Server device and game system

Abstract

To improve working efficiency of a manager who manages prizes.SOLUTION: A server device communicably connected to each of multiple prize acquisition game devices via a network comprises: a registration section for registering prize information regarding a first stored prize group and prize information regarding a second prize group that becomes a next storage candidate of the first prize group in association with each prize-acquiring game device; and an update section for updating prize information of a first prize group registered in association with a prize-acquiring game device on the basis of acquisition of a prize in either prize-acquiring game device from among multiple prize-acquiring game devices, and updating prize information of a second prize group registered in association with the prize-acquiring game device on the basis of acquisition of a prize in the prize-acquiring game device after operation required for showing completion of exchange work of a prize is performed in the prize-acquiring game device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device and a game system.

Background Art

[0002] By registering prize information related to one or a plurality of prizes (hereinafter also referred to as "prize group") accommodated in the accommodation space of a prize acquisition game device in association with each of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store (for example, an amusement facility, etc.), a game system for performing prize management for each prize acquisition game device is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A store manager (e.g., a store staff member, etc.) may perform an operation of replacing a prize group A (e.g., one or more prizes related to character A) accommodated in an accommodation space of a prize acquisition game device with a prize group B (e.g., one or more prizes related to character B) (hereinafter, also referred to as "prize replacement operation"). In this case, for prize management, the store manager operates the store terminal at the timing of performing the prize replacement operation, and instead of the prize information related to the prize group A that has already been registered in association with the prize acquisition game device, re-registers in association with the said prize acquisition game device the prize information related to the next accommodated prize group B. Further, similarly, when performing an operation of replacing the accommodated prize group B with a prize group C, the prize information related to the next accommodated prize group C must be re-registered in association with the said prize acquisition game device. That is, every time the store manager performs a prize replacement operation, a registration operation for associating the prize group with the prize acquisition game device had to be performed. In particular, when a prize replacement operation is to be performed during the business hours of the store, for example, if 100 or more prize acquisition game devices are installed in the store, the store manager performs the prize replacement operation while paying attention not to interfere with the game play of the players in each prize acquisition game device, and every time the replacement operation is performed, an operation of re-registering in association with the prize acquisition game device the prize information related to the next accommodated prize group must be performed on the store terminal. Therefore, there was a risk of reducing the working efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to improve the working efficiency of a manager who manages prizes.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] The main invention of the present invention for solving the above problems is a server device communicably connected via a network to each of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices in which a prize acquisition game can be played in an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group stored in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group, Based on a prize being acquired during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work in the accommodation space has ended is performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on a prize being acquired during play on the prize acquisition game device, the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. An update unit, A server device comprising the same. Other features of the present invention will be clarified by the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] At least the following matters become clear from the description in this specification and the attached drawings. That is, a server device communicably connected via a network to each of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices capable of playing a prize acquisition game within an accommodation space in which a prize group composed of one or more prizes is accommodated, In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit for registering prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is the next accommodation candidate for the first prize group; Based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, update the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. After an operation necessary to indicate that the replacement operation of the prizes in the storage space has been completed is performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on the prize acquisition game device, update the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. An update unit; It is a server device including. According to such a server device, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device, but also the second prize group (for example, prize group B) that is a storage candidate to be accommodated next. By registering in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device, the store manager does not need to redo the registration work for associating the prize group with the prize acquisition game device at the timing of performing the prize replacement work. In addition, since the registration work has already been completed for the store manager, by simply performing a predetermined operation on the prize acquisition game device along with the prize replacement work, the prizes to be managed in the prize acquisition game device can be easily changed from the previous first prize group (prize group A) to the next second prize group (prize group B). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0009] A server device that is communicably connected to each of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices capable of playing a prize acquisition game via a network in a storage space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated. A registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding the first prize group accommodated in the storage space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are candidates for the next accommodation of the first prize group. Based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, update the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device, an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work in the accommodation space has been completed, and, after an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups is performed on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit that updates the prize information of the selected second prize group among the plurality of second prize groups registered in association with the prize acquisition game device based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on the prize acquisition game device. It is a server device provided with. According to such a server device, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device, but also a plurality of second prize groups (for example, prize group B and prize group C) that are accommodation candidates to be accommodated next, by registering them in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device, the store manager does not need to redo the registration work for associating the prize group with the prize acquisition game device every time the prize replacement work is performed. Also, since the registration work has already been completed for the store manager, on the prize acquisition game device, an operation of selecting a second prize group (for example, prize group C) to be accommodated next to the first prize group (prize group A) from among the plurality of second prize groups (prize group B and prize group C), and by simply performing a predetermined operation along with the prize replacement work, the prize management target in the prize acquisition game device can be easily switched from the previous first prize group (prize group A) to the next second prize group (prize group C). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0010] Also, a plurality of prize acquisition game devices in which a prize acquisition game can be played in an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, and a store terminal capable of communicating with each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in the store via a network, a server device communicably connected via a network, A registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding the first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding the second prize group that is the next accommodation candidate for the first prize group. Based on a prize being obtained during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, update the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. After an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed is performed on the store terminal, based on a prize being obtained during play on the prize acquisition game device, update the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device; an update unit A server device comprising the same. According to such a server device, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device, but also the second prize group (for example, prize group B) that is a candidate for the next accommodation to be accommodated, by registering in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device, the store manager does not need to perform a registration operation for associating the prize group and the prize acquisition game device at the timing of performing the prize replacement work. In addition, since the registration work has already been completed for the store manager, by simply performing a predetermined operation on the store terminal along with the prize replacement work, the prize management target in the prize acquisition game device can be easily switched from the previous first prize group (for example, prize group A) to the next second prize group (for example, prize group B). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0011] A server device that is communicably connected via a network to a plurality of prize acquisition game devices on which a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, and a store terminal that can cooperate with each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in the store, A registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are candidates for the next accommodation after the first prize group; Based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, update the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device, an operation necessary to indicate that the replacement operation of the prize within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has ended, and, after an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups is performed on the store terminal, an update unit that updates the prize information of the one second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device A server device comprising According to such a server device, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device, but also a plurality of second prize groups (for example, prize group B and prize group C) that are accommodation candidates to be accommodated next, by registering them in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device, the store manager does not need to perform a registration operation for associating the prize group with the prize acquisition game device every time a prize replacement operation is performed. In addition, since the registration operation has already been completed for the store manager, on the store terminal, an operation of selecting a second prize group (for example, prize group B) to be accommodated next to the first prize group (for example, prize group A) from among a plurality of second prize groups (for example, prize group B and prize group C), and by simply performing a predetermined operation along with the prize replacement operation, the prize management target in the prize acquisition game device can be easily switched from the previous first prize group (for example, prize group A) to the next second prize group (for example, prize group B). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0012] A store terminal operated by a store manager where a prize acquisition game device capable of playing a prize acquisition game is installed within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, and a server device communicably connected via a network A registration unit that registers, in association with the prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first prize group currently accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group A switching unit that switches the prize group to be managed from the previous first prize group to the next second prize group when the manager performs a predetermined operation on the store terminal in connection with the prize replacement operation in the prize acquisition game device; A server device comprising. According to such a server device, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device, but also the second prize group (for example, prize group B) that is a candidate for the next accommodation to be accommodated. By registering in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device, the store manager does not need to redo the registration work for associating the prize group to be managed and the prize acquisition game device at the timing of the prize replacement work. In addition, since the registration work has already been completed for the store manager, by simply performing a predetermined operation on the prize acquisition game device in connection with the prize replacement work, the prize to be managed in the prize acquisition game device can be easily switched from the previous first prize group (prize group A) to the next second prize group (prize group B). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0013] A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices via a network, The prize acquisition game device is configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game in an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, The server device is A registration unit that registers prize information regarding the first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding the second prize group that is the next accommodation candidate for the first prize group, in association with each prize acquisition game device; Based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work in the storage space has been completed is performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit that updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. It is a game system. According to such a game system, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of an administrator who manages prizes.

