notes that correspond to the characteristic sounds of the music piece, and the note objects are pre-formed as operation timing objects at the positions of the extracted notes in the score.

[0086] The player information storage unit 178 stores, for each player, information on the player's rank and level in the rhythm music game, each player's attributes (age, generation, gender, etc.), and a list of songs played in the past (i.e., performance history), in association with each player's ID.

[0087] Information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM), etc.

[0088] The information storage medium 180 can store a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute the processing of each unit).

[0089] In addition, the information storage medium 180 may store, similarly to the memory unit 170, in place of the memory unit 170, or together with the memory unit 170, various data such as a system program for realizing various functions for the processing unit 100 to comprehensively control the game system S, a game program required to execute a composite game, and music data that will be the challenge songs for a rhythm music game.

[0090] The display unit 190 outputs an image generated by the present embodiment, and its function is a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, or HMD (head mounted display). This can be realized by using a display 40 in FIG.

[0091] The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and the function thereof can be realized by a speaker, a headphone, or the like.

[0092] The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, other game systems S, terminal devices such as communication end terminal devices such as smartphones, and server device 1 via the network N), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, etc.

[0093] Note that the programs and data stored in the information storage medium or storage unit of the server device 1 for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment may be received via a network, and the received programs and data may be stored in the information storage medium 180 or storage unit 170. Such cases of receiving programs and data and causing a terminal to function are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0094] On the other hand, the communication unit 196 executes various controls for communicating with one or more controllers 30 (for example, short-distance wireless communication).

[0095] Specifically, the communication unit 196 includes an antenna and a wireless module, and transmits and receives data to and from one or more controllers 30 using, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology.

[0096] For example, the communication unit 196 transmits sound data such as confirmation sounds and sound effects, and vibration signals to the controller 30, and receives information (such as acceleration vector values) detected by an acceleration sensor or operational input at the controller 30 at alternating intervals of 4 msec and 6 msec.

[0097] The processing unit 100 (processor) performs processes such as game processing, image generation processing, and sound generation processing based on input data from the controller 30 and the card read / write unit 162, programs, and the like.

[0098] In particular, the processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 172 in the memory unit 170 as a work area. The processing unit 100 is realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASIC (gate array, etc.), and by programs, and executes various functions.

[0099] The processing unit 100 has a configuration for implementing various processes of this embodiment or various functions for the rhythm music game based on programs (data) stored in the storage unit 170 or the information storage medium 180.

[0100] Specifically, the processing unit 100 includes a communication control unit 110, a game management unit 112, an operation input reception processing unit 113, a first game control unit 114, an evaluation processing unit 115, a second game control unit 116, a music playback unit 117, a display control unit 118, a specification control unit 119, a drawing unit 120, and a sound processing unit 130. Note that a configuration in which some of these units are omitted may also be used.

[0101] The communication control unit 110 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data to and from the server device 1 and terminal devices of other game systems and the like via a network.

[0102] In particular, the communication control unit 110 controls the rhythm music game to be executed based on information received from the server device 1, or to play cooperatively with other players via a network. The game control unit 10 executes a process of receiving various information transmitted from the server device 1 or other game systems S, and a process of transmitting the information to the server device 1 or other game systems S.

[0103] In addition, in the game system S of this embodiment, network information required for communication control may be obtained from a server and management processing may be performed.

[0104] For example, the game system S may perform a process of acquiring and managing identification information for terminal devices (IDs individually assigned to each game system S to identify terminals that can participate in online games) and destination information (such as an IP address) that specifies the destination of packets associated with the identification information of each game system S.

[0105] Specifically, the communication control unit 110 performs processes such as generating packets to be sent to other terminal devices or server device 1, specifying the IP address and port number of the terminal device or server device 1 to which the packets are to be sent, storing data contained in received packets in the memory unit 170, analyzing received packets, and other control processes related to the sending and receiving of packets.

[0106] In addition, the communication control unit 110 performs processing to transmit and receive data to and from multiple other game systems S or the server device 1 at a predetermined cycle (for example, at one-second cycles) from the time a communication connection is established until the communication connection is disconnected.

[0107] Furthermore, in the case of a network system constituted by multiple terminal devices such as a game system S, the communication control unit 110 may perform communication control using a peer-to-peer (so-called P2P) method in which an online game is played while transmitting and receiving data between multiple terminal devices, or may perform communication control using a client-server method in which each terminal device transmits and receives data (information) via the server device 1 to play an online game.

[0108] In the network system of this embodiment, data may be transmitted and received not only by wired communication but also by wireless communication.

[0109] In addition to the above, the communication control unit 110 performs a process of acquiring input information from the controller 30. For example, the communication control unit 110 receives an operation input from the player based on the operation input timing.

[0110] The game management unit 112 executes a process for starting each game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for ending the target game when a game end condition is satisfied, and various processes related to the settings of each game.

[0111] In particular, the game management unit 112 constructs a game space as a virtual space, and executes various game processes for comprehensively managing the first game and the second game based on the player's operations.

[0112] The operation input reception processing unit 113 performs a recognition process to recognize the operation content and the timing thereof based on the input information input to the controller 30 by the player.

[0113] Specifically, the operation input reception processing unit 113 of this embodiment recognizes the operation instruction command input by the player based on the type of button input by the input unit 260, the number of times it is pressed, the lever instruction direction, the timing of pressing the button and the timing of the lever instruction, and a combination of these.

[0114] In addition, when a player's operation is input simultaneously using multiple buttons, or when a player's operation is input using a combination of the tilt angle of the camera or joystick 32 and each button, the operation input reception processing unit 113 recognizes it as a special operation input.

[0115] The first game control unit 114 executes a process relating to the first game in which lyrics to be used in the second game are input and set (hereinafter referred to as a "lyrics input game").

[0116] In the first game, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a first game evaluation process for evaluating the lyrics input game.

[0117] In addition, in the second game, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a second game evaluation process to evaluate each part based on each operation input timing and a given relationship between each operation input timing determination marker object and each operation timing object.

[0118] Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a composite game evaluation process for performing an integrated game evaluation based on the evaluation results of the first game and the evaluation results of the second game.

[0119] The second game control unit 116 executes an operation timing instruction control process that controls an operation input timing determination indicator object used to determine the operation input timing and an operation timing object that indicates the operation input timing of the player, in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 117 when the player plays a rhythm music game.

