Information processing device, information processing program and information processing method

Abstract

To provide a technique allowing viewers viewing a delivered moving image of a game for playing a plurality of players to intervene in the game.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes: a delivery section for delivering a first moving image associated with a first player to a first viewing terminal and a second moving image associated with a second player to a second viewing terminal in delivery of moving images relating to a game in which a plurality of players including the first player and the second player participate; a reception section for receiving voting for any voting object out of a plurality of voting objects, from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal; and a control section for controlling a game condition in a prescribed time point in the progress of the game, based on the received votes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, communication terminals having touch panel displays such as smartphones have become widespread, and each user owns his or her own communication terminal. Under such circumstances, a service that provides a community-type service to users on the Internet, that is, a social networking service (hereinafter referred to as "SNS") is known. As one such SNS, an online game (social game) is provided to users. In addition, a play video of a game is also distributed from a player who executes the game to a large number of viewers using a video distribution service.

[0003] For example, a game system having a point reception unit that receives voting points from a viewing terminal to which a play video of a game is distributed, and a change unit that changes the content of the game based on the voting points received from the viewing terminal is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] In addition, a distribution server that distributes a game play of an online game in which a plurality of players can participate and controls a display mode of a distribution screen according to a game play situation is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 2).

[0005] Also, a viewing program executed in a viewing terminal including a processor, a memory, an input unit, and a display unit is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 3). The viewing program causes the processor to perform a first step of performing viewing control for allowing a user to view content based on information live-distributed by a distributor, a second step of identifying an item consumable by the user for the content from among a plurality of types of items, a third step of consuming the item identified in the second step in response to a user input operation, and a fourth step of outputting consumption information for enabling the distributor to identify that the item has been consumed. The content includes a first part and a second part as parts where an item can be consumed, and the second step switches the item to be identified when it is in the first part and when it is in the second part.

[0006] Also, a content distribution server is disclosed in which a viewer who has participated in a virtual space used for live content distribution can throw a unique virtual item into this virtual space to express approval or agreement with the live content (see, for example, Patent Document 4).

[0007] Also, a content distribution system that can encourage viewer users to participate in a service is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 5).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] For example, in a multiplayer game such as a battle game, the outcome of the battle is determined by differences such as the player's own skills and the strength (attack power, defense power, stamina, etc.) of the player character operated by the player. Therefore, when play videos of such games are distributed, the viewers do not affect the outcome of the battle.

[0010] Also, the above-described conventional technology does not disclose that viewers can intervene in the game in a video game played in multiplayer in the distributed video.

[0011] However, if viewers of such videos can intervene in the game and affect the outcome of the battle or affect the in-game environment and display environment, various uncertain factors will increase, and it is expected to have an unpredictable impact on the progress of the game. As a result, the player's willingness to participate in the game is improved, and at the same time, the viewers are more likely to watch the video and have an increased willingness to intervene.

[0012] Therefore, the present invention provides a technology that allows viewers who watch a distribution video of a game played by a plurality of players to intervene in the game.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] An information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a distribution unit that distributes a first video associated with a first player to a first viewing terminal and distributes a second video associated with a second player to a second viewing terminal in the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including the first player and the second player participate, a reception unit that receives a vote for any one of a plurality of voting targets from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal, and a control unit that controls game conditions at a predetermined time point in the progress of the game based on the received vote.

Effects of the Invention

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, a viewer who watches a distribution video of a game played by a plurality of players can intervene in the game.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. The information processing apparatus 1 includes a distribution unit 2, a reception unit 3, and a control unit 4. As an example of the information processing apparatus 1, a server 15 described later can be mentioned.

[0017] In the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including a first player and a second player participate, the distribution unit 2 distributes a first video associated with the first player to a first viewing terminal, and distributes a second video associated with the second player to a second viewing terminal. As an example of the distribution unit 2, a distribution control unit 25 described later can be mentioned. As an example of the first viewing terminal, a viewer terminal 12a described later can be mentioned. Further, as an example of the second viewing terminal, a viewer terminal 12b described later can be mentioned. Further, as an example of the first video associated with the first player, a video played on the first player-side viewing screen 41 described later can be mentioned. Further, as an example of the second video associated with the second player, a video played on the second player-side viewing screen described later can be mentioned.

[0018] The reception unit 3 receives a vote from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal for any one of a plurality of voting targets. The voting target is, for example, an object that can be placed on a game field and can be acquired by a player character operated by a player and used for attack or defense, or an in-game object that can be equipped on the player character. As an example of the reception unit 3, a reception unit 26 described later can be mentioned.

[0019] Based on the received vote, the control unit 4 controls the game conditions at a predetermined time in the progress of the game. The game conditions at a predetermined time in the progress of the game include, for example, the conditions (initial conditions) at the start of the game (for example, at the start of a battle between players), the timing of the start of an event during the game (at the start of the event), and the like. Further, as an example of controlling such game conditions, it includes arranging objects and the like on the game field at the start of the game (at the start of the battle). An example of the control unit 4 is the game environment control unit 23 described later.

[0020] By configuring in this way, in the present invention, a viewer who watches a distribution video of a game played by a plurality of players can intervene in the game.

[0021] The control unit 4 may arrange objects corresponding to one or more voting targets with a large number of votes in the game space at a ratio corresponding to the number of votes of each of the one or more voting targets. For example, when the ratio of the number of votes for the top three is object A: 60%, object B: 30%, and object C: 10%, 6 objects of object A, 3 objects of object B, and 1 object of object C may be arranged on the game field.

[0022] By configuring in this way, since the influence according to the number of votes of the viewer is reflected in the game (dead votes that are not reflected in the game can be reduced), it is expected to stimulate the voting desire of the viewer and promote the voting behavior.

[0023] The reception unit 3 may permit voting on the viewing terminal every time the video is continuously played for a predetermined time on the viewing terminal.

[0024] By configuring in this way, since it is necessary for the viewer to watch the video for a predetermined time in order to vote, it can be expected to enhance the viewing desire of the viewer for the distribution video and contribute to increasing the viewing time.

[0025] The reception unit 3 may receive votes for the voting target in one or both of the first video and the second video from any of the viewing terminals for the same voting period. Further, the control unit 4 may cause any of the viewing terminals to display the voting status for a specific voting target in the first video, and may prevent the voting status for a specific voting target in the second video from being displayed on any of the viewing terminals.

[0026] With this configuration, the viewer can switch the screen to view on the viewing screen of either player side, and can vote for each player via each switched player side viewing screen. Further, the viewer may be able to confirm only the voting status of either player side to support, and may not be able to confirm the voting status of other player sides.

[0027] The control unit 4 may prohibit the posting of information for the second video for a second predetermined time to the viewing terminal that has played the first video for a first predetermined time (for example, the time until the voting period ends, etc.).

[0028] With this configuration, for example, it is possible to prevent a viewer who has viewed the strategy of the first player from making a post that reveals the strategy on the viewing screen of the second player side and affecting the votes of other viewers.

