Game server, electronic equipment, and program

Abstract

To appropriately determine prize acquisition.SOLUTION: A game server 6 inputs a video photographing a game device 10 and transmits a game video including the video to electronic equipment 2. In the case that the game device 10 is played by the player of the electronic equipment 2, the game server 6 receives operation data controlling a game to be executed by the game device 10 from the electronic equipment 2, controls the game device 10, and records a video during game play to a moving image distribution server 7 in association with identification data every game. The game server 6 transmits the video recorded by the moving image distribution server 7 to the electronic equipment 2 in accordance with a request from the electronic equipment 2 and, when a game content determination request is received with respect to the game corresponding to the video, transmits to the electronic equipment 2 a result of determination of the game content in accordance with the determination request.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game server, an electronic device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Crane game machines installed in amusement facilities and the like are configured so that prize products (prizes) are placed in a field provided in the machine, and prizes can be won by a crane arm (catcher) operated from outside the machine. For example, by operating a button, a player can move the crane arm vertically / horizontally to above where a target prize is placed, and cause the crane arm to execute an action of grabbing the prize. In order to move the crane arm to the target position, the player changes the direction in which he or she looks inside the machine (head position) and operates the button while grasping the positional relationship between the moving crane arm and the prize.

[0003] In recent years, game services have been provided that allow players to use crane game machines over a network (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as online crane games). In this type of game service, a video of the crane game machine is provided over a network to an electronic device used by a player, such as a personal computer or smartphone. The player can then perform a predetermined input operation on the electronic device while watching the video, thereby transmitting operation instructions over the network to the crane game machine being filmed, thereby controlling the crane arm. This allows the player to use a crane game machine installed in a remote location over the network. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-193243 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In conventional online crane games, when a prize is won by a player's operation, i.e., when the prize is dropped into the prize drop hole by controlling the crane arm, this is detected by a prize sensor. The administrator of the online crane game can know that the player has won a prize based on the detection by the prize sensor.

[0006] However, in a crane game machine, there are cases where the prize sensor cannot reliably detect the winning of a prize. For example, there may be a situation where the prize is too small to be detected by the prize sensor, or when an optical prize sensor is used, the prize reflects light and is not detected, or even when multiple prizes are dropped into the prize drop hole at the same time, the number of prizes cannot be determined. Furthermore, there may be a situation where the prize is caught in the prize drop hole or is too large, and therefore does not reach the position of the prize sensor and is not detected by the prize sensor even though it has actually been dropped into the prize drop hole.

[0007] In the case of a crane game machine installed in an amusement facility, if the above-mentioned situation occurs, the staff in the facility can be called to respond. However, in an online crane game, the prize acquisition is determined based only on the detection by the prize sensor, so if the above-mentioned situation occurs, the player cannot acquire the prize.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its object is to provide a game server, electronic device, and program that can accurately determine whether or not a prize has been won. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the game server of the present invention has a receiving means for receiving data for controlling a game executed by a game device from an electronic device operated based on an image captured of the game device, and for operating the game device in accordance with the data, and a display means for displaying on the electronic device, after execution of a game on the game device, a screen including a button for accepting a request for verification of the game result based on the image recorded during execution of the game. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not a prize has been won. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game system 5 according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 6 in the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a game device 10 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a game device 10 according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 5] 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the game server 6 in the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the game device 10 in the present embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart for explaining a game image generation process of the game device 10 in the present embodiment. [Figure 8] 5 is a flowchart for explaining a play history process of the game server 6 in the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 shows an example of a menu screen SA provided by the game server 6 in this embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SB displayed on the electronic device 2 in the present embodiment. [Figure 11]2 is a diagram showing an example of a play screen SC displayed on the electronic device 2 in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a play history list screen SD in the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a play history details screen SE in the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an animated verification video in the present embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SF displayed on the electronic device 2 in the present embodiment. [Figure 16] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a play screen SG displayed on the electronic device 2 in the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game system 5 in this embodiment. The game system 5 shown in Fig. 1 is a system for providing a game service to electronic devices 2 (2-1, ..., 2-m) connected via a network 4 including the Internet. The electronic devices 2 are, for example, personal computers, smartphones, tablet terminals, televisions, etc., used by players who use the game service.

[0013] The game system 5 includes a game server 6, a video distribution server 7, and at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, . . . , 10-n). The game server 6 is connected to the network 4, and transmits and receives data to and from the electronic device 2. The game server 6 is also connected to at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-n) installed in the facility through a network 8 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), and performs operation control of the game device 10, data transmission and reception, etc. The game server 6 also performs control for recording, in a video distribution server 7, images captured of the game device 10 during game execution, and for transmitting (distributing) the images recorded in the video distribution server 7 to the electronic device 2.

[0014] The game server 6 provides a game service that enables the electronic device 2 connected through the network 4 to play a game device 10 through the network 4. In response to an instruction from the electronic device 2 connected through the network 4, the game server 6 transmits a game viewing image for viewing that is captured of a specific game device 10 selected from the multiple game devices 10. The image to be viewed can be not only of a game device 10 on which a game is being played by another player, but also of a game device 10 on which no game is being played.

[0015] Furthermore, when the game server 6 receives a request to execute a game from the electronic device 2, it enables execution of the game by a specific game device 10 selected from the multiple game devices 10 in response to the request to execute the game. The game server 6 transmits game video footage for executing the game, captured of the game device 10, to the electronic device 2 that has requested to execute the game. The game server 6 outputs operation data received from the electronic device 2 to the game device 10, and operates it according to the operation data. A player operating the electronic device 2 can perform input operations to control the game device 10 while checking the operating state of the game device 10 from the video received from the game server 6.

[0016] The game server 6 also stores video data such as game footage captured on the game device 10 executing the game in the video distribution server 7, and reads out the video data as necessary to distribute or download it to the electronic device 2, etc. The game server 6 can also provide a player-specific web page to a player who has registered as a member. The player-specific web page displays the player's past game results, game usage status, coin purchases, etc.

[0017] The game device 10 executes a game under the control of the game server 6. The game device 10 receives operation data output in response to an input operation by a player on the electronic device 2 through the game server 6, and executes control in response to the operation data. In the game system 5 of this embodiment, the game device 10 is realized as, for example, a crane game device. The crane game device is configured to place prizes (prize products) on a prize stage provided in a cabinet, and to control the movement of a crane arm (catcher) in response to an input operation by a player, so as to pay out the prizes outside the cabinet (to drop them into a prize drop hole).

[0018] For example, different prizes are placed on each of the multiple game devices 10 provided in the game system 5, and the state in which the prizes are placed on the prize stage is different. A player who operates the electronic device 2 can check the type and state of the prizes placed on each of the multiple game devices 10 and arbitrarily select a game device 10 to play.

[0019] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 6 in this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the game server 6 includes, for example, a CPU 6a, a RAM 6b, a storage device 6c, an input device 6d, a display device 6e, and a communication device 6f that configure a computer.

[0020] Based on the programs and data stored in the RAM 6b, the CPU 6a executes various processes such as overall control of the game server 6, management of data stored in the storage device 6c, processing for providing network game services, and control / management of the game device 10.

[0021] The RAM 6b stores various programs executed by the CPU 6a, data executed by various processes, etc. The programs stored in the RAM 6b include a basic program (OS (Operating System)), a management program for controlling / managing a plurality of game devices 10, a video management program for controlling recording of video to the video distribution server 7, playback of the recorded video, and distribution to the electronic device 2, a judgment request receiving program for receiving a judgment request from the electronic device 2 by e-mail or the like, and a judgment processing program for judging the game content based on the video recorded in the video distribution server 7 in response to the judgment request from the electronic device 2 and transmitting the judgment result to the electronic device 2.

