Game information processor, control method of information processor, and control program

Abstract

To ease a criterion for granting a geographical effect under a predetermined condition.SOLUTION: "A game information processor" (for example, a user management server 10) includes: designation means (for example, a designation part 350) for designating plural players at least including a first player, and a second player who does not satisfy an application condition of a residence privilege each as a challenger (for example, a multi-play host or guest) of a cooperative play (for example, a multi-play) of a predetermined game (for example, Quest); and setting means (for example, a setting part 360) for applying an inferior pseudo residence privilege for the residence privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the residence privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic game using a display capable of two-dimensional or higher-dimensional display. In particular, the present invention relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or a player measured using GPS.

Background Art

[0002] There is known an electronic game that introduces a mechanism for a plurality of mobile terminals to jointly process an event specified according to the position of the mobile terminal (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Specifically, monsters corresponding to a specific geographical range are respectively displayed on the screens of a plurality of mobile terminals existing within the specific geographical range, and parameters for changing the display of the monsters are synchronized by short-range wireless communication between the mobile terminals existing in the vicinity, thereby producing an effect that the monsters are attacked by a plurality of players.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the game described in Patent Document 1, the mobile terminals of a plurality of players who attack a monster need to exist within the geographical range corresponding to the monster. Therefore, there are quite a few players who find it difficult to enjoy an event related to the monster due to geographical restrictions.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to relax the criterion for imparting a geographical effect under predetermined conditions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] 〔A〕To solve the above problems, a "game information processing apparatus" according to an aspect of the present invention includes a specifying means for designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, and a setting means for applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player. 〔B〕To solve the above problems, a "control method" of an information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a specifying step of designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, and a setting step of applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player. 〔C〕To solve the above problems, a "control program" according to an aspect of the present invention causes a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize a specifying function of designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, and a setting function of applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player. 〔D〕A control program recorded on a "computer-readable recording medium" according to an aspect of the present invention causes a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize a specifying function of designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, and a setting function of applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player.

[0007] The following technical limitations may be imposed on the "game information processing apparatus" described in [A] above. Similarly, the same technical limitations may also be imposed on the "control method" described in [B] above, the "control program" described in [C] above, and the control program recorded on the "recording medium" described in [D] above. · The application condition is to be located at present around a predetermined position, and the setting means applies a fictitious location privilege that is inferior to the location privilege and superior to the fictitious location privilege to the first player who does not satisfy the application condition at present but satisfied it in the past. · The setting means sets the fictitious location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player according to the content of the privilege applied to the cooperative play by the first player. · The setting means sets the fictitious location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player such that it becomes relatively advantageous when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player and becomes relatively disadvantageous when the fictitious location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player. · The specifying means designates the first player as a challenger who hosts the cooperative play of the predetermined game, and designates the second player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play hosted by the first player. · The specifying means designates the second player as a challenger who hosts the cooperative play of the predetermined game, and designates the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play hosted by the second player. · The specifying means designates the first player and the second player respectively as challengers who participate in the cooperative play of the predetermined game hosted by a third player.

[0008] In this specification, terms are used as follows. · "Game" refers to an electronic game provided in at least a partially online game service. In a broad sense, it refers to the game service itself, and in a narrow sense, it refers to an individual stage that constitutes the game service. · "Player" refers to a user of the game service. · "Play" means that a player plays by advancing a specific game. · "Single-player play" means play by a single player. · "Cooperative play" means synchronous play by a plurality of players in a cooperative relationship. In cooperative play, a cooperative relationship is formed between a player (host) who hosts the cooperative play of a specific game and recruits friends, and a player (guest) who applies for the recruitment and participates in the cooperative play of the specific game, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the players. · "Challenger" means a player who challenges to play a specific game. · "Proximity" refers to, for example, a range within a predetermined first distance from the location of a certain player. Also, "periphery" refers to, for example, a range within a predetermined second distance from a predetermined position. In these exemplary cases, the magnitude relationship between the first distance and the second distance can be arbitrarily set. · "Predetermined position" refers to, for example, when a virtual space is formed in association with the real space and a spot position is defined within the virtual space, the position within the real space corresponding to the spot position. · "Play position condition" refers to the condition regarding the location during play among the conditions required for a challenger who challenges to play a specific game. For example, it means that the location of the challenger is in the vicinity of the predetermined position. Note that there may be differences between the conditions required for a single-player play challenger and the conditions required for each challenger in cooperative play. Also, there may be differences between the conditions required for a challenger who hosts cooperative play and the conditions required for each challenger who participates in the cooperative play. · "Event" refers to a factor for adding a new location record or deleting an existing location record. The adding factor includes player instructions. The deleting factors include player instructions, execution of regular processing, expiration of the valid period, and elapse of the expiration date. · The "parameter" refers to at least some of the setting data used in playing a specific game. The parameter is a concept that includes in-game parameters that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game parameters that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. Note that even if the play target is the same, there may be differences between the parameters for a single-player challenger and the parameters for each challenger in cooperative play. Also, there may be differences between the host parameters for the challenger who hosts the cooperative play and the participation parameters for each challenger who participates in the cooperative play. Furthermore, when there are multiple challengers participating in a specific cooperative play, there may be differences in the participation parameters among the challengers. · The "application condition" refers to the condition regarding the location among the conditions for awarding benefits applicable to playing a predetermined game. For example, it means that the player's location is around a predetermined location. · The "location benefit" refers to the geographical benefit granted to a player who currently meets the application condition. The location benefit is a concept that includes in-game benefits that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game benefits that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. · The "presumed location benefit" refers to the geographical benefit granted to a player who does not currently meet the application condition but has met it in the past. The presumed location benefit is a concept that includes in-game benefits that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game benefits that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. The content of the benefit can be set to be inferior to that of the location benefit. · The "pseudo location benefit" refers to the geographical benefit that can be granted to a player who has not met the application condition from the past to the present when playing cooperatively with other players. For example, when a location benefit or a presumed location benefit is applied to a cooperative play by a certain player, a pseudo location benefit is applied to the cooperative play by other players. The pseudo location benefit is a concept that includes in-game benefits that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game benefits that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. The content of the benefit can be set to be inferior to that of the location benefit and the presumed location benefit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] When the first player and the second player are challengers in a cooperative play of a predetermined game and a location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player, a pseudo-location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the second player who does not meet the application conditions. In this regard, according to the present invention, the criteria for imparting geographical effects are relaxed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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[0011] [1. Embodiment] [1-1. Embodiment 1] [1-1-1. Outline] Embodiment 1 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is configured to relax the geographical constraints set for the target game under predetermined conditions.

[0012] [1-1-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (e.g., user management server 10) according to Embodiment 1 includes a first specifying means (e.g., first specifying unit 351) for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition as a challenger (e.g., host) who hosts a cooperative play (e.g., multiplayer) of a target game (e.g., quest) that allows single play (e.g., solo play) only when the play position condition is satisfied, and a second specifying means (e.g., second specifying unit 352) for specifying a second player (e.g., a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition) who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger (e.g., guest) who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player.

[0013] [1-2. Embodiment 2] [1-2-1. Overview] Embodiment 2 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 2 is configured to relax geographical restrictions set for a target game under predetermined conditions.