[0014] Also, a game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices via a network. The prize acquisition game device is configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game within a storage space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is stored. The server device A registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first prize group stored in the storage space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are the next storage candidates for the first prize group. Based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation indicating that the prize replacement work in the storage space has been completed and an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups are performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on the fact that a prize has been obtained in a play on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit that updates the prize information of the selected second prize group among the plurality of second prize groups registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. It is a game system. According to such a game system, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of an administrator who manages prizes.

[0015] A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, a store terminal capable of cooperating with each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices and the store terminal via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, the server device is provided with a registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group, and an update unit that updates the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with a prize acquisition game device based on a prize being acquired in a play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and after an operation indicating that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed is performed on the store terminal, updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device based on a prize being acquired in a play on the prize acquisition game device. A game system. According to such a game system, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of an administrator who manages prizes.

[0016] A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, a store terminal capable of cooperating with each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices and the store terminal via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, the server device In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are candidates for the next accommodation of the first prize group, Based on the acquisition of a prize during play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated, an operation indicating that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed, and after an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups is performed on the store terminal, an update unit that updates the prize information of the one second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device, A game system. According to such a game system, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the administrator who manages the prizes.

[0017] Further, a game system having a prize acquisition game device installed in a store, a store terminal operated by the administrator of the store, and a server device communicably connected to the store via a network, The prize acquisition game device is configured to enable a prize acquisition game to be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, The server device, In association with the prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group currently accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a candidate for the next accommodation of the first prize group, A switching unit that switches the prize group to be managed from the previous first prize group to the next second prize group when the administrator performs a predetermined operation on the store terminal in connection with the prize replacement work on the prize acquisition game device, A game system. According to such a game system, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the administrator who manages the prizes.

[0018] ===Embodiment=== In the following embodiments, a game system for managing prizes for each prize acquisition game device in each store (for example, an amusement facility, etc.) will be specifically described as an example. Note that the present invention is not limited to a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and can also be applied to a game system for managing prizes for one prize acquisition game device. Further, the present invention is not limited to a plurality of stores, and can also be applied to a game system for managing prizes of a prize acquisition game device in one store.

[0019] <<Configuration of Game System 1>> FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a game system 1 according to the present embodiment. In the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, a player who visits store 2 can play a prize acquisition game using a prize acquisition game device 50 in the store. Also, the manager of store 2 (for example, store staff) can use the prize acquisition game device 50 in the store to perform various settings related to the prize acquisition game or perform prize replacement work.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a server device 20, a store terminal 10 operated by the manager of store 2, and a prize acquisition game device 50 used by the manager and players who visit store 2. The server device 20 is connected to each of the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 so as to be able to communicate information via a communication network.

[0021] Note that the game system 1 in FIG. 1 is an example, and it goes without saying that there are various system configuration examples according to the application and purpose. For example, the server device 20 in FIG. 1 may be configured to be distributed among a plurality of computers. Also, the server device 20 may undertake part of the functions of the store terminal 10, or the store terminal 10 may undertake part of the functions of the server device 20. Further, the server device 20 and the communication network may be installed in store 2.

[0022] Also, the prize acquisition game device 50 can be connected to the server device 20 (external server) via a relay device (internal server) installed in the same store 2. The relay device relays between the server device 20 and the prize acquisition game device 50 to transmit and receive various information, and is a device that undertakes part of the functions of the server device 20. That is, the relay device is not only connected to the server device 20 via a communication network, but also connected to the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the same store 2 via a communication network. In this case, the server device 20 may undertake part of the functions of the relay device.

[0023] <<Configuration of the store terminal 10>> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the store terminal 10 according to the present embodiment. The store terminal 10 is an information processing device (for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone terminal, etc.) that can be used by the administrator of the store 2.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the store terminal 10 according to the present embodiment includes a terminal control unit 11, a terminal storage unit 12, a terminal operation unit 13, a terminal display unit 14, and a terminal communication unit 15.

[0025] The terminal control unit 11 controls the entire store terminal 10 and is realized by a CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory. The terminal control unit 11 in the present embodiment includes a registration control unit 111 and a display control unit 112.

[0026] The registration control unit 111 performs various controls for the store 2 administrator to perform input operations related to the registration of the prize group. The display control unit 112 controls the screen display of the store terminal 10 according to the input procedure related to the registration of the prize group.

[0027] The terminal storage unit 12 has a read-only memory (ROM) which stores various programs and various information necessary for the store terminal 10, and a rewritable memory (RAM) used as a work area for arithmetic processing by the terminal control unit 11, and is realized by a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk, for example.