[0022] The storage device 6c stores various programs, data, etc. The various programs, data, etc. stored in the storage device 6c are loaded into the CPU 6a and processed by the CPU 6a. The storage device 6c can store video data such as game video captured of the game device 10 and input from the game device 10.

[0023] The display device 6e displays a screen corresponding to the processing by the CPU 6a on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), etc. The display device 6e plays back videos stored in the video distribution server 7, etc.

[0024] The input device 6d inputs data and instructions corresponding to various processes performed by the CPU 6a through input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The communication device 6f controls communications with the electronic device 2 via the network 4, and communications with the video distribution server 7 and the game device 10 via the network 8 under the control of the CPU 6a.

[0025] 2, the electronic device 2 has a CPU, RAM, storage device, input device, display device, communication device, etc. that constitute a computer. The CPU of the electronic device 2 executes various processes such as overall control of the electronic device 2, management of data stored in the storage device, and processes for using the network game service, based on the programs and data stored in the RAM. The programs loaded into the RAM include a basic program (OS), as well as a browsing program for browsing sites published by the game system 5 (game server 6) etc. via the network 4.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the game device 10 (crane game device) in this embodiment. The game device 10 shown in Fig. 3 is realized by one (the left unit in Fig. 3) of two game units (a left unit and a right unit) mounted in one housing. Note that the game device 10 may have one game unit mounted in one housing.

[0027] The game device 10 is composed of an upper housing and a lower housing. The front and sides of the outer periphery of the upper housing are covered with transparent plates, so that the inside of the housing can be seen through the transparent plates. Note that the game device 10 does not need to be covered with a transparent plate, since it is not directly operated by a player.

[0028] A crane arm 10A whose operation is controlled according to operation data input from the game server 6 is provided at the top of the upper housing (game space). A crane mechanism (not shown) for moving the crane arm 10A, for example, in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction (up and down directions) is provided at the top of the upper housing. The crane mechanism is driven according to operation data indicating, for example, lateral movement (left and right), vertical movement (front and back), and descent (catch). An arm (gripping claw) for gripping a prize is provided at the tip of the crane arm 10A, and the operation is controlled to close (grasp an object) when it is lowered to a position where it reaches the prize.

[0029] A front camera 12A supported by a camera stand 12B is installed in front of the game device 10, and a side camera 14A supported by a camera stand 14B is installed on the side. The front camera 12A and the side camera 14A have a shooting range of at least the upper housing, and shoot images including the crane arm 10A and the prizes inside the upper housing.

[0030] Although not shown in Fig. 3, an upper camera 13A (shown in Fig. 4) is provided for photographing the inside of an upper housing of the game device 10 from above. The upper camera 13A is provided, for example, on the ceiling inside the upper housing, on the upper side of the upper housing, or on the crane arm 10A (main body).

[0031] A prize stage 10B on which prizes are placed is provided inside the upper housing of the game device 10. The prize stage 10B of the game device 10 shown in Fig. 3 is configured in a flat shape, but it may be configured in a shape other than flat so that prizes can be placed in various states. For example, the prize stage 10B may be configured with steps such as a staircase, or with multiple rod-shaped members hung across it.

[0032] A prize drop opening 10C is formed in a part of the prize stage 10B. The prize drop opening 10C is connected to a prize outlet provided on the front side of the lower housing through a prize guide space provided in the lower part of the prize stage 10B. Prizes dropped into the prize drop opening 10C by the operation of the crane arm 10A are detected by a prize detection sensor (described later). In addition, the prizes are guided to the prize outlet through the prize guide space.

[0033] The front camera 12A photographs the upper housing from the front of the game device 10, thereby photographing an image including the crane arm 10A and the prize against the background of the stage back 10D and stage side 10E (partition plate between the right unit and the upper housing) of the stage. Similarly, the side camera 14A photographs the upper housing from the side of the game device 10, thereby photographing an image including the crane arm 10A and the prize against the background of the stage back 10D and stage side 10E of the upper housing.

[0034] In addition, by photographing the inside of the upper housing (prize field) from above, the upper camera 13A can capture images that make it easy to simultaneously grasp the front-to-back and left-to-right positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prizes, which is difficult to confirm from the images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A.

[0035] In the example shown in FIG. 3, two cameras are provided: a front camera 12A, an upper camera 13A, and a side camera 14A. However, four or more cameras may be provided to capture images of the game device 10 from different directions and output the images.

[0036] In the game system 5 of the present embodiment, images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 are distributed via the game server 6 to the electronic device 2 that has requested the game to be played and to the game device 10 that is viewing the game.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 in this embodiment. 4, a control PCB (Print Circuit Board) 68 on which various units are mounted is provided inside the housing of the game device 10. The units mounted on the control PCB 68 include a CPU 70, a RAM 71, a storage device 72, an input / output processing unit 73, a camera control unit 74, a motor driving unit 76, an arm driving unit 77, and a communication control unit 78.

[0038] The CPU 70 executes a control program and a game program stored in the RAM 71 or the storage device 72 to control the entire game device 10. The CPU 70 controls the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 to operate the crane arm 10A in response to operation data from the game server 6 input through the communication control unit 78. The CPU 70 also controls image processing of images captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A, and output of images captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A. The CPU 70 inputs a plurality of images captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A, and generates a game image to be displayed during game execution on the game device 10. The game image can include not only one image of a plurality of images, but also an image in which a plurality of images are displayed on one screen.

[0039] The RAM 71 temporarily stores various programs such as a control program and a game program, as well as various data for controlling the game associated with the processing executed by the CPU 70. The data recorded in the RAM 71 includes, for example, position data indicating the position (X position, Y position) of the crane arm 10A, data of game images generated based on images captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A, and the like.

[0040] The storage device 72 stores programs and data in a non-volatile storage medium such as a ROM or a hard disk.

[0041] The input / output processing unit 73 is an interface with various input / output devices provided outside the control PCB 68. For example, a prize sensor 84 is connected to the input / output processing unit 73. The prize sensor 84 detects a prize that has dropped into the prize drop hole 10C and outputs a detection signal to the input / output processing unit 73.

[0042] In response to instructions from the CPU 70, the camera control unit 74 controls the photographing by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A.

[0043] The motor driving unit 76 controls the driving of a motor 82 provided in the mechanism unit 69 (controlling movement in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions). The arm driving unit 77 controls the driving of an arm motor 83 provided in the crane arm 10A for opening and closing the arm.

[0044] Motor 82 is driven by motor drive unit 76, and includes an X-axis motor that moves crane arm 10A in the X-axis direction (horizontal direction), a Y-axis motor that moves it in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction), and a Z-axis motor that moves it in the Z-axis direction (up and down direction). Arm motor 83 is driven by arm drive unit 77, and opens and closes crane arm 10A.

[0045] When operation data ("CATCH") for causing the crane arm 10A to execute a prize acquisition sequence is received from the game server 6, the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 cause the motor 82 to lower the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it will reach the prize, and then cause the arm to grab the prize using the arm motor 83.Then, the crane arm 10A is raised and moved to the top of the prize drop opening 10C before the arm is opened, in order to execute the prize acquisition sequence.

[0046] The communication control unit 78 controls communications with the game server 6 and the video distribution server 7 under the control of the CPU 70.