[0014] [1-2-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (e.g., user management server 10) according to Embodiment 2 includes a registration means (e.g., registration unit 310) for storing the location of a player as a location record (e.g., flag) in a storage means (e.g., storage unit 370) at the request of the player or regardless of the request, and a first specifying means (e.g., first specifying unit 351) for specifying a first player (e.g., a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition) who has a location record indicating that the play position condition has been satisfied in the past as a challenger (e.g., a solo play player, a multiplayer host) who challenges a target game (e.g., quest) that allows single play (e.g., solo play) only when the play position condition is satisfied.

[0015] Further, it may be configured to further include second specifying means (for example, second specifying unit 352) that specifies the first player as a challenger who hosts the cooperative play of the target game by the first specifying means, and specifies a second player who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player (for example, a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition).

[0016] [1-3. Embodiment 3] [1-3-1. Overview] Embodiment 3 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical position of a terminal device or a player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 3 is configured to relax the criteria for imparting a geographical effect under predetermined conditions.

[0017] [1-3-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (for example, user management server 10) according to Embodiment 3 includes specifying means (for example, specifying unit 350) that specifies a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of a location privilege (for example, a spot privilege) as challengers (for example, a host or a guest of multiplayer) for cooperative play (for example, multiplayer) of a predetermined game (for example, a quest), and setting means (for example, setting unit 360) that applies a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player.

[0018] When the application condition is to be located around a predetermined position at the current time, the setting means may apply a fictitious location privilege that is inferior to the location privilege and superior to the pseudo-location privilege to the first player who does not satisfy the application condition at the current time but satisfied it in the past. At this time, the setting means may set the pseudo-location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player according to the content of the privilege applied to the cooperative play by the first player.

Example

[0019] [2. Example] [2-1. Overview] This example relates to a game service (the service of the example) that is at least partially provided online. In the service of the example, an electronic game (broad sense of the game) is provided in which the player sequentially operates four monsters that make up the deck by a predetermined action and sequentially challenges a plurality of stages (narrow sense of the game) prepared in the game. Hereinafter, the stage will be referred to as a "quest".

[0020] There are two play forms for playing the quest: a solo play (single play) in which one player challenges alone, and a multiplayer play (cooperative play) in which two to four players challenge cooperatively. In multiplayer play, a cooperative relationship is formed between a host who hosts the multiplayer and recruits members and a guest who applies for the recruitment and participates in the multiplayer, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the players.

[0021] There are two forms of recruitment by the host for guests: recruitment mainly targeting unspecified players located in the vicinity, and recruitment mainly targeting specific players located at an arbitrary position. Hereinafter, the multiplayer taking the former recruitment form will be called a short-distance multiplayer. Also, the multiplayer taking the latter recruitment form will be called an SNS multiplayer.

[0022] [2-2. Features] [2-2-1. Spot Arrangement and Spot Bonuses] A virtual space is formed that is geographically associated with the real space, and the display (map display) of the virtual space on the screen is changed so as to be linked to the physical movement of the player in the real space. In the virtual space, a large number of spots are arranged. When a player is present around the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to a certain spot arrangement position, spot privileges (spot effects, play qualifications for spot-limited quests) set in association with the spot arrangement position are granted to the player.

[0023] [2-2-2. Flag Installation and Spot Privileges] A player can register their current location in the real space as a location record. A flag is installed at the position in the virtual space corresponding to the recorded location. When there is a location record indicating that the player was present around the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to a certain spot arrangement position, an inferior privilege (simulated spot privilege) is granted to the player for the spot privilege set in association with the spot arrangement position. Note that the upper limit of the number of flags installed can be set arbitrarily. In the service of the embodiment, the upper limit number is set to 1. The installed flag is invalidated by the player's deletion, installation of a new flag, etc. Also, it is cleared periodically (e.g., by daily batch processing).

[0024] [2-2-3. Types of Spot Privileges] Spot privileges include, for example, the following privileges. (a) Obtain fragments of virtual currency items (objects that can be exchanged for a predetermined virtual currency item when a plurality of points are collected) (b) Obtain spot-limited monsters (c) Obtain play qualifications for spot-limited quests (d) Parameters mainly acting on the progress of quests (quest progress parameters, progress parameters) change in a favorable direction (e) Parameters mainly acting on the calculation of clear rewards (reward calculation parameters, calculation parameters) change in a favorable direction

[0025] The above (d) is, for example, the following privileges. These privileges can be applied to the player's play when the player plays a predetermined quest after being granted to the player. (d-1) The rank of the attached crest increases. (d-2) The hit points (HP), attack power, and speed of a predetermined attribute monster each increase. (d-3) The activation rate of lucky kills (e.g., shield, friendship combo critical, guide) increases.

[0026] The above (e) is, for example, the following privileges. These privileges can be applied to the player's play when the player plays a predetermined quest after being granted to the player. (e-1) When the quest is cleared, a part of the stamina is returned. (e-2) The experience value increases. (e-3) The acquired points increase. (e-4) The rack increases (that is, the acquisition probability of the rack bonus increases). (e-5) The additional probability of the treasure box increases.

[0027] [2-2-4. Relaxation of Play Position Conditions by Multiplayer] There is a spot-limited quest that allows solo play only when located near the position corresponding to a specific spot (predetermined position) (that is, when the play position condition is satisfied). In the service of the embodiment, players with a record indicating that they have satisfied the play position condition in the past are permitted to challenge the play of the spot-limited quest. Therefore, players who do not satisfy the play position condition at present may play the spot-limited quest alone or cooperatively.

[0028] Also, from the perspective of a guest participating in a multiplayer game hosted by a host that meets the play position condition, regardless of whether the play position condition is met or not, the guest is allowed to challenge the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest. At this time, the participation parameters (progress parameters, calculation parameters) for the guest are adjusted according to the positional relationship between the guest and the spot from the past to the present. Furthermore, from the perspective of a guest participating in a cooperative play hosted by a host with a record indicating that the host met the play position condition, regardless of whether the play position condition is met or not, the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest is allowed. At this time, the participation parameters (progress parameters, calculation parameters) for the guest are adjusted according to the positional relationship between the host, the guest, and the spot from the past to the present.

[0029] [2-2-5. Relaxation of the Conditions for Applying Bonuses in Multiplayer] In the service of the embodiment, when a spot effect (location bonus or fictitious location bonus) is applied to a certain player challenging multiplayer, a spot effect (fictitious location bonus) inferior to these spot effects is applied to other players challenging the multiplayer. At this time, according to the content of the spot effect applied to a certain player, the content of the spot effect applied to other players who do not meet the application conditions is adjusted. For example, when a certain spot effect is applied to a host who meets the application conditions of the spot effect, a spot effect inferior to the certain spot effect is applied to all guests who do not meet the application conditions. Also, when a certain spot effect is applied to a guest who meets the application conditions of the spot effect, a spot effect inferior to the certain spot effect is applied to the host and other guests who do not meet the application conditions.