[0028] The terminal storage unit 12 in this embodiment stores administrator information such as administrator-only software for managing prizes for each prize acquisition game device and a terminal ID for identifying the store terminal 10.

[0029] The terminal operation unit 13 is for receiving operation inputs from the administrator. The terminal display unit 14 is for performing screen display in accordance with the progress of the administrator software based on commands from the terminal control unit 11.

[0030] The terminal communication unit 15 is for communicating with the server device 20, and has a function as a receiving unit for receiving various data and signals transmitted from the server device 20 and a function as a transmitting unit for transmitting various data and signals to the server device 20 in response to commands from the terminal control unit 11.

[0031] <<Configuration of Server Device 20>> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 20 according to this embodiment. The server device 20 is an information processing device (for example, a workstation or a personal computer, etc.) used by a system operator to operate and manage various services related to the prize acquisition game.

[0032] The server device 20 in this embodiment has, as shown in FIG. 3, a server control unit 21, a server storage unit 22, a server input unit 23, a server display unit 24, and a server communication unit 25.

[0033] The server control unit 21 controls the entire server device 20 and is realized by a CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory. The server control unit 21 in the present embodiment includes a registration unit 211, a switching unit 212, and an update unit 213.

[0034] The registration unit 211 registers the relevance between the prize group to be managed and the prize acquisition game device. The registration unit 211 in the present embodiment registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device 50, the prize information regarding the first prize group stored in the storage space and the prize information regarding the second prize group that is the next storage candidate of the first prize group.

[0035] The switching unit 212 switches the prize group to be managed in accordance with the prize replacement work. The switching unit 212 in the present embodiment switches the management target from the current first prize group to the next second prize group when the store manager performs a predetermined operation in accordance with the prize replacement work.

[0036] The update unit 213 updates the prize information of the prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. The update unit 213 in the present embodiment updates the prize information of the second prize group instead of the prize information of the first prize group based on the fact that a prize has been acquired in the play on the prize acquisition game device 50 when the prize group to be managed is switched from the previous first prize group to the next second prize group. Before the switching, the prize information of the first prize group will be updated.

[0037] The server storage unit 22 has a read-only storage area ROM in which various programs and various information required in the server device 20 are stored, and a rewritable storage area RAM used as a work area for arithmetic processing by the server control unit 21, and is realized by a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk.

[0038] The server storage unit 22 in the present embodiment stores carton information, which is information about a carton (prize-packaging box) that packages one or more prizes as a set, and store information, which is information about store 2.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the carton information according to the present embodiment. The carton information shown in FIG. 4 has, as items, a prize group ID, a prize group name, a prize configuration, an initial quantity, and the like.

[0040] The prize group ID is information for uniquely identifying a prize group consisting of one or more prizes packaged for each carton. Note that it is also possible to use carton-specific identification information such as a carton number as the prize group ID.

[0041] The prize group name is information indicating the name of the prize group. The prize configuration is information for specifying the composition content of the prize group packaged for each carton. The initial quantity is information indicating the quantity of prizes constituting the prize group packaged in an unopened carton.

[0042] In the present embodiment, it is possible to configure a plurality of the same type of prizes as a prize group, configure a plurality of different types of prizes as a prize group, or configure a plurality of different types of prizes one by one as a prize group. It is also possible to configure only one prize (for example, a large prize) as a prize group.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram showing an example of the store information according to the present embodiment. The store information shown in FIG. 5 has, as items, a store ID, a store name, administrator information, game device information, and the like.

[0044] The store ID is information for uniquely identifying store 2. The store name is information indicating the name of store 2. The administrator information is information about the administrator of store 2. The game device information is information about the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in store 2.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram showing an example of administrator information according to the present embodiment. The administrator information shown in FIG. 6 has an administrator ID, an administrator name, etc. as items.

[0046] The administrator ID is information for uniquely identifying the administrator of store 2. Note that it is also possible to use terminal-specific identification information (terminal ID) such as the MAC address of the store terminal 10 operated by each administrator of store 2 as the administrator ID. The administrator name is information indicating the name of the administrator.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing an example of game device information according to the present embodiment. The game device information shown in FIG. 7 has a game device ID, a device name, prize information of the first prize group, prize information of the second prize group, sales information, switching information, etc. as items.

[0048] The game device ID is information for uniquely identifying the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in store 2. The device name is information indicating the name of the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in store 2.

[0049] The prize information of the first prize group is information regarding the prize group registered as the first prize group among the plurality of prize groups set in the carton information shown in FIG. 4. The prize information of the second prize group is information regarding the prize group registered as the second prize group among the plurality of prize groups set in the carton information shown in FIG. 4.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the prize group accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device 50 is registered in the game device information as the first prize group in association with the prize acquisition game device 50. That is, the first prize group is registered as the prize group to be managed at the current time. Also, the prize group that is the next accommodation candidate in the prize acquisition game device 50 is registered in the game device information as the second prize group in association with the prize acquisition game device 50. That is, the second prize group is registered as a prize group that may be the management target in the future.

[0051] The sales information is information regarding the sales (income) of the prize acquisition game device 50. The switching information is flag information indicating whether or not the management target of the prize acquisition game device 50 has been switched from the first prize group to the second prize group due to a predetermined operation being performed to switch the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group as a result of a prize replacement operation being carried out.

[0052] FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram showing an example of prize information for the first prize group according to the present embodiment. The prize information for the first prize group shown in FIG. 8 has, as items, a prize group ID, a prize group name, an initial quantity, an acquired quantity, an inventory quantity, and the like.

[0053] The prize group ID is information for uniquely identifying the prize group registered as the first prize group that is the management target at the current time among the prize groups included in the carton information shown in FIG. 4. The prize group name is information indicating the name of the prize group registered as the first prize group. The initial quantity is information indicating the initial quantity when the prize group registered as the first prize group is packed in an unopened carton.

[0054] The acquired quantity is information indicating the total quantity of prizes acquired by the player as a result of the prize acquisition game among the prizes constituting the first prize group. The inventory quantity is information indicating the total quantity of prizes remaining unacquired by the player in the prize acquisition game among the prizes constituting the first prize group. That is, the difference obtained by subtracting the acquired quantity from the initial quantity is the inventory quantity.