[0047] Next, the operation of the game system 5 in this embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the game server 6 in this embodiment. Fig. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (game processing) of the game device 10 in this embodiment. Fig. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the game image generation processing of the game device 10 in this embodiment. Fig. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the play history processing of the game server 6 in this embodiment.

[0048] The game server 6 publishes a site (hereinafter referred to as the game site) for providing network game services via the network 4. The game server 6 causes the electronic device 2 that has accessed the game site to display a menu screen for selecting a game device 10 for playing or viewing a game (step A0). Here, the electronic device 2 will be described as being a personal computer with a relatively large display screen.

[0049] In order to use the network game service provided by the game server 6, the player must register as a member in advance to obtain unique identification data (user ID, password, etc.) and must also purchase virtual coins (hereinafter simply referred to as coins) that are managed as data. When accessing a game site, the identification data is input. Coins are purchased, for example, by going through a predetermined procedure via the electronic device 2 on a site for purchasing coins. The game server 6 stores and manages the coins held by each registered player (player ID). In addition to purchasing coins in advance, the network game service may be made available by making payments by credit card or electronic money card.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the menu screen SA provided by the game server 6 in this embodiment. The menu screen SA shown in FIG. 9 is provided with a coin display area SA1, a function selection area SA2, and a game selection area SA3.

[0051] The coin display area SA1 displays the number of coins (in units of TC) owned by the player. The coin display area SA1 is provided with a coin purchase button SA11, which allows the player to move to a site for purchasing coins.

[0052] The function selection area SA2 is provided with a number of buttons for selecting functions that can be executed through the game site. For example, the function selection area SA2 is provided with a title search button SA21, a prize delivery button SA22, a play history button SA23, a notice button SA24, a settings button SA25, an account button SA26, an other button SA27, a support button SA28, and a game button SA29. The play history button SA23 is a button for viewing the records of games played by the player in the past.

[0053] The game selection area SA3 is provided with a plurality of buttons SA31 corresponding to each of the plurality of game devices 10 for selecting a game device 10 to be played. The buttons provided in the game selection area SA3 include images of prizes that can be acquired by playing the game device 10, as well as prize information SA31a explaining the prize, game status information SA31b indicating whether the game device 10 is being played by another player, placement form information SA31c indicating the placement form of the prize on the prize stage, and the number of coins SA31d required to play the game device 10. Examples of the placement form of the prize include "direct placement" where the prize is placed directly on the prize stage, and "cross-the-shoulder" where the prize is placed on or hooked onto a rod-shaped member stretched between the sides of the cabinet above the prize stage.

[0054] The buttons SA31 are classified into a number of categories (such as "recommended," "plush toys," and "figures"), and can be scrolled horizontally for each category by operating the button SA32. The menu screen SA is also provided with an up scroll button SA41 and a down scroll button SA42, which can be used to scroll the buttons SA31 displayed in the game selection area SA3 up and down.

[0055] A player operating the electronic device 2 can select one of the game devices 10 by referring to the buttons SA31 corresponding to the multiple game devices 10 displayed on the menu screen SA.

[0056] When an operation to select any one of the game devices 10 (button SA31) from the menu screen SA in the electronic device 2 is performed (step A1, Yes), the game server 6 (CPU 6a) transmits a game viewing request to the selected game device 10. The CPU 6a inputs the game viewing image output from the game device 10 that transmitted the game viewing request, and outputs image data for displaying a viewing screen (hereinafter, viewing screen) including the game viewing image to the electronic device 2 (step A2). The game viewing image is an image synthesized to display a plurality of images taken of the game device 10 from different directions by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 on one screen. Note that the image may include an image taken by the upper camera 13A. The image data for displaying the viewing screen is used to display the game viewing image in an image display area provided within a frame designed for game viewing.

[0057] The game viewing image is an image synthesized in order to display a plurality of images on one screen in the game device 10, but may be image data captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A respectively. In this case, the game server 6 synthesizes a plurality of image data corresponding to the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A input from the game device 10 to generate the game viewing image.

[0058] The electronic device 2 displays the viewing screen on the display device based on the video data of the viewing screen input from the game server 6.

[0059] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SB displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment. 10 displays game viewing image SB1 (SB1a, SB1b) captured by front camera 12A and side camera 14A of game device 10. Game viewing image SB1a captured by front camera 12A and game viewing image SB1b captured by side camera 14A are displayed simultaneously on one screen on viewing screen SB. Shooting direction information SB2a, SB2b indicating the shooting direction is added to each of the display areas displaying game viewing images SB1a, SB1b.

[0060] On the viewing screen SB, when another player is playing a game, the state of the game can be confirmed by the game viewing image SB1 (SB1a, SB1b). For example, the player can simultaneously confirm how the crane arm 10A is moving with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage by images seen from the front and side directions. By comparing the images taken from different directions, the player can easily grasp the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize. This can be used as a reference when playing. Even if another player is not playing, the player can confirm the state of the prize placed on the prize stage based on the images taken from different directions. This makes it possible to judge the ease of winning a prize and consider how to move the crane arm 10A when playing before playing.

[0061] The viewing screen SB also includes a reservation button SB3, a coin purchase button SB4, a details button SB5, prize information SB6, an up button SB7, a down button SB8, a reservation number display area SB9, and a viewing number display area SB10, which are arranged in a frame designed for viewing the game.

[0062] The reservation button SB3 is a button for instructing to reserve a game device 10 being viewed for play. By operating the reservation button SB3, if another player has reserved the game device 10, the game device 10 is added to the reservation waiting list, and if the game device 10 is available and has no reservations from other players, the game device 10 can be moved to game play. The coin purchase button SB4 is a button for moving to a site for purchasing coins. The up button SB7 and the down button SB8 are buttons for instructing to change the game device 10 to be viewed. By operating the up button SB7 or the down button SB8, the display of the viewing screen SB for other game devices 10 can be switched to a preset order without returning to the menu screen SA and selecting the game device 10 again from the game selection area SA3.

[0063] The number of players who have registered reservations for the game device 10 to be viewed is displayed in the reservation number display area SB9. Also, the number of players who are viewing the game device 10 to be viewed is displayed in the viewing number display area SB10.

[0064] Here, it is assumed that the reservation button SB3 on the viewing screen SB has been operated on the electronic device 2. The electronic device 2 transmits a reservation request to the game server 6. Upon receiving the reservation request from the electronic device 2 (step A3, Yes), the CPU 6a of the game server 6 determines whether the player has the number of coins required to play the game device 10 (coins have been purchased).

[0065] Here, if it is determined that the player does not have the number of coins necessary to play (step A4, No), the CPU 6a returns the display on the game device 10 to the viewing screen SB. On the viewing screen SB, by operating the coin purchase button SB4, the player can move to a site for purchasing coins and carry out a procedure for purchasing coins necessary to play the game.

[0066] On the other hand, if it is determined that the player has the number of coins necessary to play (step A4, Yes), the CPU 6a displays a confirmation screen (not shown) on the game device 10 to request the player of the electronic device 2 to confirm the play reservation and the consumption of coins. The play reservation confirmation screen displays, for example, a message such as "Do you want to reserve a play?" indicating that coins will be consumed by playing the game, along with "Yes" and "No" buttons, and the player is prompted to select one of them. The play reservation confirmation screen also displays the number of tickets (obtained by a procedure separate from coin purchase) that can be used instead of coins, the number of coins, the number of available plays, etc., to provide reference for the player in deciding whether to reserve a play.