[0030] [2-2-6. Summary] As described above, in the service of the embodiment, a large number of spots are arranged in a virtual space that is geographically associated with the real space, and benefits (for example, spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests) are provided on the condition that the player is located near the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to the spot arrangement position. On the other hand, the conditions (for example, time conditions, space conditions) for applying the benefit are relaxed in a predetermined case. In particular, when the benefit is applied to at least one player among a plurality of players, a benefit equivalent to the benefit is applied to other players who cooperate with the one player. With such a mechanism, the interest of the service of the embodiment is improved, and the challenge to quests by multiplayer is promoted.

[0031] [2-3. Configuration of the System of the Embodiment] [2-3-1. Network Configuration] [2-3-1-1. Overview] FIG. 1 illustrates the network configuration of the system of the embodiment. The system of the embodiment provides the service of the embodiment to users. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the system of the embodiment includes a user management server 10 that manages users of the service of the embodiment, a data management server 20 that manages data related to the service of the embodiment, and a plurality of user terminals 30 (30-1, 30-2,... 30-n) (n: natural number) used by a plurality of users respectively.

[0032] The user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 can exchange data through a communication network 40. The data management server 20 can access a built-in or externally connectable storage 21. The user management server 10 can access the data stored in the storage 21 via the data management server 20. The communication network 40 may include at least any one of existing networks such as the Internet, mobile phone network, wireless WAN (Wireless Wide Area Network), wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), and Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0033] [2-3-1-2. User Management Server] The user management server 10 is a server device (computer) installed with a Web server program. The user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to obtain necessary data from the storage 21 and provide (response) it to the requester in response to a request. Also, the user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to register necessary data to the storage 21 in response to a request. Note that a server system may be configured by cooperating a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the user management server 10 or distribute the load on the user management server 10.

[0034] [2-3-1-3. Data Management Server] The data management server 20 is a server device (computer) installed with a DB server program and constitutes a DBMS (DataBase Management System) together with the storage 21. The data management server 20 obtains necessary data from the storage 21 and provides (response) it to the requester in response to a request. Also, the data management server 20 (request) registers necessary data to the storage 21 in response to a request. The storage 21 is a storage device that stores data related to the services of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by linking a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the data management server 20 or distribute the load on the data management server 20. Further, a plurality of storage devices may be prepared to store the data stored in the storage 21 separately for each type of data, or the data stored in the storage 21 may be distributed and arranged in a plurality of storage devices.

[0035] [2-3-1-4. User Terminal] The user terminal 30 is a user device (computer) in which a predetermined game program is installed. In this embodiment, as the user device, a general-purpose portable device (for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a tablet PC (personal computer), a wearable device, etc.) or a general-purpose processing device (for example, a PC (personal computer), etc.) in which a program can be installed can be used.

[0036] [2-3-2. Hardware Functional Configuration] [2-3-2-1. Hardware Functional Configuration of Server Device] FIG. 2-1 illustrates the hardware functional configuration of the server device. The server device illustrated in FIG. 2-1 includes a control processing device 211 including an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) and a ROM (Read Only Memory), a main storage device 212 including a RAM (Random Access Memory), an auxiliary storage device 213 including an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an input device 214 including a mouse and a keyboard, an output device 215 including a display and a speaker, and a communication control device 216 including a network interface card.

[0037] The main storage device 212, the auxiliary storage device 213, the input device 214, the output device 215, and the communication control device 216 are each connected to the control processing device 211 via a bus line. The control processing device 211 reads the program stored in the auxiliary storage device 213 onto the main storage device 212, acquires data from at least any one of the input device 214, the auxiliary storage device 213, and the communication control device 216 according to the instructions of the program, calculates and processes the acquired data in the procedure specified by the program, and then provides the calculated and processed data to at least any one of the auxiliary storage device 213, the output device 215, and the communication control device 216.

[0038] [2-3-2-2. Hardware Functional Configuration of User Device] FIG. 2-2 illustrates the hardware functional configuration of the user device. The user device illustrated in FIG. 2-2 includes at least an MPU 221 that constitutes a control processing unit, a RAM 231 that constitutes a main storage unit, a ROM 232 and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) 233 that constitute an auxiliary storage unit, a touch panel display 241 that constitutes an input unit and a display unit, a speaker 242 that constitutes an audio output unit, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) 251 and a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) chip 252 that constitute a communication control unit, and a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit 261 that constitutes a position acquisition unit.

[0039] The RAM 231, the ROM 232, the EEPROM 233, the touch panel display 241, the speaker 242, the NIC 251, the wireless LAN chip 252, and the GPS unit 261 are connected to the MPU 221 via a bus line. The MPU 221 reads the program stored in the ROM 232 or EEPROM 233 onto the RAM 231, acquires data from at least one of the touch panel display 241, EEPROM 233, NIC 251, wireless LAN chip 252, and GPS unit 261 according to the instructions of the program, calculates and processes the acquired data according to the procedures specified in the program, and then provides the calculated and processed data to at least one of the EEPROM 233, touch panel display 241, speaker 242, NIC 251, and wireless LAN chip 252.

[0040] [2-3-3. Software Functional Configuration] FIG. 3 illustrates the software functional configuration of the system of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the user management server 10 includes a registration unit 310, a reception unit 320, a search unit 330, a provision unit 340, a designation unit 350, and a setting unit 360. The designation unit 350 includes a first designation unit 351 and a second designation unit 352. Further, the data management server 20 includes a storage unit 370.

[0041] The software functions of the user management server 10 and the data management server 20 are realized by installing an OS (Operating System) for server devices and a program operating on the OS on the server devices, respectively. The program to be installed on the server device may be distributed in a state recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), or flash memory (flash memory) and read from the recording medium into the server device, or may be superimposed on a carrier wave via a communication network 40 or other communication network and supplied to the server device.

[0042] The software functions of the user terminal 30 are realized by installing an operating system (OS) for the user device and a game program operating on the OS on the user device respectively. Note that instead of the game program, the software functions of the user terminal 30 can also be realized by installing a web browser program operating on the OS for the user device and a game program (plugin) operating on the web browser program on the user device respectively.

[0043] The OS for the user device is generally installed on the user device from the initial shipment. Other programs to be installed on the user device are generally supplied to the user device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via the communication network 40. Note that the above other programs to be installed on the user device may be distributed in a state recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto - Optical disk), flash memory, etc., and read from the recording medium into the user device.

[0044] The registration unit 310 registers the location of the player or a location approximating thereto in the storage unit 370 according to an individual request by the player. A flag of the player is set at the location in the virtual space corresponding to the location registered in the storage unit 370. Note that it may be configured to register the location of the player or a location approximating thereto in the storage unit 370 without depending on an individual request by the player. Also, the registration unit 310 invalidates the flag stored in the storage unit 370 through a predetermined procedure or by a predetermined trigger. For example, it is invalidated through a procedure of erasing the flag by the player. For example, when a new flag is set by the player and the number of set flags reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1), the flag with an older installation time is invalidated. Also, for example, it is invalidated in the daily batch process.