[0120] Specifically, the second game control unit 116 moves the display positions of the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object so as to match with each other at a predetermined reference timing in accordance with the music data based on the music score data.

[0121] The music playback unit 117 plays back music data that has been read into the music data storage unit 176 , and outputs a waveform of continuous music sounds to the sound output unit 192 .

[0122] The function of the music playback unit 117 can be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit (sound source IC) that generates a waveform of music sound based on music data, a program, and the like.

[0123] The display control unit 118 controls the display of objects that are output and displayed on the display unit 190.

[0124] Specifically, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as generating display objects (game characters, backgrounds, buildings, the ground, etc.), instructing the display positions of the display objects, and erasing the display objects.

[0125] That is, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as registering an object that has appeared in an object list, transferring the object list to the drawing unit 120, and deleting an object that has disappeared from the object list.

[0126] In particular, under the instruction of the game management section 112, the display control section 118 generates an image relating to the first game or the second game according to the game situation, and performs display control so that the generated image is output and displayed on the display section 190.

[0127] Specifically, the display control unit 118 simultaneously displays on the display unit an image related to the rhythm music game and an image related to cooperative play by a plurality of players (i.e., a session-like simulated performance). 190. Display control is then performed.

[0128] Then, in the case of a rhythm music game, the display control unit 118 causes the drawing unit 108 to draw an operation input timing determination marker object, an operation timing object, or both objects, which are moved and controlled in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 104 for each player and move within the displayed operation object formation area.

[0129] The specification control unit 119 executes a specification determination process for determining game specifications including specifications relating to operation input timing instructions in the rhythm music game, depending on the game status of the lyrics input game.

[0130] The drawing unit 120 executes a process of drawing (generating) an image based on various processes (game processes) performed by the processing unit 100, and outputs the drawn image to the display unit 190, and the function thereof can be realized by hardware such as a graphics processor (GPU), a program, etc. Then, the drawing unit 108 draws so-called two-dimensional images or three-dimensional images.

[0131] Specifically, the drawing unit 120 reads out display objects corresponding to the display object list transferred by the display control unit 118 from the main memory unit 172 or the like, and draws the objects in an image buffer 174 (a buffer such as a frame buffer or intermediate buffer; VRAM) that can store image information on a pixel-by-pixel basis.

[0132] Then, the drawing unit 120 updates the image information every frame (for example, every 1 / 30 seconds) to cause the display unit 190 to display a moving image.

[0133] In particular, the drawing unit 120 reads out from the main storage unit 172 a score image corresponding to the music data played by the music playback unit 104 in accordance with the playback of the music data, and draws the score image in the image buffer 174 .

[0134] The sound processing unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100 , generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and outputs them to the sound output unit 192 .

[0135] [3] Method of the present embodiment [3.1] Overview Next, a game control process for executing the first game and the second game in conjunction with each other in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0136] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a game control process for executing the first game and the second game in conjunction with each other in this embodiment.

[0137] The game system S of this embodiment is a system that controls a lyrics input game as a first game, and controls a music game (i.e., a rhythm music game) as a second game in which the player performs operation inputs in accordance with a given piece of music using the input lyrics, and the evaluation of the inputs is used as the game result.

[0138] In particular, the game system S of this embodiment has a configuration that allows a rhythm music game to be executed based on the game status or game result of a lyric input game, and also allows a lyric input game to be executed based on the game status or game result of a rhythm music game, thereby enabling the two games to be linked to each other.

[0139] In other words, the game system S of this embodiment is configured to be able to provide a new type of rap battle-like game (hereinafter referred to as a "rap battle game") that combines both word play and music by linking together a word play using a lyrics input game and a rhythm music game that evaluates the timing of operational inputs.

[0140] Specifically, the game system S of this embodiment includes, for example, as shown in FIG. (A1) Executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from a player; (A2) Controlling a lyrics input game based on the player's operation input accepted by the acceptance process; (A3) controlling a rhythm music game that accepts an operation input from a player based on an operation input timing instruction that indicates an instruction for a timing of the operation input to the player; (A4) executing a rhythm music game evaluation process for evaluating a result of an operation input by a player based on an operation input timing when an operation input by the player in the rhythm music game is received; (A5) executing a specification determination process for determining game specifications including specifications regarding operation input timing instructions in the rhythm music game according to a game status of the lyrics input game; (A6) controlling a rhythm music game based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process; It has a configuration.

[0141] FIG. 3 shows an example in which the above processes (A1) to (A6) are executed within the game system S in a case in which two players alternately play a lyrics input game and a rhythm music game.

[0142] With this configuration, the game system S of this embodiment can reflect the game status of a lyric input game in a timing game (i.e., a rhythm music game) based on operational input and in a lyric input game, in the rhythm music game, thereby making it possible to provide a new type of game that links the rhythm music game and the lyric input game.

[0143] In this embodiment, a composite game consisting of two games, a first game (lyrics input game) and a second game (rhythm music game), will be described using a rap battle game in which multiple players (basically two players) compete against each other.

[0144] [3.2] Composite games Next, the combined game in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams for explaining the combined game in this embodiment.

[0145] The game system S alternately provides a lyrics input game as a first game and a rhythm music game as a second game, and also provides a rap battle game, which is a composite game in which the player competes against an opponent player.

[0146] In particular, the game system S provides, as a first game, a lyrics input game in which lyrics to be used in a second game, a rhythmic music game, are input, and, as the second game, a game in which the player performs operations in time with the sounds and rhythms of a music game or the like, and the accuracy of the timing of the player's operation input is evaluated.

[0147] Specifically, the game system S alternates between a lyric input game and a rhythm music game multiple times as a single competitive game, and during a turn in which the player is playing the lyric input game, the game system S causes the opponent player to play the rhythm music game, and During a player's turn to play the rhythmic music game, the game system S has the other player play the lyrics input game. However, in the first and last turns, the game system S is configured not to provide the corresponding game to the player or the other player, since the results of the lyrics input game are used in the rhythmic music game.

[0148] For example, as shown in Figures 4(A) and (B), when the game system S first has the player play a lyric input game, it does not provide any games to the other player in the same session (first session) for the first turn (first turn), and when the game system S has the player play a rhythm music game based on the result of the lyric input game in the first turn in the current turn (first turn) of the next session (second session), it executes processing (second turn) to have the other player play the first lyric input game.

[0149] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5, when the rhythm music game is ended by the player, the game system S executes a process for having the player play the lyric input game in the third turn again in the next session (third session), and at this time, has the opponent player play the rhythm music game in the second turn based on the result of the lyric input game already played by the opponent player.