[0067] Here, if the play reservation is cancelled by selecting the "No" button (step A5, No), the CPU 6a returns the display on the game device 10 to the viewing screen SB. On the other hand, if the execution of the play reservation is instructed by selecting the "Yes" button (step A5, Yes), the CPU 6a determines whether it is possible to proceed to game play, assuming that an approval response has been received for the play reservation and coin consumption. In other words, the CPU 6a determines whether the game device 10 is available.

[0068] If the game device 10 is not available (step A6, No), the CPU 6a adds the player (the electronic device 2 currently viewing) to the reservation registration (step A12). In this case, the CPU 6a outputs video data to the electronic device 2 for displaying a viewing screen including a game viewing video to the electronic device 2 (step A13). That is, the electronic device 2 is caused to display the viewing screen SB, and the video of the game device 10 in which another player is playing is continuously viewed, and the electronic device 2 is placed in a waiting state for game play.

[0069] The player of the electronic device 2 waits for his / her turn while viewing the game played by the other players. When a reservation is registered, the player may be allowed to move to viewing or playing a game on another game device 10, instead of continuing to view the reserved game device 10. This allows the player to effectively use the reservation waiting time. Also, by allowing the player to play a game on another game device 10, the operating efficiency of the game device 10 can be improved.

[0070] When viewing or playing a game on a game device 10 other than the reserved game device 10, if the reserved turn of the reserved game device 10 approaches (for example, a pre-set turn (second place, etc.)), the electronic device 2 may be notified (such as by displaying on the viewing screen or play screen). In response to this notification, the player of the electronic device 2 can select whether to continue viewing or playing the game on the currently active game device 10, or to return to waiting for game play on the reserved game device 10.

[0071] On the other hand, if the game device 10 is available when the reservation is registered (step A6, Yes), or if the play by another player who had previously been on the reservation waiting list has finished (step A14, Yes), the CPU 6a causes the electronic device 2 to display a game start preparation screen (not shown). The game start preparation screen, for example, displays a "START" button for instructing the start of game play, and also displays a countdown of the remaining time (valid time) for validating the operation of the "START" button. For example, the initial valid time is set to "60" seconds, and the display changes to "59", "58", ... as time passes.

[0072] If the "START" button is not operated within the valid time, the CPU 6a determines that the game reservation has been canceled by the player of the electronic device 2 (step A7, No), deletes the reservation registration, and subtracts (-1) from the current number of reserved players (step A11).Then, the CPU 6a displays the menu screen SA on the electronic device 2, and returns to the processing state (step A0).

[0073] On the other hand, if the "START" button is operated within the valid time (step A7, Yes), the CPU 6a starts game processing for allowing the player of the electronic device 2 to play the game device 10 (step A8). The CPU 6a updates (subtracts) the number of coins possessed by the player according to the number of coins required to play the game, and starts the game on the game device 10.

[0074] The CPU 6a outputs a game execution request to the game device 10, and transmits video data for displaying a play screen (hereinafter, play screen) including game play video output from the game device 10 in response to the game execution request to the electronic device 2, causing the play screen to be displayed. On the play screen, a video image of the game device 10 is displayed within a game play frame.

[0075] The game play images are basically the same as the game viewing images described above. The image data for displaying the play screen is used to display the game play images in an image display area provided within a frame designed for game play.

[0076] The electronic device 2 displays a play screen on a display device based on the video data of the play screen input from the game server 6.

[0077] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a play screen SC displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment. 11 displays game play images SC1 (SC1a, SC1b) captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10. On the play screen SC, the game play images SC1a captured by the front camera 12A and the game play images SC1b captured by the side camera 14A are simultaneously displayed on one screen. Shooting direction information SC2a, SC2b indicating the shooting direction is added to each of the display areas displaying the game play images SC1a, SC1b.

[0078] On the play screen SC, the position of the crane arm 10A in relation to the prize placed on the prize stage can be confirmed simultaneously by viewing images taken from both the front and side directions. By comparing the images taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. This allows the positioning of the crane arm 10A in relation to the prize to be reliably and easily performed as intended by the player. In other words, it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game.

[0079] The play screen SC also includes a "CATCH" button SC3, directional buttons SC4, SC5, SC6, and SC7 corresponding to the left, right, bottom, and top directions, an area SC8 that displays the remaining game play time, an area SC9 that displays the number of reserved players, and an area SC10 that displays the number of viewers, all of which are set in a frame designed for game play.

[0080] The "CATCH" button SC3 is a button for executing a prize acquisition sequence for the crane arm 10A. The direction buttons SC4 and SC5 are buttons for moving the crane arm 10A left and right (X-axis direction) when viewed from the front, and the direction buttons SC6 and SC7 are buttons for moving the crane arm 10A forward and backward (Y-axis direction) when viewed from the front.

[0081] In the play screen SC shown in FIG. 11, four directional buttons SC4 to SC7 are displayed because the game device 10 is intended for a game device 10 in which the crane arm 10A is moved in the forward / backward and left / right directions; however, in the case of a game device 10 in which the crane arm 10A is played by moving only the forward / backward directions or only the left / right directions, for example, two directional buttons are displayed.

[0082] The number of players who have registered reservations for the game device 10 being viewed is displayed in the reservation number display area SC9. Also, the number of players who are viewing the game device 10 being viewed is displayed in the viewing number display area SC10.

[0083] In response to the start of the game, the CPU 6a displays an initial value of the remaining game play time, for example, "60" seconds, in the remaining game play time display area SC8, and changes the display to "59", "58", etc. as time passes. The CPU 6a also receives operation data corresponding to each button in response to input operations to the directional buttons SC4, SC5, SC6, and SC7 of the electronic device 2, and outputs the data to the game device 10. The game device 10 operates the crane arm 10A in response to the operation data. The player of the electronic device 2 can check the movement of the crane arm 10A based on the game play images SC1a and SC1b displayed on the play screen SC shown in FIG.

[0084] In the game device 10 of this embodiment, the directional buttons SC4, SC5, SC6, and SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time. Therefore, when moving the crane arm 10A, it is possible to grasp the relative positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize while simultaneously checking the game play image SC1a seen from the front and the game play image SC1b seen from the side, and fine-tune the position of the crane arm 10A. Therefore, it is possible to move the crane arm 10A accurately to the position intended by the player.

[0085] In the example shown in FIG. 11, game play image SC1a captured by the front camera 12A and game play image SC1b captured by the side camera 14A are displayed simultaneously on one screen on the play screen SC, but it is also possible to switch game play images during game play.

[0086] The game server 6 executes a process for switching the game play images displayed on the play screen SC in response to, for example, an instruction to switch the game images input by the player's operation on the electronic device 2, or in response to a preset condition. In this case, the game server 6 outputs operation data indicating an instruction to switch the images to the game device 10. Note that the preset conditions include, for example, the elapsed time, the position of the crane arm 10A, a preset operation of the player, the type of prize, the form of the prize stage, the placement form of the prize on the prize stage (placement form information), and the like.

[0087] Methods of switching images for game play include, for example, a first mode in which one of a plurality of images captured by each of a plurality of front cameras 12A, upper cameras 13A, and side cameras 14A provided on the game device 10 is selected and displayed; a second mode in which at least two images having different combinations are selected and displayed from the plurality of images; and a third mode in which the image to be displayed is subjected to image processing such as enlargement / reduction and animation and then displayed.

[0088] The first to third modes can be implemented in any combination. For example, as the first mode, an image captured by the front camera 12A is selected, a normal image is displayed in one of the display areas for displaying two game play images, and an enlarged image is displayed as the third mode in the other display area. This allows the positional relationship between the tip of the crane arm 10A and the prize to be confirmed by the enlarged image while checking the overall state including the crane arm 10A and the prize.

