Information processor, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processor, an information processing method, and a program capable of increasing a user's sense of expectation toward acquisition of a game element and increasing a user's satisfaction level regarding a game.SOLUTION: A game element providing part 38 holds a lottery of a game element on the basis of a supply request of the game element from a user, selects first N game elements on the basis of a previously prescribed invariable lottery probability from among plural game elements included in a first set as a lottery result, selects one second game element as privilege from among plural game elements that are included in a second set and to which a providable number is prescribed for each, and provides a user U with the first game element and the second game element that are won. Without changing a winning probability of each game element included in the first set after providing the first game element, a game element won as the second game element is deleted from the second set, thus subtracting the providable number.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in games such as online games, a game is known in which a lottery is performed according to a user's request, and game elements (for example, characters or items available in the game) selected by the lottery are given to the user.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that in a lottery, a game element is selected from a deck containing a finite number of game elements (referred to as "game media" in Patent Document 1) based on a winning probability set for each game element, and the selected game element is deleted from the deck and then given to the user. In such a lottery, since the number of game elements to be selected in the deck decreases by repeating the lottery, if the target game element is included in the deck, the user can surely obtain the target game element by performing the lottery a finite number of times.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the lottery as shown in Patent Document 1, the target game element is not always included in the deck. Therefore, if the game element to be selected lacks attraction, the expectation for obtaining the game element may decrease, and there is a risk that the user will not participate in the lottery. On the other hand, even if the target game element is always in the deck, if the value of the target game element decreases, the game will eventually become boring and there is a risk that the user will get tired of it. Thus, in a game that conducts a lottery, it has been difficult to set an optimal game balance that can maintain the value of the game element and improve the user's expectation for the lottery.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that can enhance the user's expectation for obtaining a game element and improve the user's game satisfaction.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a provision request reception unit that receives a game element provision request from a user, and when the provision request is received, a first game element selected based on a predetermined lottery probability from among the game elements included in a first set, and a second game element selected from among the game elements included in a second set associated with the user and each having a prescribed available number of provisions, and a game element provision unit that provides the user with the first game element and the second game element, wherein the lottery probability does not change after providing the first game element, and the game element provision unit subtracts the available number of provisions of the provided second game element after providing the second game element.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, when a request for providing a game element is received, a first game element is provided by a lottery based on a predetermined fixed lottery probability, and a second game element is provided as a bonus in a lottery method that is advantageous to a user different from the lottery for providing the first game element. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the user's expectation for obtaining a game element and improve the user's game satisfaction.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

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Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are merely examples given to facilitate understanding of the present invention and do not limit the present invention. That is, the present invention can be modified or improved from the embodiments described below without departing from its gist. Naturally, equivalents of the present invention are included therein. Furthermore, the screen examples shown in the respective figures referred to in the following description are merely examples, and the configuration examples of the screen, the information to be displayed, the specific contents of the GUI (Graphical User Interface), etc. can be freely designed and changed according to the design specifications and user preferences.

[0011] <Regarding the game> The communication system shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter referred to as the game system S) is a communication system including an information processing apparatus (hereinafter referred to as the server 30) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and provides a game to the user U.

[0012] The "game" is an online game provided using the game system S, and is an electronic game that progresses while completing various quests (events) that occur and is played (hereinafter referred to as play). In the present embodiment, as an example of the game, the user U forms a team consisting of a plurality of characters (for example, four in a group), operates those characters by a predetermined action to fight against enemy characters, and sequentially challenges and clears a plurality of quests prepared in the game. In addition, in the game of the present embodiment, a lottery is conducted based on a game element provision request (lottery application) from the user U, and the user U can obtain various game elements won by the lottery.

[0013] "Quest" refers to a task given to user U within the game, that is, an individual stage or the like that constitutes the game. Each quest has a set execution period and achievement conditions, and various quests occur as the game progresses. Examples of quests include quests aimed at reaching a certain location, quests that involve encountering or fighting enemy characters, or quests where items can be obtained. Note that completing a quest by fulfilling the set achievement conditions is called "clearing", and when a quest is cleared, user U can obtain a clear reward.

[0014] "Game element" refers to an object that can be used within the game, and includes, for example, characters that move in response to user U's operations within the game, and items for advancing the game advantageously. The number of game elements held increases according to the result of a lottery (winning), etc., and decreases when consumed or discarded within the game.

[0015] "Lottery" is one of the events in the game where the above game elements are obtained, and is carried out in response to user U's request for the provision of game elements during the play of the game. In the lottery, a plurality of game elements with different winning probabilities are prepared as candidates, and one or a predetermined number of game elements are selected from among the plurality of candidate game elements, and the selected game elements are given to user U. In this embodiment, the selected game elements given to user U correspond to the first game element, which is the original purpose of the lottery, and the second game element, which is given as a bonus for the first game element. Note that among the plurality of candidate game elements, there are also game elements with rarity.

[0016] The "game elements with rarity" generally refer to game elements that are difficult to obtain because of their low winning probabilities, have high rarity value, and have a small circulation volume in the game or a small past usage amount by user U, etc. However, in this embodiment, in addition to the above meaning, regardless of the winning probability, etc., game elements such as characters strong in battles, items that are highly useful with large ability changes when used on characters, characters or items suitable for clearing each quest, or characters or items with high demand (high popularity) by user U are also included.

[0017] Note that "ability change" means changing the abilities of a character, and includes, for example, the changes listed below. Basically, it is a change that is advantageous to user U, but does not exclude changes that are disadvantageous to user U. (a) Improve the parameters (setting data related to level, physical strength, attack power, speed, luck, etc.) that a character has to strengthen the character. (b) Improve the maximum value of the abilities defined in advance for the parameters that a character has to further strengthen the character. (c) Add special abilities (techniques, etc.) to the character. (d) Change the special abilities that the character has. (e) Grant the character the qualification to challenge special quests. (f) Change the attributes of the character. For example, change the character's occupation from occupation A to occupation B.