[0029] The plurality of voting targets include a first voting target designated by the first player and a second voting target designated by the second player. The control unit 4 controls the game conditions by reflecting either one of the first voting target and the second voting target based on the number of votes for the first voting target and the number of votes for the second voting target. Here, the voting target designated by the player may be, for example, a voting target arbitrarily selected by the player from among the predetermined voting targets, or a new voting target arbitrarily selected and added from the objects owned by the player in addition to the predetermined voting targets.

[0030] By configuring in this way, the player may specify a voting target (object) that the player desires. Also, only the voting target with the larger number of votes among the number of votes for the first voting target and the number of votes for the second voting target may be reflected in the game. By reflecting only one of the voting destinations in the game, for example, it is possible to generate a voting battle in which viewers who support respective players compete in the number of votes, so that the interest of the voting behavior can be enhanced and the voting motivation of the viewers can be improved.

[0031] The control unit 4 may decrease the number of votes for the first voting target in response to an operation of selecting the first voting target received from the viewing terminal.

[0032] By configuring in this way, for example, viewers who support the opponent player of the first player can interfere so that the object designated by the first player is not selected, that is, the viewers can intervene in the game, so that the motivation of the viewers to watch the game can be improved.

[0033] The plurality of voting targets may include a first voting target designated by the first player and a second voting target designated by the second player. At this time, the control unit 4 may control the weighting of the votes for each of the first voting target and the second voting target according to the difference between the parameter of the first player and the parameter of the second player and reflect it in the voting result. The parameter regarding the player may be, for example, the attack power, defense power, stamina, HP, popularity rank, etc. of the player character, or may be information regarding the popularity or skill of the player himself / herself, or strength rank information regarding the player. The weighting may, for example, give preferential treatment to the votes for the player with the smaller parameter value as the parameter difference is larger. Specifically, when the parameter difference exceeds a first threshold value, the number of votes for the player with the smaller parameter value may be multiplied by M (M = 2, 3, 4,...).

[0034] By configuring in this way, when there are differences in skills, abilities, etc. among players, a handicap for adjusting such differences can be set, enabling even weak players to play on an equal footing with strong players, thus preventing players from leaving the game. Also, since the door can be opened wider, it is possible to encourage the participation of players with less experience.

[0035] The control unit 4 may grant a privilege related to the first player to viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding voting for the first video, and may give preferential treatment to votes from viewers whose privilege holdings are equal to or more than a predetermined value compared to votes from viewers whose privilege holdings are less than the predetermined value, and perform weighted voting. Here, preferential treatment means, for example, weighting the number of votes counted from the viewer to be a predetermined multiple (e.g., 2 times, 3 times, etc.). Also, for example, when a predetermined video viewing time is required until the acquisition of voting rights, the video viewing time until the acquisition of the voting rights may be reduced to 1 / 2, 1 / 3, etc. Also, for example, when the maximum number of votes that can be cast per viewer is regulated, the maximum number of votes that can be cast may be made a predetermined multiple (e.g., 2 times, 3 times, etc.).

[0036] By configuring in this way, a privilege related to the player being voted for (e.g., the player the viewer is cheering for) can be granted to the voting viewer, and the vote of the viewer can be given preferential treatment according to the cumulative privilege holdings, so that the viewer can be continuously made to vote and the departure of the viewer can be prevented.

[0037] The reception unit 3 may receive a first vote for determining the type of object corresponding to the voting target and a second vote for determining the timing of arranging the object of the type determined by the first vote in the game space. As an example of the timing of arranging the object in the game space, when the accumulated damage of the player character on the cheering side exceeds a predetermined value, a recovery object or an object specialized in attack power may be arranged, etc.

[0038] By configuring in this way, in addition to the type of object, the timing of placing the object is also determined by the vote from the viewer, so the degree of the viewer's intervention in the game can be increased. Depending on the timing of placing the object, it can have a great impact on the battle situation, making the battle a free-for-all and more interesting, leading to stimulating the viewer's interest.

[0039] The control unit 4 may arrange the object corresponding to the voting target in a manner based on the instruction from the viewing terminal determined based on the number of votes for the object. For example, based on the instruction from the viewer who voted the most for the object, the position on the game space where the object is placed and the timing of placement may be determined.

[0040] By configuring in this way, since the votes of viewers with a large number of votes greatly influence the game, the voting desire of viewers can be promoted.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the network configuration of the game play video distribution system in the present embodiment. The game play video distribution system 11 includes one or more terminal devices (hereinafter referred to as "viewer terminals") 12, a server device (hereinafter referred to as "server") 15, one or more terminal devices (hereinafter referred to as "player terminals") 16, and a communication network 17. The viewer terminals 12, the server 15, and the player terminals 16 are communicably connected to each other via the communication network 17.

[0042] The player terminal 16 is a terminal device operated by a player who plays the game program in the present embodiment. The player terminal 16 is an electronic terminal device having a communication function connectable to a communication network such as a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a mobile phone.

[0043] The player terminal 16 is installed with a web browser for browsing information on the Internet. The web browser is software for connecting to a web server and has functions such as displaying web pages and following hyperlinks. The player terminal 16 can display the images generated by the server 15 via the web browser.

[0044] Hereinafter, the player terminal 16 used by the first player is referred to as player terminal 16a. Also, the player terminal 16 used by the second player is referred to as player terminal 16b.

[0045] The viewer terminal 12 is a portable electronic terminal device having a communication function connectable to a communication network such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a mobile phone. The viewer terminal 12 includes an operation display unit 13, a microphone for inputting sound, a speaker for outputting sound, and the like. The operation display unit 13 is a device capable of input operations to the screen 14 and displaying images on the screen 14, and is, for example, a touch panel display. Note that the viewer terminal 12 may be a so-called personal computer. A web browser for browsing information on the Internet is installed in the viewer terminal 12.

[0046] Hereinafter, the viewer terminal 12 used by the first viewer is referred to as viewer terminal 12a, and the operation display unit 13 and the screen 14 of the viewer terminal 12a are referred to as operation display unit 13a and screen 14a, respectively. Also, the viewer terminal 12 used by the second viewer is referred to as viewer terminal 12b, and the operation display unit 13 and the screen 14 of the viewer terminal 12b are referred to as operation display unit 13b and screen 14b, respectively.

[0047] Server 15 is an information processing device that manages the distribution of videos of the play environment and play status of the game program according to this embodiment, and the voting received from viewers. For example, Server 15 manages information about players who use the game program (such as play content, status information of the characters being played, point information, etc.), and manages information related to billing. In addition, Server 15 manages the screen display control during the battle play between players, and calculates and manages the damage of the characters (player characters) operated by each player. Also, Server 15 solicits voting candidates from viewers, selects some from the received voting candidates, accepts votes for which of the selected voting targets to vote for, and controls the game conditions according to the results of the received votes. Further, Server 15 distributes the video of the screen where player characters battle each other to the viewer terminal 12.