[0045] In addition, the registration unit 310, in response to an individual request from a player, associates and registers in the storage unit 370 a record with a spot effect registered in association with a specific spot for the corresponding player. The spot effect registered in the storage unit 370 can be applied when the player plays a quest later. In addition, the registration unit 310 invalidates the spot effect stored in the storage unit 370 through a predetermined procedure or by a predetermined trigger. For example, when a player acquires a new spot effect and the number of installations reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1), the spot effect with an older acquisition time is invalidated. Also, for example, it is invalidated in the daily batch process.

[0046] The reception unit 320 receives challenges for solo play and multiplayer play of quests from the user terminal 30 of a player having a challenge qualification. In particular, the reception unit 320 receives a multiplayer recruitment from the user terminal 30 of a player having a challenge qualification, and receives an application for the recruitment from the user terminal 30 of a player satisfying the participation conditions of the recruitment. The search unit 330, in response to a request from the user terminal 30, searches for those among the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage unit 370 that the player who is the request source satisfies the participation conditions, and returns the search result to the request source.

[0047] The provision unit 340 provides display data to the user terminal 30. In addition, the provision unit 340 provides a parameter for quest progress (progress parameter) and data for result display to the user terminal 30 of a quest challenger. The designation unit 350 includes a first designation unit 351 that designates a challenger for solo play of a spot-limited quest and a challenger who hosts a multiplayer game, and a second designation unit 352 that designates a challenger who participates in a multiplayer game.

[0048] The first designation unit 351 designates, as a challenger who challenges solo play of a spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. Note that for the latter, the play position condition does not have to be satisfied at the current time. · A player who currently meets the play position condition · A player who has set a flag at a position that meets the play position condition (that is, a player who has met the play position condition in the past)

[0049] In addition, the first specifying unit 351 specifies, as a challenger (host) who hosts a multiplayer of a spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. Note that for the latter, they do not necessarily have to meet the play position condition at the current time. · A player who currently meets the play position condition · A player who has set a flag at a position that meets the play position condition (that is, a player who has met the play position condition in the past)

[0050] The second specifying unit 352 specifies, as a challenger (guest) who participates in a multiplayer of a spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. · A player who has applied for the recruitment by a host who currently meets the play position condition · A player who has applied for the recruitment by a host who has met the play position condition in the past In this case, as long as the guest meets the following conditions, they do not necessarily have to meet the play position condition at the current time. · Currently located near the current location of the host. · Has been located near the current location of the host in the past (that is, has set a flag). · Currently located near the past location of the host (that is, the flag installation position). · Has been located near the past location of the host (that is, the flag installation position) in the past (that is, has set a flag). · Has accessed a virtual waiting room specified by a URL obtained from an SNS or the like outside the system of the embodiment by the host.

[0051] The setting unit 360 sets parameters related to the quest (for example, progress parameters, calculation parameters) as follows, for example. · Set parameters for challengers who challenge solo play, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challengers. · Set parameters for challengers (hosts) who host multiplayer games, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challengers and the challengers (guests) who participate in the multiplayer game, respectively. In particular, when a specific spot effect is applied to a guest, apply an effect equal to or less than this to the host as well. · Set parameters for challengers (guests) who participate in multiplayer games, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challengers, the challengers (hosts) who host the multiplayer game, and the other challengers (guests) who participate in the multiplayer game, respectively. In particular, when a specific spot effect is applied to the host or another guest, apply an effect equal to or less than this to the guest as well.

[0052] Also, the setting unit 360 sets parameters related to spot-limited quests (for example, progress parameters, calculation parameters) as follows. · Set parameters for challengers who challenge solo play in spot-limited quests so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the challenger and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the challenger is currently near a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the challenger was near a predetermined position in the past but is not near the predetermined position at the current time, set the parameters for the challenger so that it becomes relatively disadvantageous. · Set parameters for challengers (hosts) who host multiplayer games in spot-limited quests so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the challenger and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the host is currently near a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the host was near a predetermined position in the past but is not near the predetermined position at the current time, set the parameters for the host so that it becomes relatively disadvantageous. · Set the parameters for challengers (guests) participating in the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the host of the multiplayer and the spot from the past to the present, and the positional relationship between the guest and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the host is currently near a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the host was near a predetermined position in the past but is not near the predetermined position at the current time, it becomes relatively disadvantageous, and set the parameters for the guest. Also, when the guest is currently near a predetermined position, when the host was near a predetermined position in the past but is not near the predetermined position at the current time, and when the host has never been near a predetermined position from the past to the present, set the parameters for the guest so that they are reflected in the degree of advantage in this order.

[0053] [2-3-4. Database Configuration] FIG. 4 illustrates the database configuration in the system of the embodiment. Player management information (FIG. 4(a)) is added at the initial setting by each player and updated before or after the start or end of the quest play. Spot definition information (FIG. 4(b)), spot type definition information (FIG. 4(c)), spot effect setting information (FIG. 4(d)), and flag state definition information (FIG. 4(f)) are added or deleted by the operator of the service of the embodiment at any time. Flag management information (FIG. 4(e)) and spot effect management information (FIG. 4(g)) are added through a predetermined procedure by each player and cleared regularly. Virtual waiting room information (FIG. 4(h)) and virtual waiting management information (FIG. 4(i)) are generated when accepting a multiplayer recruitment.

[0054] (1) Player Management Information The storage unit 370 stores player management information that manages various parameters related to each player for each player. As illustrated in FIG. 4(a), the player management information associates at least an "experience value" and a "player rank" with a "player ID" unique to the player.

[0055] (2) Spot Definition Information The storage unit 370 stores spot definition information that defines various parameters related to each spot for each spot. As illustrated in FIG. 4(b), the spot definition information associates at least a "spot ID" with a "spot type ID", a "spot position", and an "effect type ID". The "spot position" indicates the spot arrangement position in the virtual space. In this embodiment, since the virtual space is geographically associated with the real space, the "spot position" is specified by data representing the geographical position of the real space (for example, latitude, longitude).

[0056] (3) Spot Type Definition Information The storage unit 370 stores spot type definition information that defines various parameters related to each spot type for each spot type. As illustrated in FIG. 4(c), the spot type definition information associates at least a "spot type ID" with a "spot icon path". The "spot icon path" is information useful for identifying a spot icon (image) that is displayed at the spot arrangement position and represents the type of the spot.

[0057] (4) Spot Effect Setting Information The storage unit 370 stores spot effect setting information that sets spot effects for each effect type. As illustrated in FIG. 4(d), the spot effect setting information associates a "value 1", a "value 2", a "value 3",... with an "effect type ID". The "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",... are respectively the values after the change of specific parameters (progress parameters or calculation parameters) used in the service of the embodiment or the values used for the change process of the parameters. Note that the "value 1", "value 2", "value 3" may also be used as the values for parameter settings when spot effects, pseudo-spot effects, and virtual spot effects are respectively applied.

[0058] (5) Flag Management Information The storage unit 370 stores flag management information that manages various parameters related to the flags installed by each player for each player. As illustrated in FIG. 4(e), the flag management information associates at least a "flag status ID", a "flag position", and an "invalid flag" with a "player ID". The "flag position" indicates the flag installation position in the virtual space. In this embodiment, since the virtual space is geographically associated with the real space, data (for example, latitude, longitude) is used to specify the "flag position". The "invalid flag" indicates that the flag is invalid when it is significant. Note that when the flag is to be installed at a specific spot, the "spot position" may be configured to be set in the "flag position", or the "spot ID" may be configured to be stored instead of the "flag position". In the latter configuration, the installation position of the flag is specified by the arrangement position of the spot identified by the "spot ID".