[0018] In addition, there are various forms of lottery, for example, the "single type" lottery that is only carried out once, and the "N - consecutive type" lottery in which lotteries for N times (N is a natural number of 2 or more) are carried out continuously. Also, there are various lottery implementation conditions, including lotteries that can be carried out by consuming free - available lottery items, lotteries that can be carried out by consuming paid - purchased lottery items, and lotteries that can be carried out as clear rewards for quests, etc.

[0019] Here, referring to FIG. 2, the transition of the screen displayed on the user terminal 10 during the lottery, that is, when providing game elements, will be described. As shown in FIG. 2(a), when providing game elements, first, a lottery application screen 40 is displayed on the user terminal 10. On the lottery application screen 40, a single selection button 41 and an N-consecutive selection button 42 for selecting the form of the lottery are displayed. In this embodiment, in the N-consecutive type lottery, based on a predetermined fixed lottery probability among a plurality of game elements included in the first set, N game elements (first game elements) are selected, and among a plurality of game elements included in the second set, each of which has a defined number of available items, one game element (second game element) is selected as a bonus. Therefore, the N-consecutive selection button 42 is marked with "with bonus BOX".

[0020] The "first set" is a set (virtual box) that includes a plurality of game elements that are candidates for the first game element, which is the original purpose of the lottery. For each game element included in the first set, a winning probability is set in advance, and that winning probability does not change regardless of the number of lottery draws. Specifically, even if a game element has won once as the first game element, it is not removed from the first set, and there is no lottery restriction so that the game element can still win in subsequent lotteries. That is, in the first set, even if the lottery is repeated, the lottery probability, that is, the winning probability of each game element, does not change. Note that the first set does not change in such a way that the content of the game elements becomes advantageous to the user U by repeating the lottery.

[0021] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the first box 51, which is the first set, is selected from among a first set candidate group 53 that contains a plurality of first set candidates 52 (G1, G2, G3,...) in response to a request for providing game elements from the user U. That is, the user U can select a first set candidate 52 that includes any game elements such as a character desired by the user U and set it as the lottery target. The first set candidates 52 may be divided, for example, by attributes or quests. Also, the first set candidates 52 that can be selected depending on the time may be limited, or the first set candidates 52 that can be selected depending on the user U's game experience value may be limited.

[0022] Also, among the first set candidates 52, there are those that are not the target for awarding the second game element as a privilege. For example, when the first set candidates 52 are replaced at specific times and the content of the first set is changed, in a lottery event G1 held at a certain time (for example, from February 1st to 14th) (for example, the lottery event when the first set candidate 52 "G1" is selected), as described above, the second game element is awarded as a privilege. On the other hand, in another lottery event G2 held at the same time as the lottery event G1 (for example, the lottery event when the first set candidate 52 "G2" is selected), even if a multi - draw lottery is conducted, it is assumed that the second game element is not awarded as a privilege. That is, by including those that are not the target for awarding the second game element among the first set candidates 52, even when a plurality of lottery events are held simultaneously, it is possible to operate so that a plurality of lottery events for which the second game element is awarded do not occur simultaneously. Note that in a lottery event G3 held at another certain time (for example, from February 15th to 28th) after the lottery event G1 ends (for example, the lottery event when the first set candidate 52 "G3" is selected), the lottery results of the lottery event G1 are not carried over, and the content of the second set described later is also changed.

[0023] The "second set" is a set (virtual box) that includes a plurality of game elements that are candidates for the second game element to be granted as a privilege. A winning probability is set in advance for each game element included in the second set, and the winning probability changes depending on the number of lottery draws. Specifically, by defining the number of available items for each game element included in the second set, the total number of available items for the game elements included in the second set (for example, 10) is set. And the game element selected as the second game element is deleted from the second set to subtract its number of available items. Therefore, a game element that has once been selected as the second game element will be restricted from being selected in subsequent lottery draws unless a predetermined condition is met and the second set is updated. As a result, in the second set, if the lottery is repeated, the total number of available items for the game elements included in the second set will decrease, so the lottery probability, that is, the winning probability of each game element, will increase.

[0024] Note that the second set may contain multiple identical game elements. For example, if there are two of a certain game element, the winning probability of that game element will decrease after the first win, and after the second win, that is, after all of the multiple identical game elements have been won, that game element will not be selected in subsequent lottery draws.

[0025] The "predetermined condition" is a condition for updating the types and available numbers of the game elements included in the second set and releasing the lottery restriction, and includes, for example, the following cases. (a) When the number of second game elements reaches the total number of available items for the game elements included in the second set, that is, when user U repeats the lottery and obtains all the game elements in the second set, resulting in the total number of available items for the game elements in the second set becoming 0. (b) When, although the total number of available items for the game elements in the second set still remains, a specific game element included in the second set is selected.

[0026] A "specific game element" is a game element that may be included in the second set and is distinguishable from other game elements. For example, a game element with rarity, etc., corresponds to a specific game element. A specific game element is not always included in the second set and may be controlled not to be included during an update.

[0027] "Update" also means reset and refers to resetting the content of the second set. Specifically, it means changing the types and available numbers of game elements included in the second set and restoring them to the upper limit value of the total available numbers of game elements included in the second set. Note that the update here includes both the meaning of changing the content of the second set from the initial state and the meaning of returning the content of the second set to the initial state.

[0028] As described above, since the content of the second set changes according to the lottery results of the user U, it is stored in the server-side storage unit 34 to be described later as data associated with each user U. As shown in FIG. 4, the second set table T includes items such as "Name" indicating the name of the game element, "Number" indicating the initial available number included in the second set, "Remainder" indicating the remaining available number obtained by subtracting the winning times from the initial available number included in the second set, and "Specific" indicating whether it corresponds to a specific game element.

[0029] Also, as described above, the second set will be updated when a predetermined condition is satisfied. However, during the update, it is also possible to set it in a state where no specific game element is included. For example, as shown in FIG. 5(a), in the second set table Ta after the update, the number of specific game elements is set to 0, and the corresponding number is allocated to other game elements (in this embodiment, "GGGGGGGG" and "HHHHHHH") respectively. In this way, from the second round onwards, specific game elements can be excluded from the second set as game elements with restricted distribution. Note that once a game element is excluded, it is advisable to exclude it repeatedly during subsequent updates.