[0048] Server 15 may be a server system composed of one or more physical information processing devices, or may be a virtual server system composed of one or more virtual server devices.

[0049] Here, an outline of an example of the game in this embodiment will be described. The player operates the player terminal 16, accesses the game according to this embodiment using a web browser, and starts the game. The player can live-stream the game screen to be played by himself / herself at an arbitrary timing via a video distribution service.

[0050] Next, the process until a battle with other players or the like is explained. First, each player can, for example, select equipment for the player character, check the equipment and status, invite other player characters such as ally player characters, organize members for forming a group, select an opponent group, select a battle stage, etc. on a screen prior to the screen for actual battle play (for example, a lobby screen or the like). The organization of members for forming a group includes joining a group, leaving a group, etc. By selecting an opponent group, players who complete matching and participate in the battle (for example, 3 people × 4 teams) gather. In the case where the number of participants does not reach the capacity, the shortage may be supplemented with non-player characters (NPCs).

[0051] Next, each player sets the player character they operate, objects to be brought into the battle stage, etc. As a result, the design of the appearance of the player character, etc. is determined.

[0052] Next, after the player selects a battle stage, since a predetermined voting time is set, the server 15 accepts votes from viewers for objects they wish to supply to the players they support during that period. At this time, the viewers can vote while considering the characteristics and compatibility of each player character. Also, depending on the settings, the viewers may be able to vote any number of times. The player is affected by the voting results depending on the characteristics of their own player character, play style, or compatibility with the stage.

[0053] Next, the battle is explained. When the battle starts, each player can acquire the obtainable objects placed on the game field and equip them. The objects placed on the game field also include the objects determined by the voting results. Each player can acquire the object determined by the voting results for their own player character and use it as a weapon to attack.

[0054] Here, the voting system in this embodiment will be described. As an example, the voting is for determining what objects to place on the field at the start of the game. For example, the voting may be done by posting in the comment input field of a video distribution service.

[0055] The server 15 randomly selects N types of objects from more than N (N is a positive integer) types of objects and displays them on the game screen, and the viewers consider which of the N types of objects to vote for. The server 15 receives from the viewers, via the comment input field of the video distribution service, the names of the objects to be placed on the field. When a viewer enters text in the comment field and the server recognizes a predetermined string corresponding to the object name, it counts as one vote. In principle, a viewer may be able to vote as many times as they like.

[0056] The server 15 totals the voting results, ranks the objects according to the number of votes obtained for each object, and places the top K types of objects (K is a positive integer; K < N) at random positions on the game field. For example, let K = 3.

[0057] At this time, the number of objects placed may also reflect the ratio of the number of votes obtained. For example, consider the case where object A: 60 votes, object B: 30 votes, object C: 10 votes, object D: 5 votes, object E: 5 votes, and other objects: 0 votes. In this case, objects A (60%), B (30%), and C (10%), which are in the top three in terms of the vote rate, are placed, and D, E, and other objects are not placed.

[0058] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the functional blocks of the game play video distribution system 11 in this embodiment. The server 15 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 28, and a communication unit 29. The communication unit 29 is an interface that enables communication with devices connected to the communication network 17. Here, the communication unit 29 communicates with the viewer terminals 12 (12a, 12b,...) and the player terminals 16 (16a, 16b,...) via the communication network 17.

[0059] The control unit 21 is an arithmetic unit (processor) that controls the operation of the entire server 15. The control unit 21 executes processes in response to requests from the viewer terminal 12 and the player terminal 16, respectively, and returns the execution results to the viewer terminal 12 and the player terminal 16, respectively. Specifically, the control unit 21 authenticates players who play the game, shares screen information used among players in the case of multiplayer play, manages the play content, performs billing management, manages voting from viewers, distributes the video of the game screen to the viewer terminal 12, and performs other controls.

[0060] By executing the program according to this embodiment, the control unit 21 functions as a player-side control unit 22 and a viewer-side control unit 24. The player-side control unit 22 performs controls such as input / output processing on the player side, display control of the game screen, control of the music to be output, and control of the in-game operations during battle, that is, controls the interface for the player and the game in general.

[0061] The player-side control unit 22 includes a game environment control unit 23. The game environment control unit 23 controls the game conditions at a predetermined point in the progress of the game according to the vote of the viewer who watches the game video, for example. The game conditions at a predetermined point in the progress of the game include, for example, the conditions (initial conditions) at the start of the game (for example, at the start of a battle between players), the timing of the start of an event during the game (at the start of the event), and the like. Also, as an example of controlling such game conditions, it includes arranging objects and the like on the game field at the start of the game (at the start of the battle).

[0062] In addition, the game environment control unit 23 may arrange the object corresponding to the voting target in a manner based on an instruction from the viewing terminal determined based on the number of votes for the object. For example, based on an instruction from the viewer who voted the most for the object, the arrangement and timing of the arrangement of the object may be determined.

[0063] The viewer-side control unit 24 performs processes such as distributing the game screen to the viewer, accepting votes from the viewer, aggregating the received votes, and determining the voting result according to the aggregation result. The viewer-side control unit 24 includes a distribution control unit 25, a reception unit 26, and a voting processing unit 27.

[0064] The distribution control unit 25 controls the application program of the video distribution service to display the distribution screen on the viewer terminal 12 via the web browser, control the comment input field provided on the distribution screen, and control the distribution of the game screen video.

[0065] The reception unit 26 accepts votes from the viewer terminal 12. Note that the reception unit 3 may permit voting on the viewer terminal 12 every time the video is continuously played for a predetermined time. Also, the reception unit 26 may not accept, that is, prohibit, the posting of information on the second video from the viewer terminal 12 that has played the first video for the first predetermined time (for example, the time until the voting period ends) for the second predetermined time.

[0066] The voting processing unit 27 aggregates the received votes to determine the result of the vote, weights the votes, etc. Also, the voting processing unit 27 may decrease the number of votes for the first voting target in response to an operation of selecting the first voting target received from the viewer terminal 12 so that the object designated by the strong player is not selected.

[0067] In addition, the voting processing unit 27 may grant a privilege regarding the first player to a viewer who satisfies a predetermined condition for voting on the first video, and give preferential treatment to votes from viewers whose privilege possession amount is equal to or more than a predetermined value compared to votes from viewers whose privilege possession amount is less than the predetermined value, and perform weighted voting.

[0068] The storage unit 28 stores programs according to the present embodiment (including game programs, video distribution service programs, application program interfaces (APIs), etc.), operating systems (OS), and other programs. The storage unit 28 also stores game element data, various other data, etc. As game element data, for example, it stores player information, player character setting information, player character parameter information, viewer parameter information, background data, object data, item data, effect data, acoustic data, etc. Here, the data includes not only status information and character data but also graphical data.

