Server system, game system, terminal device, and program

Abstract

To provide a server system or the like capable of permitting growth as a set of game media and maintaining amusement of growth of game media for a long time, and allowing one to have interest in growth of game media permanently when the game media in which the growth is controlled are changed.SOLUTION: A server device 10 is configured so as to execute new addition of a special capacity parameter for complementing capacity or performance for a player character prescribed in a main game card by a support game card and special capacity parameter growth permission processing for permitting a variation in a value of the special capacity parameter when an upper-limit setting parameter prescribed in the main game card reaches its upper-limit value for growing the entire game card used by using the support game card having a given relationship.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a server system, a game system, a terminal device, a program, and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, as information and communication terminal devices such as tablet-type information and communication terminal devices or smartphones and personal computers (hereinafter referred to as "communication terminal devices") have become more multifunctional, functionally improved, and widespread, there have been an increasing number of opportunities to play games on these communication terminal devices.

[0003] In particular, online games known as social games, which combine communication-based networking services known as social networking services (hereinafter referred to as "SNS") with games, have recently become available.

[0004] As such online games, various games such as fighting games, combat games, and RPGs are provided between players via portable information and communication terminal devices such as smartphones.

[0005] One known system for providing this type of game (i.e., a game system) is one in which, as the game progresses, the player is given characters and items using game media, and the items are equipped to the player's character to increase their attack power, thereby providing advantageous control to the player using the items.

[0006] Recently, game systems that provide this type of game have become known that incorporate other game media through a technique called synthesis, thereby changing the upper limit values ​​of parameters defined for the game media and growing specific game media, thereby providing interest to players (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-185284 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, in the system described in Patent Document 1 above, even if the upper limit value of the game media is changed, there is a limit to how much the upper limit value can be changed, and ultimately it becomes impossible to grow a specific game media, which reduces the interest in growing that specific game media and, as a result, often reduces the interest in the game as a whole.

[0009] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a server system or the like that can grow a set of game media by controlling the growth of game media that are different from game media that have reached an upper limit value among multiple game media that are used in combination in the progression of a game, thereby maintaining interest in the growth of the game media over the long term, and that can make the growth of game media persistently interesting by changing the game media whose growth is controlled. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] (1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides: A game that progresses using game media is played on a terminal device connected via a network. A server system for executing a management means for managing, for each player, information on the game media owned by each player as game medium information, the information including at least a first game medium stored in a storage medium, the first game medium having an upper limit setting parameter set to an upper limit value, and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for progressing the game using the first game medium and a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium, based on an instruction from the player transmitted from the terminal device; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; a providing means for providing information about the game that progresses based on the second game medium to the terminal device, including when a change to the growth element in the second game medium is permitted; The configuration includes:

[0011] With this configuration, the present invention allows the second game medium to change the abilities that complement the abilities or performance of a game medium such as a character specified in the first game medium, even if the parameters specified in the first game medium reach their upper limit and no further improvement in abilities or performance can be expected from the first game medium.

[0012] Therefore, the present invention allows parameters related to complementing, improving, or changing the capabilities of the first game medium to grow by growing the second game medium, so that even if it becomes impossible to grow the first game medium, the entire game medium including the first game medium can be grown by growing the second game medium.

[0013] As a result, the present invention can maintain the player's interest in the growth of the game medium over a long period of time, and by using various game media as the second game medium, it is possible to use them in combination with the first game medium to bring out various characteristics and effects and progress the game, thereby providing the player with a lasting interest in the game.

[0014] Note that "game media" refers to cards (i.e., electronically provided game cards) used in a game that specify, for example, a player character that is the object of operation or instruction by the player, in-game currency, items, abilities (performance), or a character that rides on the player character. However, it may also be the player character, in-game currency, items, abilities (performance), or a character that rides on the player character itself.

[0015] The "upper limit setting parameters" include, for example, parameters that define various abilities such as the level specified in the first game medium, attack power, defense power, agility, hit points, etc., or parameters that define the progress of the game such as experience points.

[0016] Furthermore, "initial settings" refers to the settings at the start of the game, and "changing the growth elements that grow as the game progresses is prohibited as an initial setting" indicates that the growth elements cannot be changed in the settings at the start of the game, and whether or not there is an initial value is irrelevant.

[0017] In this case, the growth factor has an initial value other than "0", and the initial value may be used in the game while changes to growth elements are prohibited, or may be set to "0" as the initial value (including cases where the parameter is not set in the first place), and may not be available in the game itself.