[0089] When the game server 6 receives game play images from the game device 10, the game server 6 instructs the game device 10 to generate images for displaying the images according to the first to third modes on one screen. The game device 10 generates game play images according to the instruction from the game server 6 and outputs the images to the game server 6.

[0090] Furthermore, when the game server 6 is configured to input video data captured by each of a plurality of cameras input from the game device 10, it generates game play video for displaying the video images according to the first to third modes described above on one screen in response to the game video switching instruction or preset conditions described above.

[0091] In this way, when the player has been able to position the crane arm 10A vertically and horizontally while checking the game play image displayed on the play screen SC, the player operates the "CATCH" button SC3 to instruct the execution of a prize capture sequence.

[0092] When the CPU 6a of the game server 6 receives operation data instructing a prize acquisition sequence from the electronic device 2, it causes the game device 10 to execute the prize acquisition sequence. The game device 10 causes the crane arm 10A to execute the operation of the prize acquisition sequence. That is, the game device 10 lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it reaches the prize, causes the arm to grab the prize, then raises the crane arm 10A, moves it to the top of the prize drop hole 10C, and causes the arm to open.

[0093] As a result, when the prize is dropped into the prize drop hole 10C, it is detected by the prize sensor 84. In response to the detection signal from the prize sensor 84, the game device 10 notifies the game server 6 that the prize has been paid out (successful prize acquisition). Furthermore, when the prize sensor 84 does not detect the prize within a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) after the execution of the prize acquisition sequence, the game device 10 notifies that the prize has not been dropped into the prize drop hole 10C (failed prize acquisition). The game server 6 executes processing in response to the prize acquisition notification from the game device 10. For example, when the game server 6 is notified of successful prize acquisition, it causes the electronic device 2 to display a game acquisition message screen (e.g., a message such as "Congratulations on winning the prize") instead of the play screen SC.

[0094] In the above explanation, the directional buttons SC4 to SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time, but the "CATCH" button SC3 can be operated only once within the remaining game play time.

[0095] It is also possible to change the control of the crane arm 10A according to the remaining game play time when the instruction is given by operating the "CATCH" button SC3. For example, even if the remaining game play time when the instruction is given by operating the "CATCH" button SC3 does not have the time required to complete the prize acquisition sequence, the speed at which the crane arm 10A is moved in the horizontal direction (left / right, front / back directions) is increased compared to normal control (within the remaining game play time). This allows the prize acquisition sequence to be completed, and reduces the lost time after the remaining game play time reaches "0". By reducing the lost time, when the player plays a game in succession, the time until the start of the next game can be reduced, improving the operating efficiency of the game device 10.

[0096] Also, when an instruction is given, for example, by operating the "CATCH" button SC3 during the execution of the prize acquisition sequence, the prize acquisition sequence may be terminated midway and the crane arm 10A may be moved faster than usual to return to the initial position, making it possible to start the next game. For example, when a player determines that it is not necessary to continue the prize acquisition sequence, the prize acquisition sequence may be terminated midway, thereby shortening the time required to move to the next game. Examples of situations in which it is not necessary to continue the prize acquisition sequence include when the prize is not gripped by the arm, or when the purpose of moving the prize position by the crane arm 10A is achieved (the prize does not need to be moved to the prize drop hole).

[0097] Furthermore, when an instruction is given by operating the "CATCH" button SC3, the prize acquisition sequence is started, but when the remaining game play time reaches "0", the prize acquisition sequence may be terminated and the crane arm 10A may be controlled to return to its initial position.

[0098] Furthermore, the CPU 6a of the game server 6 executes a game result recording process for recording the game result of one game as a play history for each player in association with the player's identification data (step A9).

[0099] In the game result recording process, for example, unique identification data (play ID) is set for one game, and information about the prize placed on the game device 10 (prize image, prize description information, etc.), the game play date and time, and a status indicating success / failure in winning the prize as the game result are recorded. Furthermore, video data of the video taken of the game device 10 during game execution is recorded in the video distribution server 7. The video data recorded in the game recording process may be, for example, game play video from the start of the game to a predetermined time after the execution of the prize acquisition sequence, or video data taken by each of the multiple cameras input from the game device 10, or all of them. The game results recorded in the game result recording process are used in the play history process described later. Furthermore, in the game result recording process, data such as the number of continues in the game and the number (and type) of prizes won are recorded for each player as the usage status of the game device 10 by the player.

[0100] Next, the CPU 6a of the game server 6 displays a continue confirmation screen for confirming whether or not to continue playing the game in the electronic device 2. On the continue confirmation screen, for example, a message "CONTINUE?" along with buttons "Yes" and "No" are displayed to allow the player to select one of them. The continue confirmation screen also displays the number of tickets owned, the number of coins, the number of times play is possible, etc., to help the player decide whether or not to continue playing the game.

[0101] Here, if the game play is cancelled by selecting the "No" button (step A10, Yes), the CPU 6a subtracts (-1) from the current number of reserved players in response to the end of game play by one player (step A11), and returns the display on the game device 10 to the menu screen SA. Also, the game server 6 instructs the game device 10 to end the game.

[0102] On the other hand, when the "Yes" button is selected to instruct the player to continue playing the game (step A10, No), the CPU 6a updates (subtracts) the number of coins possessed by the player according to the number of coins required to play the game, as described above, and starts the game on the game device 10. Thereafter, as described above, processing for playing the game is executed (steps A7 to A10). Therefore, the player can repeatedly play the game multiple times in order to win one prize.

[0103] Next, the game processing by the game device 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0104] When the CPU 70 of the game device 10 receives a game viewing request from the game server 6 (step B1, Yes), it executes a game image generation process and generates an image for game viewing based on the images captured by each of the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A through the game image generation process, and outputs the image to the game server 6 (step B2).

[0105] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the game image generation process by the game device 10 in this embodiment. The CPU 70 of the game device 10 inputs video data of a plurality of images input from the front camera 12A and the side camera 14 (step C1), and synthesizes the plurality of images to generate a game viewing image to be displayed on one screen of the game device 10 (step C2). The CPU 70 outputs the game viewing image to the game server 6 via the communication control unit 78 (step C3). The image displayed on the game device 10 based on the game viewing image is shown in, for example, FIG. 10.

[0106] When generating a game viewing image in the game server 6, the CPU 70 of the game device 10 outputs the image data input by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A to the game server 6 (steps C1, C3).

[0107] Thereafter, when the CPU 70 of the game device 10 receives a game execution request from the game server 6 (step B3, Yes), it executes the game image generation process as described above, generates game play images based on the images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A, and outputs the images to the game server 6 (step B4). The images displayed on the game device 10 based on the game play images are shown in, for example, FIG.

[0108] Thereafter, when the game device 10 receives operation data for any of the directional buttons SC4 to SC7 on the play screen SC of the game device 10 from the game server 6 (step B8, Yes), it controls the movement of the crane arm 10A in accordance with the operation data (step B9). As described above, in the game device 10 of this embodiment, the directional buttons SC4 to SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time, so that the crane arm 10A is controlled to move each time in accordance with the operation data input in response to the operation of the directional buttons SC4 to SC7. Furthermore, the game device 10 continues to output game play images to the game server 6 while the game is being executed.

[0109] On the other hand, when the CPU 70 receives operation data instructing to switch game play images from the game server 6 during the game (step B6, Yes), the CPU 70 executes image switching control in response to the switching instruction (step B7). That is, in the game image generation process, the CPU 70 changes the game play images to be displayed on the play screen SC of the game device 10 in response to the image switching contents indicated by the operation data (step C4, Yes) (step C5). Note that, in response to the game play image switching contents, not only the image data from the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A but also the image data from the upper camera 13A is input (step C1).