[0069] The player information includes the account information and billing information of each player. The player character setting information includes information about the player character selected by the player, information about objects (weapons, armors, etc.) to be equipped on the player character, etc. The player character parameter information includes, for example, parameters such as the attack power, defense power, and stamina of the player character. The viewer parameter information includes the viewing time, viewing frequency, voting frequency, etc. for each viewer.

[0070] The background data includes, for example, data related to the background of the game stage such as the game field. The object data includes object data such as player character objects, connection objects, and other objects. When a player character acquires an object during the game, the attack power, defense power, or stamina of that player character may increase temporarily or permanently, or the parameters of a predetermined status may increase. The objects include, for example, objects for armament, recovery items for recovering the stamina parameter, parameter enhancement items for temporarily or constantly improving the attack power, defense power, etc.

[0071] Effect data is, for example, production images related to attacks when knocking back enemy player objects, data related to combination techniques, etc. Acoustic data is data related to music played during the game and sound effects used in various scenes.

[0072] Figure 4 is an example of a viewing screen when accepting votes displayed on the viewer terminal in the present embodiment. Figure 4(A) is an example of a support player selection screen for selecting a player to support. The viewer accesses a predetermined website via a web browser installed on the viewer terminal, selects and accesses a channel in which a predetermined player hosts and distributes a game video from that website, and then the support player selection screen 31 in Figure 4(A) is displayed. Here, for example, it is assumed that the first player has opened the channel as the host.

[0073] The support player selection screen 31 is provided with player selection buttons 32 corresponding to each player (first player selection button 32a, second player selection button 32b,...). When any of the player selection buttons 32 is pressed, on the subsequent screen, it is possible to vote for the object to be provided to the player corresponding to the selected player selection button 32. That is, the player selection button 32 selects the player to support and allows viewing the game screen from that player's side. In the case of Figure 4(A), when the viewer wants to support the first player, the first player selection button 32a is pressed, and when the viewer wants to support the second player, the second player selection button 32b is pressed. In this example, two players are distributing, but three or more players may be distributing, and the corresponding selection buttons 32 may be displayed on the support player selection screen 31 according to the number of players. Also, the player selection button 32 may be displayed on a specific player-side viewing screen as shown in Figure 4(B) or Figure 5.

[0074] Figure 4(B) is an example of the first player's viewing screen when voting for an object that the player wishes to place on the game field. In Figure 4(A), when any one of the player selection buttons 32 is pressed, the player's viewing screen corresponding to that player selection button 32 is displayed. In Figure 4(A), for example, when the first player selection button 32a is pressed, the first player's viewing screen 41 is displayed.

[0075] The first player's viewing screen 41 includes a selected player viewing screen label display section 42, a comment column 43, a message display section 48, and a candidate object display column 49. The selected player viewing screen label display section 42 is a label display for determining which player has been selected. In the message display section 48, as an example, a message such as "Please select and vote for the object you want to place on the field from the following objects." is displayed. In the candidate object display column 49, for example, N (e.g., N = 25) objects are randomly selected and displayed.

[0076] The comment column 43 includes a viewer identification label 44, a post display section 45, a post input column 46, and a post button 47. The viewer identification label 44, in Figure 4(A), for example, a label (e.g., an icon image) for identifying the viewer who pressed the first player selection button 32a is displayed. The post display section 45 displays the post content of the viewer identified by the viewer identification label 44. The post input column 46 allows the content to be posted to be entered in text. The post button 47 can post the content entered in the post input column 46 and display it in the post display section 45.

[0077] Each viewer selects an object (the voting target) to be placed in the field from the candidate object display column 49 according to the message displayed on the message display unit 48, enters the character (text) corresponding to the selected voting target in the post input column 46, and presses the post input column 46. When text is entered into the post input column 46, if a predetermined character string is recognized, the corresponding object is identified and counted as one vote for that object. The acceptance of votes for the desired object (voting target) is carried out for a predetermined time. The first player-side viewing screen 41 may include a voting status display unit that shows the current voting status on the first player side (such as how many votes each object has received).

[0078] As shown in FIG. 4(A), by pressing any of the player selection buttons 32, the viewer can switch the screen to view on the viewing screen of either player side, and can vote for each player via the switched player-side viewing screens.

[0079] Note that the viewer may only be able to view the viewing screen of one of the players they support, and by disabling the viewing of the viewing screens of other players, it may be possible to prevent the viewer from checking the voting status for other players. Also, although the viewer can freely switch which player-side viewing screen to view, it may be possible to configure it so that the viewer can only see the vote count status (such as how many votes each object has received) on the side of one player (the player they want to support).

[0080] In addition, the viewing terminal that plays the first player-side viewing screen for a predetermined time (for example, the time until the voting period ends) may prohibit posting on the second player-side viewing screen for a predetermined time. At this time, for the viewing terminal that plays the first player-side viewing screen for a predetermined time, in FIG. 4(A), the second player selection button 32b may be configured so that it cannot be pressed for a predetermined time.

[0081] FIG. 5 is an example of a selection player side viewing screen at the start of a game in the present embodiment. In FIG. 4(B), after a predetermined time has elapsed, the first player side viewing screen 41 of FIG. 5 is displayed. The first player side viewing screen 41 of FIG. 5 includes a selection player side viewing screen label display section 42, a comment column 43, and a distribution video display section 61. Since those other than the distribution video display section 61 are the same as those described in FIG. 4, the description thereof is omitted.

[0082] The video distributed in the distribution video display section 61 includes at least the game screen that the player who is the distributor is watching while playing the game. In the example of FIG. 5, the game screen at the start of the game is displayed on the distribution video display section 61. For example, on the game field 62, a first player character 63 operated by the first player and a second player character 64 operated by the second player are arranged. And, as a result of the voting received in FIG. 4(B), objects up to the top K (for example, K = 3) with a large number of votes (automobile object 65, gas tank object 66, block object 67) are arranged.

[0083] Each player character can acquire any object arranged on the game field 62 and use it in the battle. Note that in the corresponding selection player side viewing screen on the player side, the object determined by voting may be such that only the player character of the corresponding player can acquire and use it.

[0084] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram of the game play video distribution system in the present embodiment. Each player accesses the server 115 via the web browser installed on the player terminal 16, logs in to the game in the game play video distribution system 11, and makes an entry for the battle (S1). That is, each player performs, via the web browser installed on the player terminal 16, in a lobby screen or the like, inviting other player characters such as an ally player character, forming a group of members to be grouped, selecting an opponent group, and the like.

[0085] The server 15 (player-side control unit 22) matches the players who have entered for the battle (S2), and notifies each player terminal 16 that the opponent for the battle has been determined (S3).

[0086] Next, each player performs operations for selecting their own player character, selecting their equipment, and making other settings, etc. via the web browser installed on the player terminal 16 (S4).