[0018] Furthermore, the "second game medium with which a given relationship is established" may be, for example, (B1) When the first game medium is a player character controlled by a player, the first game medium is a game medium that is set as a character that rides on the player character or an item that the player character uses, or a game medium that provides (complements) an effect that gives the player an advantage over the first game medium, and the first game medium is a game medium that has a relationship that allows it to be used in combination in a game, or (B2) The game media is set by the player's instructions. Shows.

[0019] And, "using a first game medium in combination with a second game medium that has a given relationship with the first game medium" means, for example, (C1) When a first game medium is combined with a second game medium that has no given relationship with the first game medium, (C2) When the first game medium and the second game medium are each combined with a game medium of another type, such as a third game medium, or (C3) When the first game medium or the second game medium is used alone, For example, this indicates that when the combination is separated and used, changes to the growth elements of the second game media are not permitted, and that changes to the growth elements of the second game media that have already been permitted may be prohibited again. However, when the combination of game media is separated, the value of the changed growth element may be reset, or may be set to the same value as when the combination is subsequently used in combination with the first game media.

[0020] In addition to the above, "growing as the game progresses" refers to, for example, changing growth elements in a direction that is advantageous to the player, and "growth elements" include, for example, parameter values ​​such as ability values, performance values, stamina values, or experience values ​​that change as the game progresses.

[0021] Furthermore, "own" does not mean physical ownership, but electronic ownership, and does not necessarily mean that the information is stored on a terminal device owned by the player, but rather that the information is stored in a database connected to a network such as the Internet, and is in a state where the player can read it at any time, and is therefore able to use it freely.

[0022] (2) The present invention also provides the first game medium is a medium in which a player character to be instructed by the player is defined; The second game medium is configured to complement the abilities or performance of the player character.

[0023] With this configuration, the present invention can assign importance to the combination of the first game medium and the second game medium, thereby requiring the player to be strategic in selecting the first game medium or the second game medium, thereby increasing the interest of the game.

[0024] Furthermore, in the present invention, even if a game uses a first game medium, by replacing the second game medium with another game medium, the game can be progressed by growing the game medium. Therefore, if an unlimited number of second game media can be prepared, there is no need to worry about the growth of the game medium. This makes it possible to provide the player with a permanent interest.

[0025] Note that "complementing the abilities or performance of the player character" means, for example, correcting the values ​​of the player character's parameters (which are, in principle, parameters different from upper limit setting parameters) such as increasing attack power, defense power, and recovery power as specified in the second game medium to values ​​that are advantageous to the player or player character, or adding parameters that specify new abilities of the player character, such as new attacks or defenses.

[0026] (3) The present invention also provides The game device further includes a setting means for setting the given relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium based on an instruction from the player.

[0027] With this configuration, the present invention allows the player to, at his or her discretion, set a desired rider from among a plurality of second game media each of which defines riders that can be ridden by the player character, for a first game medium in which the player character is set, or to set a desired item from among a plurality of second game media each of which defines items that can be equipped by the player character.

[0028] In other words, the present invention allows the player to set combinations at will depending on the situation of the game, such as combinations that are advantageous for attack, combinations that are advantageous against a specific enemy character, or combinations that are excellent for defense, so that the game element of strategy can be incorporated into the game, and as a result, the interest of the player can be increased.

[0029] (4) The present invention also provides the growth element is a growth parameter for adding a given ability to the second game medium, or a growth parameter indicating a degree of growth of the second game medium; The permission means: The process of permitting the change of the growth element is configured to permit the second game medium to add the growth parameter or to permit the value of the growth parameter to be changed.

[0030] With this configuration, the present invention can add or change the values ​​of parameters such as offensive or defensive abilities, investigation abilities, clairvoyance, reasoning abilities, agility, or sense of smell, which are necessary to progress the game advantageously, thereby enabling the second game medium to grow in a concrete way.

[0031] In addition, the "growth parameter" may be one or more parameters, and if the value of the parameter changes depending on growth, multiple growth processes (so-called skill maps) may be defined for each growth parameter, with different transition paths as the value of the parameter changes.

[0032] (5) The present invention also provides a plurality of growth parameters are defined as the growth elements in the second game medium; The permission means: determining a growth parameter to be permitted by the permitting means from among a plurality of growth parameters in accordance with the set relationship between the first game content and the second game content; The addition of the determined growth parameter or the change of the value of the determined growth parameter is permitted. It has a configuration that allows this.