[0030] On the other hand, when updating, the second set can also change the types and available quantities of game elements included in the second set. For example, as shown in FIG. 5(b), in the updated second set table Tb, the content of a specific game element is changed from "AAAAAAAA" and "BBBBBBBB" to "YYYYYYYY" and "ZZZZZZZZ", and the number of "CCCCCCCC" is decreased by 1 and the number of "GGGGGGGG" is increased by 1. Here, although the type of a specific game element is changed, the types of game elements other than the specific game element may also be changed.

[0031] The game elements included in the second set may be content that can sufficiently satisfy the user U if the lottery is carried out until the total available quantity becomes 0 (10 times in this embodiment). Therefore, it is advisable to mix rare game elements and game elements other than rare game elements in the second set. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the second box 54, which is the second set, is composed by combining game elements respectively selected from the second set candidate group 56, which is a group including rare game elements, and the second set candidate group 58, which is a group including game elements other than rare game elements. Specifically, the second box 54, which is the second set, is composed by combining the second set candidate 55 (in this embodiment, "R2"), which indicates a rare game element and is selected from the second set candidate group 56 in which a plurality of second set candidates 55 (R1, R2, R3...) are accommodated, and the second set candidates 57 (N1, N2, N3...), which indicate game elements other than rare game elements and are selected from the second set candidate group 58 in which a plurality of second set candidates 57 are accommodated (in this embodiment, "N1" and "N5").

[0032] Also, when updating the second set, the game elements included in the second set for two times, namely the updated second set (the previous second set) and the further updated second set (the subsequent second set), may be determined simultaneously. At this time, for the subsequent second set, instead of determining all game elements, only the game elements with rarity may be determined. That is, it may be sufficient to simply select the second set candidate 55 indicating the game elements with rarity from among the second set candidate group 56. Also, the game elements with rarity that are expected to be included in the subsequent second set may be notified (previewed) to the user U during the update.

[0033] Returning to FIG. 2(a), when the N-consecutive selection button 42 is tapped or the like by the user U on the lottery application screen 40, as shown in FIG. 2(b), a confirmation dialog 43 for confirming the implementation of the N-consecutive lottery on the lottery application screen 40 and a lottery application button 44 are displayed. The confirmation dialog 43 displays the fact that it is an N-consecutive lottery, the number of lottery items possessed at the time of lottery application, the number of lottery possible times according to the number of possessed lottery items, the total number of game elements that can be provided and the remaining number of game elements included in the second set (denoted as "Bonus BOX list 8 / 10" in FIG. 2(b)), the content of the second game elements included in the second set (including the type and the number that can be provided, etc.), and other necessary explanations, etc. The content of the second game elements is displayed in a list format and is scrollable as necessary. Also, in order to indicate that the second game elements that have already been discharged will not be selected in the future, the undischarged second game elements are displayed in an identifiable manner.

[0034] Then, when the lottery application button 44 is tapped or the like by the user U on the lottery application screen 40, as shown in FIG. 2(c), the screen transitions to the lottery result screen 45. On the lottery result screen 45, as lottery results, N (10 in this embodiment) first game elements selected from among the game elements included in the first set are shown by first icons 46. Further, as a bonus unique to N - consecutive - type lottery, two additional types of game elements are shown. That is, a bonus icon 47 showing a game element that is uniformly given as a bonus by default, and a second icon 48 showing a second game element given as an additional privilege separately from the game element shown by the bonus icon 47 are displayed. The game elements displayed on this lottery result screen 45 will be provided to the user U who conducted the N - consecutive - type lottery.

[0035] In the lottery result screen 45 of this embodiment, the second icon 48 imitates a present box, and there is an effect that the second game element is inside the present box. Therefore, on the lottery result screen 45, the content of the second game element is masked, but the user U can expand the second icon 48 by tapping the second icon 48 or the like to check the content of the second game element. Also, the game element shown by the bonus icon 47 is not particularly limited, but in this embodiment, for example, it is an item that can be exchanged for other game elements in the game, and 5 are given for each N - consecutive - type lottery.

[0036] In this embodiment, as a privilege, 1 second game element selected from among the game elements included in the second set is given to the user U, but the selection probability of the second game element may be determined according to the lottery result of the first game element, which is the original purpose of the lottery, that is, the degree of rarity of the selected first game element, etc. For example, if the degree of rarity of all N first game elements is low as a result of the lottery, control may be performed so that a specific game element is more likely to be selected as the second game element.

[0037] In the "single type" lottery, no bonus is given. That is, in Fig. 2(a), when the single selection button 41 is tapped or the like by the user U, it is a normal lottery in which the game elements and the second game elements indicated by the bonus icon 47 are not given. Specifically, one first game element is selected based on a predetermined and invariant lottery probability from among a plurality of game elements included in the first set.

[0038] In addition, in this embodiment, not only can the user U play alone, but so-called multiplayer play (hereinafter referred to as cooperative play), in which a plurality of users U operate their respective user terminals 10 to simultaneously play a common quest, is also possible. In this cooperative play, a user U (hereinafter referred to as the host) who sponsors cooperative play for a specific quest and recruits members, and a user U (hereinafter referred to as the guest) who applies for the recruitment and participates in the cooperative play form a cooperative relationship, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the users who perform the cooperative play.

[0039] Cooperative play is performed through the communication function of the user terminal 10 of each user U. Specifically, when a certain user U applies to participate in the cooperative play recruited by the host and the host permits the application, a communication path for cooperative play is established between the certain user U as a guest and the host. Note that the application eligibility for cooperative play is not particularly limited and can be set arbitrarily. For example, it may be that other user Us who have a friendship relationship with a certain user U and who are friend users mutually approved by the user Us can apply.