[0150] In this way, the game system S is configured to repeat each player's lyric input game and rhythm music game for each specified period (session), with each turn being one turn, and to determine the outcome of the competitive game based on an overall evaluation of the lyric input game and rhythm music game.

[0151] In this embodiment, the first game is described as a lyric input game, which is a game in which the appropriate answer is selected in response to a question. However, the first game is not limited to this lyric input game and may be any type of game, such as a competitive game (fighting game or sports game), a music game (so-called rhythm game), a RPG, a shooting game, a racing game, a simulation game, a training game, or a puzzle game.

[0152] In addition, in this embodiment, a rhythmic music game is used as the second game, but the second game is not limited to these games and may be a sports game, a puzzle game, or a training game, and is applicable as long as it evaluates the operation timing of the player. However, if the first game and the second game are both games of the same genre, it is preferable that the first game and the second game have different operation methods, play methods, or game systems.

[0153] [3.3] Game control process based on the lyrics input game as the first game Next, a game control process based on a lyrics input game as the first game in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0154] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a game control process based on a lyrics input game as the first game in this embodiment.

[0155] (Basic principles of the lyrics input game as the first game) The first game control unit 114 inputs and sets lyrics to be used in the second game based on the player's operation input accepted by the acceptance process, and executes a lyrics input game in which the appropriateness of the input lyrics is evaluated.

[0156] In particular, the first game control unit 114, for example, The input element is recognized based on the player's input, such as a character, text in text input, and voice in voice input.

[0157] Then, the first game control unit 114 prompts the player to input words that constitute a phrase as an input element in accordance with the game situation of the game in progress, and recognizes the input words.

[0158] The first game control unit 114 also executes a game in which the input words are joined together to obtain lyrics for a rhythm music game.

[0159] That is, the first game control unit 114 recognizes words selected based on the player's instructions, or words input as text or voice, as part of lyrics, and generates and obtains lyrics (i.e., words) for the rhythm music game, for example, by connecting the words together in the order they were input.

[0160] Then, the first game control unit 114 provides the acquired lyrics to the second game control unit 116 as lyrics data.

[0161] For example, when multiple word options are presented as input elements, the first game control unit 114 recognizes a word selected by the player from the presented options as part of the lyrics to be used in the rhythm music game, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0162] Then, the first game control unit 114 generates lyrics data by connecting the recognized words as shown in FIG. 6, and provides the generated lyrics data to the second game control unit 116.

[0163] In particular, in the case of a competitive game in which the player competes against an opposing player, the first game control unit 114 executes a lyrics input game for the player while the opposing player is playing a rhythm music game, and provides the entered lyrics to the second game control unit 116 for use in the player's rhythm music game.

[0164] Conversely, in the case of a competitive game in which one player competes against an opponent player, when the player is playing a rhythm music game, the first game control unit 114 executes a lyrics input game for the opponent player, and provides the input lyrics to the second game control unit 116 for use in the opponent player's rhythm music game.

[0165] In addition, Fig. 6 shows selectable options for two bars in one session (one turn of the lyrics input game), and also shows an example of the lyrics (i.e., a completed lyric) when each word is selected. Fig. 6 also shows the evaluation criteria in the input element evaluation process described later.

[0166] (Detection and provision of additional data for input elements) During execution of the lyrics input game, in order to determine the specifications of the rhythm music game, the first game control unit 114 identifies not only the input elements themselves but also additional information including the type of the input element (hereinafter referred to as "input element additional data"), and provides the additional data to the specification control unit 119 in association with each word that makes up the lyrics, together with the lyrics data.

[0167] In particular, it is preferable that the first game control unit 114 specifies two or more different input element additional data in order to determine two or more specifications of the rhythm music game (specifications for corresponding to the timing and type of the operation timing object).

[0168] In addition, the first game control unit 114 may also store, as the input element additional data, the type of the input element, In addition, the system recognizes the attributes of the input elements (for example, if the input elements are words (lyrics), the person who spoke each word and the regionality of each word (dialect, etc.)), the number of characters, vowels, and meanings, etc.

[0169] Then, the first game control unit 114 provides the recognized input element additional data to the specification control unit 119 .

[0170] (Processing to recognize input elements based on options based on selection conditions) When an option is selected from a plurality of options at the player's instruction in a lyrics input game, the first game control unit 114 may determine the selection of the option and recognize the determined option as an input element, provided that given selection conditions are met.

[0171] In other words, when the first game control unit 114 recognizes a candidate input element selected from a plurality of candidate input elements as an input element, and if given conditions are met, it may enable the player to select the candidate input element.

[0172] Specifically, the first game control unit 114 uses various conditions as given selection conditions, such as operation input conditions in the player's operation input accepted by the reception process, conditions for the result of the second game, environmental conditions related to the game environment, and attributes of each game.

[0173] For example, the first game control unit 114 may enable the player to select candidate input elements when the operation input conditions include turning the operation means itself that performs the player's operation input, or pressing a specific button (including pressing multiple buttons and the order in which they are pressed).

[0174] Also, for example, the first game control unit 114 may enable the player to select candidate input elements when certain conditions for the result of the rhythm music game are met, such as receiving a specified evaluation, obtaining a specified number of points, and completing a specified task.

[0175] Furthermore, for example, the first game control unit 114 may enable the player to select candidate input elements when environmental conditions include attributes such as the type of player character used by the player and the player's game level, as well as various environmental conditions such as a match against a real player or a match against an NPC.

[0176] In addition, the first game control unit 114 may add a new candidate to the candidates for input elements, provided that a given selection condition is met, instead of determining the selection of an option and recognizing the determined option as an input element, provided that the given selection condition is met.

[0177] (Lyric input game battle game element) As described above, in the case of a competitive combined game (rap battle game) that combines a lyric input game and a rhythm music game, the first game control unit 114 may set candidate input elements for the player himself / herself based on the input elements recognized in the lyric input game of the opponent player, and recognize as an input element a candidate input element selected from the set candidate input elements.

[0178] In other words, the first game control unit 114 may have a configuration for restricting the input elements of the opposing player based on the input elements recognized by the player himself, in order to compete in the first game itself as a competitive game based on the input elements input by the player himself or the opposing player.