[0055] FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram showing an example of prize information for the second prize group according to the present embodiment. The prize information for the second prize group shown in FIG. 9 has, as items, a prize group ID, a prize group name, an initial quantity, an acquired quantity, an inventory quantity, and the like.

[0056] The prize group ID is information for uniquely identifying the prize group registered as the second prize group among the prize groups included in the carton information shown in FIG. 4. The prize group name is information indicating the name of the prize group registered as the second prize group. The initial quantity is information indicating the initial quantity when the prize group registered as the second prize group is packed in an unopened carton.

[0057] The acquisition quantity is information indicating the total quantity of prizes acquired by the player as a result of the prize acquisition game among the prizes constituting the second prize group. The stock quantity is information indicating the total quantity of prizes remaining without being acquired by the player among the prizes constituting the second prize group. In the figure, the state before switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group (that is, the state where the current management target is the first prize group) is shown.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing another example of game device information according to the present embodiment. The game device information shown in FIG. 10 has, as items, a game device ID, a device name, prize information of the first prize group, prize information of the second prize group, sales information, switching information, the second prize group after switching, and the like.

[0059] As described above, unlike the game device information shown in FIG. 7, the game device information shown in FIG. 10 has a plurality of pieces of prize information of the second prize group registered. Further, when a flag indicating that the switching from the first prize group to the second prize group has been completed is set in the switching information, among the plurality of registered second prize groups, the second prize group determined by the selection operation of the administrator is set as the second prize group after switching.

[0060] For example, when three pieces of prize information, prize information (B2), prize information (B3), and prize information (B4), are registered in advance as the prize information of the second prize group, the prize information (B2) is information regarding "prize group X", the prize information (B3) is information regarding "prize group Y", and the prize information (B4) is information regarding "prize group Z". If "prize group Y" is selected from these three by the operation input performed by the administrator of store 2, then that "prize group Y" will be set as the second prize group after switching.

[0061] The server input unit 23 is for a system administrator or the like to input various data, and is realized by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. Note that the server input unit 23 may be configured to be connectable as needed.

[0062] The server display unit 24 is for displaying an operation screen for the system administrator based on a command from the server control unit 21, and is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like. Note that the server display unit 24 may be configured to be connectable as needed.

[0063] The server communication unit 25 is for communicating with the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store 2, and has a function as a receiving unit that receives various data and signals transmitted from the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50, and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits various data and signals to the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 in response to a command from the server control unit 21.

[0064] <<Configuration of the Prize Acquisition Game Device 50>> FIG. 11 is an external view showing the configuration of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. The prize acquisition game device 50 is configured to be able to execute a prize acquisition game within an accommodation space for accommodating one or more prizes.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the prize acquisition game device 50 in the present embodiment includes a game device control unit 51, a game device storage unit 52, a game device display unit 53, a game device communication unit 54, a prize acquisition unit 55, a moving unit 56, a game operation unit 57, a setting operation unit 58, a coin insertion unit 59, a prize accommodation unit 73, a prize display unit 74, and a prize outlet 75.

[0066] The game device control unit 51 controls the entire prize acquisition game device 50, and is realized by a CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory. The game device control unit 51 in the present embodiment includes a prize acquisition game control unit 511, a payment management unit 512, and a switching control unit 513, as shown in FIG. 12.

[0067] The prize acquisition game control unit 511 performs various controls related to the prize acquisition game. The prize acquisition game control unit 511 in the present embodiment advances the prize acquisition game by operating the prize acquisition unit 55, the moving unit 56, etc. based on the game operations of the player. Further, based on the setting operation of the administrator of the store 2, setting changes such as the gripping force of the prize acquisition unit 55 and the moving speed of the moving unit 56 are made.

[0068] The payment management unit 512 manages the payment of the consideration for the player to play the prize acquisition game. The payment management unit 512 in the present embodiment manages whether or not the payment of the consideration for one play, which is preset in the prize acquisition game device 50 by the administrator of the store 2, is completed by receiving a detection signal for detecting the payment of the play fee from the coin insertion unit 59.

[0069] The switching control unit 513 performs various controls for the administrator of the store 2 to perform the operations necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed. The switching control unit 513 in the present embodiment performs various controls so that the administrator of the store 2 can perform the operations necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed, that is, a predetermined operation for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the prize replacement work.

[0070] The game device storage unit 52 has a read-only storage area ROM in which various programs and various information related to the prize acquisition game are stored, and a rewritable storage area RAM used as a work area for arithmetic processing by the game device control unit 51, and is realized by a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk, for example.

[0071] The game device storage unit 52 in the present embodiment stores, for example, game device information (such as the game device ID of the prize acquisition game device 50) and setting information (such as the setting contents of the gripping force and moving speed of the prize acquisition unit at the current time) in addition to the game program and the setting program.

[0072] The game device display unit 53 is for displaying a setting screen for the store 2 manager to perform a setting operation for changing the setting content of the prize acquisition game device 50, or for displaying a setting screen for performing a predetermined operation necessary to indicate that the store 2 manager has completed the prize replacement work. For example, it is realized by a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like.

[0073] The game device communication unit 54 is for communicating with the server device 20, and has a function as a receiving unit for receiving various data and signals transmitted from the server device 20, and a function as a transmitting unit for transmitting various data and signals to the server device 20 in response to a command from the game device control unit 51.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 11, the prize storage unit 73 stores one or a plurality of prizes (prize group) inside the prize acquisition game device 50, and the front surface and the left and right side surfaces are formed of a transparent member (for example, glass or the like) so that the player can visually recognize them from the outside. An opening / closing door is provided on the front surface of the prize storage unit 73, and the manager can perform operations such as displaying prizes and replacing prizes. The space area surrounded by the prize storage unit 73 is used as a play field for the player to play the prize acquisition game.

[0075] Inside the prize storage unit 73 in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, there are arranged a prize acquisition unit 55 for acquiring a prize, a moving unit 56 for moving the prize acquisition unit 55, a prize display unit 74 for displaying the prize, and a discharge port (not shown) for discharging the prize acquired by the prize acquisition unit 55 to the outside of the prize storage unit 73.

[0076] The prize acquisition unit 55 drives an arm opening / closing motor (not shown) to acquire the prize stored in the prize storage unit 73 (that is, the prize displayed on the prize display unit 74) by the opening / closing operation of the arm. The moving unit 56 drives a moving motor (not shown) to move the prize acquisition unit 55 within the space area formed by the prize storage unit 73.

