Distribution system, control method for distribution system, and computer program

Abstract

To enhance the satisfaction of a user by distributing distribution data selected from a plurality of distribution data in response to an operation of the user who views a view video.SOLUTION: A distribution system 100 for distributing a view video to each of user terminals of a plurality of users who are viewers includes: operation reception means 111 for receiving a user operation that is input from each user terminal 20; selection means 131 for selecting at least one distribution data from a distribution data group including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation; and data distribution means 132 for distributing the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation is input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a distribution system that distributes distribution data in response to user operations, a control method for the distribution system, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a video posting and viewing application has a tipping effect function that accepts a display instruction for a tipping effect image that decorates a singing video being distributed from a viewing user's mobile terminal and superimposes the tipping effect image on the singing video. The tipping effect function performs a process of superimposing a tipping effect image on the singing video displayed on the screen after an operation icon displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal used by the viewing user is clicked. The effect-superimposed singing video is stored in a server and distributed so that it can be viewed not only by the viewing user who inputs a tip via the video posting site, but also by other viewing users.

[0003] Patent Literature 2 discloses a configuration in a video distribution system in which a gift request processing unit receives a display request from a viewing user for a specific wearable object. Based on the display request, a display instruction object is displayed on a display screen of a broadcasting user device. When a display instruction object is selected, the gift request processing unit displays a wearable object corresponding to the selected display instruction object in the video being distributed. Patent Literature 2 also discloses a configuration in which, when gifting a wearable gift in the case of a co-starring video, a viewing user can specify to which of the broadcasting users who appear in the co-starring video the gift should be given.

[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a configuration in which, in a live video broadcasting system, an input execution unit of an input control server receives an execution request for inputting an item into a live broadcast video from a receiving unit, and inputs the item that is the subject of the execution request into the video in exchange for a fee. The input execution unit also issues an item input request. The live broadcasting server that receives the item input request processes the live broadcast video by superimposing an item image or the like, and distributes the live broadcast video to a distributor terminal and a spectator terminal.

[0005] Patent Document 4 discloses a configuration in which a game system is provided with a message content control function that automatically selects message candidates according to the game situation of the user and transmits them to a destination designated by the user. The destination can be a specific user, a user who is playing against the user, a user who is registered as a friend, etc., and these can be designated as appropriate. In addition, the message candidates can be set according to the type of game situation, for example, the user's match results, the state of the game during the game, the relationship with the opponent, the time period or day of the week when the user is playing the game, or the weather conditions during the game. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-017870 A [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6543403 [Patent Document 3] JP 2020-017146 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2014-176424 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In Patent Documents 1 to 3, when a user watching a video performs an operation, an image or video is displayed as a reaction to the operation. Examples of operations include tipping, requesting a gift, and requesting an item. In Patent Document 4, a message is transmitted depending on the game situation. The images and the like displayed by these reactions may serve as a return gift for the operation. However, if the images and the like displayed are standard reactions, it is difficult to attract the interest of the user who is the viewer, and it is difficult to fully satisfy the user with a return gift. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, and includes an operation accepting means for accepting user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means for selecting at least one distribution data from a distribution data group including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means for distributing the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0009] Furthermore, a control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, and accepts user operations input from each user terminal, selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and distributes the selected distribution data to at least the user terminal from which the user operation was input.

[0010] Furthermore, a computer program according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer program for a distribution system that includes a computer and distributes viewing video to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, and causes the computer to function as an operation accepting means for accepting user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means for selecting at least one distribution data from a distribution data group including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means for distributing the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0011] A distribution system according to another aspect of the present invention is a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, and includes a game device, a video distribution means that generates the viewing video from game video of a game provided by the game device and distributes the viewing video to each user terminal, an operation accepting means that accepts user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means that selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means that distributes the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0012] This allows for delivery of delivery data selected from a plurality of delivery data in response to an operation by a user viewing a video, thereby increasing the user's satisfaction. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic overall diagram of a distribution system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a distribution system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a return data group. [Figure 4] 11 is a flowchart showing the delivery of return data in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing the delivery of return data in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of components described in the following embodiments can be arbitrarily set and can be changed according to the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below.

[0015] [First embodiment] As shown in FIG. 1, a distribution system 100 that distributes viewing video to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers (hereinafter also referred to as viewing users) includes a management server 10 that manages user operations by the users. The distribution system 100 also includes a playback terminal 20, which is an example of a user terminal, a distribution server 30 that distributes the viewing video, a game server 60, and a game terminal 70, which is an example of a game device. The playback terminal 20 can be connected to the management server 10 and the distribution server 30 via a predetermined network 50. As an example, the viewing user uses the playback terminal 20 at a venue of a game tournament, at the viewing user's home, or the like. Also, the game terminal 70 can be connected to the game server 60 via the predetermined network 50. As an example, a game player uses the game terminal 70 at a venue of a game tournament, or at a predetermined facility such as a store.

[0016] The management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 are configured as one logical server device by combining server units as multiple computers. However, the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 may be configured as a single server unit. Alternatively, the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 may be logically configured using cloud computing. At least two of the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 can be provided in one server. For example, the management server 10 can also function as the distribution server 30. Furthermore, the game server 60 can also function as the management server 10 and the distribution server 30.

[0017] The management server 10 accepts user operations input by the viewing user from the reproduction terminal 20, generates operation information, and transmits the operation information to the distribution server 30. The management server 10 saves and manages unique information for each viewing user linked to user identification information (e.g., a user ID) that identifies each viewing user. As an example, the operation information is information related to user operations, such as user identification information, terminal identification information that identifies each reproduction terminal 20, input information such as the contents of the input comment, and operation identification information that identifies the type of user operation. A viewing user of a game video can input a user operation using the reproduction terminal 20. For example, in an input field for a comment displayed on the reproduction terminal 20, the viewing user can input a user operation to post a supportive comment for the player. Alternatively, by touching a reward icon displayed on the reproduction terminal 20, the viewing user can input a user operation to provide or donate a reward to the player, etc. The management server 10 that accepts the user operation generates operation information linked to the user identification information, operation identification information, and input information, etc., and transmits the operation information to the distribution server 30.

[0018] The distribution server 30 provides a distribution service that allows the playback terminal 20 or a viewing user who owns the playback terminal 20 to view viewing video. For example, the distribution server 30 acquires game video from the game server 60, generates viewing video, and distributes it to the playback terminal 20. The distribution server 30 also stores distribution data such as images or videos for return gifts. The distribution server 30 selects the distribution data based on the operation information, and generates the viewing video by superimposing the distribution data on the game video.

[0019] The distribution service also includes a distribution service that distributes and updates programs or data for the playback terminals 20 via the network 50. The distribution server 30 appropriately distributes various programs or data necessary for viewing the viewing video to each playback terminal 20 through this distribution service. As an example, the viewing video includes game video, a distribution screen for operation, and distribution data. The game video also includes game video of a game being played by the game terminal 70, game video created by shooting the game screen, and video related to the game, such as video of the game player or spectators watching the game. Alternatively, the viewing video may include other video such as movies, dramas, anime, and variety shows, and input information such as comments or images posted by the viewing user. An example in which the viewing video includes game video will be described below.

[0020] For example, the distribution server 30 provides a Web service to a user of the playback terminal 20 via the network 50. In this Web service, when the distribution server 30 provides a distribution service, a viewed video to be played on the playback terminal 20 is distributed. Note that the Web service may include other services such as an information providing service that provides various information related to the viewed video, a community service that provides a place for interaction such as information transmission, exchange, and sharing by viewing users, and a service that assigns user identification information for identifying each viewing user.

[0021] Furthermore, the distribution server 30 distributes game footage generated by the game server 60. Alternatively, the distribution server 30 may distribute footage received from a device other than the game server 60. As an example, the distribution server 30 may distribute game footage created by a game player or other distributor. In this case, the distribution server 30 distributes the game footage uploaded by the player or other distributor to the playback terminal 20.

[0022] The game server 60 provides various services for game devices to the game terminals 70 or users of the game terminals 70. These services include a distribution service that distributes and updates programs or data for the game terminals 70 via the network 50. The game server 60 appropriately distributes various programs or data necessary for providing game services to each game terminal 70 through this distribution service.