[0179] In particular, the first game control unit 114 uses table data in which the input elements of the opposing player are associated with candidate input elements of the player, to set candidate input elements for the player based on the input elements of the opposing player, or to determine a theme based on the input of the opposing player, and set input elements belonging to that theme as candidate input elements for the player.

[0180] For example, in a lyrics input game in which an input element is selected from a number of options, assume that the other player inputs the input element "Indian curry" and that "Indian curry" is defined as the "curry" theme.

[0181] Also, for example, it is assumed that table data with the theme of "curry" is associated with input elements such as "rice," "naan," "green curry," "mild," and "spice."

[0182] In this case, when the opposing player inputs "Indian curry" in a particular turn of the lyrics input game, the first game control unit 114 sets "rice," "naan," "green curry," "mild," and "spice" as input candidates in the player's next turn of the lyrics input game, and in conjunction with the display control unit 118, causes the display unit 190 to display each input candidate.

[0183] In this case, when one input candidate is selected by the player himself / herself from the displayed input candidates, the first game control unit 114 recognizes the selected input candidate as an input element.

[0184] (Bonus for lyrics input game) When attributes of a player in the game, such as a player character, are set, the first game control unit 114 may provide an advantageous effect to the player, such as points to be added to an evaluation, based on the attributes of the player and the attributes of the input elements.

[0185] For example, in this case, the first game control unit 114 may provide an advantageous effect to the player when the type of player character (player attributes) matches the attributes of the input element (word expression, for example, phrasing characteristics such as dialect, tone of voice, etc.).

[0186] In addition, the first game control unit 114 may use attributes such as the player's game level, the player's age, residential area, or gender as attributes, and in this case, if the player's character's age, residential area, or gender, etc. matches, an advantageous effect may be provided to the player.

[0187] Furthermore, the first game control unit 114 may also provide, as an advantageous effect, a privilege such as an item or character that can be used in the game, in addition to bonus points, for example.

[0188] (Time-based lyric input game) The first game control unit 114 may set a time limit for the lyrics input game.

[0189] For example, in this case, when the first game control unit 114 is executing a lyric input game for the player itself, while the opposing player is executing a rhythm music game, it sets the time limit to the end of the opposing player's rhythm music game, and executes the lyric input game for the player itself until the time limit.

[0190] Also, for example, in this case, while the first game control unit 114 is executing a lyric input game against the opposing player, if the player himself is executing a rhythm music game, the first game control unit 114 sets the time limit to the end of the rhythm music game of the player himself, and executes the lyric input game of the opposing player until the time limit.

[0191] [3.4] Specification decision process for rhythmic music games based on lyrics input games Next, a specification determination process for a rhythm music game based on a lyrics input game in this embodiment will be described.

[0192] (Overview of specification decision process for rhythmic music games based on lyrics input games) The specification control unit 119 executes a specification determination process for determining game specifications including specifications relating to operation input timing instructions in the rhythm music game, depending on the game status of the lyrics input game.

[0193] In other words, the specification control unit 119 is configured to determine the game specifications of the second game depending on the game status of the first game in order to link the two games (the lyric input game and the rhythm music game), create a sense of unity as a whole game, and increase the interest of the games.

[0194] In particular, the specification control unit 119 executes a process for detecting the game status in the lyrics input game as the first game (hereinafter referred to as the "game status detection process"), and a specification determination process for determining the game specifications of the rhythm music game as the second game based on the detected game status.

[0195] (Game status detection process) The specification control unit 119 detects, as the game status of the lyrics input game, the status related to input elements recognized in the lyrics input game, such as the evaluation of the lyrics input game, the progress of the lyrics input game, and the values ​​of parameters used in the lyrics input game, during or after the lyrics input game.

[0196] In particular, the specification control unit 119 detects the progress of the lyrics input game, such as the cleared stage level, number of stages, and tasks, the type and number of items acquired, and the level or degree of evolution of the player character.

[0197] Furthermore, the specification control unit 119 detects a game situation related to at least two different game elements.

[0198] Specifically, it is preferable that the specification control unit 119 detects, as different game elements, the type, number, and time-related elements of the input elements in the lyrics input game (e.g., evaluation over a specified period of time and game results over a specified period of time), as well as parameters that vary in the game.

[0199] Furthermore, the specification control unit 119 detects, as the status regarding the input elements, the status regarding an option selected from among a plurality of option candidates, the status regarding text input, the status regarding voice input, and the like.

[0200] For example, the situation related to the recognized input element includes the type of the input element, and the specification control unit 119 determines the type of operation input timing instruction included in the game specification related to the operation input timing instruction according to the type of the input element.

[0201] (Specification decision process) As part of the specification determination process, the specification control unit 119 executes display control of objects for instructing the player's operation input and operation content (i.e., operation timing objects in a rhythmic music game) as operation timing instructions, and determines game specifications that include instructions for informing the player of the timing of the operation input.

[0202] Specifically, the specification control unit 119 determines specifications related to operation input timing instructions in a rhythm music game, such as the number and type of operation timing instructions, the input timing itself (input timing on the time axis) such as a predetermined number of seconds after the start, the position of the input timing on an image when the input timing is displayed using the image, and the evaluation method.

[0203] In particular, the specification control unit 119 executes a specification determination process that determines different specifications regarding operation input timing instructions in a rhythm music game depending on at least two different game elements such as the type, number, and time-related elements of input elements detected in the lyrics input game (e.g., an evaluation in a specified period of time and a game result in a specified period of time), and parameters that vary in the game.

[0204] In addition, the specification control unit 119 determines specification evaluation criteria for the rhythm music game that are associated with different elements of the lyrics input game, such as the specifications for the operation timing instructions and the judgment timing of the operation input, as different specifications regarding the operation input timing instructions in the rhythm music game.

[0205] For example, when the situation related to the recognized input element is the type of the input element (e.g., big correct, correct, wrong, etc.), the specification control unit 119 determines the type of operation input timing instruction included in the game specifications related to the operation input timing instruction (i.e., the type of button to press) according to the type of input element.

[0206] In addition, the specification control unit 119 recognizes, as input element additional data, in addition to the type of input element, the attributes of the input element (for example, if the input element is words (lyrics), the person who spoke each word and the regionality of each word (dialect, etc.)), the number of characters, vowels, and meaning, etc.

[0207] For example, the specification control unit 119 determines the number of operation timing objects or the timing of arranging each operation timing object in accordance with the number of input elements or the number of characters of each input element in the lyrics input game.

[0208] The specification control unit 119 may determine the type of music, rhythm, type of sound source, and other music used in the rhythm music game based on the game status of the lyrics input game.