[0033] With this configuration, the present invention can determine the growth parameter to be grown from among multiple growth parameters, for example, depending on the relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium set by the player's will, thereby allowing the player's will to be reflected in the selection of growth parameters.

[0034] (6) The present invention also provides a plurality of growth parameters are defined for the second game medium; The permission means: determining a priority order for determining growth parameters to be permitted by the permitting means from among a plurality of growth parameters according to the set relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium; When it is determined that the first game medium meets given conditions, the growth parameters for which the addition or value change is permitted are determined in accordance with the determined priority order.

[0035] With this configuration, the present invention can determine the priority of growth among multiple growth parameters, for example, according to the relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium set by the player's will, thereby allowing the player's will to be reflected in the selection of growth parameters.

[0036] (7) The present invention also provides The second game medium has growth parameters defined therein, the growth parameters having a plurality of growth processes defined therein, each of which has a different transition path depending on growth as the game progresses; The permission means: The growth process is determined in accordance with the set relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium, and the determined growth process allows the addition of specified growth parameters or the change of the values ​​of the growth parameters.

[0037] With this configuration, the present invention can determine the transition path in the growth of growth parameters, for example, depending on the relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium set by the player's will, thereby allowing the player's will to be reflected in the selection of growth parameters.

[0038] (8) The present invention also provides The game device further includes a growth control means for growing the permitted growth elements in the second game medium as the game progresses.

[0039] With this configuration, the present invention can grow, for example, growth parameters as growth elements, depending on the amount charged in-game currency (regardless of whether it is consumed or not), the amount consumed, experience points, points, completion of game stages and tasks, player level, and use of items.

[0040] (9) The present invention also provides The growth control means If it is determined by the determination process that the values ​​of the upper limit setting parameters for the plurality of first game media have reached their upper limits, the growth process of the allowed growth parameters for the second game media is restricted according to the number of first game media whose values ​​of the upper limit setting parameters have reached their upper limits and the total value of the parameters specified for the first game media. It has a configuration that controls the

[0041] With this configuration, the present invention can reduce costs or increase (progress) the parameter faster when there are two first game media whose upper limit setting parameter value has reached the upper limit than when there is one first game medium.

[0042] In other words, the present invention can give players an advantage in the game by collecting many first game media whose upper limit setting parameter values ​​have reached the upper limit, thereby incorporating new interest in collecting many first game media into the game.

[0043] The "growth process" refers to conditions such as the amount of money spent (a "cost" that includes not only the amount spent in-game currency but also the amount of specific points or items spent), time, experience points, and the number and type of tasks or stages to be cleared when changing the value of the growth parameters in a direction favorable to the player, and "controlling the growth conditions" includes changing these conditions.

[0044] (10) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides: A program for causing a terminal device connected via a network to execute a game that progresses using game media, a management means for managing, for each player, information on the game media owned by each player, the game media including at least a first game medium stored in a storage medium, the first game medium having an upper limit setting parameter set to an upper limit value, and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for combining the first game medium with a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium based on an instruction from the player transmitted from the terminal device, and progressing the game using the combined game medium; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; and a provision means for providing information about the game progressing based on the second game medium to the terminal device, including when a change to the growth element in the second game medium is permitted; The computer has a configuration that causes the computer to function as a

[0045] With this configuration, the present invention allows the second game medium to change the abilities that complement the abilities or performance of a game medium such as a character specified in the first game medium, even if the parameters specified in the first game medium reach their upper limit and no further improvement in abilities or performance can be expected from the first game medium.

[0046] Therefore, the present invention allows parameters related to complementing, improving, or changing the capabilities of the first game medium to grow by growing the second game medium, so that even if it becomes impossible to grow the first game medium, the entire game medium including the first game medium can be grown by growing the second game medium.

[0047] As a result, the present invention can maintain the player's interest in the growth of the game medium over a long period of time, and by using various game media as the second game media, it is possible to use them in combination with the first game media to demonstrate various characteristics and effects and progress the game, thereby providing the player with a permanent interest in the game. can.