[0023] The game server 60 provides a service for a sports game, for example. For example, the game server 60 provides a service for a baseball game, which includes a training part for training baseball players and a match part for playing a game against an opposing team, as a sports game. The game server 60 may provide services for other games, such as FPS (first-person shooter) games, TPS (third-person shooter) games, RTS (real-time strategy) games, MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) games, MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing games), fighting games, racing games, puzzle games, trading card games, and online strategy games.

[0024] The service for the game device provided by the game server 60 may include a service in which the game server 60 receives player identification information of a player from the game terminal 70 and authenticates the player. The service for the game device may include a service in which the game server 60 receives and stores play data including an image of a game screen or a play result of an authenticated player from the game terminal 70. The service for the game device may include a service in which the game server 60 provides the game terminal 70 with the play data stored by the game server 60. In addition, the service for the game device may include a service in which the game server 60 matches players together when multiple players play a common game via the network 50. The service for the game device may include a service in which the game server 60 collects a fee from the player.

[0025] The network 50 is configured to connect the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 to the reproduction terminal 20 and the game terminal 70, respectively. As an example, the network 50 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Specifically, a LAN 52 connects each of the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 to the Internet 51. The Internet 51 as a WAN and the LAN 52 are connected via a router 53. The reproduction terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 are also configured to be connected to the Internet 51. The management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60, and the reproduction terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 may be connected to each other by the Internet 51 instead of or in addition to the LAN 52. In FIG. 1, thin lines indicate connections to the Internet 51, and thick lines indicate services provided and information transmitted, etc. Although the thick lines do not indicate that the devices communicate directly with each other, the devices may be configured to communicate directly with each other.

[0026] The playback terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 are computer devices that can be connected to a network. For example, the playback terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 include a stationary or notebook type personal computer 54 and a mobile terminal device 55 such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone). In addition, various computer devices such as a stationary home game device, a portable game device, and a portable tablet terminal device are included in the playback terminal 20 and the game terminal 70. The playback terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 can allow users to enjoy various services provided by the management server 10, the distribution server 30, and the game server 60 by implementing various computer software. Specifically, the playback terminal 20 functions as a display terminal for viewing video through software for video playback. Also, the game terminal 70 functions as a game device through software for the game device. The playback terminal 20 and the game terminal 70 may be an arcade game machine.

[0027] As an example, in the distribution system 100, the game server 60 provides a game service to the game terminal 70. The game server 60 records game footage of the game being played by the game terminal 70, or game footage created by capturing the game screen, etc. The game footage may be footage related to the game, such as footage of the game players or spectators watching the game. The game server 60 transmits the acquired or created game footage to the distribution server 30. The distribution server 30 then distributes the received game footage to the playback terminal 20.

[0028] [Distribution service overview] In the distribution service in the distribution system 100, when a viewing user performs a user operation to post a comment or provide or donate a reward, the distribution server 30 selects one video from a plurality of distribution data, for example, a plurality of return videos, that are preset in the distribution server 30. Note that, hereinafter, the distribution data is also referred to as return data. The return video is a video having a shorter playback time compared to the viewed video. Alternatively, for example, when the return video is not displayed superimposed on the viewed video, the return video may be a video having a longer playback time than the viewed video. The distribution server 30 distributes the selected return video to the playback terminal 20 owned by the viewing user.

[0029] Meanwhile, in a general video distribution service or live distribution application, a viewing user may be able to input a user operation to post a comment or donate a reward. When such a user operation is input, the content of the comment or the content of the reward is distributed to the user terminal of the viewing user together with the username of the viewing user who inputted it. In the case of live distribution, the distributor, for example, a game player, can watch the viewing video and give a thank you for the comment or reward or input a thank you comment. The thank you is then distributed together with the game video, and the viewing user watches the thank you. In this way, two-way action is established, which can give the viewing user a sense of realism and closeness.

[0030] An example of a case where a two-way action is not established is a case where many user operations are input in a short period of time. In this case, the player cannot recognize some comments, or the player cannot reciprocate in time, resulting in some viewing users not receiving a response from the player. If a viewing user who has performed a user operation does not receive a response from the player, the viewing user feels dissatisfied and reduces the number of user operations. On the other hand, since there is a limit to the player's ability to recognize or respond, it is impossible to eliminate the possibility of a case where a two-way action is not established.

[0031] In particular, in the case of live distribution of e-sports (electronic sports) game footage, viewers cheer for players competing in the game. Since players in a match need to concentrate on the game, it is difficult for them to reciprocate user operations by viewers. Even if it is possible to pause the game to reciprocate, there is a limit to the player's response ability. Therefore, it is impossible to eliminate the possibility that two-way actions will not be achieved. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the sense of dissatisfaction felt by viewers and suppress a decrease in the number of user operations.

[0032] Therefore, in the distribution service in the distribution system 100, when a viewing user performs a user operation, at least one video is selected from a plurality of preset return videos. Then, the selected return video is distributed to the playback terminal 20 used by at least the viewing user who performed the user operation such as posting. An overview of the distribution system 100 in this embodiment will be described below.

[0033] As an example, game video of a game being played between game terminals 70 communicating with each other is distributed to the playback terminal 20 of each viewing user. The game server 60 acquires game screens from the game terminals 70 to generate game video, and also performs control such as management of wins and losses in the game. The game video is recorded in the game server 60, which then uploads it to the distribution server 30. Alternatively, a commentator who provides live commentary of another person's game may upload live video from his or her own server to the distribution server 30. In this case, the viewing user may post comments and donate rewards to the commentator.

[0034] The distribution server 30 distributes the viewing video to the playback terminal 20 of each viewing user. Each viewing user can play and view the viewing video using his / her own playback terminal 20. In addition, each viewing user can perform user operations such as posting a comment using the playback terminal 20. The user operations can be realized by the functions of an application program pre-installed in the playback terminal 20. The application program can be downloaded from the distribution server 30, the management server 10, the game server 60, and other external servers. Alternatively, the user operations can be realized by the functions of a web page provided by the distribution server 30. In addition, the management server 10 manages comments posted by viewing users and donated rewards. Furthermore, the management server 10 transmits operation information including input information such as user identification information of the viewing user and the contents of the comment or reward to the distribution server 30.

[0035] Furthermore, the players play a game on the game terminals 70 that communicate with each other. The game server 60 acquires game screens during the game as needed and records them as game footage. For example, when both players are viewing the same game screen, such as in a fighting game or a sports game, the game server 60 acquires the game screen from one of the game terminals 70. When both players are viewing different game screens, such as in an FPS game or a TPS game, the game server 60 acquires the game screen from each of the game terminals 70. As described above, the game server 60 may perform match management, such as matching players together. Furthermore, the game server 60 may store and manage match history information, such as the number of wins and losses associated with the player identification information of each player, and opponents, as part of player management.

[0036] The game server 60 generates game footage from the acquired game screen and transmits it to the distribution server 30. The game server 60 may also acquire camera footage from a camera that captures the competing players. The game server 60 transmits the acquired camera footage to the distribution server 30 as game footage or as game footage superimposed on a part of the game screen. Alternatively, the distribution server 30 may acquire camera footage from a camera that captures the competing players. In this case, the distribution server 30 generates viewing footage that includes the game footage and the camera footage in a predetermined area, and distributes the viewing footage to the reproduction terminal 20 of the viewing user. Alternatively, the distribution server 30 distributes the acquired camera footage to the reproduction terminal 20 as viewing footage. As another example, the distribution server 30 may distribute the game footage and the camera footage as separate viewing footage, and the two footages are displayed on the reproduction terminal 20, or the reproduction terminal 20 may combine the two footages and display them simultaneously. The two footages can be combined using an application program that is installed in the reproduction terminal 20 in advance. Furthermore, the game server 60 may receive game operation information by the player, NPC control information when an NPC is present, and the like from the game terminal 70. In this case, the game server 60 starts the game and generates game video by regenerating a game screen based on the received game operation information and the like. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of communication from the game terminal 70 to the game server 60. Alternatively, the distribution server 30 may obtain game operation information and the like from the game terminal 70 via the game server 60. In this case, the distribution server 30 generates game video by regenerating a game screen.