[0209] For example, in this case, if the evaluation in the lyrics input game is low, or if there are few recognized input elements, the specifications control unit 119 determines a piece of music that can be made up of fewer lyrics.

[0210] [3.5] Game control processing based on a rhythmic music game as the second game Next, a game control process based on a rhythm music game as the second game in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0211] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the game control process based on the rhythm music game as the second game in this embodiment.

[0212] (Overview of game control processing based on rhythmic music games) The second game control unit 116 controls a rhythm music game as a second game that accepts an operation input from a player based on an operation input timing instruction that indicates an instruction on the operation input timing to the player.

[0213] In particular, the second game control unit 116 controls the rhythm music game based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process executed during the lyrics input game, which is the first game, as described above.

[0214] That is, the second game control unit 116 executes an operation timing instruction control process to move at least two types of operation timing objects toward a fixedly displayed operation input timing determination marker object OB1, based on the game specification information determined by a specification determination process during the lyrics input game, in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 117, as shown in FIG.

[0215] Specifically, the second game control unit 116, based on the game specification information determined in the lyrics input game, moves an operation timing object (hereinafter referred to as a "normal operation timing object") OB2, which indicates the type of operation input instruction as well as the input timing of the operation input instruction, as the first operation timing object, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0216] Further, based on the game specification information determined above, the second game control unit 116 moves an operation timing object OB3 indicating the input timing of the operation input instruction, including the lyrics input by the lyrics input game, toward an operation input timing determination marker object OB1 that is fixedly displayed as a second operation timing object in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 117, as shown in FIG. 7 .

[0217] In addition, the second game control unit 116 moves a normal operation timing object OB2 and a lyric-added operation timing object OB3 toward a sign object OB1 for determining operation input timing formed on the game image based on the game specification information determined above.

[0218] (Operation timing instruction control processing) As described above, during playback of specific music data selected by specification by the player or the like, the second game control unit 116 executes an operation timing instruction control process for instructing the player to input operation timing based on the game specification information determined in the lyrics input game.

[0219] In particular, the second game control unit 116 has an operation input timing determination marker object formed at one end, and moves the operation timing object from the other end toward the operation input timing determination marker object.

[0220] Moreover, the second game control unit 116 controls the movement of the operation timing object based on the determined game specification information as described above.

[0221] That is, the second game control unit 116 sets up an operation object formation area in a predetermined area of ​​the display unit 190 during game execution, and executes movement control of the operation timing object for the player based on the determined game specification information and music score data while matching it to the music data.

[0222] The second game control unit 116 then generates an object for determining the operation timing of the player. The operation timing object is an object for controlling the movement of an operation timing object indicating the operation content input by a player, and based on a fixedly arranged position of a marker object for operation input timing determination, which is a reference for the operation input timing, the operation timing object is controlled to move until the operation timing object overlaps with the marker object for operation input timing determination.

[0223] At this time, the second game control unit 116 cooperates with the display control unit 118 to execute a display control process (output display process) for causing the display unit 190 to display (output) the input element recognized by the lyrics input game.

[0224] Specifically, the second game control unit 116 may form an operation object forming area in the game space (the display area displayed on the display unit 190) that extends from one end to the opposite end, and place a circular operation input timing determination marker object on one end side (e.g., the left side) of the operation object forming area.

[0225] Then, when playback of the music begins, the first game control unit 114 moves a plurality of operation input timing objects having different operation types (i.e., different contents of operation input) in the operation object forming area at a constant speed from the other end side to the one end side in a first direction (i.e., toward the operation input timing determination marker object) along the operation object forming area in accordance with the music data and based on the score data.

[0226] In addition, the second game control unit 116 may move the operation input timing determination marker object at a constant speed in a second direction opposite to the first direction from one end side to the other end side (i.e., toward the operation input timing object).

[0227] In this case, the second game control unit 116 fixes and arranges each operation timing object within the operation object forming area.

[0228] In addition, the second game control unit 116 may move the operation timing object in a first direction at a constant speed, while moving the operation input timing determination marker object from one end side to the other end side in a second direction opposite to the first direction (i.e., toward the operation input timing object) at a constant speed.

[0229] Furthermore, the second game control unit 116, in conjunction with the display control unit 118, may execute control (output processing) to output the input elements recognized by the lyrics input game from the sound output unit 192 as sound, instead of or in addition to the display control processing to display (output) the input elements recognized by the lyrics input game on the display unit 190.

[0230] [3.6] Evaluation process [3.6.1] Evaluation process in the lyrics input game (game 1) (input element evaluation process) Next, the basic principle of the evaluation process in the lyrics input game (first game) of this embodiment will be described.

[0231] The evaluation processing unit 115 executes an evaluation process (hereinafter referred to as an "input element evaluation process") for evaluating an input element input when an operational input from a player is accepted for the lyrics input game, which is the first game.

[0232] In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes an input element evaluation process based on each input element input in the lyrics input game for each turn and input element additional data indicating additional information of the input element.

[0233] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines common elements for each category, such as type, attributes (e.g., the person who uttered each word and the regionality of each word (dialect, etc.)), number of characters, vowels, and meaning, based on two or more input elements themselves and additional information about each input element.

[0234] That is, the evaluation processing unit 115 judges whether each category matches or does not match based on two or more input elements themselves and additional information of each input element, and identifies the matching category as a common element.

[0235] Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs an evaluation of each common element based on the judgment criteria (e.g., points) defined for each category, tallys up the evaluations of each common element thus performed, and determines the tallying result as the evaluation of the lyrics input game for that turn (e.g., points per turn).

[0236] For example, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes turn-by-turn evaluation processing based on a three-level evaluation (excellent, fair, or "good job," "done," and "do your best") according to the tallying results.

[0237] When the evaluation processing unit 115 determines an input element from among a plurality of option candidates based on the player's operation input, the evaluation processing unit 115 may obtain input element additional data that is predetermined for each option candidate.

[0238] In addition, when text or voice input is directly input as an input element based on the player's operational input, the evaluation processing unit 115 may perform linguistic analysis on the recognized text and detect each category such as type, attributes (for example, the person who uttered each word and the regionality of each word (dialect, etc.)), number of characters, vowels, and meaning.

[0239] On the other hand, the evaluation processing unit 115 may specify the evaluation (ie, points) of the recognized input element by using table data in which each input element is associated with an evaluation criterion (eg, points).