[0048] (11) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides: A game system that executes a game that progresses using game media, a management means for managing, for each player, information on the game media owned by each player as game medium information, the information including at least a first game medium stored in a storage medium, the first game medium having an upper limit setting parameter set to an upper limit value, and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for combining the first game medium with a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium based on an instruction from the player, and progressing the game using the combined game medium; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; The configuration includes:

[0049] With this configuration, the present invention allows the second game medium to change the abilities that complement the abilities or performance of a game medium such as a character specified in the first game medium, even if the parameters specified in the first game medium reach their upper limit and no further improvement in abilities or performance can be expected from the first game medium.

[0050] Therefore, the present invention allows parameters related to complementing, improving, or changing the capabilities of the first game medium to grow by growing the second game medium, so that even if it becomes impossible to grow the first game medium, the entire game medium including the first game medium can be grown by growing the second game medium.

[0051] As a result, the present invention can maintain the player's interest in the growth of the game medium over a long period of time, and by using various game media as the second game medium, it is possible to use them in combination with the first game medium to bring out various characteristics and effects and progress the game, thereby providing the player with a lasting interest in the game.

[0052] (12) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides: a reception processing means for receiving instructions from the player; a communication control means for transmitting the received player's instructions to the game system and receiving game information relating to the game, including information relating to the determination process and the growth elements; a display control means for causing a display means to display an image relating to the game based on the received game information; Equipped with The reception processing means accepting an instruction from the player to select the first game medium and the second game medium to be used in combination during the game; The display control means In the game system, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the selected first game medium has reached the upper limit, a second game medium having the given relationship with the first game medium and in which changes to growth elements are prohibited in the initial setting is selected. When permission is given to change the growth element in the game medium, an image relating to at least one of the determination result and the permitted growth element is displayed on the display means.

[0053] With this configuration, the present invention allows the second game medium to change the abilities that complement the abilities or performance of a game medium such as a character specified in the first game medium based on instructions from the terminal device, even if the parameters specified in the first game medium reach their upper limit and no further improvement in abilities or performance can be expected from the first game medium.

[0054] Therefore, in the present invention, parameters related to complementing, improving, or changing the capabilities of the first game medium can be grown by growing the second game medium. Therefore, even if it becomes impossible to grow the first game medium, the entire game medium including the first game medium can be grown by growing the second game medium, and information regarding the growth elements, including whether growth is possible or not, can be provided to the player via the terminal device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0055] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates functional blocks of a server device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks of a terminal device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a special ability parameter growth permission process according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of game card information used in one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between main game cards and support game cards in one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a skill map set on a main game card in the game card management unit of one embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the special ability parameter growth control process based on a skill map executed by a parameter control unit of one embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a special ability parameter growth permission process, including an upper limit value determination process, executed by the server device of one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] The present embodiment will be described below. Note that the present embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are necessarily essential constituent elements of the present invention.

[0057] [1] Game System First, the outline and general configuration of a game system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of the game system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 of this embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 that provides game services and terminal devices 20 (e.g., terminal devices 20A, 20B, 20C) are connectable to the Internet (an example of a network).

[0059] By accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20, a player can obtain a game from the server device 10 via the Internet and play the game. By accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20, a player can communicate with other players while playing the game. It is now possible to do this.

[0060] In particular, the server device 10 is an information processing device capable of providing a service that allows players to play games using terminal devices 20 connected for communication via the Internet. The server device 10 can also function as, for example, an SNS server that provides a service that allows communication between multiple players (i.e., an information processing device that provides a communication-type service).

[0061] Furthermore, when the server device 10 functions as an SNS server, for example, it is capable of providing a game called a social game that is executed using the operating environment (API (Application Programming Interface), platform, etc.) of the SNS that it provides.

[0062] Specifically, the server device 10 is capable of providing games that are provided on the web browser of the terminal device 20, such as browser games (games that can be launched simply by opening the installation site in the web browser) created in various languages, such as HTML, FLASH, CGI, PHP, shockwave, Java (registered trademark) applet, and JavaScript (registered trademark).

[0063] Unlike existing online games, social games include games that can be played using only a web browser and an SNS account, without requiring dedicated client software. The server device 10 is configured to connect to other players' devices (smartphones, PCs, game consoles, etc.) via a network, and provide an online game in which players can simultaneously share the same game progress online.

[0064] On the other hand, the server device 10 may be configured with one (device, processor) or multiple (devices, processors).