[0037] For example, the distribution server 30 distributes live the viewed video and also distributes comments posted by the viewing user to the playback terminal 20 of each viewing user. An application program is installed in the playback terminal 20 of the viewing user in advance, and the viewing user can perform user operations such as posting a comment using the application program. For example, when the viewing user starts the application program, a video area in which the viewed video is displayed and an operation area such as an input field for inputting a comment and a reward icon for donating a reward are displayed on the playback terminal 20. Furthermore, a comment area in which the distributed comments are displayed is displayed on the playback terminal 20. The video area, the operation area, and the comment area are displayed separately, and the viewing user can perform user operations in the operation area. Alternatively, a similar division of areas and input of operations may be realized on a Web page provided by the distribution server 30.

[0038] During the distribution of the viewed video, the viewing user performs user operations such as posting a comment or donating a reward from his / her own playback terminal 20. The playback terminal 20 transmits the contents of the input comment or the contents of the selected reward to the management server 10. The playback terminal 20 may transmit the contents of the comment or the contents of the reward together with user identification information (e.g., a user ID) assigned to each viewing user. Note that the reward provided to the player, etc. is, for example, a consumable medium such as money, tokens, virtual currency, cryptocurrency, electronic money, and points. Alternatively, the reward may be in-game currency that can be used in the game service provided by the game server 60, or a privilege such as an item. Furthermore, the reward may be a tangible object such as an item.

[0039] The management server 10 generates operation information when accepting a user operation. As an example, the management server 10 generates the operation information so as to include the user identification information of the viewing user and input information such as the content of the comment associated with the user identification information. In addition, the management server 10 generates the operation information so as to include the operation identification information (e.g., operation ID) that identifies the type of the selected reward and the user identification information associated with the operation identification information. For example, the management server 10 acquires the user identification information when the viewing user logs in. Alternatively, the distribution server 30 may receive input information such as the content of the comment and generate the operation information. Note that, since it is only necessary to be able to distribute the return data, the management server 10 may acquire terminal identification information (e.g., terminal ID) that identifies the playback terminal 20 of each viewing user from the playback terminal 20 instead of the user identification information. Alternatively, the management server 10 may acquire an IP (Internet Protocol) address or a MAC (Media Access Control) address as the terminal identification information. Then, the management server 10 transmits the generated operation information to the distribution server 30.

[0040] Upon receiving the operation information from the management server 10, the distribution server 30 selects one video from among a plurality of previously stored return videos and distributes it. For example, the distribution server 30 randomly selects video identification information (e.g., video ID) for identifying each return video. Then, the distribution server 30 distributes the return video corresponding to the selected video identification information. Here, the return video is prepared in advance in case the distributor (e.g., the player) cannot return a comment from the viewing user. For example, the return video is a video of about 5 seconds, obtained by shooting a scene in which the player is saying thank you or posing as if to say thank you. Alternatively, a character string or image indicating thank you, or an animation of the player saying thank you or posing as if to say thank you, may be distributed.

[0041] When selecting a return video, it may be possible to refer to which of the competing players the comment posting is directed to. For example, the viewing user may select in advance the player he / she supports or the team to which the player he / she supports belongs. The viewing user may select the player when posting a comment. In this case, the playback terminal 20 transmits information identifying the player to the management server 10. The viewing user may also select the player in advance and store the selection in the management server 10. In this case, the management server 10 stores information identifying the player (e.g., player ID) in association with user identification information. Then, the distribution server 30 refers to the information identifying the player and selects a return video related to the player from the return data group RD (FIG. 2), which is an example of a distribution data group. It is also possible for the viewing user to be able to select both players competing. This satisfies the viewing user who wants to post comments to both players. In this case, the distribution server 30 selects return video related to both players, for example, video obtained by photographing both players, from the return data group RD.

[0042] When the delivery server 30 selects the return video, the delivery server 30 generates a viewing video in such a way that the return video is superimposed on a part of the game video (for example, the upper right of the game video) and delivers the generated video to each playback terminal 20. In this case, the return video is also delivered to viewing users who have not performed a user operation such as posting a comment. However, the delivery server 30 may deliver the return video only to viewing users who have performed a user operation. In the generated viewing video, the game video and the return video are combined. Note that each return video may be generated automatically when the operation information is received. For example, the operation information may include the user name of the viewing user, and the delivery server 30 may generate a return video including the user name. The timing of delivery of the return video is immediately after a user operation such as posting a comment, but may be a timing delayed by a predetermined time from the user operation, or a preset timing such as immediately before the end of the delivery of the viewing video.

[0043] [Distribution system control system] Next, a control system of a distribution system 100 that distributes video to be viewed to each of the playback terminals 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers will be described with reference to Fig. 2. First, the management server 10 includes a server control unit 11, a server storage unit 12, and a communication unit (not shown). When the server control unit 11 receives a user operation by a viewing user from the playback terminal 20, it generates operation information and executes various controls to transmit the information to the distribution server 30. In addition, the server storage unit 12 stores a management program PG1 and management data MD used to manage the viewing users.

[0044] The distribution server 30 includes a distribution control unit 31, a distribution storage unit 32, and a communication unit (not shown). The distribution control unit 31 executes various controls for distributing game video received from the game server 60. The distribution storage unit 32 stores a distribution program PG2 and distribution data DD including a return data group RD. The distribution of the viewing video by the distribution server 30 may be in the form of live distribution, which is video distribution in real time, or in the form of distribution of edited video, which is not real time, as long as the form is a form of simultaneous distribution to each user. Furthermore, the form is not limited to a form of simultaneous distribution, and may be an on-demand distribution form in which distribution is performed individually by the operation of each user.

[0045] The game server 60 includes a game control unit 61, a game storage unit 62, and a communication unit (not shown). The game control unit 61 executes various controls for providing game services to the game terminal 70. Furthermore, the game control unit 61 records a game screen, stores it in the game storage unit 62, and uploads it to the distribution server 30 as a game video. Furthermore, the game storage unit 62 stores a control program for the game server 60, player data which is information related to the player of the game, and game data which is information related to the game. As an example, the player data includes player identification information and personal information of the player. Furthermore, the game data includes various data such as image data, BGM data, and player play data. The play data is data for carrying over content specific to each player, such as the player's play history (for example, past achievements), to the next time onwards.

[0046] The server control unit 11, the delivery control unit 31, and the game control unit 61 are configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, an internal memory required for the operation of the processor, and other peripheral devices. As an example, these processors are a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), which controls the entire device based on a predetermined program and also comprehensively controls various processes.

[0047] The server storage unit 12, the distribution storage unit 32, and the game storage unit 62 are storage devices including computer-readable non-transitory storage media. The server storage unit 12, the distribution storage unit 32, and the game storage unit 62 include storage devices such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) that is a system work memory for the processor to operate, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs and system software, a HDD (Hard Disc Drive), and an SSD (Solid State Drive). The processor can execute various processing operations such as calculations, controls, and judgments according to the programs stored in the ROM or HDD. The management program PG1 and the distribution program PG2 work together to function as the computer program of the distribution system 100. The server storage unit 12, the distribution storage unit 32, and the game storage unit 62 may hold all data in one storage device, or may store data in a distributed manner in multiple storage devices.

[0048] A display device that displays the input state, setting state, measurement results, and various information of the device is connected to the server control unit 11, the distribution control unit 31, and the game control unit 61 by wired or wireless connection. An operation device including a keyboard or various switches for inputting predetermined commands and data is connected to the server storage unit 12, the distribution storage unit 32, and the game storage unit 62 by wired or wireless connection. The server control unit 11, the distribution control unit 31, and the game control unit 61 can also be controlled according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a CF (Compact Flash) card, and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

[0049] The playback terminal 20 includes a playback control unit 21, a playback storage unit 22, an operation unit 23 as an operation device, a display unit 24 as a display device, a speaker 25 as an audio output device, and a communication unit (not shown). The playback storage unit 22 stores a control program for the playback terminal 20 and a playback program for a video to be viewed, which is an example of an application program. The playback control unit 21 controls the playback terminal 20 and executes the playback program to display the video to be viewed on the display unit 24. The operation unit 23 is an operation device such as a controller or a touch panel, and receives input of a user operation by a viewing user. The display unit 24 is a display device such as a television, a display, or a touch panel, and displays the game video to be viewed by the user. The operation unit 23 and the display unit 24 may be integrally configured as a display operation unit such as a touch panel. The speaker 25 outputs related sounds such as game sounds in association with the playback of the game video. The operation unit 23, the display unit 24, and the speaker 25 may be integral with the playback terminal 20 or may be separate.