[0040] Thereafter, the transmission and reception of various data required for cooperative play are performed according to a known communication method. The data at this time may be a client-server method via the server 30 or a P2P (peer-to-peer) method without passing through the server 30. In addition, the modes of cooperative play are classified into a fully synchronous type and an asynchronous type, and any mode may be adopted. Note that the fully synchronous type includes a key input synchronization method and a command input method, and the asynchronous type includes a server centralized processing type and a client distributed processing.

[0041] Note that the co-play compatible games include cooperative play games in which multiple users U cooperate and competitive games in which users U compete with each other, and either type may be used. Also, the upper limit (maximum number of players) of the number of users U in a single co-play is not particularly limited and may be set to any number, but for example, it is preferably set to about 4 at most.

[0042] <Regarding the configuration of the game system S> Next, the configuration of the game system S for providing the above game to the user U will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system S is constructed for the user U to play the game, and is composed of a user terminal 10 which is an information terminal operated by the user U and a server 30. The user terminal 10 and the server 30 are communicably connected to each other via a network N such as the Internet.

[0043] The user terminal 10 is equipped with a program stored in the terminal and a processor that executes the program, and is carried by the user U who is the owner thereof. The user U operates the user terminal 10 during play. As the user terminal 10, known devices used as game terminals, such as smartphones, mobile phones, notebook PCs, tablet terminals, wearable terminals, or game dedicated devices equipped with communication functions, can be used. Note that the number of user terminals 10 constituting the game system S is not particularly limited and may be any number, but in FIG. 1, for the sake of illustration, the number of user terminals 10 is set to 3.

[0044] The server 30 is a computer that constitutes the information processing apparatus of the present invention. For example, it is composed of a server computer managed by a game providing company and is responsible for the game progress processing. Specifically, it manages the game accounts and statuses of users U for each user U and distributes game progress data to each user U. Further, the server 30 is not limited to a server device composed of a single computer that exhibits a specific function alone, and may be composed of a group of server devices composed of a plurality of computers that are distributed but cooperate to exhibit a specific function.

[0045] The network N may be any network that can connect the user terminal 10 and the server 30 in a state where data communication is possible. Whether it is wired or wireless, it includes the Internet, a mobile communication network, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), an intranet, and Ethernet (registered trademark), etc. Further, the user terminals 10 may communicate with each other via the network N, or may directly communicate without passing through the network N through Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wifi-Direct, etc.

[0046] In the game system S of the present embodiment, with the above configuration, the game progresses by the cooperation of the user terminal 10 and the server 30. Specifically, a part of the game progress processing is performed on the server 30 side, and a part such as graphic processing is executed on the user terminal 10 side. For example, on the server 30 side, a program including certain rules, logics, and algorithms is executed. On the other hand, on the user terminal 10 side, while synchronizing with the server 30, various quests are generated and the game is progressed according to the same rules, logics, and algorithms as the program executed on the server 30.

[0047] <Regarding the configuration of the user terminal 10> Next, the configuration of the user terminal 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the user terminal 10 includes, as a hardware configuration, a processor 11, a storage device 12, a communication interface (denoted as communication I / F in FIG. 7) 13, an input device 14, and an output device 15, and these devices are electrically connected via a bus (not shown).

[0048] The processor 11 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP), etc., and executes various arithmetic processes based on programs or data stored in the storage device 12, and controls each part of the user terminal 10. Programs executed by the processor 11 include an operating system (OS), which is system software for controlling the entire user terminal 10, and application programs for games, etc. When these various programs are read and executed by the processor 11, the functions of the user terminal 10 as a component of the game system S are exerted.

[0049] The storage device 12 includes, for example, a memory or a storage, etc., and stores various programs or data. The memory is composed of semiconductor memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), provides a working area for the processor 11 by temporarily storing programs and data, and temporarily stores various data generated by the processes executed by the processor 11. The storage stores various data related to the game and is composed of, for example, flash memory, HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), FD (Flexible Disc), MO disc (Magneto - Optical disc), CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), SD card (Secure Digital card), and USB memory (Universal Serial Bus memory), etc.

[0050] The communication interface 13 is composed of, for example, a network interface card (NIC), etc., and controls the communication processing of the user terminal 10. The communication standard by the communication interface 13 is not particularly limited, and any communication standard for the public can be applied without limitation. Also, the communication method by the communication interface 13 may be a wireless method or a wired method.

[0051] The input device 14 is a device that receives the operation of the user U and generates data indicating the content of the received operation. As an example, operation keys, operation buttons, a microphone for sound collection, and a camera for shooting provided on the user terminal 10 can be used.

[0052] The output device 15 is a device that draws a screen to display image and character information, etc., and plays back sound. As an example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display, a head - mounted display, and a speaker provided on the user terminal 10 can be used. In this embodiment, the output device 15 has at least a display. The display may also have both the functions of the input device 14 and the output device 15, such as a touch - panel display.

[0053] Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the configuration of the user terminal 10 will be described again from the functional aspect. As shown in FIG. 8, the user terminal 10 includes a plurality of functional units, specifically, an operation specifying unit 16, a terminal-side storage unit 17, a terminal-side generation unit 18, a terminal-side transmission / reception unit 19, and a display processing unit 20. These functional units are realized by the cooperation of the hardware devices of the user terminal 10 and a program as software stored in the user terminal 10.

[0054] [Operation specifying unit 16] The operation specifying unit 16 is mainly realized by the processor 11 and the input device 14, and specifies the contents of various operations performed by the user U through the input device 14 of the user terminal 10. The operations specified by the operation specifying unit 16 include operations for game progress and operations related to co-play (operations related to recruitment of co-play, application for co-play, and approval or rejection of the application). The operations for game progress also include operations for instructing a request for providing game elements on the lottery application screen 40.

[0055] [Terminal-side storage unit 17] The terminal-side storage unit 17 is mainly realized by the processor 11 and the storage device 12, and stores various data related to game progress (for example, video data, image data, and audio data).