[0240] That is, in this case, the evaluation processing unit 115 directly evaluates the quality of the inputted input elements.

[0241] In this case, the evaluation processing unit 115 tallies up the evaluations for each input element input in the lyrics input game for each turn, and determines the tallied result as the evaluation of the lyrics input game for that turn (for example, turn-specific points).

[0242] The evaluation processing unit 115 performs turn-by-turn evaluation processing on the tally results using a three-level evaluation (excellent / fair or "good job," "done," and "let's do our best") in the same manner as described above.

[0243] [3.6.2] Evaluation process in rhythm music game (game 2) Next, the evaluation process in the rhythm music game including the individual operation timing evaluation process of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0244] (Principles of evaluation processing in rhythmic music games) The evaluation processing unit 115 determines whether the player's operation input is a given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing of the player, and whether the player's operation input is a given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing of the player. An evaluation process (hereinafter, referred to as an "individual operation timing evaluation process") is executed to evaluate the force result.

[0245] That is, while the rhythm music game is being played, the evaluation processing unit 115 evaluates the accuracy of the input timing and whether or not the operation contents match, based on the operation input contents of the player instructed by the operation timing instruction control process.

[0246] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes evaluation processing at each individual evaluation timing as individual operation timing evaluation processing based on the timing at which each movement-controlled operation timing object reaches the position of the marker object for determining operation input timing.

[0247] On the other hand, the evaluation processing unit 115 evaluates the rhythm music game of each turn based on each evaluation result in the individual operation timing evaluation process (that is, each evaluated operation input result).

[0248] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 counts up each evaluation result in the individual operation timing evaluation process for each rhythm music game turn, and executes each evaluation as turn-specific evaluation processing based on the counted results.

[0249] For example, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes turn-by-turn evaluation processing based on a three-level evaluation (excellent, fair, or "good job," "done," and "do your best") according to the tallying results.

[0250] (Individual operation timing evaluation process) As the individual operation timing evaluation process, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines whether or not the player's operation result at the individual operation timing satisfies given conditions (hereinafter referred to as "evaluation conditions") as an evaluation result, and uses the result as the result of the evaluation process.

[0251] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 compares the operation input timing when the player's operation input is accepted with the timing at which the operation timing object reaches the operation input timing determination marker object at that operation input timing within the operation object formation area (i.e., the timing determined by the music data), and executes evaluation processing based on the comparison result.

[0252] In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 considers the following as given evaluation conditions: (A1) The input of the operation content indicated by the operation timing object is successful; (A2) The timing of the operation input by the player and a given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing satisfy a predetermined success condition; or (A3) Both (A1) and (A2) are satisfied; is used.

[0253] In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 may use a plurality of evaluation conditions selected from any of (A1) to (A3). In this case, it is preferable to assign a degree of difficulty in fulfilling each evaluation condition (e.g., easy to fulfill, difficult to fulfill, etc.) and to assign evaluation values ​​such as points in stages according to the degree of difficulty.

[0254] That is, in this case, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines, as the evaluation condition, that the condition (A3) is satisfied, when a plurality of conditions for assigning a graded evaluation value are used, If a strict first condition is met, a first point (a relatively high point, for example, 5 points) is awarded, and if the first condition is not met but a lenient second condition is met, a second point (a relatively low point, for example, 1 point) lower than the first point is awarded.

[0255] For example, as an individual operation timing evaluation process, as shown in FIG. 7, when the reference timing KT (e.g., 5 seconds after the start of music playback) at which the first operation timing object arrives at (is included in) the position of the operation input timing determination marker object OB1 matches the operation input timing on the controller 30 of the corresponding player, and when the operation content indicated by the first operation timing object OB2 (operation instruction to input button L) matches the operation content on the controller 30 of the corresponding player, the evaluation processing unit 115 awards a relatively high point (i.e., 5 points).

[0256] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, even if the reference timing KT and the operation input timing do not strictly match (are not completely identical), when the first operation timing object OB2 arrives during a reference period BT (e.g., 0.5 seconds before and after the reference timing), which is a period during which the first operation timing object OB2 passes through the marker object OB1 for determining the operation input timing, at a timing other than the reference timing KT, the evaluation processing unit 115 awards a relatively low point (i.e., 1 point).

[0257] In addition, if the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that the reference period BT for the first operation timing object OB2 does not include the operation timing executed by the player using the controller 30, or that the operation input to the controller 30 differs from the operation content, then no points will be awarded.

[0258] Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes an evaluation process to calculate the points awarded at each individual timing as the score for the corresponding player, and also adds up the individual operation timing evaluation processes for each player and provides the result of the evaluation process for the team to the second game control unit 116.

[0259] Moreover, the evaluation processing unit 115 may use evaluation indices such as excellent, good, or fair as the evaluation value instead of points.

[0260] Furthermore, in the evaluation process, the evaluation processing unit 115 of this embodiment may execute an evaluation process based on a comparison result between the operation input timing and the timing of an instruction based on the operation timing object, instead of the evaluation process based on the positional relationship between the operation input timing and the operation timing object and the operation input timing determination marker object.

[0261] [3.6.3] Overall evaluation Next, the basic principle of the combined game evaluation process of this embodiment will be described.

[0262] The evaluation processing unit 115 tallyes up the evaluations in the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game for each turn, and performs a comprehensive evaluation of the combined game.

[0263] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 tallies up the evaluations in the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game for each turn for both the player and the opponent player, and determines a winner based on the tallied results.

[0264] In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 accumulates evaluation points for the player and the opponent player for each turn in the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game, and The player with the highest evaluation points will be determined as the winner.

[0265] The evaluation processing unit 115 may assign weights to each turn or each type of game, and tally up the evaluations of the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game for each turn for both the player himself and the opponent player.

[0266] [3.7] Variations [3.7.1] Variation 1 Next, a specification determination process for a rhythm music game based on an evaluation of a lyrics input game will be described as a first modified example of this embodiment.

[0267] The specifications control unit 119 may execute a specifications determination process for determining the game specifications of the rhythm music game, which is the second game, based on an evaluation of the lyrics input game as the game status of the lyrics input game.

[0268] In this case, the specification control unit 119 uses, for example, the play time of the lyrics input game, the evaluation of the lyrics input game itself, and the player's operation input or its history regarding the lyrics input game as the evaluation of the lyrics input game.