[0059] (6) Flag status definition information The storage unit 370 stores flag status definition information that defines various parameters related to the flag status for each flag status. As illustrated in FIG. 4(f), the flag status definition information associates at least a "flag icon path" with a "flag status ID". The "flag icon path" is information useful for identifying a flag icon (image) that is displayed at the flag installation position and represents the status of the flag.

[0060] (7) Spot effect management information The storage unit 370 stores spot effect management information that manages various parameters related to the spot effect that is granted through the acquisition procedure by each player for each player. As illustrated in FIG. 4(g), the spot effect management information associates at least a "status" and an "invalid flag" with a "player ID" and a "spot ID". "Status" indicates the application status of the spot effect (e.g., acquired / applied). If there is an upper limit on the number of applications, the remaining number of applications may also be indicated. "Invalid flag" indicates that the spot effect is invalid when significant. Note that the "invalid flag" becomes significant, for example, when the number of applications reaches the upper limit (in the service of the embodiment, 1) or when a new spot effect is acquired and the number of acquisitions reaches the upper limit (in the service of the embodiment, 1).

[0061] (8) Virtual waiting room information The storage unit 370 stores virtual waiting room information that records various parameters related to the virtual waiting room corresponding to each multiplayer recruitment. As illustrated in FIG. 4(h), the virtual waiting room information associates at least "virtual waiting room ID" with "recruiter" (player ID), "multiplayer category", "participation conditions", and "status". "Multiplayer category" indicates, for example, short-distance multiplayer or SNS multiplayer. "Participation conditions" are, for example, time conditions, spatial conditions (geographical conditions), passwords, etc. "Status" indicates the recruitment status of the multiplayer (e.g., recruiting / recruitment ended).

[0062] (9) Virtual waiting management information The storage unit 370 stores virtual waiting management information that manages applicants for recruitment for each virtual waiting room. As illustrated in FIG. 4(i), the virtual waiting management information associates at least "virtual waiting room ID" with single or multiple "applicants" (player IDs).

[0063] [2-4. In-game actions before quest execution] [2-4-1. Screen display update procedure] FIG. 5 illustrates the screen display update procedure by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 5 shows the procedure in which player A holds the user terminal 30a and moves in the real space, and the map display on the screen of the user terminal 30a is updated at any time. 〔S505〕The user terminal 30a receives a map display instruction operation by player A. The map display instruction operation is, for example, a tap operation on a "Map Display" menu displayed by a tap operation on a certain tab arranged on the home screen. 〔S510〕The user terminal 30a identifies the current position (current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. 〔S515〕The user terminal 30a requests the user management server 10 to provide display data. The request includes position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30a. 〔S520〕The user management server 10 provides the display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data includes at least one or more map image data (or their URLs) representing a map of a predetermined range in a virtual space corresponding to a certain range including the current position of the user terminal 30a, icon data (or their URLs) of objects (in the service of the embodiment, spots arranged in a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m centered on the current position and the flag of the player installed in the substantially circular area) to be displayed at corresponding positions on the map, and other parameters. 〔S525〕The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. A map of a predetermined range is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a, and icons of objects (such as spots and flags) are arranged at corresponding positions on the map. 〔S530〕When a predetermined time has elapsed, return to the above [S510]. Thereafter, as long as "Map Display" is selected on the user terminal 30a, the procedures of [S510] to [S525] are repeated every predetermined time.

[0064] [2-4-2. Flag Installation Procedure] FIG. 6 illustrates the flag installation procedure by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the procedure in which player A holds the user terminal 30a and moves in the real space, and installs a flag at a position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location. 〔S605〕The user terminal 30a receives a flag installation instruction operation by player A. The flag installation instruction operation is, for example, a tap operation on a flag installation command. 〔S610〕The user terminal 30a identifies the current location (the current location of the user). To identify the current location, the GPS unit 261 is used. 〔S615〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to set a new flag. The instruction includes position data indicating the current location of the user terminal 30a. 〔S620〕The user management server 10 updates the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, new flag management information is added in association with the player ID of player A, and the position indicated by the position data is set as the "flag position". In addition, if there is flag management information for a valid flag associated with player A, the "invalidated flag" is updated (made valid) and invalidated. 〔S625〕The user management server 10 provides display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data is the same as that provided in [S520] (Fig. 5). 〔S630〕The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. A map of a predetermined range is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a, and an icon of the newly set flag is placed at the corresponding position on the map.

[0065] Note that a configuration may be adopted in which a flag is set for the spot only when the spot is displayed on the map (when the user is located in the vicinity of the position corresponding to the spot placement position). In this case, the user terminal 30a may receive an operation instruction for setting a flag for the spot by player A, such as a tap operation on the flag setting command displayed by a tap operation on the icon of the spot displayed on the map. The user management server 10 may set the "spot position" of the spot arranged in the vicinity of the position indicated by the position data as the "flag position".

[0066] [2-4-3. Flag deletion procedure] Fig. 7 illustrates the flag deletion procedure according to the system of the embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the procedure in which player A operates the user terminal 30a to delete the set flag. 〔S705〕The user terminal 30a receives a flag deletion instruction operation by player A. The flag deletion instruction operation is, for example, a tap operation on a flag deletion command displayed by a tap operation on an installed flag menu. 〔S710〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to delete the flag. The instruction includes data for specifying the target flag. If the upper limit of the number of installed flags is 1, since it is only necessary to delete the currently valid flag, data capable of specifying the target flag is not essential. 〔S715〕The user management server 10 updates the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, it updates (validates) and invalidates the "invalidated flag" in the flag management information of the flag to be deleted associated with the player A (for example, the target flag, the latest flag). 〔S720〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the update result. 〔S725〕The user terminal 30a displays the update result.

[0067] [2-4-4. Spot effect acquisition procedure] Fig. 8 illustrates the spot effect acquisition procedure by the system of the embodiment. Fig. 8 shows the procedure for player A to operate the user terminal 30a to acquire the spot effect of a spot arranged around the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location. 〔S805〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on an icon of a spot arranged on a map. 〔S810〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot effect acquisition operation by player A. The spot effect acquisition operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot effect acquisition command displayed by the spot designation operation. 〔S815〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to acquire the spot effect. The instruction includes data capable of specifying the target spot. 〔S820〕The user management server 10 updates the spot effect management information (Fig. 4(g)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, new spot effect management information is added in association with the player ID of player A. In addition, if there is valid spot effect management information associated with player A, the "invalidated flag" is updated (made valid) and invalidated. 〔S825〕The user management server 10 provides display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data is the same as that provided in [S520] (Fig. 5). 〔S830〕The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. The icon of the target spot arranged at the corresponding position on the map displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a changes.