[0065] Information such as billing information and game information stored in the memory area of ​​the server device 10 (memory unit 140 described later) may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or the Internet), or when functioning as an SNS server, information such as player information storage unit 146 stored in the memory area may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or the Internet).

[0066] Specifically, the server device 10 of this embodiment receives input information based on operations by a player of the terminal device 20 (i.e., a player who executes a game), and performs game processing based on the received input information.

[0067] Then, the server device 10 transmits the game processing results to the terminal device 20. The terminal device 20 is configured to perform various processes to provide the game processing results received from the server device 10 to the terminal device 20 so that they can be viewed by the player.

[0068] The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PHS, a computer, a game device, a PDA, a portable game machine, an image generating device, or the like, and is a device that can be connected to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or a LAN. The communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

[0069] The terminal device 20 is also provided with a web browser that can browse web pages (HTML format data). It has a communication control function, a web browser function that controls display using data received from the server device 10 (web data, data created in HTML format, etc.), and transmits player operation data to the server device 10.

[0070] For example, the terminal device 20 may acquire necessary information, such as game information about other players when they are competing, from the server device 10, execute game processing based on a game application stored in a memory area (the memory unit 270 described later), and also execute various processes to provide a game screen to the player, allowing the player to play the game.

[0071] Furthermore, for example, the terminal device 20 may transmit player operation data to the server device 10, while acquiring game control information provided by the server device 10, and execute predetermined game processing, thereby executing a game based on the game processing.

[0072] In particular, when the terminal device 20 executes game processing based on game control information provided by the server device 10, it makes a request to the server device 10 to play a predetermined game, and is connected to the game site of the server device 10, and the game begins.

[0073] The terminal device 20 is configured to use an API as needed to cause the server device 10 functioning as an SNS server to perform a predetermined process, or to acquire the player information storage unit 146 managed by the server device 10 functioning as an SNS server, thereby executing a game.

[0074] [2] Server device Next, the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the server device 10 of this embodiment. The server device 10 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) of Fig. 2 are omitted.

[0075] The server device 10 includes an input unit 120 for use by the administrator and other inputs, a display unit 130 for displaying predetermined information, an information storage medium 180 in which predetermined information is stored, a communication unit 196 for communicating with terminal devices 20 and others, a processing unit 100 for mainly executing processing related to the game to be provided, and a memory unit 140 for storing various data mainly used in the game.

[0076] The input unit 120 is used by a system administrator or the like to input game-related settings and other necessary settings and data. For example, the input unit 120 in this embodiment is configured with a mouse, keyboard, and the like.

[0077] The display unit 130 displays an operation screen for the system administrator. For example, the display unit 130 of this embodiment is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like.

[0078] The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions are realized by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM), etc.

[0079] The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (e.g., terminals, other servers, or other network systems), and its functions are configured by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, etc.

[0080] The storage unit 140 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, etc., and its functions are realized by RAM (VRAM) etc. The information may be managed in a database.

[0081] In addition to the main memory 142, the memory unit 140 of this embodiment also includes: (A1) A game data storage unit 144 that stores information about the game (hereinafter referred to as "game information"), including various table data used when executing game processing and information about game media such as game cards provided to players (including initial values); (A2) a player information storage unit 146 in which information about each player (hereinafter referred to as "player information") is stored; and (A3) a game card information storage unit 148 in which game cards owned by each player are stored as game card information in association with each player; It has the following characteristics.

[0082] For example, the game card information storage unit 148 stores, for each player, information on the game cards held by the player.

[0083] In particular, the game card information storage unit 148 stores various parameters and information as game card information in association with each game card, including ability-related parameters for which upper limits are set (hereinafter referred to as "upper limit set parameters"), and special parameters (hereinafter referred to as "special ability parameters") that are prohibited from changing (specifically, growing) in the initial setting but become variable when certain conditions are met.

[0084] In this embodiment, the game card may be, for example, (B1) A player character that moves in the game space and is the object of operation or instruction by the player, such as a character, a character that rides on the player character, or an object set in the game space; (B2) As mentioned above, items to be equipped or set to the player character operated by the player in the game, such as weapons, tools, life energy, or 1up, (B3) in-game currency, or (B4) The abilities and characteristics set for characters and objects, It is one of the game media provided electronically.

[0085] When a game card is acquired and held by a player, it is stored in the game card information storage unit 148 in association with the player.

[0086] Furthermore, game cards are provided as virtual game media within a game, and can be acquired or used at a given time within the game (they do not have to be acquired by the player).