[0056] [Terminal-side generation unit 18] The terminal-side generation unit 18 is mainly realized by the processor 11 and the storage device 12, and generates game operation data and the like according to the operation content of the user U specified by the operation specifying unit 16. The game operation data generated here includes provision request instruction operation data based on a provision request instruction for game elements, and operation data related to co-play (including operation data related to recruitment of co-play, application for co-play, and approval or rejection of the application). These generated data are transmitted by the terminal-side transmission / reception unit 19 toward the server 30.

[0057] [Terminal-side transmission / reception unit 19] The terminal-side transceiver 19 is mainly implemented by the processor 11, the storage device 12, and the communication interface 13, and transmits and receives data and information between the server 30 and the user terminal 10 of other users U. For example, during the game play, the terminal-side transceiver 19 receives the game progress data sent from the server 30 and transmits the game operation data to the server 30. Also, when the cooperative play of the game is being carried out, the terminal-side transceiver 19 may transmit and receive the cooperative play data (specifically, the game operation data of each user U) with the user terminal 10 of other users U.

[0058] [Display processing unit 20] The display processing unit 20 is mainly implemented by the processor 11, the storage device 12, and the output device 15, and executes display processing for displaying the data and information received by the terminal-side transceiver 19 on the display by means of the browsing function. Specifically, the display processing unit 20 draws the game screen at the start of the game, and during the game play, expands the game progress data received by the terminal-side transceiver 19 from the server 30 and displays the video and other information in the game screen. Also, during the game play, the display processing unit 20 displays the video that changes according to the game operation data generated by the terminal-side generation unit 18 (specifically, the video that moves according to the operation of the user U) in the game screen.

[0059] <Regarding the configuration of the server 30> Next, the configuration of the server 30 according to this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the server 30 has the same hardware configuration as a general server computer, and includes a processor 31, a storage device 32, and a communication interface (denoted as communication I / F in FIG. 7) 33, and these devices are electrically connected via a bus (not shown).

[0060] The processor 31 is composed of a CPU, MPU, GPU, DSP, etc., and executes various processes by executing the programs installed in the server 30. The programs executed by the processor 31 are the OS, which is system software for controlling the entire server 30, and application programs for making the server 30 function as the information processing apparatus of the present invention, etc.

[0061] The storage device 32 includes, for example, a memory or a storage, etc., and stores various programs or data. The memory is composed of semiconductor memories such as ROM and RAM, provides a working area for the processor 31 by temporarily storing programs and data, and temporarily stores the data generated by various processes executed by the processor 31. The storage stores various data related to the user U and games, etc., and is composed of, for example, a flash memory, HDD, SSD, FD, MO disk, CD, DVD, SD card, and USB memory, etc. Note that a server computer for a database connected to the server 30 via the network N may be used as the storage.

[0062] The communication interface 33 is composed of, for example, a network interface card, etc., and controls the communication processing of the server 30. The communication standard by the communication interface 33 is not particularly limited, and any public communication standard can be applied without limitation. Also, the communication method by the communication interface 33 may be a wireless method or a wired method.

[0063] Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the configuration of the server 30 will be described again from the functional aspect. As shown in FIG. 9, the server 30 includes a plurality of functional units, specifically, a server-side storage unit 34, a server-side transmission / reception unit 35, a server-side generation unit 36, a provision request reception unit 37, a game element provision unit 38, and an aggregation update unit 39. These functional units are realized by the cooperation of the hardware devices of the server 30 and a program as software stored in the server 30. When the server 30 is configured by a plurality of computers, the above functions may be distributed so that each of the plurality of computers exhibits different functions from each other.

[0064] [Server-side storage unit 34] The server-side storage unit 34 is mainly realized by the processor 31 and the storage device 32, and stores various data including data related to the user U and data related to the progress processing of the game (game progress data). Data related to the user U includes an identifier (user ID or terminal ID) that identifies the user U or the user terminal 10 used by the user U, and various information associated with the identifier (personal information of the user U, model of the user terminal 10, access history, payment history, or game progress status such as status). Game progress data includes information related to the characters owned by the user U (name, attributes, abilities, level, etc.), information related to other game elements such as items owned by the user U, or information related to quests. It also includes information related to the first set and the second set.

[0065] [Server-side transmission / reception unit 35] The server-side transmission / reception unit 35 is mainly implemented by the processor 31, the storage device 32, and the communication interface 33, and transmits and receives data and information to and from the user terminal 10. For example, during the play of the game, the server-side transmission / reception unit 35 transmits game progress data to the user terminal 10 of the user U and receives game operation data from that user terminal 10. Also, while the cooperative play of the game is being performed, the server-side transmission / reception unit 35 receives cooperative play data from each of the user terminals 10 of a plurality of users U who are performing the cooperative play, and transmits data (game progress data in a broad sense) for synchronization among the users U to each user terminal 10.

[0066] [Server-side generation unit 36] The server-side generation unit 36 is mainly implemented by the processor 31 and the storage device 32, and generates the data transmitted by the server-side transmission / reception unit 35. Specifically, the data generated here includes, for example, game progress data corresponding to the game operation data received from the user terminal 10. Note that the game progress data includes game element provision application display data for causing the lottery application screen 40 to be displayed on the user terminal 10, game element provision result display data for causing the lottery result screen 45 to be displayed on the user terminal 10, second set display data for causing the second set in which the game elements are accommodated to be displayed on the user terminal 10, second set notification data for notifying the user terminal 10 of a later second set separately from the previous second set, and data for synchronization among a plurality of users U who are performing cooperative play while the cooperative play of the game is being performed, and the like.

[0067] [Provision request reception unit 37] The provision request reception unit 37 is mainly implemented by the processor 31 and the storage device 32, identifies the user U who owns the user terminal 10 based on the game element provision request instruction from the user terminal 10 received by the server-side transmission / reception unit 35, and receives the game element provision request from that user U.