[0050] The game terminal 70 includes a terminal control unit 71, a terminal storage unit 72, a game operation unit 73, a game display unit 74, and a communication unit (not shown). The terminal storage unit 72 stores a control program for the game terminal 70 and a game program. The terminal control unit 71 controls the game terminal 70 and executes the game program to allow the player to play the game. The game operation unit 73 is an operation device such as a controller or a touch panel, and receives input of game operations by the player. The game operation unit 73 and the game display unit 74 may be integrally configured as a display operation unit such as a touch panel. The game terminal 70 may further include a camera that captures the player and the like. In this case, the game terminal 70 transmits the camera image captured by the camera to the game server 60 together with the game screen. Alternatively, the camera may be provided separately from the game terminal 70. In this case, the camera may transmit the camera image to the game server 60, or may transmit the camera image to the distribution server 30.

[0051] The game display unit 74 is a display device such as a display or a touch panel, and displays a game screen of the game played by the player. The game operation unit 73 and the game display unit 74 may be integrated with the game terminal 70 or may be separate. Furthermore, the game terminal 70 is equipped with an audio output device (not shown). The terminal control unit 71 controls the progress of the game by executing a game program, but may also control the progress of the game in cooperation with the game control unit 61. For example, the game control unit 61 may control at least a part of the progress of the game, and the terminal control unit 71 may display the result on the game display unit 74. Furthermore, the game control unit 61 collects play data from the game terminal 70 and manages the collected play data. Furthermore, the game control unit 61 of the game server 60 collects game images or game operation information for reconstructing game images from the game terminal 70.

[0052] The playback control unit 21 and the terminal control unit 71 are configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, an internal memory required for the operation of the processor, and other peripheral devices. As an example, these processors are a CPU or an MPU, and control the entire device based on a predetermined program and also comprehensively control various processes. Note that the playback control unit 21 and the terminal control unit 71 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, DVD, CF card, or USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

[0053] The reproduction storage unit 22 and the terminal storage unit 72 are storage devices including a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium. The reproduction storage unit 22 and the terminal storage unit 72 include a RAM, which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a storage device such as a ROM, HDD, or SSD that stores programs and system software. The processor can execute various processing operations such as calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in the ROM or HDD. The reproduction storage unit 22 and the terminal storage unit 72 may hold all data in one storage device, or may store data in a distributed manner in multiple storage devices.

[0054] [Management Server] The server control unit 11 of the management server 10 includes an operation acceptance unit 111, which is an example of an operation acceptance means that accepts user operations input from each playback terminal 20. The server control unit 11 further includes an information generation unit 112, which is an example of an information generation means that generates operation information, and a consideration acceptance unit 113, which is an example of a consideration acceptance means that accepts payment of a consideration for a user operation. The operation acceptance unit 111, the information generation unit 112, and the consideration acceptance unit 113 are logical devices realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the server control unit 11 and the management program PG1 as a software resource. The user operation is an operation performed in relation to viewing a video, and an example is an operation of inputting a comment or donating a reward.

[0055] The operation acceptance unit 111 accepts user operations by the viewing user input to the playback terminal 20. Specifically, the operation acceptance unit 111 acquires operation identification information (e.g., operation ID) for identifying the type of user operation, and terminal identification information or user identification information from the playback terminal 20. Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 111 acquires input information such as the contents of comments from the playback terminal 20. Then, the operation acceptance unit 111 passes the acquired information to the information generation unit 112. Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 111 can accept operations such as changing the playback speed of the viewed video, changing the size of the video area, and starting or stopping playback as user operations. As an example, the viewing user can perform each operation by selecting an icon or the like arranged on top of or alongside the video area on the distribution screen.

[0056] Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 111 may accept an input operation of a special command as a user operation. For example, when a viewing user inputs a specific keyword set in advance in a comment, the operation acceptance unit 111 acquires operation identification information corresponding to the special command from the playback terminal 20. Then, the operation acceptance unit 111 passes the acquired operation identification information to the information generation unit 112. The information generation unit 112 generates operation information so as to include the acquired operation identification information. Alternatively, the operation acceptance unit 111 may determine whether or not a specific keyword set in advance is included in the comment. In this case, when the operation acceptance unit 111 determines that the specific keyword is included, it passes the operation identification information corresponding to the special command to the information generation unit 112. Then, the distribution server 30 distributes a return video corresponding to the keyword to the playback terminal 20.

[0057] This allows the viewing user to enjoy the treasure hunt of searching for special commands. If other selection conditions, such as the selection conditions for the return video corresponding to the operation attribute described below and the selection conditions for the return video corresponding to the special command, overlap, the selection conditions for the return video corresponding to the special command may be given priority. In this way, the viewing user will suddenly see an unfamiliar return video, which will give him a fresh feeling.

[0058] The information generating unit 112 generates operation information, and the server control unit 11 transmits the generated operation information to the distribution server 30. Specifically, the information generating unit 112 refers to the management data MD and generates operation information based on the information accepted from the operation accepting unit 111. For example, the information generating unit 112 identifies attribute specifying information by referring to the management data MD, and generates operation information so as to include the attribute specifying information. As an example, the attribute is an operation attribute of a user operation, a comment attribute of a comment, or a user attribute of each user. And the attribute specifying information indicates the operation attribute, the comment attribute, or the user attribute.

[0059] For example, the operation attribute is an attribute corresponding to each type of user operation such as inputting a comment or donating a reward. Furthermore, the attribute corresponding to the donation of a reward differs depending on the amount or type of the reward. For example, the information generating unit 112 can acquire operation identification information corresponding to the amount of the reward from the operation receiving unit 111 and include it in the operation information. Furthermore, the operation attribute may differ for each player who is the target of the comment or the donation of a reward. For example, the operation identification information may be different between the input of a comment to player A and the input of a comment to player B who is playing against player A. Furthermore, the comment attribute is an attribute classified according to the nature of the comment, such as good, bad, interesting, or boring. Furthermore, the user attribute is an attribute corresponding to each user, such as gender and age.

[0060] For example, the attribute identification information indicating the operation attribute is the operation identification information, and the information generating unit 112 acquires the operation identification information from the operation receiving unit 111. For example, the information generating unit 112 generates the operation information so as to include the operation identification information that identifies the type of the selected reward and the user identification information associated with the operation identification information. Furthermore, the attribute identification information indicating the comment attribute is the comment identification information (e.g., a comment ID), and the information generating unit 112 determines the content of the comment and includes the comment identification information in the operation information. For example, the information generating unit 112 analyzes the sentences included in the comment, and if the comment includes characters that indicate expectation or support, such as "Do your best," "I'm looking forward to it," and "Nice catch," includes the comment identification information indicating a positive nature in the operation information. Furthermore, if the comment includes characters that indicate heckling or bashing, the information generating unit 112 includes the comment identification information indicating a negative nature in the operation information. Then, if the comment includes only characters that cannot be classified as positive or negative, the information generating unit 112 includes the comment identification information indicating a neutral nature in the operation information.

[0061] Furthermore, if the comment contains characters capable of identifying the player, such as the name of the player, the information generating unit 112 includes comment identification information indicating the player in the operation information. Alternatively, the attribute identifying information may indicate that the return data is not to be distributed. In this case, the selection unit 131 (described later) of the distribution server 30 does not select the return data, and the return data is not distributed. For example, if the comment contains a non-existent keyword, such as the name of a player in the previous game, the information generating unit 112 includes comment identification information indicating that the comment should be ignored and that the return data is not to be distributed in the operation information. Note that the information generating unit 112 may generate the operation information so as to include the user identification information of the viewing user and the content of the comment associated with the user identification information.

[0062] Furthermore, the attribute specification information indicating the user attribute is attribute identification information (e.g., attribute ID), and the information generating unit 112 includes the attribute identification information in the operation information by referring to the user information UI in the management data MD. For example, the user information UI includes the gender or age of the user associated with the user identification information. The information generating unit 112 acquires the user identification information from the operation receiving unit 111, and identifies the gender or age as the user information UI corresponding to the user identification information. Then, the information generating unit 112 generates the operation information so as to include the attribute identification information corresponding to the identified user information UI.