[0087] The server 15 (player-side control unit 22) performs settings for the player character, its equipment, and other settings, etc. according to the operations in S4 from each player (S5). The server 15 (vote processing unit 27) starts accepting input of objects that the viewers wish to place on the game field from the viewers (S6). At this time, the server 15 (vote processing unit 27) notifies the player terminal 16 that it is waiting for votes (S7).

[0088] On the other hand, the viewer accesses the website that provides the game play video distribution system 11 via the web browser installed on the viewer terminal 12 (S8).

[0089] The server 15 (vote processing unit 27) displays a list of the battle player characters in a selectable format (S9). In the case of this embodiment, as described in the support player selection screen 31 of FIG. 4(A), the list of the battle player characters is displayed in the form of player selection buttons 32 (first player selection button 32a, second player selection button 32b,...).

[0090] The viewer selects and presses the player selection button 32 (for example, the first player selection button 32a) corresponding to the player (for example, the first player) that the viewer wishes to support from among the plurality of player selection buttons 32 (S10).

[0091] Server 15 (voting processing unit 27) causes the viewer terminal 12 to display a first player-side viewing screen 41 as shown in FIG. 4(B). At this time, server 15 (voting processing unit 27) randomly selects N (for example, N = 25) (types) of objects from, for example, more than N types of preset objects and displays them in the candidate object display column 49 (S11).

[0092] Each viewer selects an object to be placed in the field from the candidate object display column 49 in the posting input column 46 according to the message displayed in the message display section 48. The viewer inputs the character (text) corresponding to the selected voting target in the posting input column 46 and presses the posting button 47 to cast a vote (S12). When text is input into the posting input column 46, if the reception unit 26 recognizes a predetermined character string, it identifies the corresponding object, and the voting processing unit 27 counts it as one vote for that object.

[0093] Server 15 (reception unit 26) accepts the postings (votes) of S15 from each viewer terminal 12 until a predetermined time elapses. After the predetermined time has elapsed, server 15 (voting processing unit 27) performs vote counting processing (S13). In S13, for example, server 15 (voting processing unit 27) totals the votes collected in the voting result S12. Server 15 (game environment control unit 23) controls the game conditions based on the totaled voting results.

[0094] Server 15 (game environment control unit 23) notifies the player terminal 16 of the start of the game (S14) and controls the operating environment during the play of the battle game. At the same time, server 15 (distribution control unit 25) distributes the video during the game play to the viewer terminal 12 (S15).

[0095] When the player receives the notification of the start of the game from server 15, the player operates the player terminal 16 to play the battle game (S16). During this play, server 15 (distribution control unit 25) distributes the video during the game play.

[0096] In addition, in S11, the server 15 (vote counting unit 27) randomly selects N (for example, N = 25) objects (types) from more than N types of objects and displays them in the candidate object display column 49, but it is not limited to this. The server 15 (vote counting unit 27) may, for example, after transitioning the screen from the support player selection screen in FIG. 4(A) to the first player side viewing screen 41, receive from the viewer an object that the viewer wishes to place on the game field by means of a submission. The server 15 (reception unit 26) receives such submissions from each viewer terminal 12 until a predetermined time has elapsed. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the server 15 (vote counting unit 27) conducts a lottery among the objects solicited from the viewers, selects N (for example, N = 25) objects by means of this lottery, and may display the first player side viewing screen 41 as shown in FIG. 4(B) on the viewer terminal 12.

[0097] Next, an example regarding a variation of the vote counting process described in S13 will be described below.

[0098] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the vote counting process (S13) in Example 1 of the present embodiment. The reception unit 26 receives votes from the viewer terminals 12 until a predetermined period has elapsed (NO in S21 and S22).

[0099] After the elapse of a predetermined time (YES in S22), the vote processing unit 27 ends the acceptance of votes (S23) and totals the vote results (S24). The game environment control unit 23 controls the game conditions based on the totaled vote results (S25). The game conditions at a predetermined point in the progress of the game include, for example, the conditions (initial conditions) at the start of the game (for example, at the start of a battle between players), the timing of the start of an event during the game (at the start of the event), and the like. Also, the conditions are not limited to the conditions at the start of a battle (battle). For example, they may be the conditions in the early stage of the battle (until 1 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), the middle stage (from when 1 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed until 2 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), the final stage (after 2 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), and the like. The conditions may also be after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the battle, when a specific game event has occurred, when the number of player characters (remaining characters) that are not incapacitated in the battle has reached a predetermined number, or when the parameters (HP, damage accumulation value, etc.) of a specific player character have reached a predetermined value. Also, as an example of controlling such game conditions, it may include arranging objects or the like on the game field at the start of the game (at the start of the battle).

[0100] For example, in S24, the vote processing unit 27 determines the objects from the highest number of votes to the top Kth in order of the number of votes obtained as a result of the tabulation. The game environment control unit 23 arranges the determined objects on the game field as described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0101] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the vote tabulation process (S13) in the second embodiment of the present embodiment. In the second embodiment, an example is described in which a player designates an object for which he or she wants the viewer to vote, the viewer votes for the designated object, and only the object designated by one of the players is reflected in the game according to the number of votes.

[0102] The game environment control unit 23 receives the object name specified by the player from the player terminal 16 (S31). The voting processing unit 27 sets the object name received from the player as the voting target and causes it to be displayed on the viewer terminal 12 (S32). Here, receiving the object name specified by the player means that, for example, the player may select any one of the N objects (voting targets) displayed in the candidate object display column 49, or the player may select an object name not included in the N voting targets from the objects owned by the player and add it as a voting target. Hereinafter, the object specified by the first player as the voting target is referred to as the first voting target, and the object specified by the second player as the voting target is referred to as the second voting target.

[0103] Also, when the viewer is viewing, for example, the first player's viewing screen, the voting processing unit 27 may cause the first voting target specified by the first player to be displayed on the first viewing terminal in a manner different from other voting targets. A manner different from other voting targets means that, for example, in the first player's viewing screen 41 shown in FIG. 4(B), the color of the first voting target specified by the first player may be changed, or the first voting target may be surrounded by a predetermined frame or other highlighting may be performed. Or, a manner different from other voting targets means that, for example, in the first player's viewing screen 41 shown in FIG. 4(B), the icon corresponding to the first voting target may be displayed in a place that is selected by default or is at the uppermost and rightmost or leftmost position.

[0104] The reception unit 26 receives votes from the viewer terminal 12 until the predetermined period elapses (NO in S33, S34).

[0105] After the elapse of a predetermined time (YES in S34), the voting processing unit 27 ends the acceptance of votes (S35) and totals the voting results (S36). The game environment control unit 23 reflects, in the game, the voting target designated by either one of the players based on the number of votes for the voting target designated by each player (S37). That is, in S37, the game environment control unit 23 can reflect only one of the voting targets in the game based on the number of votes for the object (first voting target) designated by the first player and the number of votes for the object (second voting target) designated by the second player. For example, when the number of votes for the object (first voting target) designated by the first player is 100 votes and the number of votes for the object (second voting target) designated by the second player is 50 votes, the game environment control unit 23 may arrange only the object of the first voting target in the game field.