[0068] [Game element provision unit 38] The game element providing unit 38 is mainly implemented by the processor 31 and the storage device 32. Based on the game element providing request from the user U, it selects game elements by lottery and provides the user U with the game elements (the first game element and the second game element) selected as the lottery result. Specifically, in the case of N-consecutive lottery, the game element providing unit 38 selects N first game elements from among a plurality of game elements included in the first set based on a predefined and invariant lottery probability, and selects one second game element as a privilege from among a plurality of game elements included in the second set, each of which has a defined available number. At this time, the game element providing unit 38 does not change the winning probability of each game element included in the first set after providing the first game element. On the other hand, it subtracts the available number by deleting the game element selected as the second game element from within the second set. Note that the selection probability of the second game element may be determined according to the lottery result of the first game element.

[0069] [Set update unit 39] The set update unit 39 is mainly implemented by the processor 31 and the storage device 32. When the above-mentioned predetermined conditions are satisfied, it updates the second set. Specifically, it changes the types and available numbers of the game elements included in the second set and restores the total available number of the game elements included in the second set to the upper limit value. At this time, the set update unit 39 may make the types of the game elements or the available numbers of the game elements included in the second set before and after the update different, or may not include a specific game element in the second set after the update. Also, it may select and combine a predetermined second set candidate 55, 57 from among a plurality of second set candidates 55, 57 with different types or available numbers of game elements. Furthermore, it may simultaneously determine the game elements included in the second set for two times, namely the second set after the update and the second set after the next update. Note that the set update unit 39 also performs the process of selecting the first set from among the first set candidate group 53 in which a plurality of first set candidates 52 are accommodated according to the game element providing request from the user U.

[0070] Note that, generally, the user terminal 10 and the server 30 have various other functions in addition to those described above. Here, however, only the characteristic functions that produce effects in the game system S of the present invention will be described, and illustration and description of other known functions and the like will be omitted.

[0071] <Regarding the processing flow of the game system S> Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12, the processing flow executed in the game system S having the above configuration will be described. The information processing method according to the present embodiment is realized by using the game system S that functions as a computer system. In other words, in the information processing executed by the game system S, the information processing method according to the present embodiment is applied.

[0072] The information processing executed in the game system S in the present embodiment is mainly composed of two processes: a process of providing game elements [game element providing process] and a process of updating the second set [second set updating process]. Hereinafter, each process will be described individually.

[0073] [Game element providing process] First, the game element providing process will be described based on FIG. 10. The "game element providing process" is a process executed in the server 30, and refers to a process of performing a lottery in response to a request for providing game elements from the user U (in the present embodiment, limited to an application for an N-consecutive type lottery) and providing game elements.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 10, when the server 30 receives the operation data of the provision request instruction of game elements from the user terminal 10 and accepts the N-consecutive lottery application from the user U (S101), it selects N first game elements from among the plurality of game elements included in the first set based on a predetermined fixed lottery probability (S102). Further, the server 30 selects one second game element from among the plurality of game elements included in the second set and having the number of available provisions defined for each (S103). Then, the server 30 assigns the selected N first game elements and one second game element to the user U (S104).

[0075] Furthermore, the server 30 subtracts the number of available provisions of the second game element by deleting the game element selected as the second game element from within the second set (S105). In the subsequent lotteries, after performing lottery restrictions so that the selected second game element cannot be selected, the server overwrites and stores the second set after subtracting the number of available provisions in the server-side storage unit 34 (S106).

[0076] Subsequently, the server 30 generates game element provision result display data, which is game progress data for notifying the lottery result, and second set display data indicating the second set to be applied in the subsequent lotteries (S107). Then, the server transmits the generated game element provision result display data to the user terminal 10 of the user U (S108) and ends the process. Note that the second set display data generated in S107 is not transmitted as the lottery result, but is displayed in the confirmation dialog 43 displayed on the lottery application screen 40 at the time of the next lottery.

[0077] When the above series of steps is completed, the game element provision process ends. Thereafter, while the user U is playing the game, strictly speaking, when the user U submits an N-consecutive lottery application, the above series of steps is repeatedly executed. The above is an example of the game element provision process.

[0078] [Second Set Update Process] Next, based on FIG. 11, the second set update process will be described. The "second set update process" is a process executed on the server 30. When the above-mentioned predetermined conditions are satisfied, that is, when the number of second game elements reaches the total number of game elements that can be provided within the second set, or when a specific game element included in the second set is selected, it refers to the process of updating the second set.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 11, the server 30 determines whether the predetermined conditions are satisfied (S201). If the predetermined conditions are satisfied (S201: YES), the second set is updated (S202), and the updated second set is overwritten and stored in the server-side storage unit 34 (S203).

[0080] Subsequently, the server 30 generates second set display data indicating the second set to be applied in the lottery after the next time (S204). In order to notify the user U that the second set has been updated, the generated second set display data is transmitted to the user terminal 10 of the user U (S205), and the process ends. If the predetermined conditions are not satisfied (S201: NO), the process ends as it is.

[0081] When the above series of steps is completed, the second set update process ends. Thereafter, while the user U is playing the game, strictly speaking, when a lottery application of the N-consecutive type is made from the user U, the above series of steps is repeatedly executed. The above is an example of the second set update process.

[0082] [Other second set update processes] In the above-described second set update process, the case where one second set is updated per update has been described. However, in one update, it is also possible to simultaneously determine the game elements included in the second set for two times, that is, the updated second set (the previous second set) and the further updated second set (the subsequent second set). The process in this case will be described below as another second set update process based on FIG. 12. "Another second set update process" refers to a process executed on the server 30, which means a process of updating the second set twice when the above-mentioned predetermined conditions are met.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 12, the server 30 determines whether or not to satisfy a predetermined condition (S301). If the predetermined condition is satisfied (S301: YES), then the server 30 subsequently determines whether the subsequent second set has already been created or not (S302).

[0084] When the update is the first time, or when the subsequent second set was not created in the previous update, etc., if the subsequent second set is not created (S302: YES), the server 30 creates the previous second set in a state including rare game elements (S303), and deletes the rare game elements included in the previous second set from the candidates of the game elements to be included in the subsequent second set and the second set in subsequent updates (S304). Specifically, as the game elements to be included in the second set, a second set candidate 55 (for example, "R2" in FIG. 6) indicating a rare game element is selected from the second set candidate group 56, and a second set candidate 57 (for example, "N1" and "N5" in FIG. 6) indicating game elements other than the rare game elements is selected from the second set candidate group 58. Then, the second set candidate 55 (for example, "R2" in FIG. 6) indicating the selected rare game element is deleted from the second set candidate group 56.