[0063] Furthermore, the information generating unit 112 may include history identification information (e.g., history ID) as an operation history in the operation information with reference to the user information UI. For example, the user information UI is information associated with the user identification information, and includes information on the operation history of the viewing user, such as the number of comments posted in a predetermined period or the total donation amount of the reward. The information generating unit 112 acquires the user identification information from the operation receiving unit 111, and identifies the number of posts or the total donation amount from the user information UI corresponding to the user identification information. Then, the information generating unit 112 generates the operation information so as to include history identification information corresponding to the identified number of posts or total donation amount. For example, when the information generating unit 112 determines that the identified number of posts is more than a predetermined number of times, the information generating unit 112 includes history identification information indicating that the number of posts is more than the predetermined number of times. When the information generating unit 112 determines that the identified number of posts is less than the predetermined number of times, the information generating unit 112 includes history identification information indicating that the number of posts is less than the predetermined number of times.

[0064] When the operation receiving unit 111 receives operation identification information corresponding to the donation or provision of a reward from the playback terminal 20, the consideration receiving unit 113 determines that a payment of a reward will occur. Then, the consideration receiving unit 113 displays a payment screen (not shown) for the user operation on the display unit 24 of the playback terminal 20. The viewing user selects the displayed amount of reward via the payment screen. Then, the playback terminal 20 transmits payment information including unique charging target information that identifies the selected user operation to a payment server (not shown). The payment server performs a payment process to consume the charging target amount corresponding to the charging target information, and transmits the result of the payment process to the playback terminal 20 and the management server 10. Note that the consideration receiving unit 113 may display a link icon of a Web page provided by the payment server on the display unit 24. When the user touches the link icon, a Web page provided by the payment server is displayed, and the payment process is performed via the Web page. In addition to money, users can pay by consuming information related to card media such as credit cards or debit cards, or consumable media such as tokens, virtual currencies, crypto assets, electronic money, and points.

[0065] When the payment is completed, the playback terminal 20 displays the result of the payment process on the display unit 24. When the payment is completed and the fee is paid, the fee acceptance unit 113 determines that the payment of the fee is completed, and notifies the information generation unit 112 of the completion of the payment. Then, the information generation unit 112 generates operation information including operation identification information that identifies the type of reward selected. When the server control unit 11 transmits the operation information to the distribution server 30, the distribution server 30 distributes an image or video including the content of the return for the reward to the playback terminal 20. Furthermore, the fee acceptance unit 113 may accept payment of the fee required for viewing the viewing video or return data.

[0066] [Distribution server] The distribution control unit 31 of the distribution server 30 includes a selection unit 131, which is an example of a selection means for selecting at least one return data from a return data group RD (FIG. 3) including a plurality of return data in response to a user operation. Here, the return data is video, audio, image, a combination of these, etc. The selection unit 131 may select a plurality of return data, in which case a plurality of return data are distributed. Furthermore, the return data group RD may include a sub-data group consisting of a plurality of return data.

[0067] The delivery control unit 31 also includes a delivery unit 132 which is an example of a data delivery means for delivering the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 where the user operation was input. The delivery control unit 31 also includes an acquisition unit 133 which functions as an attribute acquisition means for acquiring attribute specifying information, an information acquisition means for acquiring terminal identification information for identifying the playback terminal 20 where the user operation was input, or a history acquisition means for acquiring an operation history of the viewing user who is the input user who input the user operation. The selection unit 131, the delivery unit 132, and the acquisition unit 133 are logical devices realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the delivery control unit 31 and the delivery program PG2 as a software resource.

[0068] As an example, the selection unit 131 randomly selects at least one return data from the return data group RD. Specifically, the server storage unit 12 stores data identification information (e.g., data ID) for identifying the return data so as to correspond to each of the return data. Then, when the acquisition unit 133 acquires the operation information from the management server 10, the selection unit 131 randomly specifies the data identification information using a random number table or the like. Then, the selection unit 131 selects the return data corresponding to the specified data identification information. The distribution unit 132 distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation has been input. Note that the distribution unit 132 may distribute the return data only to the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation has been input, or may distribute the return data to the playback terminals 20 of all viewing users.

[0069] The return data group RD may include a plurality of sub-data groups each associated with a different attribute. In this case, the selection unit 131 identifies an attribute based on the attribute identification information, and selects return data from the sub-data groups associated with the identified attribute. The attributes associated with the sub-data groups may be partially common. Specifically, the attributes are divided based on the operation attributes of the user operation, the user attributes of each user, or the comment attributes of the comments. Each of the sub-data groups is configured to include a plurality of return data associated with a predetermined common attribute. For example, the return data group RD shown in FIG. 3 includes a sub-data group G1 including return data 1 associated with data ID 1 and attributes 1 and 3, and return data 2 associated with data ID 2 and attributes 1 and 3. Furthermore, the return data group RD includes a sub-data group G2 including return data 1 and 2, and return data 3 associated with data ID 3 and attributes 2 and 3. Different attribute identification information is assigned to each of the attributes 1 to 3. When the attributes are user attributes of the viewing user, for example, attribute 1 indicates female, attribute 2 indicates male, and attribute 3 indicates an age in the twenties.

[0070] The acquisition unit 133, which functions as an attribute acquisition means, acquires attribute identification information from the management server 10 as attribute specification information. Then, the acquisition unit 133 passes the attribute identification information to the selection unit 131. The selection unit 131 identifies a user attribute based on the attribute identification information, and selects return data from a sub-data group associated with the identified user attribute, for example, gender. In the example of FIG. 3, if the identified attribute is female, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the sub-data group G1. That is, the return data 1 and return data 2 included in the sub-data group G1 are images, sounds, or videos for women. Note that the selection of return data by the selection unit 131 can be a combination of multiple selection methods. For example, the selection unit 131 may identify the sub-data group G1 based on the identified user attribute, and randomly select return data from the sub-data group G1.

[0071] As an example, the sub-data group of the return data group RD includes return videos prepared according to personal information such as gender, age, place of residence, place of origin, high school, and alma mater, or attributes of the viewing user such as being a VIP member or a paid member, and the selection unit 131 selects the return video from the sub-data group. For example, if there is an attribute common to the pre-registered personal information of the player and the personal information of the viewing user, the operation information includes attribute identification information corresponding to the common attribute. An example of a common attribute is the alma mater or the prefecture of residence when the player and the viewing user have the same alma mater or place of origin. In this case, the sub-data group selected includes return videos prepared according to the alma mater or place of origin, and the selection unit 131 selects the return video from the sub-data group. The common attribute is determined by comparing information necessary for comparison among the personal information of the viewing user in the user information UI with information necessary for comparison among the personal information of the player stored in advance in the server storage unit 12. For example, the personal information of the player is stored in association with information identifying the player. Moreover, the personal information of the viewing user is stored in association with the user identification information.

[0072] For example, if the viewing user has a common hometown, the sub-data group includes a return video in which the player speaks the dialect of that region. When the selection unit 131 selects such a return video, the viewing user who has viewed the return video can feel a sense of closeness to the player. In addition, the viewing user can become a VIP member by, for example, satisfying a condition such as the total amount of money spent on the distribution service reaching a predetermined amount. As another example, the viewing user can become a VIP member when the viewing user is a monthly member or a premium member. When the viewing user becomes a VIP member, a VIP attribute is assigned to the user information UI of the viewing user. For example, when a viewing user who is a VIP member posts a comment, the selection unit 131 selects a return video from a sub-data group including a special return video for VIP members. Alternatively, only one type of special return video may be prepared, and the selection unit 131 may select the special return video.

[0073] The attribute identification information may be different for each player, for each personal information of the viewing user, or for each type of member. Furthermore, multiple attribute identification information may be included in the operation information of one user operation. For example, the data identification information of the return data may be associated with attribute identification information indicating a player, attribute identification information indicating personal information, and attribute identification information indicating a type of member. The attribute identification information indicating the type of member indicates whether the return video is for a VIP member or not. Furthermore, the attribute identification information indicating a player indicates which player the return video is related to. Note that the attribute identification information indicating a player may be associated with each data identification information for all return videos.

[0074] Also, when the attribute is an operation attribute of a user operation, for example, attribute 1 indicates the input of a comment, attribute 2 indicates a donation of a high reward, and attribute 3 indicates a donation of a low reward. The acquisition unit 133, which functions as an attribute acquisition means, acquires operation identification information from the management server 10 as attribute identification information. Then, the acquisition unit 133 passes the operation identification information to the selection unit 131. The selection unit 131 identifies the operation attribute based on the operation identification information, and selects return data from a sub-data group associated with the identified operation attribute, for example, the input of a comment. In the example of FIG. 3, if the identified attribute is the input of a comment, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the sub-data group G1. That is, the return data 1 and return data 2 included in the sub-data group G1 are returns for the input of a comment.