[0077] In this embodiment, the moving part 56 has a horizontal moving part, a vertical moving part, and a lifting and lowering moving part. The horizontal moving part moves the prize acquisition part 55 in the horizontal direction (that is, the front-rear direction and the left-right direction) within the space region formed by the prize storage part 73. The vertical moving part moves the prize acquisition part 55 in the vertical direction (that is, the up-down direction) within the space region formed by the prize storage part 73.

[0078] The game operation part 57 is for the player to perform game operations. The game operation part 57 in this embodiment has at least a joystick and operation buttons. When the joystick is operated by the player, the moving part 56 can operate to move the prize acquisition part 55 in the horizontal direction. When the operation buttons are operated by the player, the moving part 56 can stop and determine the position of the prize acquisition part 55 in the horizontal direction.

[0079] The setting operation part 58 is for the administrator of the store 2 to perform various operations. The setting operation part 58 in this embodiment is constituted by a touch panel and receives the operator's input instruction from the pressing position thereof. The touch panel is laminated on the game device display part 53 and can detect the pressing position (contact position) based on the change in capacitance between the fingertip and the conductive film when a touch operation on the screen is performed.

[0080] The coin insertion part 59 is for the player to pay the price for playing the prize acquisition game. The coin insertion part 59 in this embodiment has an insertion port into which coins are inserted and a detection sensor for detecting the coins inserted from the insertion port. The player who plays the prize acquisition game inserts a predetermined number of coins into the insertion port as the price for one play.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 11, the prize outlet 75 is provided on the front surface of the prize acquisition game device 50, and is for the player to take out the prize that has fallen from the discharge port where the prize acquired by the prize acquisition unit 55 is arranged in the prize storage unit 73.

[0082] <<Operation of Game System 1>> An operation example of the game system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the following, first, an operation example regarding the prior registration of the prize group will be specifically described. Next, an operation example regarding the switching of the prize group will be specifically described. Further, an operation example regarding the update of the prize information regarding the prize group will be specifically described.

[0083] <Prior Registration of Prize Group> FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example regarding the prior registration of the prize group according to the present embodiment.

[0084] When the display control unit 112 of the store terminal 10 performs a predetermined operation for starting the registration setting using the terminal operation unit 13 after the administrator of the store 2 starts the administrator software, the registration setting screen 500 is displayed on the terminal display unit 14 (step S101).

[0085] Specifically, when such an operation is performed by the administrator, the display control unit 112 of the store terminal 10 transmits a request regarding the start of the registration setting to the server device 20.

[0086] When the registration unit 211 of the server device 20 receives the request, it refers to the carton information shown in FIG. 4 and the store information shown in FIG. 5, and acquires the information necessary for generating the registration setting screen 500. Then, the acquired necessary information is transmitted to the store terminal 10 that is the source of the request.

[0087] Thereafter, when the display control unit 112 of the store terminal 10 receives the necessary information transmitted from the server device 20, it performs control to generate the registration setting screen 500 based on the received information and display it on the terminal display unit 14.

[0088] FIG. 14 is an image diagram showing an example of a registration setting screen 500 in the present embodiment. On the registration setting screen 500, there are a first selection area 501 for an administrator to select his or her own store 2, a second selection area 502 for the administrator to select any prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store selected in the first selection area 501, a third selection area 503 for the administrator to select a group of prizes associated with the prize acquisition game device selected in the second selection area 502, and a registration button 504 for determining the selected registration content.

[0089] Next, when the registration control unit 111 of the store terminal 10 displays the registration setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 14, it causes the administrator to perform an operation input for associating the prize acquisition game device installed in the store with the first prize group and the second prize group (step S102).

[0090] In the present embodiment, when the registration setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 14 is being displayed, the administrator operates the pull-down menu arranged in the first selection area 501 to select his or her own store from the drop-down list.

[0091] Next, the administrator operates the pull-down menu arranged in the second selection area 502 to select any prize acquisition game device from the drop-down list.

[0092] In this drop-down list, only the prize acquisition game devices installed in the selected store are extracted and listed based on the store information shown in FIG. 5 received from the server device 20 when the store is selected in the first selection area 501.

[0093] At this time, the administrator selects from the drop-down list the one that matches the prize acquisition game device (for example, prize acquisition game device A) that actually houses the prize group to be managed in the storage space.

[0094] Next, the administrator operates each pull-down menu arranged in the third selection area 503, and selects, from each drop-down list, the prize group to be associated as the first prize group with the prize acquisition game device selected in the second selection area 502, and the prize group to be associated as the second prize group.

[0095] All the prize groups that can be selected at the current time are listed in these drop-down lists based on the carton information shown in FIG. 4 received from the server device 20. When the administrator of store 2 places an order for the carton containing the prize group, the ordering side or the receiving side accesses the server device 20, and associates the prize group scheduled to be delivered with the store and registers it in advance with respect to the store information shown in FIG. 5. Thus, only the prize groups associated with the store information may be made selectable in the drop-down list.

[0096] At this time, the administrator selects, from the drop-down list, the one that matches the prize group (for example, prize group A) actually stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device selected in the second selection area 502 as the first prize group to be managed at the current time.

[0097] In addition, the administrator selects, from the drop-down list, the prize group (for example, prize group B) that is the next storage candidate after the first prize group in the prize acquisition game device selected in the second selection area 502 as the second prize group that may be the future management target.

[0098] Next, after the selection operations by the administrator are performed in the first selection area 501, the second selection area 502, and the third selection area 503 of the registration setting screen 500 in this way, when the registration button 504 is pressed by the administrator, the registration control unit 111 of the store terminal 10 transmits, together with the selection operation information of the administrator and the administrator ID, a registration request for associating the prize acquisition game device with the first prize group and the second prize group to the server device 20 via the network (step S103).

[0099] Next, when the registration unit 211 of the server device 20 receives the administrator's selection operation information from the store terminal 10 that sent the registration request, it registers by associating the prize acquisition game device with the first prize group and the second prize group based on the administrator's selection operation information (step S104).