[0110] In the image switching control, as mentioned above, an image for game play of the first to third forms or a combination of any of the first to third forms is generated.

[0111] For example, when an instruction is given to switch the display of the image captured by the upper camera 13A, the image captured by the upper camera 13A can be displayed instead of the image captured by the front camera 12A or the side camera 14A. The upper camera 13A captures the image of the inside of the upper cabinet from above, so that the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prizes as viewed from above can be grasped. In a typical crane game device, the state inside the cabinet can only be confirmed from the periphery, but by displaying the game play image using the image captured by the upper camera 13A, it is possible to provide operability that cannot be obtained in a typical crane game device.

[0112] When animation is instructed as a third mode, the CPU 70 generates an animation image by image processing of the image captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, or the side camera 14A. For example, the CPU 70 detects various objects, such as the crane arm 10A, the prize, and the prize field (prize drop hole), from the image, and displays them as graphics, while creating an animation in which the positions of the graphics corresponding to the crane arm 10A and the prize change in the image. It is also possible to add graphics representing objects unrelated to the image, such as graphics for decoration for game performance (liven up), graphics advising the player on the direction of movement of the crane arm 10A, and various text messages to the animation image. This makes it possible to add a performance that cannot be obtained with a general crane game device, and to provide the player with an interest.

[0113] While the game is being executed (step C6, No), the CPU 70 continues the process of generating game play images in response to the image switching instruction (steps C1 to C5).

[0114] Next, when the game device 10 receives operation data for the "CATCH" button SC3 on the play screen SC of the game device 10 from the game server 6 (step B10, Yes), it executes prize acquisition sequence control (step B11). That is, the game device 10 lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it reaches the prize, and causes the arm to grab the prize, then raises the crane arm 10A and moves it to above the prize drop hole 10C, and then causes the arm to open. Thereafter, the game device 10 notifies the game server 6 of success or failure in winning the prize in accordance with the detection signal from the prize sensor 84.

[0115] When the game is repeatedly executed by the player of the electronic device 2, the game device 10 repeatedly executes the above-mentioned processing (steps B4 to B12). When the game device 10 receives an instruction to end the game from the game server 6 (step B12, No), it ends the game processing.

[0116] Next, the play history processing by the game server 6 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0117] As described above, when the game device 10 is played by the player of the electronic device 2, the game server 6 records the game results for each game. The player can view the results of games played in the past that are recorded in the game server 6. When viewing the game results, the player can request the administrator of the game system 5 to determine whether or not the player has won a prize for a game in which the player has failed to win a prize, or can request a prize winning verification to re-determine whether or not the player has won a prize.

[0118] When the player operating the electronic device 2 causes the game server 6 to execute a play history process, the player operates the play history button SA23 on the menu screen SA shown in FIG.

[0119] When the game server 6 (CPU 6a) determines that the play history button SA23 on the menu screen SA on the electronic device 2 has been operated (step A1, Yes), it generates a play history list for the player based on the game results recorded as the play history, and displays the play history list screen on the electronic device 2 (step D1).

[0120] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the play history list screen SD in this embodiment. 12, for example, a prize image SD1a, a game play date and time SD1b, a station number SD1c that identifies the game device 10, and prize explanatory information SD1d are displayed for the game result of one game. The player can refer to the displayed information and arbitrarily select any one of the game results from the play history list screen SD.

[0121] Here, when a game result is selected from the play history list screen SD (step D2, Yes), the CPU 6a of the game server 6 generates a play history details screen for the selected game result and displays it on the electronic device 2 (step D3).

[0122] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a play history details screen SE in this embodiment. The play history details screen SE shown in FIG. 13 displays a video area SE1, an information area SE2, an acquisition verification request button SE3, an acquisition judgment request button SE4, and a back button SE5.

[0123] The video area SE1 is provided with a video display area SE1p in which a video image is displayed. In addition, a play button SE1a for controlling the video, a play time / remaining time SE1b, a seek bar SE1c, a full screen button SE1d, and a download button SE1e are displayed below the video display area SE1p. The full screen button SE1d allows the video display area SE1p to be expanded to full screen to display the video. The download button SE1e allows the video data recorded as a game result to be downloaded as a video file.

[0124] The information area SE2 displays information recorded as a game result, such as prize-related information (prize name, etc.), the game play date and time, a status indicating whether the prize was won or not, and a play ID. The information area SE2 also has an address input area for inputting an email address to which the result of the determination is to be sent when the player makes a request for a prize determination.

[0125] The acquisition verification request button SE3 is a button for requesting a prize acquisition verification to re-determine whether or not the prize acquisition was successful. The acquisition judgment request button SE4 is a button for requesting a prize acquisition judgment from an administrator of the game device 10 or the like. The return button SE5 is a button for returning the display to the play history list screen SD.

[0126] Here, when the play button SE1a in the video area SE1 is operated (step D4, Yes), the CPU 6a of the game server 6 receives the video data captured during game play that is recorded as a game result from the video distribution server 7, starts playing the playback data, and displays it in the video display area SE1p (step D5). If there is no operation during the playback of the video data, the CPU 6a plays and displays the video until the end of the video data (step D6, Yes).

[0127] The video data played back here may be, for example, game play video including video captured by multiple cameras, or may be one video captured by any of the front camera 12A, the side camera 14A, or the upper camera 13A. Which video is to be displayed may be set in advance by the game server 6, or may be set in advance according to an instruction from the player. Also, the player may specify which video to display immediately before or during video playback. This allows the player to check the situation of past game play using multiple different videos, making it easier for the player to verify a game in which it was determined that the player had failed to win a prize.

[0128] After checking the video, the player finds that the status is "failed" (failed to win the prize), but if the player believes (or has doubts) that the prize was won, the player can request verification of the prize or a request for a prize winning determination.

[0129] Even if the status is "failed", a prize may have been won if, for example, the prize is too small to be detected by the prize sensor 84, or if the prize is optical and the prize reflects light and is not detected, or if multiple prizes fall into the prize drop hole 10C at the same time and the number of prizes cannot be determined. Furthermore, there are situations in which a prize is caught in the prize drop hole 10C or is too large, and thus does not reach the position of the prize sensor 84 and is not detected by the prize sensor 84, even though it has essentially been dropped into the prize drop hole.

[0130] Here, when the acquisition determination request button SE4 is operated (step D7, Yes), the CPU 6a transmits an acquisition determination request to the administrator of the game device 10 (step D8). When making an acquisition determination request, an email address to which the determination result is to be sent is input in the address input area of ​​the information area SE2. The acquisition determination request also includes the information displayed in the information area SE2 (play ID, email address, status, etc.).

[0131] Methods for sending the acquisition determination request include, for example, displaying the request on the management screen of the game device 10 displayed on the display device 6e of the game server 6, sending an email to an administrator, or notifying the user via a social networking service (SNS).

[0132] When the administrator or the like receives the winning judgment request, the administrator or the like accesses the video distribution server 7 from the game server 6 or an electronic device (personal computer or the like) used by the administrator or the like, and specifies the video data of the game that is the subject of the winning judgment request, for example, based on the play ID included in the winning judgment request, and plays and displays the video of the game play. The administrator or the like checks the video of the game play and judges whether the prize has been won. As a result, if it is confirmed that the prize has been won, the game server 6 changes the status to indicate successful prize winning according to the operation of the administrator or the like, and performs an operation corresponding to the prize winning (delivery of the prize, etc.). The game server 6 also sends an e-mail indicating successful prize winning to the e-mail address included in the winning judgment request as the result of the prize winning judgment.