[0075] That is, the sub-data groups of the return data group RD include return images prepared according to the type of user operation such as posting a comment, and the selection unit 131 selects a return image from the sub-data group. For example, when the management server 10 accepts an input of a comment, the selection unit 131 selects a return image from the sub-data group including a return image for the comment. Also, when the management server 10 accepts a donation of a reward, the selection unit 131 selects a return image from the sub-data group including a return image for the reward. Furthermore, when the reward is a gift, for example, when a viewing user pays a price to purchase a gift and provides the gift to a player, the selection unit 131 may select a return image from the sub-data group including a return image according to the type of gift. Also, the selection unit 131 may select a return image from the sub-data group including a return image according to the amount of the reward.

[0076] Furthermore, when the attribute is a comment attribute of a comment, for example, attribute 1 indicates a positive nature, attribute 2 indicates a negative nature, and attribute 3 indicates a neutral nature. The acquisition unit 133, which functions as an attribute acquisition means, acquires comment identification information from the management server 10 as attribute identification information. Then, the acquisition unit 133 passes the comment identification information to the selection unit 131. The selection unit 131 identifies a comment attribute based on the comment identification information, and selects return data from a sub-data group associated with the identified comment attribute, for example, a positive nature. In the example of FIG. 3, if the identified attribute is a positive nature, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the sub-data group G1. That is, the return data 1 and return data 2 included in the sub-data group G1 have contents that serve as a return for a comment of a positive nature.

[0077] That is, the sub-data groups of the return data group RD include return videos prepared according to the contents of the comment, and the selection unit 131 selects the return video from the sub-data group. For example, if the management server 10 analyzes the comment and determines that the comment is of a positive nature, such as expectation or support, the selection unit 131 selects the return video from the sub-data group including the return video for the comment of a positive nature. On the other hand, if the comment is determined to be of a negative nature, such as heckling or bashing, the selection unit 131 selects the return video from the sub-data group including the return video for the comment of a negative nature. Alternatively, if the comment is determined to be of a negative nature, the selection unit 131 does not need to select the return video. In this case, the comment identification information is information indicating that the return data will not be distributed.

[0078] Furthermore, the comment attribute may indicate that the comment is directed to a specific person. For example, when the management server 10 analyzes the comment and finds that it contains characters that identify a person, for example, a specific player, the operation information includes comment identification information that indicates that the comment is directed to that player. Then, the selection unit 131 selects a return video from a sub-data group that includes a return video related to that player. Note that if the player does not exist, for example, if the player was a player in the previous game, the operation information includes comment identification information that indicates that return data will not be distributed, and the selection unit 131 does not select a return video.

[0079] Furthermore, the return data group RD may include multiple sub-data groups each associated with a different behavior type. For example, in the return data group RD shown in FIG. 3, the return data is associated with behavior types of types 1 to 3. The return data group RD includes a sub-data group G3 including return data 4 associated with data ID 4 and types 1 and 2, and return data 5 associated with data ID 5 and types 1 and 2. The return data group RD also includes a sub-data group G4 including return data 4, return data 5, and return data 6 associated with data ID 6 and types 2 and 3. As an example, type 1 indicates that the number of posts within a predetermined period exceeds a predetermined number, and type 2 indicates that the number of posts within a predetermined period does not exceed a predetermined number. Type 3 indicates that the total donation amount exceeds a predetermined amount. Different history identification information is assigned to each of types 1 to 3.

[0080] The acquisition unit 133, which functions as a history acquisition means, acquires history identification information as an operation history from the management server 10. Then, the acquisition unit 133 passes the history identification information to the selection unit 131. The selection unit 131 determines the behavior type of the input user based on the attribute identification information. Furthermore, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the sub-data group associated with the determined behavior type. In the example of FIG. 3, if the identified behavior type is the number of posts within a predetermined period exceeding a predetermined number, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the sub-data group G3. That is, the return data 4 and return data 5 included in the sub-data group G3 are images, sounds, or videos intended for viewing users who post frequently.

[0081] Furthermore, when the operation acceptance unit 111 accepts an input operation of a special command, the selection unit 131 selects return data associated with the special command from the return data group RD. Specifically, when the selection unit 131 acquires operation identification information corresponding to the special command from the acquisition unit 133, the selection unit 131 identifies an operation attribute based on the operation identification information. Then, the selection unit 131 selects return data from the identified operation attribute, for example, from a sub-data group associated with the input of the special command.

[0082] Note that multiple conditions may be set for the selection of return data. For example, a single comment posted by a viewing user may meet multiple selection conditions. In this case, multiple types of attribute identification information are included in the operation information. Then, the selection unit 131 selects return data according to a preset priority order so that an arbitrary attribute is given priority.

[0083] In order to provide a distribution service, the distribution unit 132 generates viewing video by combining a game video and a distribution screen, and distributes the generated viewing video to the playback terminal 20. As an example, the distribution unit 132 displays the game video and the distribution screen on a Web page accessed by the viewing user. Then, the viewing user operates an input field, an operation icon, and the like displayed by an application program of the playback terminal 20 to input a user operation. Alternatively, the viewing user may operate an input field, an operation icon, and the like on the distribution screen to input a user operation. In addition, the distribution unit 132 distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation has been input. As an example, the distribution unit 132 generates viewing video by combining a return video, which is an example of return data, with a game video, and distributes the generated viewing video to the playback terminal 20. The distribution unit 132 may distribute the return data only to the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation has been input, or may distribute the return data to all playback terminals 20 including the playback terminal 20. Furthermore, the distribution unit 132 may distribute the return data separately from the viewed video, or may distribute the return data without being combined with the viewed video.

[0084] When the return data, for example, the return video, and the game video are separate, the area in which the return video is played back does not necessarily need to be superimposed on a part of the game video. For example, the return video may be displayed alongside the game video at a position that does not affect the display of the game video on the distribution screen. Furthermore, when the return video and the game video are separate, the distribution server 30 may distribute the game video and the return video separately. In this case, the playback terminal 20 may display the game video and the return video separately, or may display the game video by compositing the return video. Furthermore, the return data may be downloaded to the playback terminal 20 in advance before viewing begins. In this case, the distribution unit 132 transmits data identification information of the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to the playback terminal 20. Then, the playback terminal 20 displays the return data stored in the playback storage unit 22 based on the data identification information. In this case, the playback terminal 20 may also display the game video and the return data separately, or may display the game video by compositing the return data.

[0085] Furthermore, the playback terminal 20 may store, for example, video identification information as the data identification information acquired from the distribution server 30. In this case, the distribution storage unit 32 stores the video identification information of the return video selected in response to the user operation by the viewing user in association with the user identification information of the viewing user. Then, when the viewing user logs in from the playback terminal 20, the return video once selected can be viewed at any time. Furthermore, the playback terminal 20 may store only the video identification information, or may store the return video corresponding to the video identification information together with the video identification information. Furthermore, the viewing user may be allowed to view the return video at any time for a certain period after the return video has been selected, even if the viewing user does not post a comment or the like. However, even during the viewing period of the return video once selected, the return video once selected may be reselected when reposting a comment or the like. This makes it possible to prevent the return video from being exhausted even if the viewing user performs a large number of user operations in a short period of time.

[0086] When the return data is synthesized with the viewing video, the distribution unit 132 also functions as a screen generating means. The screen generating means acquires data of a screen configuration included in the distribution data DD of the distribution storage unit 32, and generates a distribution screen to be displayed simultaneously with the game video. The distribution screen is generated as an image or a video. For example, the screen generating means generates a distribution screen in various formats such as MPEG format. As an example, the screen generating means arranges the generated distribution screen by superimposing it on the game video. Specifically, the screen generating means superimposes an upper layer including the distribution screen on a lower layer including a display area of ​​the game video. The upper layer is configured as a transparent image so as not to interfere with the display of the game video. Then, on the upper layer, a display column for comments and the like are displayed at the timing when each is displayed. For example, when a comment is posted, the content of the comment posted on the upper layer is displayed. Alternatively, the screen generating means may arrange the distribution screen so as not to overlap with the game video.

[0087] Furthermore, when the selection unit 131 selects the return data, the screen generation means superimposes the selected return data, for example, an upper layer including the return video, on a lower layer including a display area of ​​the game video. As a result, the return video is displayed so as to be superimposed on a part of the game video. Alternatively, the screen generation means may arrange the return video so as not to overlap with the game video.