[0106] Further, it may be arranged such that voting for the first voting target can be performed only from the first player's viewing screen, and voting for the second voting target can be performed only from the first player's viewing screen.

[0107] In addition, the voting processing unit 27 may weight the votes from the viewers according to the information about the viewers (viewer rank information), and count the weighted number of votes. The information about the viewers includes, for example, the viewer rank information. The viewer rank information is, for example, evaluation information in which viewers with more viewing time, more viewing times, and / or more votes, etc. have a higher rank. For example, viewers with a viewing time of less than 1 hour on the viewing screen have a rank information = 1, and viewers with a viewing time of 2 hours or more have a rank information = 2. In this case, with respect to the votes from viewers with a viewing time of 2 hours or more, weighting is performed so that the number of votes per vote is counted twice.

[0108] The voting processing unit 27 may total the weighted voting results, and the game environment control unit 23 may reflect the totaled results in the game. As a result, votes from viewers with high rank information are more preferentially treated and can affect the game conditions, so the motivation of viewers to watch, etc. to raise their rank is improved.

[0109] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the vote counting process (S13) in Example 3 of the present embodiment. In Example 3, an example will be described in which a player designates an object for which he / she wants the viewer to vote, the viewer votes for the designated object, the votes with weighting according to the parameter difference between the players are counted, and the result is reflected in the game.

[0110] The game environment control unit 23 receives the object name designated by the player from the player terminal 16 (S41). The vote processing unit 27 sets the object name received from the player as the voting target and displays it on the viewer terminal 12 (S42). Here, receiving the object name designated by the player means that, for example, the player may select any one of the N objects (voting targets) displayed in the candidate object display column 49, or the player may select an object name not included in the N voting targets from the objects owned by the player and add it as the voting target. Hereinafter, the object designated by the first player as the voting target is referred to as the first voting target, and the object designated by the second player as the voting target is referred to as the second voting target.

[0111] The reception unit 26 receives votes from the viewer terminal 12 until a predetermined period elapses (NO in S43 and S44).

[0112] After the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in S44), the vote processing unit 27 ends the reception of votes (S45). The game environment control unit 23 calculates parameters related to the player and calculates the parameter difference between the players (S46). The parameters related to the player may be, for example, the attack power, defense power, stamina, HP, popularity rank, etc. of the player character, or may be information related to the popularity of the player himself / herself or strength rank information about the player.

[0113] The voting processing unit 27 weights the votes for the object designated by the player according to the parameter difference, and totals the weighted votes (S47). For the weighting, for example, the smaller the parameter value of the player, the more preferential treatment may be given to the votes for that player as the parameter difference increases. Specifically, when the parameter difference exceeds the first threshold, the number of votes for the player with the smaller parameter value may be multiplied by M (M = 2, 3, 4,...).

[0114] At this time, the voting processing unit 27 may weight the votes for the object designated by the player according to the parameter ratio, and total the weighted votes. For the weighting, for example, the smaller the parameter value of the player, the more preferential treatment may be given to the votes for that player as the parameter ratio increases. The parameter ratio is, for example, the ratio of the parameter of the first player: the parameter of the second player is 1:2, 1:10, etc. When the ratio of the parameter of one player to the parameter of the other player becomes P (P is a positive integer) times or more, the number of votes for the player with the smaller parameter value may be multiplied by M (M = 2, 3, 4,...).

[0115] The game environment control unit 23 reflects the voting target designated by either one of the players in the game based on the number of votes for the voting target designated by each player (S37). That is, in S37, the game environment control unit 23 can reflect only one of the voting targets in the game based on the number of votes for the object (first voting target) designated by the first player and the number of votes after weighting for the object (second voting target) designated by the second player. For example, when the number of votes for the object (first voting target) designated by the first player is 100 votes and the number of votes for the object (second voting target) designated by the second player is 50 votes, the game environment control unit 23 may arrange only the object of the first voting target in the game field.

[0116] Note that the vote processing unit 27 may weight the votes from the first viewer terminal that voted from the first player-side viewing screen and the votes from the second viewer terminal that voted from the second player-side viewing screen according to the difference between the total number of votes cast from the first player-side viewing screen and the total number of votes cast from the second player-side viewing screen. For example, the vote processing unit 27 may give preferential treatment and weight only the voting target with the most votes in the viewing screen with the smaller total number of votes among the first player-side viewing screen and the second player-side viewing screen. Thereby, only the voting target with the most votes among the unpopular player-side viewing screens can be preferentially weighted. Also, the vote processing unit 27 may weight the votes for the voting target with the most votes in the viewing screen on the side of the player (i.e., the unpopular player) with the smaller number of viewing times among the first player and the second player.

[0117] Thereby, when there is a difference in popularity among players, by setting a handicap to adjust that difference, even an unpopular player can play on an equal footing with a popular player, so that it is possible to prevent players from leaving the game. Also, since the door can be opened wider, it is possible to encourage the participation of players with low popularity.

[0118] Note that the vote processing unit 27 may determine the weighting of the number of votes in consideration of the result of the number of votes in the current vote, or may determine the weighting in advance before the vote based on the past record of the number of votes in the viewing screens of each player.

[0119] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the vote counting process (S13) in the fourth embodiment of the present embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, an example will be described in which the viewer terminal 12 receives a first vote for determining the type of object and a second vote for determining the timing of arranging the object of the type determined by the first vote.

[0120] The reception unit 26 receives, from the viewer terminal 12 until a predetermined period elapses, a first vote for determining the type of object and a second vote for determining the timing of placing the object (NO in S51 and S52). The timing of the second vote may be, for example, the opening stage of the battle (until 1 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), the middle stage (from when 1 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed until 2 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), the final stage (after 2 / 3 of the battle time has elapsed), etc., or after a predetermined time has elapsed, or when a specific game event occurs, or when there are a certain number of remaining players.

[0121] After a predetermined time has elapsed (YES in S52), the vote processing unit 27 ends the reception of votes (S53) and totals the vote results for each of the first vote and the second vote. The vote processing unit 27 determines, based on the totaled results, the object with the most votes for each of the first vote and the second vote, and the timing of placing the object (S54).

[0122] The game environment control unit 23 places the object determined in S54 at the determined timing (S55).

[0123] In the second vote, instead of or together with the vote on timing, voting may be conducted on the position where the object is to be placed. For example, voting may be conducted on positions near the first player, on top of specific stage objects, etc.

[0124] Also, the game environment control unit 23 may place the object determined by the vote in a manner (position or timing) based on an instruction from the viewer terminal (the viewer who voted the most for that object) determined based on the number of votes for that object. Thereby, since the votes of viewers with a large number of votes have a great influence on the game, the voting enthusiasm of the viewers can be promoted.