[0133] In addition, if the result of the prize acquisition determination is that the prize has not been acquired, the game server 6 sends an email to the email address included in the prize acquisition determination request, indicating failure to acquire the prize, as the result of the prize acquisition determination.

[0134] When the acquisition determination request is received through an SNS, the determination result may be transmitted through the SNS. In this case, data indicating a transmission destination for the SNS is input by the player in the information area SE2 of the play history details screen SE, instead of an email address. The game server 6 may also display the determination result in response to the acquisition determination request on a web page dedicated to the player.

[0135] In addition, if the administrator or the like is able to respond to a prize winning determination request in a short period of time, the game server 6 may input the result of the prize winning determination made by the administrator or the like, and display this determination result on the screen of the electronic device 2 (for example, in the information area SE2 of the play history details screen SE).

[0136] A player who sends a prize acquisition determination request by operating the prize acquisition determination request button SE4 can receive and confirm the result of the prize acquisition determination (success / failure in winning the prize) sent by an administrator, etc., using, for example, the electronic device 2 that the player uses.

[0137] The winning determination request to the manager, etc. may include data indicating usage conditions such as the number of continues in the game and the number (and type) of prizes won. For example, when the number of continues is relatively large, that is, when it is determined that a situation in which a prize is likely to have been won (for example, a state in which the prize is caught in the prize drop hole 10C) has been reached as a result of playing the game many times, the manager, etc. can determine that the prize has been successfully won. In other words, by transmitting data indicating the usage conditions to enable prize winning determination, it becomes possible for staff who manage actual crane game machines installed in amusement facilities, etc., to make prize winning determinations in the same way as they do in their normal management duties.

[0138] On the other hand, when the acquisition verification request button SE3 is operated (step D9, Yes), the CPU 6a generates a verification video based on the video data corresponding to the play ID and displays it in the video display area SE1p (step D10). For example, the verification video detects various objects from the video, such as the crane arm 10A, the prize, and the prize field (prize drop hole 10C), and displays each of them as graphics, while creating an animation in which the positions of the graphics corresponding to the crane arm 10A and the prize change in the video. In addition, the prize and prize drop hole 10C, which are the basis for determining whether the prize has been acquired, are made visible even if they are hidden in the actual video, making it easier to determine whether the prize has dropped into the prize drop hole 10C.

[0139] Furthermore, the CPU 6a executes a prize acquisition determination based on the animated verification image (step D11).

[0140] Figures 14(A) and 14(B) are diagrams showing an example of an animated verification image in this embodiment. Figures 14(A) and 14(B) show a state after prize acquisition sequence control is executed for the crane arm 10A. Also, Figure 14(A) shows a verification image based on an image captured by the upper camera 13A, and Figure 14(B) shows a verification image based on an image captured by the side camera 14A.

[0141] For example, in the verification video, virtual lines VL1, VL2 are displayed which indicate the positions of the prize opening 10C hidden by the prizes OB1, OB2, and the proportion of the prizes OB1, OB2 included within the range of the prize opening 10C is calculated. If the proportion of the prizes included within the range of the prize opening 10C is greater than a predetermined reference value, the prize acquisition is judged to be successful, and if it is equal to or less than the reference value, the prize acquisition is judged to be unsuccessful (step D11). For example, the verification video based on images taken from a plurality of different directions may be combined for judgment, or, for example, if any one of the verification videos satisfies the conditions, the prize acquisition may be judged to be successful.

[0142] In the verification video shown in Figure 14 (A) (B), the part of the prize OB1, OB2 included in the range of the prize drop hole 10C is changed to a different color from the rest, for example, to clearly show the player the part that was the basis for the prize acquisition judgment. This allows the player to understand the judgment result based on the verification video.

[0143] Furthermore, the winning determination is not limited to data based on the positional relationship between the prize and the prize drop hole 10C described above, but may also use data indicating the game usage status (number of continues, number (and type) of prizes won, etc.). For example, if the number of continues is greater than a preset number, the aforementioned reference value for determining whether a prize has been won is lowered. This makes it easier to determine that the prize has been won as a success. Also, if the number of prizes won is greater than a preset number, the reference value can be raised, making it easier to determine that the prize has been won as a failure. Note that the determination method for prize verification is not limited to the method described above.

[0144] The CPU 6a displays the determination result, for example, in the information area SE2 (status) of the play history details screen SE (step D12).

[0145] The player can check the result of the determination (success / failure in winning the prize) from the verification image and the status displayed in the image display area SE1p. The CPU 6a records the result of the winning verification and ends the winning verification process (step D13).

[0146] When the back button SE5 is operated (step D14, Yes), the CPU 6a displays the play history list screen SD on the electronic device 2 (step D1). When any game result is selected from the play history list screen SD (step D2, Yes), the CPU 6a executes processing for the selected game result in the same manner as described above (steps D3 to D14). When an operation is performed to close the play history details screen SE, the CPU 6a ends the play history processing (step D15, Yes), and displays the menu screen on the electronic device 2 (step A0).

[0147] In this way, in the play history process of this embodiment, the results of games played in the past can be confirmed, including the video of the game played. Furthermore, if there is any doubt about the prize winning judgment result, it is possible to request a prize winning judgment or a prize winning verification request. As a result, similar to an actual crane game device installed in an amusement facility, even in a situation where the game device 10 (prize sensor 84) does not judge that a prize has been won, it is judged that the prize has been won successfully, and it is possible to provide the player with an opportunity to win a prize. In other words, since the prize winning judgment can be performed accurately, it is possible to encourage continuous use of the game service without giving the player a sense of distrust.

[0148] In the above description, the electronic device 2 is assumed to be a personal computer with a large display screen. However, an example will be described in which the electronic device 2 is a smartphone with a relatively small display screen.

[0149] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SF displayed on the electronic device 2 (smartphone) in this embodiment. The viewing screen SF shown in FIG. 15 shows a state in which the game viewing image SF1 captured by the front camera 12A is displayed on the game device 10. When the electronic device 2 using the game service is a smartphone, the game server 6 displays the game viewing image SF1 captured by either the front camera 12A or the side camera 14A as an initial state. The viewing screen SF is provided with a shooting direction switching button SF2. The shooting direction switching button SF2 is a button for instructing to switch the shooting direction of the game viewing image SF1. In response to an operation on the shooting direction switching button SF2, as described above, operation data instructing the game server 6 to switch the image is output from the electronic device 2.

[0150] 15 shows a design indicating that the currently displayed game viewing image SF1 is an image shot from the front (the stuffed toy faces forward) and that the shooting direction can be changed. In other words, the shooting direction switching button SF2 also serves as shooting direction information indicating the shooting direction.

[0151] When the shooting direction switching button SF2 is operated while the game viewing image SF1 captured by the front camera 12A is displayed on the viewing screen SF, the game server 6 switches the display to the game viewing image SF1 captured by the side camera 14A. Also, the design of the shooting direction switching button SF2 is changed to a design indicating that the image is captured from the side (the stuffed toy is facing sideways) and that the shooting direction can be changed.

[0152] Therefore, on the viewing screen SF, the shooting direction of the game viewing image SF1 can be switched at any timing, making it possible to check images from different directions.