[0100] Specifically, the registration unit 211 of the server device 20 refers to the store information shown in FIG. 5, and uses the administrator's selection operation information transmitted from the store terminal 10 to identify the game device information associated with the store of the administrator selected in the first selection area 501 of the registration setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 14.

[0101] Also, the registration unit 211 of the server device 20 refers to the carton information shown in FIG. 4, and uses the administrator's selection operation information transmitted from the store terminal 10 to identify the prize groups that match the first prize group and the second prize group respectively selected in the third selection area 503 of the registration setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 14.

[0102] Then, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the registration unit 211 of the server device 20 associates and registers the prize information of the prize groups respectively identified as the first prize group and the second prize group with the prize acquisition game device selected in the second selection area 502 of the registration setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 14 for the identified game device information.

[0103] Thus, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device 50, but also the second prize group (for example, prize group B) that is a candidate for accommodation to be accommodated next is registered in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device 50. By doing so, the administrator of the store 2 does not need to re-register the prize group B that is accommodated next in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 in place of the prize group A that has already been registered in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 at the timing when the replacement work from the prize group A to the prize group B is performed. That is, the administrator of the store 2 can perform the registration work for linking the prize groups A and B with the prize acquisition game device 50 not only at the timing when the replacement work from the prize group A to the prize group B is performed, but also in a lump sum. Thus, the work efficiency of the administrator who manages the prizes can be improved. In particular, for example, when 100 or more prize acquisition game devices 50 are installed in the store 2, the work efficiency can be further improved.

[0104] <Switching of prize groups accompanying the replacement work of prizes> FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example regarding the switching of prize groups accompanying the replacement work of prizes according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, first, the case where only one piece of prize information of the second prize group is registered in association with the prize acquisition game device will be described (Specific Example 1), and then the case where a plurality of pieces of prize information of the second prize group are registered in association with the prize acquisition game device will be described (Specific Example 2).

[0105] (Specific Example 1) As shown in FIG. 15, when the administrator performs a predetermined touch operation for starting the switching setting using the setting operation unit 58, the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 causes the game device display unit 53 to display the switching setting screen 600 (step S201).

[0106] FIG. 16 is an image diagram showing an example of the switching setting screen 600 in the present embodiment. On the switching setting screen 600, an area 601 for confirming that the prize replacement work has been completed and for performing a switching operation from the first prize group to the second prize group, and a switching button 602 are displayed.

[0107] Next, when the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 displays the switching setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 16, it causes the administrator to perform an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed, that is, a predetermined operation for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the prize replacement work (step S202).

[0108] In the present embodiment, when the switching setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 16 is being displayed, as an example of an operation necessary for the administrator who has completed the prize replacement work in the prize acquisition game device 50 to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed, the administrator is made to operate and input the switching button 602.

[0109] Next, when the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 detects that the switching button 602 has been pressed by the administrator on the switching setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 16, it transmits a switching request for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the game device ID to the server device 20 via the network (step S203).

[0110] Next, when the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 receives the switching request from the prize acquisition game device 50, it switches the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the prize replacement work (step S204).

[0111] Specifically, the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 refers to the store information shown in FIG. 5 and the game device information shown in FIG. 7, and uses the game device ID transmitted from the prize acquisition game device 50 to specify the game device information corresponding to the source prize acquisition game device 50.

[0112] Then, the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 sets flag information indicating that the switching to the second prize group from the first prize group has been completed for the switching information set in the specified game device information, thereby switching the management target from the current first prize group to the next second prize group along with the prize replacement operation.

[0113] As described above, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device 50 but also the second prize group (for example, prize group B) that is a candidate for accommodation to be accommodated next are registered in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device 50. Thus, when the store manager performs the replacement operation from prize group A to prize group B, the manager can easily switch the management target in the prize acquisition game device 50 from the previous first prize group (prize group A) to the next second prize group (prize group B) by simply performing a predetermined switching operation on the prize acquisition game device 50 without performing a registration operation. As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the manager who manages the prizes.

[0114] (Specific Example 2) As shown in FIG. 15, when the administrator performs a predetermined touch operation for starting the switching setting using the setting operation unit 58, the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 causes the game device display unit 53 to display a switching setting screen 650 based on the game device information of the prize acquisition game device 50 received from the server device 20 (step S201).

[0115] FIG. 17 is an image diagram showing another example of the switching setting screen 650 in the present embodiment. On the switching setting screen 650, there are displayed a region 651 for confirming the completion of the prize replacement operation and performing a switching operation from the first prize group to the second prize group, a selection operation button 652 for selecting the second prize group, and a switching button 653.

[0116] Next, when the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 displays the switching setting screen 650 shown in FIG. 17, it causes the administrator to perform an operation of selecting any one of a plurality of second prize groups and an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed, that is, a predetermined operation for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the prize replacement work (step S202).

[0117] In the present embodiment, when the switching setting screen 650 shown in FIG. 17 is being displayed, as an example of an operation for allowing an administrator who has completed the prize replacement work in the prize acquisition game device 50 to select any one of a plurality of second prize groups, a selection operation button 652 for selecting any one of the second prize groups from the drop-down list using a pull-down menu is operated and input, and as an example of an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work has been completed, a switch button 653 is operated and input.

[0118] In this drop-down list, all of the second prize groups registered in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 are listed based on the game device information shown in FIG. 10 received from the server device 20.

[0119] Next, when the switch button 602 is pressed by the administrator on the switching setting screen 650 shown in FIG. 17, the switching control unit 513 of the prize acquisition game device 50 transmits a switching request for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the selection operation information and the game device ID of the administrator to the server device 20 via the network (step S203).

[0120] Next, when the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 receives the switching request from the prize acquisition game device 50, it switches the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group along with the prize replacement work (step S204).

[0121] Specifically, the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 refers to the store information shown in FIG. 5 and the game device information shown in FIG. 10, and uses the game device ID transmitted from the prize acquisition game device 50 to identify the game device information corresponding to the source prize acquisition game device 50.

[0122] Then, the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 uses the selection operation information of the administrator transmitted from the prize acquisition game device 50 from among the plurality of second prize groups registered in the identified game device information, and uses the selection operation button 652 of the switching setting screen 650 shown in FIG. 17. What matches the selected second prize group is registered for the "second prize group after switching" set in the identified game device information.