[0269] For example, if the play time is long (the game has been played for a long period of time), if the lyrics input game is highly rated (for example, if the rating is the highest rating such as "excellent"), if input elements are input quickly in the operation input for the lyrics input game (no cancellation or change of input has occurred), or if there are a certain number or more rapid input elements input through operation input in the history of past operation inputs, the specification control unit 119 will increase the number of operation timing objects more than usual or increase the speed at which the operation timing objects move to increase the difficulty level.

[0270] Also, for example, if the playing time is short or the evaluation in the lyrics input game is low, the specification control unit 119 reduces the number of operation timing objects from normal or slows down the moving speed of the operation timing objects to lower the difficulty level.

[0271] [3.7.2] Variation 2 Next, an example in which the game system is applied to a shop-type game system will be described as a second modified example of this embodiment with reference to FIG.

[0272] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration in the case where the game system of this embodiment is applied to a server system using a network.

[0273] (Store-based gaming system) The game system S of this embodiment can be applied to a home game system, and can also be realized as a store-based game system set up in a store (amusement park).

[0274] For example, such a game system S includes a housing that houses a processing unit (computer) 100 that performs game control processing, etc., an operation input unit formed on the front of the housing, a display unit that displays images, a sound output unit that outputs sound, and a fee acceptance slot for accepting game fees, and runs a rap battle game as a composite game.

[0275] (Play over the network) The game system S of the present embodiment described above has a plurality of controllers 30, and a composite game, a rap battle game, is played by having each player operate each controller 30. However, by connecting multiple game systems S via a network, the processes of the lyric input game and the rhythm music game executed by multiple players may be linked to execute the above configurations and controls.

[0276] (Server system) In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, a server system 300 may be constructed using one server device 310 and the above game may be provided to one or more terminal devices 320 via a network N, or a server system 300 may be constructed by linking multiple server devices 310 and the game may be provided from the server system 300 to one or more terminal devices 320.

[0277] In particular, a plurality of terminal devices 320 are connected to the server system 300 via a network N by wire or wirelessly, and the server system 300 functions as the above-mentioned game system.

[0278] The server system 300 can also realize a game system by providing the corresponding terminal device 320 with game data (including only image data) for executing a rap battle, which includes game control processing for each game, operation timing instruction control processing, individual evaluation processing, and evaluation processing for each game and the entire game as a combined game, including the lyric input game and rhythm music game, while accepting operation inputs from the player.

[0279] In this embodiment, the game system of the present invention is applied to a server system 300 that operates in conjunction with a terminal device 320 via a network, but the game system of the present invention may also be applied to a tablet-type information terminal device or a personal computer.

[0280] [3.7.3] Variation 3 The above embodiment has a configuration in which the first game (i.e., the lyric input game) and the second game (i.e., the rhythm music game) are performed by the same player, but the first game may also be performed by a first player, and the second game, which is different from the first player, may be performed by a second player.

[0281] In other words, since multiple players can alternate between playing the first game and the second game, the present invention can also be applied to team battles.

[0282] [4] Operation of this embodiment Next, the operation of the game control process of the rap battle game in which a lyrics input game and a rhythm music game are linked together and which is executed by the game system of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0283] 9 to 11 are flow charts showing the operation of the game control process of the rhythm music game executed by the game system S of this embodiment.

[0284] The actions are those in a rap battle game, which is a composite game in which two players alternate between a lyrics input game and a rhythm music game.

[0285] Furthermore, this operation determines the game specifications for the rhythm music game based on the game status detected during execution of the lyrics input game, and for each player, one turn is defined as the lyrics input game and the subsequent rhythm music game, and the period during which each game is being executed simultaneously is defined as one session, which is repeated multiple times.

[0286] First, when the game management unit 112 detects an instruction to start a combined game based on a player's instruction or the like (step S101), it performs initial settings such as determining the player characters, specifying the order of first and second attacks, specifying the music or rhythm, and the theme of the lyrics (step S102), and starts the rap battle game (step S103).

[0287] Next, the game management unit 112 causes the first game control unit 114 to start a game control process for the lyrics input game in the first turn for the first player (hereinafter referred to as the "first player") (step S104).

[0288] When the game control process of the lyrics input game is started, the first game control unit 114 executes the game control process of the lyrics input game until the end of the game is detected, and also appropriately detects predetermined game situations during the lyrics input game.

[0289] Next, when the game management unit 112 detects the end of the lyrics input game in the first turn (the lyrics input game in the current session) (step S105), it causes the evaluation processing unit 115 to execute evaluation processing of the lyrics input game of the first player (step S106).

[0290] Next, the specification control unit 119 determines the game specification of the rhythm music game for the first player's turn according to the game situation detected in the lyrics input game of the first player (step S107).

[0291] Next, the game management unit 112 causes the second game control unit 116 to start game control processing for the rhythm music game of the first (or second) player in that turn, and also causes the first game control unit 114 to start game control processing for the lyric input game of the second (or first) player in that turn (step S108).

[0292] When the game control processing of the rhythm music game is started, the second game control unit 116 executes the game control processing of the rhythm music game for the first (or second) player until the end of the game is detected, and also causes the evaluation processing unit 115 to appropriately execute individual operation timing evaluation processing.

[0293] In addition, when the game control process of the lyrics input game is started, the first game control unit 114 executes the game control process of the lyrics input game for the second (or first) player until the end of the game is detected, and also appropriately detects predetermined game situations during the lyrics input game.

[0294] Next, when the game management unit 112 detects the end of the game in the current session (step S109), it causes the first game control unit 114 to end the game control processing of the rhythm music game for the first player (or second player), and causes the second game control unit 116 to end the game control processing of the lyric input game for the second player (or first player) (step S110).

[0295] Next, the specification control unit 119 determines the game specification of the rhythm music game for the second (or first) player's current turn according to the game situation detected in the lyrics input game of the second (or first) player (step S111).

[0296] Next, the evaluation processing unit 115 compiles the individual operation timing evaluation processing of the first (or second) player to perform an evaluation of the rhythm music game in the current turn, and also performs an evaluation processing of the lyric input game of the second (or first) player (step S112).

[0297] Next, the game management unit 112 determines whether or not there is a next turn (step S113).

[0298] At this time, if the game management unit 112 determines that there is a next turn, it proceeds to the process of step S108, and if it determines that there is not a next turn, it proceeds to the process of step S114.

[0299] When the game management unit 112 determines that there is a next turn and proceeds to the process of step S108, the first and second players for the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game are switched and then executed.