[0068] [2-5. Procedures related to quest execution] [2-5-1. Solo play execution procedure] Fig. 9 illustrates the execution procedure of solo play by the system of the embodiment. Fig. 9 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by the user terminal 30a of player A. 〔S905〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of solo play by player A. 〔S910〕The user terminal 30a composes a deck according to the operation of player A. 〔S915〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to challenge the quest by solo play according to the operation of player A. 〔S920〕The user management server 10 designates a challenger for the quest. Here, player A is designated as the challenger to challenge the solo play.

[0069] 〔S925〕The user management server 10 sets quest progress parameters for the challenger. Here, the spot effects applied to the challenger are taken into account. Specifically, when the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) corresponding to the current position of the challenger is stored, the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applied spot effect Specify (「Value 1」, 「Value 2」, 「Value 3」, …). Also, when flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) is stored in association with the challenger, specify the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) by the 「flag position」, specify the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) by the 「effect type ID」, and specify the applied spot effect (「Value 1」, 「Value 2」, 「Value 3」, …). Also, when spot effect management information (Fig. 4(g)) is stored in association with the challenger, specify the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) by the 「spot ID」, specify the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) by the 「effect type ID」, and specify the applied spot effect (「Value 1」, 「Value 2」, 「Value 3」, …). Then, if there is a target parameter among the default progress parameters, update it using at least any one of 「Value 1」, 「Value 2」, 「Value 3」, …. As a result, the target progress parameter increases. In the case of a spot-limited quest, further consider the positional relationship between the spot and the challenger to adjust the increase amount or increase rate of the progress parameter.

[0070] 〔S930〕The user management server 10 provides the quest progress parameter to the user terminal 30a. 〔S935〕The user terminal 30a progresses the quest. The quest progress parameter is used for the progress of the quest. 〔S940〕After the quest ends, the user terminal 30a notifies the user management server 10 of the end of the quest.

[0071] [S945] The user management server 10 sets parameters for calculating rewards for challengers. Here, the spot effects applied to the challengers are taken into account. Specifically, similar to [S925], the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are identified. Then, if there are target parameters among the default calculation parameters, these are updated using at least one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",.... As a result, the target calculation parameter increases. In the case of spot-limited quests, the increase amount or increase rate of the calculation parameter is adjusted by further considering the positional relationship between the spot and the challenger. Note that the setting process of [S945] may be configured to be executed together with [S925] before the start of quest progress.

[0072] [S950] The user management server 10 updates the player data stored in the storage 21. For example, the "experience value" and "player rank" in the player information (Fig. 4(a)) corresponding to the challenger are increased according to the reward calculation parameters. [S955] The user management server 10 provides the user terminal 30a with result display data. [S960] The user terminal 30a displays the result including the obtained rewards. For example, the state in which the data before update changes to the data after update by a predetermined visual effect is shown.

[0073] [2-5-1-1. When the challenger is currently located near the spot] Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in solo play. In the example shown in Fig. 10, the challenger 1020 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1010 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the challenger is given spot privileges (for example, application of spot effects, play qualification for spot-limited quests) derived from the current location.

[0074] (1) Application of spot effects to normal quest play When the solo play of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 10, a spot effect may be applied to the challenger. FIG. 11 illustrates the play start procedure of a normal quest by the system of the embodiment. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9). 〔S1105〕The user terminal 30a receives an instruction operation for displaying a quest selection screen by player A. The instruction for displaying the quest selection screen is, for example, a tap operation on the "Quest" button arranged on the home screen. 〔S1110〕The user terminal 30a receives a quest selection operation by player A. The quest selection operation is a series of operations for selecting any one of the quests from the list of quests or the classification of quests classified from a predetermined viewpoint. Note that only the quests that player A satisfies the play conditions are displayed as selectable in the list or classification of quests. The play conditions are, for example, at least any one of time conditions, spatial conditions (geographical conditions), proficiency conditions, etc.

[0075] The user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for the challenger in [S925] (FIG. 9), taking into account at least the spot effect applied to the challenger. In addition, the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the challenger in [S945] (FIG. 9), taking into account at least the spot effect applied to the challenger.

[0076] (2) Play of the spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIG. 10, solo play of the spot-limited quest is possible. FIG. 12 illustrates the play start procedure of the spot-limited quest by the system of the embodiment. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9). 〔S1205〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on an icon of a surrounding spot arranged on a map. In the service of the embodiment, the icon of the spot is arranged on the map displayed on the user terminal 30a only when the spot is arranged within a predetermined range centered on the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current position. 〔S1210〕The user terminal 30a receives a quest selection operation by player A. The quest selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot-limited quest execution command displayed by the spot designation operation.

[0077] [2-5-1-2. When the challenger was present near the spot in the past] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in solo play. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the challenger was present in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1310 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the challenger's flag 1320 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of a spot effect, eligibility to play a spot-limited quest) derived from the past location is given to the challenger.

[0078] (1) Application of the fictitious spot effect to the play of a normal quest When solo play of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 13, the fictitious spot effect may be applied to the challenger. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9).

[0079] The user management server 10 sets, in [S925] (FIG. 9), the quest progress parameters for the challenger in consideration of at least the spot effect (fictitious spot effect) applied to the challenger. In addition, in [S945] (FIG. 9), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameter for the challenger, taking into account at least the spot effect (simulated spot effect) applied to the challenger.

[0080] (2) Playing the spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIG. 13, solo play of the spot-limited quest is possible. FIG. 14 illustrates the play start procedure of the spot-limited quest by the system of the embodiment. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 14, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9). [S1405] The user terminal 30a receives a flag designation operation by player A. The flag designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a flag menu arranged on the screen. Note that the flag menu becomes active only when a flag is installed. [S1410] The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot designation command displayed by the flag designation operation. [S1415] The user terminal 30a receives a quest designation operation by player A. The quest designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot-limited quest execution command displayed by the spot designation operation. Note that the spot-limited quest execution command is displayed only when a spot-limited quest is prepared in association with the designated spot.

[0081] [2-5-2. Multiplayer execution procedure] FIG. 15 illustrates the execution procedure of multiplayer by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 15 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by player A, the recruitment for multiplayer by player A is started, and player B applies for the recruitment. [S1505] The user terminal 30a arranges a deck according to the operation of player A. [S1510] The user terminal 30a receives a challenge instruction operation by player A. 〔S1515〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to challenge the quest through multiplayer according to the operation of player A. 〔S1520〕The user management server 10 designates challengers for the quest. Here, players A and B are designated as challengers (host, guest) who challenge through multiplayer respectively.

[0082] 〔S1525〕The user management server 10 sets quest progress parameters for the host and the guest respectively. Here, the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers are taken into account. Specifically, when the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) corresponding to the current position of a certain challenger is stored, the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applicable spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Also, when the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) is stored in association with a certain challenger, the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) is specified by the "flag position", the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applicable spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Also, when the spot effect management information (Fig. 4(g)) is stored in association with a certain challenger, the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) is specified by the "spot ID", the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applicable spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Then, if there is a target parameter among the default progress parameters, this is updated using at least any one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",.... As a result, the target progress parameter increases. These processes are performed for each of all the challengers. In the case of a spot-limited quest, the increase amount or increase rate of the progress parameter is adjusted by further taking into account the positional relationship between the spot and the host from the past to the present and the positional relationship between the spot and the guest from the past to the present.