[0085] Subsequently, the server 30 creates the subsequent second set in a state including rare game elements (S305), and deletes the rare game elements included in the subsequent second set from the candidates of the game elements to be included in the second set in subsequent updates (S306). Specifically, as game elements to be included in the second set, from among the second set candidate group 56, a second set candidate 55 (e.g., "R2" in FIG. 6) other than the second set candidate 55 that has already been deleted and included in the previous second set is selected, and a second set candidate 57 (e.g., "N1" and "N2" in FIG. 6) is selected from among the second set candidate group 58. At this time, the second set candidate 57 may overlap with the second set candidate 57 included in the previous second set. Then, the second set candidate 55 (e.g., "R3" in FIG. 6) indicating the selected rare game element is deleted from the second set candidate group 56.

[0086] On the other hand, in the update after the second time, when the subsequent second set has already been created at the time of the previous update (S302: NO), the server 30 calls the created subsequent second set and sets it as the previous second set (S307). Then, for the subsequent second set that has become blank, similar to S305 and S306 above, the server 30 creates a subsequent second set in a state including rare game elements (S308), and deletes the rare game elements included in the subsequent second set from the candidates for the game elements to be included in the second set in the updates after the next time (S309).

[0087] Then, the server 30 overwrites and stores the created previous second set and subsequent second set in the server-side storage unit 34 (S310).

[0088] Subsequently, the server 30 generates previous second set display data indicating the second set to be applied in the next lottery and subsequent second set notification data for notifying the rare game elements planned to be included in the second set to be applied in the lottery after the next one (S311), and transmits them to the user terminal 10 of the user U in order to be displayed in the confirmation dialog 43 displayed on the lottery application screen 40 (S312), and ends the process. Note that if the predetermined conditions are not satisfied (S301: NO), the process ends as it is.

[0089] When the above series of processes are completed, another second set update process is completed. Thereafter, while the user U is playing the game, strictly speaking, when a lottery application of the N-consecutive type is made from the user U, the above series of processes are repeatedly executed. The above is an example of another second set update process.

[0090] <Other Embodiments> The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. In the above embodiment, the program of the present invention is executed on the server 30 to function as the information processing apparatus of the present invention. However, part or all of the functions of the information processing apparatus of the server 30 may be provided in the user terminal 10. For example, functions corresponding to the game element providing unit and the set update unit may be provided in the user terminal 10.

[0091] Also, in the present embodiment, as an example of the game, an online game that uses data communication performed between the user terminal 10 operated by the user U and the server 30 has been described. However, the type of the game is not particularly limited, and an offline game that does not require data communication may be used. Further, for example, a social game that can be used only with an account of a web browser and an SNS (Social Networking Service) may be used.

[0092] <Summary> The main features of the program, information processing method, and information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment described above are as follows.

[0093] [1] The information processing apparatus according to this embodiment includes a provision request reception unit that receives a provision request for game elements from a user, and when the provision request is received, a first game element selected based on a predetermined lottery probability from among the game elements included in the first set, and a second game element selected from among the game elements included in the second set associated with the user and each having a defined available number of provisions, and a game element provision unit that provides the user with the first game element and the second game element. The lottery probability does not change after the first game element is provided, and the game element provision unit subtracts the available number of provisions of the provided second game element after providing the second game element. According to the information processing apparatus described above, when a provision request for game elements is received, the first game element is provided by lottery based on a predetermined fixed lottery probability, and a lottery method advantageous to the user different from the lottery for providing the first game element, that is, a lottery method in which it is easy to obtain rare game elements, is used to provide the second game element as a bonus. Therefore, the user's expectation for obtaining game elements can be increased, and the user's game satisfaction can be improved.

[0094] [2] In the information processing apparatus described above, the first set is selected from among a plurality of first set candidates in response to the provision request. In this way, the first set including the first game element is selected from various candidates in response to the provision request. Therefore, the user's expectation for obtaining game elements can be further increased, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0095] [3] The information processing apparatus described above further includes a set update unit that updates the second set when a predetermined condition is satisfied. In this way, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the content of the second set is updated, so for the user, an opportunity to obtain new second game elements occurs. Therefore, the user's expectation for obtaining game elements can be further increased, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0096] [4]In the above information processing apparatus, the predetermined condition is that the remaining number of available game elements included in the second set becomes zero. In this way, when all the game elements included in the second set are acquired, the content of the second set is updated. Therefore, for the user, an opportunity to acquire new second game elements occurs. As a result, the user's sense of expectation for acquiring game elements can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0097] [5]In the above information processing apparatus, the predetermined condition is to provide a specific game element included in the second set. In this way, when a specific game element included in the second set is acquired, the content of the second set is updated. Therefore, for the user, an opportunity to acquire new second game elements occurs. As a result, the user's sense of expectation for acquiring game elements can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0098] [6]In the above information processing apparatus, when updating the second set, the set update unit makes the types of game elements included in the second set or the available number of game elements different before and after the update. In this way, when updating the second set, since the game elements included in the updated second set are different from those before the update, for the user, an opportunity to acquire new second game elements occurs. As a result, the user's sense of expectation for acquiring game elements can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0099] [7]In the above information processing apparatus, when updating the second set, after providing a predetermined number of specific game elements included in the second set, the specific game elements are not included in the updated second set. In this way, when updating the second set, by excluding specific game elements from the updated second set, the emission count of the specific game elements is suppressed, preventing the value of the specific game elements from decreasing and disrupting the game balance. Therefore, the sense of anticipation for obtaining game elements by the user can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0100] [8] In the above information processing apparatus, when updating the second set, the set update unit selects a predetermined second set candidate from among a plurality of second set candidates in which the types of game elements included or the available number of game elements are different. In this way, when updating the second set, since the updated second set is selected from among a plurality of second set candidates, for the user, an opportunity to obtain new second game elements occurs. Therefore, the sense of anticipation for obtaining game elements by the user can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0101] [9] In the above information processing apparatus, the set update unit updates the second set in a state where at least one rare game element is included in the updated second set, and the rare game element included in the second set in a later update is determined at the time of the previous update and is notified to the user at the time of the previous update. In this way, when updating the second set, at least one rare game element is included, and the rare game element that will be included in the next update is determined in advance and its content is notified at the time of the previous update. Therefore, the sense of anticipation for obtaining game elements by the user can be further enhanced, and the user's game satisfaction can be further improved.