[0300] Next, when the game management section 112 determines that there is no next turn, it causes the second game control section 116 to start game control processing for the rhythmic music game of the second player in that turn (step S114).

[0301] Next, when the game management section 112 detects the end of the game in the current session (step S115), it causes the second game control section 116 to end the game control process of the rhythm music game for the second player (step S116).

[0302] Next, the evaluation processing unit 115 tallys up the individual operation timing evaluation processes of the second player and executes evaluation processing of the rhythm music game in the final turn (step S117).

[0303] Next, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a final evaluation that integrates the lyrics input game and the rhythm music game for each session and each turn (step S118).

[0304] Next, the game management unit 112, in cooperation with the display control unit 118, causes the display unit 190 to display the final evaluations of the winner and each player (step S119), and ends this operation.

[0305] [5] Other The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. For example, a term cited as a broadly defined or synonymous term in the description in the specification or drawings can be replaced with a broadly defined or synonymous term in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

[0306] Although the first game of this embodiment has been described using a lyrics selection game, the present invention can also be applied to other games.

[0307] The second game of this embodiment has been described using a game in which the player performs operations in time with sounds and rhythms, such as a music game, and the accuracy of the timing of the player's operation inputs is evaluated, but the second game can be applied to any game in which the timing of the player's operations can be evaluated.

[0308] In addition, in this embodiment, a composite game in which a first game and a second game are played together in one match has been described as a specification in which the first game and the second game are linked, but the present invention can also be applied to a game in which a third game different from the first game and the second game can be played after playing the first game, or a game in which a second game can be played after playing multiple first games.

[0309] The present invention can also be applied to a game in which either the first game or the second game is a competitive game.

[0310] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments (for example, configurations that have the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations that have the same purpose and effect). The present invention includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that have the same effects as the configurations described in the embodiments or that can achieve the same purpose. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0311] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail as above, it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible without substantially departing from the novel features and effects of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0312] 1: Server device 10: Game device 30: Controller 100: Processing section 104: Music playback section 108: Drawing section 110: Communication control unit 112: Game Management Department 113: Operation input reception processing unit 114: First game control unit 115: Evaluation processing unit 116: Second game control unit 117: Music playback section 118: Display control unit 119: Specification control section 120: Drawing section 130: Sound processing section 162: Read / write section 170: Storage section 172: Main memory 174: Image buffer 176: Music data storage unit 178: Player information storage unit 180: Information storage medium 190: Display section 192: Sound output section 196: Communications Department 260: Input section 300: Server system 310: Server device 320: Terminal equipment

Claims

1. A game system that controls a given first game and a second game different from the first game based on an operation of a player, a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input of the player; a first game control means for controlling the first game based on an operation input of the player accepted by the acceptance process; a second game control means for controlling the second game to receive an operation input from the player based on an operation input timing instruction indicating an instruction for an operation input timing to the player; an evaluation processing means for executing a second game evaluation process for evaluating a result of an operation input by the player based on an operation input timing when an operation input by the player in the second game is accepted; a specification determination means for executing a specification determination process for determining game specifications including a specification related to the operation input timing instruction in the second game in accordance with a game status of the first game; Equipped with The second game control means A game system comprising: a game unit that controls the second game based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process;

2. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The specification determination means: The game system executes the specification determination process to determine different specifications regarding the operation input timing instructions in the second game in accordance with at least two different game elements as the game status of the first game.

3. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The first game control means Controlling a first game to recognize an input element input by the player; The specification determination means: The game system executes the specification determination process to determine game specifications for the second game in accordance with a situation related to the recognized input element as a game situation of the first game.

4. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The context of the recognized input element includes a type of the input element; The specification determination means: A game system that determines a type of an operation input timing instruction included in a game specification related to the operation input timing instruction according to the type of the input element.

5. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The evaluation processing means If two or more input elements are recognized, determining a common element between the input elements; A game system that executes at least one of a first game evaluation process that evaluates the first game based on the determined common elements, and an overall game evaluation process that evaluates the entire game combining the first game and the second game.

6. 4. The game system according to claim 3, the first game and the second game are competitive games, The first game control means setting candidates for the input element of the player himself / herself based on the input element recognized in the first game of the opponent player who will be the opponent; The game system recognizes, as an input element, a candidate input element selected from the set candidates of input elements.

7. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The first game control means setting candidates for input elements of a player based on a result of the second game; The game system recognizes, as an input element, a candidate input element selected from the set candidates of input elements.

8. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The first game control means A game system which recognizes an input element candidate selected from a plurality of input element candidates as an input element, and enables the player to select the input element candidate when given conditions are met, or adds a new candidate to the input element candidates.

9. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The game device further includes a setting unit for setting attributes of the player in the game, The first game control means A game system that provides an advantageous effect to a player based on attributes of the player and attributes of the input elements.

10. 4. The game system according to claim 3, The game system further comprises an output control means for executing an output control process for outputting an input element recognized by the first game during execution of the second game.

11. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The specification determination means: The game system executes a specification determination process for determining game specifications for the second game based on an evaluation of the first game during execution as a game status of the first game.

12. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The evaluation processing means a game system that executes a comprehensive game evaluation process for evaluating the entire game based on the evaluation of the first game and the evaluation of the second game;

13. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The specification determination means: A game system that determines a piece of music to be used in the second game based on a game status of the first game.

14. 2. The game system according to claim 1, the first game and the second game are competitive games, The first game control means Controlling a first game of the player while a second game of the opponent player is being executed; The second game control means A game system that controls a second game played by a player while a first game played by an opponent is being executed.

15. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The first game control means A game system that controls the first game having a time limit.

16. 2. The game system according to claim 1, The first game control means and the second game control means, A game system that repeatedly executes the first game and the second game.

17. A program for controlling a given first game and a second game different from the first game based on an operation by a player, a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input of the player; a first game control means for controlling the first game based on an operation input of the player accepted by the acceptance process; a second game control means for controlling the second game to receive an operation input from the player based on an operation input timing instruction indicating an instruction for an operation input timing to the player; an evaluation processing means for executing a second game evaluation process for evaluating a result of an operation input by the player based on an operation input timing when an operation input by the player in the second game is accepted; and a specification determination means for executing a specification determination process for determining game specifications including a specification relating to the operation input timing instruction in the second game in accordance with a game status of the first game; The computer functions as The second game control means A program for controlling the second game based on the game specifications determined by the specification determination process.

Images