[0088] Furthermore, when the acquisition unit 133 as an information acquisition means acquires terminal identification information for identifying the playback terminal 20 to which a user operation has been input, the distribution unit 132 distributes the return data to the playback terminal 20 specified based on the terminal identification information. As an example, the distribution unit 132 acquires a terminal ID from the acquisition unit 133, and distributes the return data only to the playback terminal 20 specified by the terminal ID.

[0089] The distribution system 100 may further acquire related video captured by a camera (not shown), which is an example of an imaging device, and distribute it to each reproduction terminal 20. For example, a transmitting device that transmits video related to the game, such as camera video, player video, and live video, which are examples of related video, and a camera are installed at the venue of a game tournament. As an example, the transmitting device is a computer device that can be connected to a camera and a network 50, and transmits the related video acquired from the camera to the distribution server 30. Then, the distribution server 30 distributes the acquired related video to each reproduction terminal 20. Alternatively, the imaging device may be a camera installed in the game terminal 70. The game terminal 70 transmits the related video to the distribution server 30 directly or via the game server 60.

[0090] [Processing flow by distribution system] The processing flow by the distribution system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The distribution system 100 starts processing when a predetermined start condition is satisfied. For example, in the case of live distribution, the distribution system 100 starts processing when the distribution server 30 acquires game video from the game server 60.

[0091] The distribution control unit 31 of the distribution server 30 acquires game video from the game server 60 (S101). Then, the distribution unit 132 of the distribution server 30 generates a viewing video (S102). Next, the distribution unit 132 distributes the viewing video to the playback terminal 20 (S103). Then, the playback terminal 20 displays the viewing video on the display unit 24. When a viewing user logs in to the management server 10 and inputs a user operation from the playback terminal 20, the operation acceptance unit 111 of the management server 10 accepts the user operation (S201). Then, the information generation unit 112 of the management server 10 generates operation information (S202) and transmits the generated operation information to the distribution server 30 (S203). Thereafter, if there is a new user operation (YES in S204), the operation acceptance unit 111 accepts the user operation (S201). On the other hand, if there is no new user operation (NO in S204), the management server 10 ends the process.

[0092] Also, when the operation information is not acquired from the management server 10 (NO in S104), the distribution unit 132 continues to generate the video to be viewed (S102) and distribute the video to be viewed (S103). On the other hand, when the acquisition unit 133 of the distribution server 30 acquires the operation information (YES in S104), for example, the selection unit 131 randomly identifies the data identification information of the return data. Then, the selection unit 131 selects the return data corresponding to the identified data identification information from the return data group RD (S105). Also, the selection unit 131 may select a sub-data group including a return video prepared according to attributes such as a hometown, and select a return video from the selected sub-data group. Next, the distribution unit 132 distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation was input (S106). Note that the selection unit 131 may select the return data from the sub-data group selected according to each of the above-mentioned selection modes.

[0093] Thereafter, when the distribution is to end due to a reason such as the viewing video being played to the end (YES in S107), the distribution system 100 ends the process. On the other hand, when the distribution is to continue (NO in S107), the distribution unit 132 continues generating the viewing video (S102) and distributing the viewing video (S103).

[0094] According to the first embodiment described above, the return data delivered to the playback terminal 20 as a return for a user operation is selected from the return data group RD including a plurality of return data. This allows the return data selected from the plurality of return data to be delivered in response to the operation of the user viewing the video, thereby increasing the satisfaction of the user.

[0095] The distribution system 100 that distributes the viewing video to each of the playback terminals 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers may be configured to include a game terminal 70, which is an example of a game device. In this case, the distribution system 100 includes a distribution unit 132, which is an example of a video distribution means that generates viewing video from game video of a game provided by the game terminal 70 and distributes the viewing video to each of the playback terminals 20. Furthermore, the distribution system 100 includes an operation acceptance unit 111 that accepts a user operation input from each of the playback terminals 20, and a selection unit 131 that selects at least one return data from a return data group including a plurality of return data in response to the user operation. The distribution unit 132 also functions as a data distribution means that distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation was input. Even in such a distribution system 100, return data selected from a plurality of return data can be distributed in response to an operation of a user who watches the viewing video, thereby increasing the satisfaction of the user.

[0096] Furthermore, one server device or one device having a server function may function as the distribution system 100. For example, the device or device includes an operation receiving unit 111 that receives a user operation input from each playback terminal 20, and a selection unit 131 that selects at least one return data from a return data group RD including a plurality of return data in response to the user operation. The device or device further includes a distribution unit 132, which is an example of a data distribution means that distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the user terminal on which the user operation was input.

[0097] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In the description of the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and components already described will be given the same reference numbers and their description will be omitted. Except as otherwise described, components given the same reference numbers perform substantially the same operations and functions, and have substantially the same effects.

[0098] In the second embodiment, when selecting return data from a return data group, the selection unit 131 performs a lottery according to the set rarity. The selection unit 131 identifies data identification information by lottery, and selects return data corresponding to the identified data identification information. For example, a rarity is set for each of the multiple return data, and the rarity is associated with the data identification information. The rarity may be stored in the distribution storage unit 32 in the form of a table or list, or the rarity may be included in the return data. Then, the selection unit 131 performs a lottery according to the rarity to select the return data.

[0099] That is, a winning probability in a lottery is set in advance for each return data as a rarity. The selection unit 131 performs a lottery according to the winning probability to identify data identification information. Then, the selection unit 131 selects the return data corresponding to the identified data identification information. This lottery method can be realized by a known method. In addition, the lottery may be performed multiple times so that the return data that has been won once in the lottery is excluded from the target of the next lottery. As a result, if the lottery is performed the same number of times as the number of return data, all the return data will be won. Therefore, if the lottery is performed multiple times, the desired return data will be selected without fail. As a result, even if the return data has a high rarity and a low winning probability, it will always be won if a predetermined condition is satisfied. Therefore, the motivation of the viewing user to perform the user operation can be increased.

[0100] Furthermore, the selection unit 131 may execute a lottery on the condition that the operation information includes predetermined attribute identification information. For example, the selection unit 131 executes a lottery when the operation information includes attribute identification information indicating that the viewing user is a VIP member. When a viewing user who is a VIP member posts a comment, the selection unit 131 selects return data selected as a result of execution of the lottery from a sub-data group consisting of multiple return data for VIP members.

[0101] [Processing flow by distribution system] A process flow by the distribution system 100 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The distribution system 100 starts the process when a predetermined start condition is satisfied. For example, in the case of live distribution, the distribution system 100 starts the process when the distribution server 30 acquires game video from the game server 60.

[0102] The distribution control unit 31 of the distribution server 30 acquires game video from the game server 60 (S301). Then, the distribution unit 132 of the distribution server 30 generates viewing video (S302). Next, the distribution unit 132 distributes the viewing video to the playback terminal 20 (S303). Then, the playback terminal 20 displays the viewing video on the display unit 24. When the viewing user logs in to the management server 10 and inputs a user operation from the playback terminal 20, the operation acceptance unit 111 of the management server 10 accepts the user operation (S201). Then, the information generation unit 112 of the management server 10 generates operation information (S202) and transmits the generated operation information to the distribution server 30 (S203). Thereafter, if there is a new user operation (YES in S204), the operation acceptance unit 111 accepts the user operation (S201). On the other hand, if there is no new user operation (NO in S204), the management server 10 ends the process.

[0103] Furthermore, if no operation information is acquired from the management server 10 (NO in S304), the distribution unit 132 continues generating the video to be viewed (S302) and distributing the video to be viewed (S303). On the other hand, if the acquisition unit 133 of the distribution server 30 acquires operation information (YES in S304), the selection unit 131 identifies data identification information of the return data by lottery (S305). Then, the selection unit 131 selects return data corresponding to the data identification information according to the lottery result from the return data group RD (S306). Next, the distribution unit 132 distributes the return data selected by the selection unit 131 to at least the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation was input (S307).

[0104] Thereafter, if the distribution is to end because the viewing video has been played to the end or for other reasons (YES in S308), the distribution system 100 ends the process. On the other hand, if the distribution is to continue (NO in S308), the distribution unit 132 continues generating the viewing video (S302) and distributing the viewing video (S303).