[0125] Further, the game environment control unit 23 may arrange objects corresponding to one or more voting targets with a large number of votes in the game space at a ratio corresponding to the number of votes. For example, when the ratio of the number of votes for the top three is Object A: 60%, Object B: 30%, and Object C: 10%, six Object A, three Object B, and one Object C may be arranged on the game field. This can stimulate the voting desire of viewers and promote voting behavior.

[0126] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the vote counting process (S13) in Example 5 of the present embodiment. In Example 5, an example will be described in which a privilege related to the player is given to a viewer who satisfies a predetermined condition for voting from the selection player side viewing screen, and the vote is given preferential treatment according to the possession amount of the privilege.

[0127] The reception unit 26 receives votes from the viewer terminal 12 until a predetermined period elapses (NO in S61 and S62).

[0128] After the elapse of the predetermined time (YES in S62), the vote processing unit 27 ends the reception of votes (S63).

[0129] Based on the vote information transmitted from the viewer, the vote processing unit 27 determines whether the viewer voted from which player side viewing screen (S64). The vote information transmitted from the viewer includes information specifying from which player side viewing screen the vote was cast to support which player. In this example, it is assumed that based on the vote information transmitted from the viewer, it is determined whether the viewer voted from the first player side viewing screen 41.

[0130] If it is determined that the viewer voted from the first player side viewing screen 41 (YES in S64), the vote processing unit 27 determines whether the possession amount of the privilege possessed by the viewer is equal to or more than a predetermined value (S65). Here, the privilege is assumed to be points, but it is not limited to this, and it may be an item that can be used in a predetermined game, or a coupon that can be exchanged for a product or the like.

[0131] When the quantity of privileges held by the viewer is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in S65), the voting processing unit 27 performs preferential treatment for the viewer (S66). The preferential treatment may be, for example, weighting the number of votes counted from the viewer to be a predetermined multiple (for example, 2 times, 3 times, etc.). Also, for example, when a predetermined video viewing time is required until the acquisition of voting rights, the video viewing time until the acquisition of the voting rights may be reduced to 1 / 2, 1 / 3, etc. Further, for example, when the maximum number of votes that can be cast per viewer is regulated, the maximum number of votes that can be cast may be made a predetermined multiple (for example, 2 times, 3 times, etc.).

[0132] When it is determined that the viewer is not the one who voted from the first player side viewing screen 41 (NO in S64), when the quantity of privileges held by the viewer is less than the predetermined value (NO in S65), or after the process of S66, the voting processing unit 27 grants a predetermined number of points as a privilege to the viewer (S67). S64 to S67 are repeated for each voting unit.

[0133] Thereafter, the voting processing unit 27 totals the voting results (S68). The game environment control unit 23 controls the game conditions based on the totaled voting results (S69).

[0134] In the embodiments described above, votes that add up the number of votes are accepted. As a variant, votes that subtract the number of votes may also be accepted. For example, on the player-side viewing screen 41, a "vote up button" for switching to a mode of accepting votes that add up the number of votes and a "vote down button" for accepting votes that subtract the number of votes may be provided. When the "vote up button" is pressed, if a vote is cast for the object selected from the candidate object display column 49 as described in S12 of FIG. 6, it is counted as one vote for that object. When the "vote down button" is pressed, if a vote is cast for the object selected from the candidate object display column 49 as described in S12 of FIG. 6, one vote can be subtracted from the votes obtained for that object at that time. In this way, based on the operation of selecting the second voting target from the viewer terminal 12, the number of votes for the second voting target may be decreased. This makes it possible to prevent the object designated by a strong player from being selected.

[0135] FIG. 12 is an example of a configuration block diagram of the hardware environment of a computer that executes the program in the present embodiment. The computer 81 functions as the viewer terminal 12, the player terminal 16, or the server 15. The computer 81 is composed of a CPU 82, a ROM 83, a RAM 84, a storage device 85, an input I / F 86, an output I / F 87, a communication I / F 88, a reading device 89, and a bus 90.

[0136] Here, the CPU represents a central processing unit. The ROM represents a read-only memory. The RAM represents a random access memory. The I / F represents an interface. The bus 90 is connected to the CPU 82, the ROM 83, the RAM 84, the storage device 85, the input I / F 86, the output I / F 87, the communication I / F 88, and, if necessary, the reading device 89.

[0137] The CPU 82 reads the program according to this embodiment from the storage device 85 and executes the program as a player-side control unit (game environment control unit 23) and a viewer-side control unit 24 (distribution control unit 25, reception unit 26, voting processing unit 27). The ROM 83 indicates a read-only memory. The RAM 84 is a memory for temporary storage.

[0138] The storage device 85 is a device for storing a large amount of information. As the storage device 85, various types of storage devices such as a hard disk, a solid state drive (SSD), and a flash memory card can be used. The storage device 85 stores the program according to the embodiment of the present invention and various data.

[0139] The input I / F 86 can be connected to input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, an electronic camera, a web camera, a microphone, a scanner, a sensor, a tablet, a touch panel display, and an information reading device. Also, the output I / F 87 can be connected to output devices such as a display, a touch panel display, a projector, a printer, and a speaker.

[0140] The communication I / F 88 is an interface such as a port for connecting to a communication network and communicating with other devices. The communication network may be a communication network such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a dedicated line, wired, or wireless. The reading device 89 is a device for reading a portable recording medium.

[0141] The program that realizes the processes described in the above embodiments may be stored, for example, in the storage device 85 via a communication network and a communication I / F 88 from the program provider side. Also, the program that realizes the processes described in the above embodiments may be stored in a commercially available and distributed portable storage medium. In this case, this portable storage medium may be set in the reading device 89, and the program may be read by the CPU 82 and executed. As the portable storage medium, various types of storage media such as CD-ROM, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, IC card, USB memory device, and semiconductor memory card can be used. The program stored in such a storage medium is read by the reading device 89.

[0142] Further, the program may be installed in a stand-alone type computer, or may be installed by a cloud computer and only the functions may be provided to the player. Also, in the present embodiment, the Web browser installed in the viewer terminal 12 and the player terminal 16 is used to access the server 15 and control the game play video distribution system according to the present embodiment operated on the server 15 side, but it is not limited to this. For example, an application program capable of communicating with the server 15 may be installed in the viewer terminal 12 and the player terminal 16 to control the game play video distribution system in the present embodiment.

[0143] As described above, the present aspect has been described based on the embodiments and modified examples. However, the embodiments of the above-described aspects are for facilitating the understanding of the present aspect and do not limit the present aspect. The present aspect can be changed and improved without departing from its spirit and the scope of the claims, and equivalents thereof are included in the present aspect. Also, if its technical features are not described as essential in this specification, they can be deleted as appropriate.