[0123] In addition, the switching unit 212 of the server device 20 sets flag information indicating that the switching from the first prize group to the selected second prize group has been completed for the switching information set in the identified game device information, thereby changing the management target from the current first prize group to the next second prize group along with the prize replacement operation. Switch.

[0124] As described above, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, not only the first prize group (for example, prize group A) accommodated in the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device 50, but also a plurality of second prize groups that are accommodation candidates to be accommodated next ( For example, prize group X, prize group Y, prize group Z) are also registered in advance in association with the prize acquisition game device 50. For example, when the store manager performs a replacement operation from prize group A to prize group Y, Without performing the registration work, by simply selecting prize group Y as the second prize group in the prize acquisition game device 50 and performing a predetermined switching operation, the management target in the prize acquisition game device 50 can be changed from the previous first prize group (prize group A) to the second prize group selected by the administrator from among the plurality of second prize groups (prize group Y). As a result, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the administrator who manages the prizes.

[0125] <Update of prize information regarding prize groups> FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example related to the update of prize information regarding the prize group according to the present embodiment.

[0126] The prize acquisition game control unit 511 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines whether or not the player has acquired any of the prize groups based on the play result of the prize acquisition game by the player's game operation (step S301).

[0127] Specifically, the prize acquisition game control unit 511 controls the movement operation of the moving unit 56 by driving the moving motor and controls the acquisition operation of the prize acquisition unit 55 by driving the arm opening / closing motor based on the operation data from the game operation unit 57.

[0128] Then, when any of the prize groups stored in the prize storage unit 73 falls from the discharge port due to the operation of the moving unit 56 and the prize acquisition unit 55 according to the prize acquisition game control unit 511, the passage of the prize is detected by the detection sensor provided on the guiding path to the prize outlet 75.

[0129] When the passage of the prize is detected in this way, the prize acquisition game control unit 511 can determine that the player has acquired any of the prize groups as the play result of the prize acquisition game.

[0130] Next, when the prize acquisition game control unit 511 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines that the player has acquired any of the prize groups as the play result of the prize acquisition game (step S301: YES), it transmits a data update request based on the prize acquisition to the server device 20 via the network together with the game device ID (step S302).

[0131] Next, when the update unit 213 of the server device 20 receives the data update request from the prize acquisition game device 50, it determines whether or not the management target in the source prize acquisition game device 50 has been switched from the first prize group to the second prize group (step S303).

[0132] Specifically, the update unit 213 of the server device 20 refers to the store information shown in FIG. 5 and the game device information shown in FIG. 7, and uses the game device ID transmitted from the prize acquisition game device 50 to specify the game device information corresponding to the requesting prize acquisition game device 50.

[0133] Then, the update unit 213 of the server device 20 refers to the switching information set in association with the specified game device information, and determines whether flag information indicating that the management target has been switched from the first prize group to the second prize group is set.

[0134] Next, when the update unit 213 of the server device 20 determines that the management target in the requesting prize acquisition game device 50 has not been switched from the first prize group to the second prize group (step S303: NO), it updates the prize information of the first prize group registered in the game device information corresponding to the requesting prize acquisition game device 50 (step S304).

[0135] Specifically, the update unit 213 of the server device 20 increments (+1) the "acquisition number" set as the prize information and decrements (-1) the "stock number" set as the prize information, as shown in the prize information of the first prize group shown in FIG. 8, thereby updating the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the requesting prize acquisition game device 50.

[0136] On the other hand, when the update unit 213 of the server device 20 determines that the management target in the requesting prize acquisition game device 50 has been switched from the first prize group to the second prize group (step S303: YES), it updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in the game device information corresponding to the requesting prize acquisition game device 50 (step S305).

[0137] Specifically, the update unit 213 of the server device 20 increments (+1) the "acquisition count" set as the prize information and decrements (-1) the "stock count" set as the prize information, as in the prize information of the second prize group shown in FIG. 9, thereby updating the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the requesting prize acquisition game device 50.

[0138] As described above, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, before a predetermined switching operation is performed by the administrator of the store 2 in association with the prize replacement operation in the prize acquisition game device 50, when a prize is acquired by a player playing a game on the prize acquisition game device 50, the prize information (for example, the acquisition count and the stock count) of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 is updated. After such a switching operation is performed by the administrator of the store 2 on the prize acquisition game device 50, the prize information (for example, the acquisition count and the stock count) of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 is updated. As a result, the stock count and the like in each prize acquisition game device can be efficiently managed for each prize group.

[0139] ===Other Embodiments=== The above embodiments are for facilitating the understanding of the present invention and are not for limiting and interpreting the present invention. The present invention can be changed and improved without departing from its gist, and equivalents thereof are also included in the present invention. In particular, the following embodiments are also included in the present invention. That is, the present invention can also be configured by appropriately combining the foregoing embodiments and the following embodiments.

[0140] Moreover, it is also possible to configure various inventions by appropriately combining a plurality of invention-specific matters disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, an invention may be configured by deleting some invention-specific matters from all the invention-specific matters disclosed in the above embodiments, or an invention may be configured by appropriately combining the invention-specific matters disclosed in the following embodiments with all the invention-specific matters disclosed in the above embodiments.

[0141] <Switching of prize groups> In the above-described embodiment, when it is necessary for the prize acquisition game device 50 to cause the administrator to perform an operation (that is, a predetermined operation for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group in accordance with the prize replacement operation) indicating that the prize replacement operation has been completed, or when causing the administrator to select any one of a plurality of second prize groups, and when it is necessary for the prize acquisition game device 50 to cause the administrator to perform an operation (that is, a predetermined operation for switching the management target from the first prize group to the second prize group in accordance with the prize replacement operation) indicating that the prize replacement operation has been completed, the present invention has been described by way of example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, such an operation may be performed by the store terminal 10 to the administrator. In this case, after displaying the switching setting screen shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 17 on the store terminal 10, such an operation is performed by the administrator.

[0142] <Notification of switching of prize groups> In the above-described embodiment, when performing pre-registration of prize groups to the server device 20, the timing (year / month / day / time, etc.) for switching from the first prize group to the second prize group may be registered in advance in the game device information shown in FIG. 7. Then, when the server device 20 detects the arrival of the timing for switching the prize group by a timing means such as a timer, it may notify the store terminal 10 and the target prize acquisition game device 50 via the network that it is the switching timing from the first prize group to the second prize group. By doing so, even if there is a time gap between the time when the pre-registration of the prize group is performed and the switching timing, it becomes possible to plan the replacement of the prizes without missing the actual prize group switching timing.