[0153] On the viewing screen SF, when another player is playing a game, the state of the game can be confirmed by the game viewing image SF1. For example, how the crane arm 10A is moving with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage can be confirmed by switching to an image from either the front or the side depending on the current position of the crane arm 10A. By checking an image taken from a desired direction while the crane arm 10A is moving, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. This can be used as a reference when playing. Even if another player is not playing, the state of the prize placed on the prize stage can be confirmed based on images taken from different directions. This makes it possible to judge the ease of winning a prize and consider how to move the crane arm 10A when playing before playing.

[0154] The viewing screen SF includes a reserve button SF3, a coin purchase button SF5, a details button SF4, prize information SF6, a reservation number display area SF7, a viewing number display area SF8, a coin display area SF9, and a back button SF10, which are provided in a frame designed for viewing the game. Note that each button and area is substantially the same as the menu screen SA shown in Fig. 9 and the viewing screen SB shown in Fig. 10, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0155] 16(A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of a play screen SG displayed on the electronic device 2 (smartphone) in this embodiment. The play screen SG shown in FIG. 16(A) displays game play image SG1f captured by the front camera 12A on the game device 10, and the play screen SG shown in FIG. 16(B) displays game play image SG1s captured by the side camera 14A on the game device 10.

[0156] In addition, a shooting direction switching button SG2f is provided on the play screen SG shown in Fig. 16(A), and a shooting direction switching button SG2s is provided on the play screen SG shown in Fig. 16(B). The shooting direction switching buttons SG2f, SG2s are buttons for instructing switching of the shooting direction of the game play images SG1f, SG1s, and use the same design as the shooting direction switching button SF2.

[0157] Also on the play screen SG, the display of the game play images SG1f, SG1s can be switched at any timing by operating the shooting direction switching buttons SG2f, SG2s.

[0158] On the play screen SG, the position of the crane arm 10A relative to the prize placed on the prize stage can be confirmed by viewing the images taken from the front and side. By comparing the images taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. This allows the positioning of the crane arm 10A relative to the prize to be reliably and easily performed as intended by the player. In other words, it is possible to easily grasp the execution status of the game.

[0159] The play screen SG also includes a "CATCH" button SG3, direction buttons SG4 and SG5 corresponding to two directions, a game play remaining time display area SG6, a reservation number of people display area SG7, and a viewing number display area SG8, ​​all of which are provided in a frame designed for game play. Note that each button and area is substantially the same as the menu screen SA shown in Fig. 9 and the viewing screen SB shown in Fig. 10 described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0160] The directional buttons SG4 and SG5 are input controlled to function as buttons for instructing the crane arm 10A to move left and right when game play image SG1f captured by the front camera 12A is displayed, as shown in FIG. 16(A), and to function as buttons for instructing the crane arm 10A to move forward and backward when game play image SG1s captured by the side camera 14A is displayed, as shown in FIG. 16(B).

[0161] In this way, even if the electronic device 2 has a relatively small display screen, such as a smartphone, images taken from different directions can be arbitrarily switched and displayed on the viewing screen SF and play screen SG, so that images that make it easy to check the relative positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be displayed depending on the current position of the crane arm 10A.

[0162] Basically, one image shot from any direction is displayed as shown in Figures 15 and 16, but depending on instructions from the player, image switching control may be performed to simultaneously display images shot from multiple directions on one screen as shown in Figures 10 and 11.

[0163] In the above-mentioned invention, the process of determining whether or not a product has been acquired is executed in the game server 6, but it may be executed in the game device 10. For example, the game device 10 records images captured by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A during game execution. When an acquisition determination request is instructed together with a play ID via the game server 6, the game device 10 executes the acquisition determination process based on the image corresponding to the play ID in the same manner as described above to perform the acquisition determination. The game device 10 responds to the game server 6 with the determination result of the acquisition determination. In this way, by executing the acquisition determination process in the game device 10, the load is distributed to a plurality of game devices 10 by the acquisition determination process, and therefore the processing load on the game server 6 can be reduced.

[0164] Also, the above explanation is directed to a game service (online crane game) for a crane game machine, but it is also possible to apply the present invention to game services for game machines other than crane game machines. For example, in the case of a medal game machine (pusher game machine), the pusher platform into which medals are inserted is photographed from a number of different directions, and game images are generated by combining the images photographed from each direction and transmitted to the electronic device 2. The player operating the electronic device 2 can determine the medal insertion position while simultaneously checking the multiple images photographed from different directions in the game image, and can perform an operation to instruct the execution of medal insertion.

[0165] Also, in the case of a medal game device, the division of a single game is not clear, as in the case of a crane game device. For this reason, while one player is playing an online game, the game server 6 sets game divisions, for example, at regular intervals, at each instruction from the player, or at each event that occurs during the game (jackpot, item insertion, large amount of medals paid out, etc.), and records the images taken at each game division. This allows a selection button for each division to be displayed on the play history details screen, and it becomes possible to specify a game division by operating the selection button and play and display the image.

[0166] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and in the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied without departing from the gist of the invention. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above-described embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0167] The method described in the embodiment can be stored as a program (software means) that can be executed by a computer on a recording medium such as a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, MO, Blu-ray (registered trademark), etc.), or a semiconductor memory (ROM, RAM, flash memory, etc.), and can also be distributed by transmitting it via a communication medium. The program stored on the medium side also includes a setting program that configures the software means (including not only execution programs but also tables and data structures) that the computer executes within the computer. The computer that realizes this device reads the program recorded on the recording medium, and in some cases, constructs the software means by the setting program, and executes the above-mentioned processing by controlling the operation of the software means. Note that the recording medium referred to in this specification is not limited to a recording medium for distribution, but also includes a storage medium such as a magnetic disk or semiconductor memory provided inside the computer or in a device connected via a network. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 2...electronic device, 6...game server, 6a...CPU, 10...game device, 10A...crane arm, 10B...prize stage, 10C...prize drop hole, 12A...front camera, 13A...upper camera, 14A...side camera.

Claims

1. a receiving means for receiving data for controlling a game to be executed by the game device from an electronic device operated based on an image of the game device, and for operating the game device in accordance with the data; a display means for displaying, after execution of a game on the game device, a screen including a button for receiving a request for verification of a game result based on the video image recorded during execution of the game, on the electronic device; A game server having:

2. The game server of claim 1, further comprising an image generation means for generating a verification image in the form of an animation that graphically depicts objects in the image in order to verify the game result based on the image when a request for verification of the game result of the game is received from the electronic device in response to operation of the button.

3. the video of the game device includes a plurality of videos of the game device taken from a plurality of different directions; 3. The game server according to claim 2, wherein said image generating means generates an animated verification image based on said plurality of images.

4. 4. The game server according to claim 2, wherein said image generating means generates a verification image using an animation including an object hidden in said image.

5. 5. The game server according to claim 2, further comprising a video display means for transmitting the verification video to the electronic device and displaying it thereon.

6. a transmission means for transmitting data for controlling a game executed by the game device to a game server; a display means for displaying a screen including a button for accepting a request for verification of a game result based on an image recorded during the execution of the game after the execution of the game on the game device; An electronic device having the

7. Computer, a receiving means for receiving data for controlling a game to be executed by the game device from an electronic device operated based on an image of the game device, and for operating the game device in accordance with the data; A program for causing the game device to function as a display means for displaying a screen including a button for accepting a request for verification of the game result based on the image recorded during game execution after the game is executed.

8. Computer, a transmission means for transmitting data for controlling a game executed by the game device to a game server; a program for causing the game device to function as a display means for displaying a screen including a button for accepting a request for verification of the game result based on the video image recorded during the execution of the game after the game has been executed;

Images