[0102]

[10] In the above information processing apparatus, the selection probability of the second game element is determined according to the degree of rarity of the first game element. In this way, the second game element is selected in association with the first game element. Therefore, the sense of anticipation for the acquisition of game elements by the user can be further enhanced, and the game satisfaction of the user can be further improved.

[0103]

[11] Also, according to the information processing method according to the present embodiment, when a computer receives a game element provision request from a user and, when the provision request is received, a first game element selected based on a predefined lottery probability from among the game elements included in the first set, and a second game element selected from among the game elements included in the second set associated with the user and each having a defined available number of provisions, are provided to the user, the lottery probability does not change after providing the first game element, and after providing the second game element, the available number of provisions of the provided second game element is subtracted. In this way, when a game element provision request is received, the first game element obtained by a normal lottery based on a predefined lottery probability is provided, and the second game element is provided as a bonus in a way that makes it easier to obtain a rare game element. Therefore, the sense of anticipation for the acquisition of game elements by the user can be enhanced, and the game satisfaction of the user can be improved.

[0104]

[12] Also, according to the program according to the present embodiment, a program executed by a computer, which causes the computer to receive a game element provision request from a user and, when the provision request is received, provide the user with a first game element selected based on a predefined lottery probability from among the game elements included in the first set and a second game element selected from among the game elements included in the second set associated with the user and each having a defined available number of provisions, the lottery probability not changing after providing the first game element and, after providing the second game element, causing the available number of provisions of the provided second game element to be subtracted. In this way, when a request for providing a game element is received, a first game element obtained by a normal lottery based on a predefined lottery probability is provided, and a second game element is provided as a bonus in a way that makes it easier to obtain a rare game element. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the user's sense of expectation for obtaining game elements and improve the user's game satisfaction.

Explanation of Signs

[0105] 10 User terminal 11 Processor 12 Storage device 13 Communication interface 14 Input device 15 Output device 16 Operation identification unit 17 Terminal-side storage unit 18 Terminal-side generation unit 19 Terminal-side transmission / reception unit 20 Display processing unit 30 Server 31 Processor 32 Storage device 33 Communication interface 34 Server-side storage unit 35 Server-side transmission / reception unit 36 Server-side generation unit 37 Provision request reception unit 38 Game element provision unit 39 Set update unit 40 Lottery application screen 41 Single selection button 42 N-consecutive selection button 43 Confirmation dialog 44 Lottery application button 45 Lottery result screen 46 First icon 47 Bonus icon 48 Second icon 51 First box 52 First set candidate 53 First set candidate group 54 Second box 55 Second set candidate 56 Second set candidate group 57 Second set candidate 58 Second set candidate group N Network S Game system T Second set table Ta Second set table after update Tb Second set table after update U User

Claims

1. a request receiving unit for receiving a request for providing a game element from a user; a game element providing unit that, when receiving the provision request, provides the user with a first game element selected from the game elements included in a first set based on a predetermined lottery probability, and a second game element selected from the game elements included in a second set associated with the user, each of which has a predetermined number of available game elements; a set update unit that updates the second set when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the lottery probability does not change after providing the first game element; the game element providing unit, after providing the second game element, subtracts the available number of the provided second game elements; when updating the second set a plurality of times, the set update unit determines, at a previous update, a specific game element to be included in the second set in a subsequent update, and notifies the user of the determined specific game element at the previous update.

23. An information processing apparatus comprising:

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first set is selected from a plurality of first set candidates in response to the request for provision.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a set updating unit that updates the second set when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the predetermined condition is that the remaining number of the available numbers of all the game elements included in the second set becomes zero.

5. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the predetermined condition is to provide a specific game element included in the second set.

6. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein, when updating the second set, the set update unit changes the types of the game elements or the number of the game elements that can be provided included in the second set before and after the update.

7. 7. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein, when updating the second set, the set update unit does not include a specific game element included in the second set in the updated second set after providing a predetermined number of the specific game element.

8. 8. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein, when updating the second set, the set update unit selects a predetermined second set candidate from a plurality of second set candidates that differ in the types of the game elements included or the available numbers of the game elements.

9. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein a selection probability of the second game element is determined according to a degree of rarity of the first game element.

10. The computer Accept a request for providing game elements from a user; when the provision request is received, provide to the user a first game element selected from the game elements included in a first set based on a predetermined lottery probability, and a second game element selected from the game elements included in a second set associated with the user, each of which has a predetermined provideable number; updating the second set when a predetermined condition is satisfied; the lottery probability does not change after providing the first game element; After providing the second game element, subtracting the available number of the provided second game elements; When updating the second set multiple times, a specific game element to be included in the second set in a later update is determined during a previous update, and the specific game element is notified to the user during the previous update.

23. An information processing method comprising:

11. A program executed by a computer, The computer includes: Accepting a request for providing game elements from a user; when the provision request is received, provide to the user a first game element selected from the game elements included in a first set based on a predetermined lottery probability, and a second game element selected from the game elements included in a second set associated with the user, the second game element having a predetermined provideable number, updating the second set when a predetermined condition is satisfied; the lottery probability does not change after providing the first game element; After providing the second game element, subtracting the available number of the provided second game elements; When updating the second set multiple times, a specific game element to be included in the second set in a later update is determined in a previous update, and the user is notified in the previous update. A program characterized by:

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