[0143] <Game system> In the foregoing embodiment, the game system 1 including the server device 20, the store terminal 10, and the prize acquisition game device 50 has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a game system including the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50. In this case, the information associating the prize acquisition game device 50 with the first prize group and the second prize group is registered in the terminal storage unit 12 of the store terminal 10.

Explanation of Signs

[0144] 1 Game system 2 Store 10 Store terminal 11 Terminal control unit 12 Terminal storage unit 13 Terminal operation unit 14 Terminal display unit 15 Terminal communication unit 20 Server device 21 Server control unit 22 Server storage unit 23 Server input unit 24 Server display unit 25 Server communication unit 50 Prize acquisition game device 51 Game device control unit 52 Game device storage unit 53 Game device display unit 54 Game device communication unit 55 Prize acquisition unit 56 Moving unit 57 Game operation unit 58 Setting operation unit 59 Coin insertion unit 73 Prize storage unit 74 Prize display unit 75 Prize outlet 111 Registration control unit 112 Display control unit 211 Registration unit 212 Switching unit 213 Update unit 511 Prize acquisition game control unit 512 Payment management unit 513 switching control unit

Claims

1. A server device communicably connected via a network to a plurality of prize acquisition game devices each capable of playing a prize acquisition game within an accommodation space that houses a group of prizes consisting of one or more prizes, a registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first group of prizes housed in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second group of prizes that is a next accommodation candidate for the first group of prizes; an update unit that updates the prize information of the first group of prizes registered in association with a prize acquisition game device based on a prize being acquired during play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and that updates the prize information of the second group of prizes registered in association with the prize acquisition game device after an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space has ended has been performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on a prize being acquired during play on the prize acquisition game device; A server device comprising the above.

2. A server device communicably connected via a network to a plurality of prize acquisition game devices each capable of playing a prize acquisition game within an accommodation space that houses a group of prizes consisting of one or more prizes, a registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first group of prizes housed in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second groups of prizes that are next accommodation candidates for the first group of prizes; an update unit that updates the prize information of the first group of prizes registered in association with a prize acquisition game device based on a prize being acquired during play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and that updates the prize information of the selected second group of prizes among the plurality of second groups of prizes registered in association with the prize acquisition game device after an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space has ended and an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second groups of prizes have been performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on a prize being acquired during play on the prize acquisition game device; A server device comprising the above.

3. A server device communicably connected via a network to a plurality of prize acquisition game devices each capable of playing a prize acquisition game within an accommodation space that houses a group of prizes consisting of one or more prizes, and to a store terminal capable of cooperating with each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group; Based on a prize being acquired during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed is performed on the store terminal, based on a prize being acquired during play on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit that updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device; A server device comprising the above.

4. A plurality of prize acquisition game devices on which a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, a store terminal that can be linked to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, and a server device communicably connected via a network, In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are next accommodation candidates for the first prize group; Based on a prize being acquired during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed, and an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups are performed on the store terminal, an update unit that updates the prize information of the one second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device; A server device comprising the above.

5. A store terminal operated by a manager of a store in which a prize acquisition game device on which a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated is installed, and a server device communicably connected via a network, In association with the prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group currently accommodated in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group; A switching unit that switches the prize group to be managed from the previous first prize group to the next second prize group when the manager performs a predetermined operation on the store terminal in connection with the prize replacement operation in the prize acquisition game device. A server device comprising the same. **Claim 6** A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, and the server device includes a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a next accommodation candidate for the first prize group, in association with each prize acquisition game device; and an update unit that updates the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with a prize acquisition game device based on the fact that a prize has been acquired in a play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, and updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device based on the fact that a prize has been acquired in a play on the prize acquisition game device after an operation necessary to indicate that the prize replacement operation within the accommodation space has been completed has been performed on the prize acquisition game device. A game system. **Claim 7** A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated, and the server device includes a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group accommodated in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are next accommodation candidates for the first prize group, in association with each prize acquisition game device; Based on a prize being obtained during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation indicating that the prize replacement work within the storage space has ended and an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups are performed on the prize acquisition game device, based on a prize being obtained during play on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit updates the prize information of the selected second prize group among the plurality of second prize groups registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. A game system.

8. A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, a store terminal with which each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices can cooperate, and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices and the store terminal via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within a storage space that houses a prize group consisting of one or more prizes. The server device is a registration unit that registers, in association with each prize acquisition game device, prize information regarding a first prize group stored in the storage space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is the next storage candidate for the first prize group. Based on a prize being obtained during play on any one of a plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated. After an operation indicating that the prize replacement work within the storage space of the prize acquisition game device has ended is performed on the store terminal, based on a prize being obtained during play on the prize acquisition game device, an update unit updates the prize information of the second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. A game system.

9. A game system having a plurality of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, a store terminal with which each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices can cooperate, and a server device communicably connected to each of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices and the store terminal via a network, wherein the prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within a storage space that houses a prize group consisting of one or more prizes. The server device is In association with each prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group stored in an accommodation space and prize information regarding a plurality of second prize groups that are candidates for the next accommodation of the first prize group; Based on the acquisition of a prize during play on any one of the plurality of prize acquisition game devices, the prize information of the first prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device is updated, and an operation indicating that the prize replacement work within the accommodation space of the prize acquisition game device has been completed, and after an operation of selecting any one of the plurality of second prize groups is performed on the store terminal, an update unit that updates the prize information of the one second prize group registered in association with the prize acquisition game device. A game system.

10. A game system having a prize acquisition game device installed in a store, a store terminal operated by a manager of the store, and a server device communicably connected to the store via a network, The prize acquisition game device is configured such that a prize acquisition game can be played within an accommodation space in which a prize group consisting of one or more prizes is accommodated. The server device is In association with the prize acquisition game device, a registration unit that registers prize information regarding a first prize group currently stored in the accommodation space and prize information regarding a second prize group that is a candidate for the next accommodation of the first prize group; A switching unit that switches the prize group to be managed from the previous first prize group to the next second prize group when the manager performs a predetermined operation on the store terminal in connection with the prize replacement work on the prize acquisition game device. A game system.

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