[0105] According to the second embodiment described above, the return data delivered to the playback terminal 20 as a return for a user operation is selected from the return data group RD including a plurality of return data according to a lottery result. This allows the return data selected from the plurality of return data to be delivered in response to the operation of the user viewing the viewed video, thereby increasing the user's satisfaction. Furthermore, the viewing user can be given the motivation for the user operation, that is, the chance of winning return data with high rarity.

[0106] In the second embodiment, the selection unit 131 executes a lottery to select return data from the return data group RD or the sub-data group. Therefore, the selection unit 131 may select a sub-data group associated with the attribute or behavior type specified in the first embodiment as a population, and execute a lottery to select return data from the sub-data group. Furthermore, the distribution server 30 may store data identification information of return data that has been won once in a lottery in association with user identification information for a predetermined period of time. This allows the user to repeatedly view return data that has been won once, such as a return video, without performing another user operation, such as donating a reward.

[0107] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The present invention also includes inventions that have been modified without going against the present invention, and inventions equivalent to the present invention. In addition, each embodiment and each modified form can be appropriately combined without going against the present invention.

[0108] For example, the selection unit 131 may be provided in the game terminal 70. When a comment is posted, the management server 10 transmits operation information to the game terminal 70. A return data group RD including a plurality of return data is stored in advance in the game terminal 70, and the selection unit 131 of the game terminal 70 selects return data from the return data group RD. The game terminal 70 then displays the return data in a part of the game screen, and the game server 60 acquires the game screen including the return data as a game image. The distribution server 30 then acquires the game image from the game server 60, generates a viewing image, and distributes it to the playback terminal 20. As a result, the return data is displayed on the game screen, so that the player can also grasp the status of the comment posting, etc., through the game screen.

[0109] Furthermore, at least a part of each functional unit may be provided in any of the management server 10, the distribution server 30, the game server 60, and other external servers. The functional units provided in different servers cooperate to function as the distribution system 100. In this case, the control programs of the servers cooperate to function as the computer program of the distribution system 100.

[0110] Various aspects derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, reference symbols shown in the accompanying drawings will be used. However, the reference symbols are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated forms.

[0111] The distribution system 100 is a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers, and comprises an operation receiving means 111 that receives user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means 131 that selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group RD that includes a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means 132 that distributes the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0112] The control method of the distribution system 100 is a control method of a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers, and accepts user operations input from each user terminal, selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group RD containing a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and distributes the selected distribution data to at least the user terminal from which the user operation was input.

[0113] The computer programs PG1 and PG2 of the distribution system 100 are computer programs of a distribution system that includes computers 11 and 31 and distributes viewing video to each of the user terminals 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers, and cause the computers to function as an operation accepting means 111 that accepts user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means 131 that selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group RD that includes a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means 132 that distributes the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0114] The distribution system 100 is a distribution system that distributes viewing video to each user terminal 20 of a plurality of users who are viewers, and includes a game device 70, a video distribution means 132 that generates the viewing video from game video of a game provided by the game device and distributes the viewing video to each user terminal, an operation receiving means 111 that receives user operations input from each user terminal, a selection means 131 that selects at least one distribution data from a distribution data group RD including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation, and a data distribution means 132 that distributes the distribution data selected by the selection means to at least the user terminal to which the user operation was input.

[0115] As a result, the distribution data distributed to the playback terminal 20 in return for the user's operation is selected from the distribution data group RD including a plurality of distribution data. Therefore, in response to the operation of the user viewing the viewing video, the distribution data selected from the plurality of distribution data is distributed, thereby increasing the user's satisfaction.

[0116] The selection means 131 randomly selects the distribution data. In addition, a rarity is set for each of the plurality of distribution data, and the selection means 131 selects the distribution data by drawing lots according to the rarity. This provides the viewing user with the motivation to perform user operations, that is, to win distribution data with high rarity.

[0117] The distribution data group RD includes a plurality of sub-data groups each associated with a different attribute, and further includes an attribute acquisition means 133 for acquiring attribute identification information for identifying the attribute, and the selection means 131 identifies the attribute based on the attribute identification information, and selects the distribution data from among the sub-data groups associated with the identified attribute.

[0118] The attributes are divided based on the operation attribute of the user operation, the attribute identification information indicates the operation attribute, and the selection means 131 identifies the operation attribute based on the attribute identification information and selects the distribution data from among the sub-data groups associated with the identified operation attribute.

[0119] The operation accepting means 111 accepts a comment input operation as the user operation, and the attributes are divided based on the comment attribute of the comment, and the selecting means 131 identifies the comment attribute based on the attribute identification information and selects the distribution data from a sub-data group associated with the comment attribute.

[0120] The attributes are divided based on the user attributes of each user, the attribute identification information indicates the user attributes, and the selection means 131 identifies the user attributes based on the attribute identification information and selects the distribution data from among the sub-data groups associated with the identified user attributes.

[0121] This allows the selection of distribution data from the distribution data group RD including distribution data related to the attribute. This makes it possible to interest the viewing user and to further increase the user's satisfaction. Note that, when the attribute specification information indicates that the distribution data is not to be distributed, the selection means 131 does not select the distribution data.

[0122] The apparatus further includes an information acquisition means 133 for acquiring terminal identification information for identifying the user terminal 20 to which the user operation is input, and the data distribution means 132 distributes the distribution data to the user terminal specified based on the terminal identification information. This makes it possible to distribute the distribution data to the playback terminal 20 to which the user operation is input.

[0123] The distribution system 100 further acquires related video captured by an imaging device and distributes it to each user terminal 20. This makes it possible to distribute the captured game-related video in addition to the game video.

[0124] The delivery data group RD includes a plurality of sub-data groups each associated with a different behavior type, and further includes a history acquisition means 133 for acquiring an operation history of an input user who inputs the user operation, and the selection means 131 determines the behavior type of the input user based on the operation history and selects the delivery data from among the sub-data groups associated with the behavior type. This allows delivery data to be selected from the delivery data group RD including delivery data related to the behavior type. This makes it possible to interest the viewing user and further increase the user's satisfaction.

[0125] The operation receiving means 111 receives an input operation of a special command as the user operation, and the selecting means 131 selects the distribution data associated with the special command from the distribution data group RD. This allows the viewing user to enjoy searching for the special command, like a treasure hunt. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 11: Server control unit (computer) 20: Playback terminal (user terminal) 31: Distribution control section (computer) 70: Game terminal (game device) 100: Distribution system 111: Operation receiving unit (operation receiving means) 131: Selection unit (selection means) 132: Distribution unit (data distribution means, video distribution means) 133: Acquisition unit (attribute acquisition means, information acquisition means, history acquisition means) PG1: Management program (computer program) PG2: Distribution program (computer program) RD: Distribution Data Group

Claims

1. A distribution system for distributing viewing videos to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, comprising: operation receiving means for receiving user operations input from each user terminal during the distribution of a first viewing video; selection means for selecting at least one distribution data from among a group of distribution data including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation; generation means for synthesizing the distribution data selected by the selection means with the first viewing video to generate a second viewing video; display means for displaying the second viewing video generated by the generation means on at least the user terminal where the user operation was input; A distribution system comprising the above.

2. The distribution data group includes a plurality of sub-data groups each associated with a different attribute, further comprising attribute acquisition means for acquiring attribute identification information for identifying the attribute, The selection means identifies the attribute based on the attribute identification information and selects the distribution data from among the sub-data groups associated with the identified attribute. The distribution system according to Claim 1.

3. A control method for a distribution system that distributes viewing videos to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, comprising: an operation receiving step of receiving user operations input from each user terminal during the distribution of a first viewing video; a selection step of selecting at least one distribution data from among a group of distribution data including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation; a generation step of synthesizing the distribution data selected by the selection step with the first viewing video to generate a second viewing video; a display step of displaying the second viewing video generated by the generation step on at least the user terminal where the user operation was input; A control method comprising the above.

4. A computer program for a distribution system that includes a computer and distributes viewing videos to each user terminal of a plurality of users who are viewers, causing the computer to: function as operation receiving means for receiving user operations input from each user terminal during the distribution of a first viewing video; selection means for selecting at least one distribution data from among a group of distribution data including a plurality of distribution data in response to the user operation; generation means for synthesizing the distribution data selected by the selection means with the first viewing video to generate a second viewing video; Display means for displaying the second viewing video generated by the generation means on at least the user terminal to which the user operation is input; A computer program that functions as.

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