[0083] 〔S1530〕The user management server 10 provides the quest progress parameters to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b, respectively. 〔S1535a~c〕The user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b each progress a quest. Quest progress uses the quest progress parameters. The user management server 10 connects to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b respectively, relays the exchange of data including operation information, and synchronizes the progress of the quest.

[0084] 〔S1540〕After the quest ends, the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest. Here, the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers is taken into account. Specifically, similar to [S1525], the applied spot effect ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) is identified respectively. If there is a target parameter among the default calculation parameters, at least one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",... is used to update it, and the process of increasing the target calculation parameter is performed for each of all challengers. In the case of a spot-limited quest, the past-to-present positional relationship between the spot and the host and the past-to-present positional relationship between the spot and the guest are further taken into account respectively to adjust the increase amount or increase ratio of the calculation parameter. Note that the setting process in [S1540] may be configured to be executed before the start of the quest progress in combination with [S1525].

[0085] 〔S1545〕The user management server 10 updates the player data stored in the storage 21. For example, the "experience value" and "player rank" in the player information (Fig. 4(a)) corresponding to the host and the guest respectively are increased according to the reward calculation parameters. 〔S1550〕The user management server 10 provides the result display data to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b, respectively. 〔S1555a,b〕The user terminals 30a and 30b each display the result including the obtained reward. For example, the state in which the data before update changes to the data after update due to a predetermined visual and auditory effect is shown.

[0086] [2-5-2-1. Near-distance multi-execution procedure] FIG. 16 illustrates the recruitment procedure for near-distance multi by the system of the embodiment. Further, FIG. 17 illustrates the application procedure for near-distance multi by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 16 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by player A. FIG. 17 shows the procedure following FIG. 16. 〔S1605〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of multiplayer play by player A. 〔S1610〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of near-distance multi by player A. 〔S1615〕The user terminal 30a composes a temporary deck according to the operation of player A. 〔S1620〕The user terminal 30a receives the recruitment instruction operation for near-distance multi by player A. In the service of the embodiment, player A can set a password (a three-digit number sequence) when recruiting for multiplayer play. When the password is set, the setting is also received. 〔S1625〕The user terminal 30a identifies the current position (the current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. 〔S1630〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to recruit for near-distance multi. The instruction may include the set password and the position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30a. 〔S1635〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the recruitment for near-distance multi. 〔S1640〕The user management server 10 stores new virtual waiting room information in the storage 21 (FIG. 4(h)) and virtual waiting management information (FIG. 4(i)) are registered to create a virtual waiting room. At this time, the "multiplayer category" is short-distance multiplayer, the "participation condition" is to be located in the vicinity of the position indicated by the position data included in the recruitment instruction, and the "status" is "recruiting". Also, if a password is included in the recruitment instruction, the password also constitutes the "participation condition".

[0087] [S1705] The user terminal 30b receives a search instruction operation for short-distance multiplayer by player B. When player B designates a password (a three-digit number sequence) during the recruitment search, the designation is also received. [S1710] The user terminal 30b identifies the current position (the current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. [S1715] The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to search for recruitments that meet the participation conditions. The instruction may include the designated password and the position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30b. [S1720] The user management server 10 identifies information regarding recruitments for short-distance multiplayer that player B meets the participation conditions and play conditions from the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage 21. The play conditions are the conditions set for the quest (for example, the player rank, play position, play time, etc. meet the predetermined conditions). [S1725] The user management server 10 provides the search results to the user terminal 30b. [S1730] The user terminal 30b selects and notifies one of the short-distance multiplayer recruitments according to the operation by player B to the user management server 10. [S1735] The user management server 10 permits the user terminal 30b to apply for the selected recruitment. [S1740] The user terminal 30b arranges a temporary deck according to the operation by player B. [S1745] The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to apply for the selected recruitment according to the application instruction operation by player B. [S1750] The user management server 10 adds the player ID of player B to the virtual waiting management information (Figure 4(i)) stored in the storage 21 and accepts an application from player B for the selected recruitment. [S1755] The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a that the application has been accepted.

[0088] [2-5-2-1-1. When the host is currently located near the spot] FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the host 1820 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1810 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given a spot privilege derived from the current location (for example, application of a spot effect, eligibility to play a spot-limited quest).

[0089] Also, guests 1830a and 1830b are currently located near the current location of the host 1820. Guest 1830a is currently located near the predetermined position. On the other hand, guest 1830b is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, guest 1830a is given a spot privilege derived from the current location (the same privilege as the spot privilege given to the host 1820). On the other hand, guest 1830b is given a pseudo-spot privilege equivalent to the spot privilege given to the host 1820 (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege).

[0090] FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the host 1920 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1910 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given a spot privilege derived from the current location (for example, application of a spot effect, eligibility to play a spot-limited quest).

[0091] Also, a guest was located in the vicinity of the current location of host 1920. That is, flags 1930a and 1930b of the guest are respectively installed in the vicinity of the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location of host 1920. The guest with flag 1930a was located in the vicinity of a predetermined position in the past but is not located there at present. On the other hand, the guest with flag 1930b has not been located in the vicinity of the predetermined position from the past to the present. In this case, a fictitious privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) derived from the past location is granted to the former. On the other hand, a pseudo-privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) similar to the spot privilege granted to host 1920 is granted to the latter. Note that it is preferable that the fictitious privilege granted to the former is a superior privilege to the pseudo-privilege granted to the latter.

[0092] (1) Application of the fictitious spot effect to the play of the normal quest When the short-distance multi of the normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIGS. 18 and 19, the spot effect can be applied to the host. Also, any one of the spot effect, the fictitious spot effect, and the pseudo-spot effect can be applied to the guest respectively. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after the recruitment and application of the short-distance multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the procedure for executing the multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0093] In [S1525] (FIG. 15), the user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers. Also, in [S1540] (FIG. 15), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0094] (2) Play of the spot-limited quest In the positional relationship shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, short-distance multi in the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, through the recruitment and application of short-distance multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the execution procedure of multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0095] [2-5-2-1-2. When the host has been located near the spot in the past] FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in FIG. 20, the host 2030 has been located in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2010 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the flag 2020 of the host 2030 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host 2030 is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effect, play qualification for spot-limited quest).

[0096] Also, near the current location of the host 2030, the guest 2040 is currently located. The guest 2040 is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, the guest 2040 is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) according to the fictitious spot privilege given to the host 2030.

[0097] FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the host has been located in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2110 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the flag 2120 of the host is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effect, play qualification for spot-limited quest).

[0098] Also, guests 2130a and 2130b are currently located near the host's past location. Guest 2130a is currently located near a predetermined position. On the other hand, guest 2130b is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, the former is given a spot privilege (a privilege superior to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host) derived from the current location. On the other hand, guest 2130b is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host.

[0099] Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in Figure 22, the host was previously located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of spot 2210 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the host flag 2220 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests) derived from the past location.

[0100] Also, guests were previously located near the host's past location. That is, guest flags 2230a and 2230b are installed near the installation position of the host flag 2220, respectively. The guest with flag 2230a was previously located near the predetermined position but is not currently located there. On the other hand, the guest with flag 2230b has not been located near the predetermined position from the past until now. In this case, the former is given a fictitious spot privilege (a privilege equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host) derived from the past location. On the other hand, the latter is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host.