[0144] In addition to the above embodiments, the following is further appended. (Supplementary Note 1) In the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including a first player and a second player participate, a distribution unit that distributes a first video associated with the first player to a first viewing terminal and distributes a second video associated with the second player to a second viewing terminal, a reception unit that receives a vote from among a plurality of voting targets from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal; a control unit that controls game conditions at a predetermined point in the progress of the game based on the received vote, wherein the information processing apparatus is characterized by comprising the control unit. By configuring in this way, the present invention enables viewers who watch a distribution video of a game played by a plurality of players to intervene in the game. (Appendix 2) The control unit arranges an object corresponding to one or more voting targets with a large number of votes in the game space at a ratio corresponding to the number of votes of each of the one or more voting targets. The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1, characterized in that. By configuring in this way, since the influence according to the number of votes of the viewer is reflected in the game, it is expected to stimulate the voting desire of the viewer and promote the voting behavior. (Appendix 3) The reception unit permits the vote on the viewing terminal every time the video is continuously played on the viewing terminal for a predetermined time. The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, characterized in that. By configuring in this way, since it is necessary for the viewer to watch the video for a predetermined time in order to vote, it is expected to increase the viewing desire of the viewer for the distribution video and contribute to increasing the viewing time. (Appendix 4) The reception unit receives a vote on the voting target in one or both of the first video and the second video from any one of the viewing terminals for the same voting period. The control unit causes any one of the viewing terminals to display the voting status for a specific voting target in the first video, and does not cause any one of the viewing terminals to display the voting status for the specific voting target in the second video. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3. With this configuration, viewers can switch the screen to view on the viewing screen of either player side, and can vote for each player via the switched viewing screens of each player side. Also, viewers may be able to confirm only the voting status of one of the player sides and not be able to confirm the voting status of the other player side. (Appendix 5) The control unit prohibits any one of the viewing terminals that has played the first video for a first predetermined time from posting information about the second video for a second predetermined time. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to prevent a viewer who has watched the strategy of the first player from posting information that reveals the strategy on the viewing screen of the second player side and affecting the voting of other viewers. (Appendix 6) The plurality of voting targets includes a first voting target designated by the first player and a second voting target designated by the second player. The control unit controls the game conditions by reflecting one of the first voting target and the second voting target based on the number of votes for the first voting target and the number of votes for the second voting target. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5. With this configuration, a player may specify a voting target (object) that the player desires. Also, only the voting target with the larger number of votes among the number of votes for the first voting target and the number of votes for the second voting target may be reflected in the game. By reflecting only one of the voting destinations in the game, for example, it is possible to generate a voting battle in which viewers who support each player compete in the number of votes, thereby enhancing the orientation of the voting behavior and improving the voting motivation of the viewers. (Appendix 7) The information processing apparatus according to appended note 6, wherein the control unit decreases the number of votes for the first voting target in response to an operation of selecting the first voting target received from the viewing terminal. With such a configuration, for example, a viewer who supports the opponent player of the first player can interfere so that the object designated by the first player is not selected, that is, the viewer can intervene in the game, so that the viewer's motivation to watch the game can be improved. (Appended note 8) The plurality of voting targets include a first voting target designated by the first player and a second voting target designated by the second player. The information processing apparatus according to any one of appended notes 1 to 7, wherein the control unit controls the weighting of the votes for each of the first voting target and the second voting target according to the difference between the parameter of the first player and the parameter of the second player and reflects it in the voting result. With such a configuration, when there is a difference in skills, abilities, etc. between players, by setting a handicap that adjusts the difference, even a weak player can play on an equal footing with a strong player, so that players can be prevented from leaving the game. In addition, since the door can be opened wider, participation by players with little experience can be promoted. (Appended note 9) The control unit confers a privilege regarding the first player on a viewer who satisfies a predetermined condition for voting on the first video, and gives preferential treatment to the vote from the viewer whose holding amount of the privilege is equal to or more than a predetermined value compared to the vote from the viewer whose holding amount of the privilege is less than the predetermined value, and performs weighting of the vote. The information processing apparatus according to any one of appended notes 1 to 8, characterized in that. With such a configuration, a privilege regarding the player of the voting destination can be conferred on the voting viewer, and the vote of the viewer can be given preferential treatment according to the cumulative holding amount of the privilege, so that the viewer can be continuously voted and the departure of the viewer can be prevented. (Appended note 10) The reception unit receives a first vote for determining the type of object corresponding to the voting target, and a second vote for determining the timing of arranging the object of the type determined in the first vote in the game space. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 1 to 9, characterized in that. With this configuration, in addition to the type of object, the timing of arranging the object is also determined by the vote of the viewer, so that the degree of intervention of the viewer in the game can be increased. Depending on the timing of arranging the object, it has a great impact on the battle situation, the battle becomes a free-for-all and becomes more interesting, leading to stimulating the interest of the viewer. (Appendix 11) The control unit arranges the object corresponding to the voting target in a manner based on an instruction from the viewing terminal determined based on the number of votes for the object. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Appendices 1 to 10, characterized in that. With this configuration, since the vote of the viewer with a large number of votes has a great influence on the game, the voting desire of the viewer can be promoted. (Appendix 12) In the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including a first player and a second player participate, a distribution process of distributing a first video associated with the first player to a first viewing terminal and a second video associated with the second player to a second viewing terminal, A reception process of receiving a vote for any one of a plurality of voting targets from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal, An information processing program that causes a computer to execute a control process of controlling game conditions at a predetermined time in the progress of the game based on the received vote. With this configuration, the present invention enables a viewer who views a distribution video of a game played by a plurality of players to intervene in the game. (Appendix 13) In the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including a first player and a second player participate, a computer distributes a first video associated with the first player to a first viewing terminal, and distributes a second video associated with the second player to a second viewing terminal. A computer receives a vote from one of a plurality of voting targets from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal. An information processing method in which a computer controls game conditions at a predetermined time in the progress of the game based on the received vote. With this configuration, in the present invention, viewers who watch the distribution video of the game played by a plurality of players can intervene in the game.

Explanation of Signs

[0145] 1 Information processing apparatus 2 Distribution unit 3 Reception unit 4 Control unit 11 Game play video distribution system 12(12a, 12b) Viewer terminal 13(13a, 13b) Operation display unit 14(14a, 14b) Screen 15 Server 16(12a, 12b) Player terminal 17 Communication network 21 Control unit 22 Player-side control unit 23 Game environment control unit 24 Viewer-side control unit 25 Distribution control unit 26 Reception unit 27 Voting processing unit 28 Storage unit 29 Communication unit

Claims

【Claim 1】 In the distribution of a video related to a game in which a plurality of players including a first player and a second player participate, a distribution unit that distributes a first video associated with the first player to a first viewing terminal and distributes a second video associated with the second player to a second viewing terminal; A reception unit that receives a vote from among a plurality of voting targets from a plurality of viewing terminals including the first viewing terminal and the second viewing terminal; And a control unit that controls game conditions at a predetermined point in the progress of the game based on the received vote, wherein the information processing apparatus is characterized by comprising the control unit.

Images