[0101] (1) Application of spot effects in normal quests When a normal quest's short - distance multi - play is performed in the positional relationship shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, a simulated spot effect may be applied to the host. Also, for a guest, any one of a spot effect, a simulated spot effect, and a pseudo - spot effect may be applied respectively. After a normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after going through the recruitment and application for short - distance multi - play according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the procedure for executing multi - play (FIG. 15) is entered.

[0102] (2) Playing a spot - limited quest In the positional relationship shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, short - distance multi - play of a spot - limited quest is possible. After a spot - limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 14, after going through the recruitment and application for short - distance multi - play according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the procedure for executing multi - play (FIG. 15) is entered.

[0103] [2 - 5 - 2 - 2. SNS multi - play execution procedure] FIG. 23 illustrates the recruitment procedure for SNS multi - play by the system of the embodiment. Also, FIG. 24 illustrates the application procedure for SNS multi - play by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 23 is the procedure after a quest is selected. FIG. 24 is the procedure following FIG. 23. [S2305] The user terminal 30a receives the selection of multi - play by player A. [S2310] The user terminal 30a receives the selection of SNS multi - play by player A. [S2315] The user terminal 30a composes a temporary deck according to the operation of player A. [S2320] The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to recruit for SNS multi - play. [S2325] The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the recruitment for SNS multi - play. The notification may include a start command for the SNS program and a URL with data that can identify the recruitment. [S2330] The user terminal 30a transmits a message including the above - mentioned URL to the user terminal 30b directly or indirectly outside the system of the embodiment. 〔S2335〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to start the SNS multi-recruitment by accessing and specifying the above URL. 〔S2340〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a that the start of the SNS multi-recruitment has been received. 〔S2345〕The user management server 10 registers new virtual waiting room information (Fig. 4(h)) and virtual waiting management information (Fig. 4(i)) in the storage 21, and creates a virtual waiting room. At this time, the "multiplayer category" is SNS multi, the "participation condition" is application by accessing and specifying the above URL, and the "status" is "recruiting".

[0104] 〔S2405〕The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to search for a virtual waiting room that meets the participation conditions by accessing and specifying the above URL. 〔S2410〕The user management server 10 identifies information regarding the SNS multi-recruitment for which Player B meets the participation conditions and play conditions from among the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage 21. The play conditions are the conditions set for the quest (for example, the player rank, play position, play time, etc. meet the predetermined conditions). Here, the recruitment specified by the above URL is identified. 〔S2415〕The user management server 10 provides the search results to the user terminal 30b. 〔S2420〕The user terminal 30b selects the identified SNS multi-recruitment in response to an operation by Player B to the user management server 10. 〔S2425〕The user management server 10 permits the user terminal 30b to apply for the selected recruitment. 〔S2430〕The user terminal 30b composes a temporary deck in response to an operation by Player B. 〔S2435〕The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to apply for the selected recruitment in response to an application instruction operation by Player B. 〔S2440〕The user management server 10 adds the player ID of player B to the virtual waiting management information (Fig. 4(i)) stored in the storage 21 and accepts an application from player B for the selected SNS multi. 〔S2445〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a that the application has been accepted.

[0105] [2-5-2-2-1. When the host is currently located near the spot] Fig. 25 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in the SNS multi. In the example shown in Fig. 25, the host 2520 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2510 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given spot privileges derived from the current location (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests).

[0106] On the other hand, the guest 2530 is not currently located near the current location of the host 2520. Also, the guest 2530 is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, the guest 2530 is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) similar to the spot privilege given to the host 2520.

[0107] (1) Application of spot effects in normal quests When an SNS multi for a normal quest is made in the positional relationship of Fig. 25, the spot effect can be applied to the host. Also, a pseudo-spot effect can be applied to the guest. After a normal quest is started according to the procedure of Fig. 11, after recruitment and application for the SNS multi according to the procedures of Figs. 23 and 24, the procedure for executing multiplayer (Fig. 15) is advanced.

[0108] In [S1525] (Fig. 15), the user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers. In addition, in [S1540] (FIG. 15), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0109] (2) Playing the spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIG. 25, SNS multi for the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, through the recruitment and application of SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, the procedure for executing multi-play (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0110] [2-5-2-2-2. When the host was previously located near the spot] FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in SNS multi. In the example shown in FIG. 26, the host was previously located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2610 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the host flag 2620 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege derived from the past location (for example, application of the spot effect, eligibility to play the spot-limited quest).

[0111] On the other hand, the guest 2630 has not been located near the past location of the host from the past to the present. Also, the guest 2630 has not been located near the predetermined position from the past to the present. In this case, the guest 2630 is given a pseudo-spot privilege equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege given to the host (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege).

[0112] (1) Application of the spot effect in the normal quest When SNS multi for the normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 26, a fictitious spot effect may be applied to the host. Also, a pseudo-spot effect may be applied to the guest. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after going through the recruitment and application of SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, it proceeds to the execution procedure of multiplayer (FIG. 15).

[0113] In [S1525] (FIG. 15), the user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers. Also, in [S1540] (FIG. 15), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and guests, taking into account at least the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0114] (2) Playing the spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIG. 26, SNS multi for the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 14, after going through the recruitment and application of SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, it proceeds to the execution procedure of multiplayer (FIG. 15).

Explanation of symbols

[0115] 10 User management server (an example of a game information processing device) 20 Data management server 21 Storage 30 User terminal 40 Communication network 310 Registration section 320 Reception section 330 Search section 340 Provision section 350 Designation section 351 First designation section 352 Second designation section 360 Setting section 370 Storage section

Claims

1. Designating means for designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player whose location privilege application conditions are not satisfied as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, respectively; Setting means for applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player; A game information processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. The application condition is to be located at present around a predetermined position, The setting means applies a fictitious location privilege that is inferior to the location privilege and superior to the pseudo-location privilege to the first player who does not satisfy the application condition at present but has satisfied it in the past; The game information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

3. The setting means sets the pseudo-location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player according to the content of the privilege applied to the cooperative play by the first player; The game information processing apparatus according to Claim 2.

4. The setting means sets the pseudo-location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player so as to be relatively advantageous when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player and relatively disadvantageous when the fictitious location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player; The game information processing apparatus according to Claim 3.

5. The designating means designates the first player as a challenger who hosts the cooperative play of the predetermined game, and designates the second player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play hosted by the first player; The game information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. The designating means designates the second player as a challenger who hosts the cooperative play of the predetermined game, and designates the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play hosted by the second player; The game information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

7. The designating means designates the first player and the second player as challengers who participate in the cooperative play of the predetermined game hosted by a third player, respectively; The game information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

8. A specifying step of specifying a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, respectively; A setting step of applying a pseudo location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player; A control method for an information processing apparatus, including the above.

9. A specifying function of specifying a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player who does not satisfy the application conditions of the location privilege as challengers for cooperative play of a predetermined game, respectively; A setting function of applying a pseudo location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player; A control program for causing a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize the above.

Images