[0087] The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 142 in the memory unit 140 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

[0088] The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores programs for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (programs for causing a computer to execute the processing of each unit).

[0089] For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on a program stored in the information storage medium 180, and performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between each unit. Furthermore, it provides various services in response to requests from terminals. The process provides the service.

[0090] Specifically, the processing unit 100 of this embodiment has at least a communication control unit 101, a Web processing unit 102, a game management unit 103, a game card management unit 104, a parameter control unit 105, a timer management unit 110, and an information providing unit 111.

[0091] For example, the game management unit 103 of this embodiment constitutes the game control means of the present invention, and the game card management unit 104 constitutes the management means and setting means of the present invention. Furthermore, for example, the parameter control unit 105 of this embodiment constitutes the determination processing means, permission means, and growth control means of the present invention. Furthermore, for example, the information provision unit 111 of this embodiment constitutes the provision means of the present invention.

[0092] The communication control unit 101 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data via the network to and from the terminal device 20. That is, the server device 10 performs various processing based on information received by the communication control unit 101 from the terminal device 20 and the like.

[0093] In particular, the communication control unit 101 of this embodiment works in conjunction with the information providing unit 111 to perform processing to transmit game screens and information related to the game to the terminal device 20 of the player based on a request from the terminal device 20 of the player.

[0094] The Web processing unit 102 functions as a Web server. For example, the Web processing unit 102 performs a process of transmitting data in response to a request from a Web browser 211 installed in the terminal device 20, and a process of receiving data transmitted by the Web browser 211 of the terminal device 20, via a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol).

[0095] In this embodiment, the server device 10 is described as having a function as an SNS server, but the server device 10 may be formed as a server for the game and a server for the SNS separately. Also, the game processing of this embodiment may be performed in part or in whole by the server device 10, or in part by the terminal device 20.

[0096] The game management unit 103 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20, and executes game processing related to a role-playing game (RPG) or a fighting game for each player based on the player's operations input via the terminal device 20.

[0097] In particular, the game management unit 103 provides each player with a game card that specifies the characters to be used in the game and the objects and items to be placed in the game space, based on the player's instructions or at a timing in the game progress (before the game starts or during the game).

[0098] The game management unit 103 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to progress the game based on the player characters, objects, and items specified on the game cards, or the parameters set for these.

[0099] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 progresses the game by using a first game card and a second game card that has a given relationship with the first game card, such as by combining the first game card with a second game card.

[0100] For example, the game management unit 103 (C1) In the case of a first game card in which a player character is defined, a given relationship and and a game card set as a character to ride on the player character or an item used by the player character, or (C2) A game card that provides (complements) an effect that gives the player an advantage over the first game card; The game is played using the first game card as a second game card that has a given relationship with the first game card.

[0101] The game card management unit 104 registers the game card given to the player together with the parameters defined on the game card as game card information in the game card information storage unit 148, and manages the information.

[0102] In particular, the game card management unit 104 stores, for each player, information (game card information) about the game card given to the player at a predetermined timing in the game card information storage unit 148, and updates information (game card information) about already registered game cards that changes as the game progresses.

[0103] Furthermore, the game card management unit 104 sets a given relationship between the first game card and the second game card based on a player's instruction transmitted from the terminal device 20 or according to a predetermined correspondence.

[0104] For example, the game card management unit 104 sets a first game card that defines a player character based on a player's instruction, and then sets a game card that defines a character that rides on the player character or an item that the player character uses as a second game card based on a further player's instruction or a predetermined game program.

[0105] During the game, the parameter control unit 105 executes a judgment process (hereinafter referred to as "upper limit value judgment process") to judge whether the value of the upper limit setting parameter specified in the first game card has reached the upper limit, and if it judges that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, it controls the addition of an ability parameter in the second game card and the fluctuation of the value of the ability parameter.

[0106] In particular, when the parameter control unit 105 determines through the upper limit value determination process that the value of the upper limit setting parameter specified in the first game card has reached the upper limit, it adds a new special ability parameter (hereinafter referred to as a "special ability parameter") as a growth element that is prohibited from growth by initial setting to the second game card (i.e., sets it to be available for use in the game), or executes a process (hereinafter referred to as a "special ability parameter growth permission process") to allow the growth of an already set special ability parameter (specifically, a change in the value of the special ability parameter) and to allow changes to the special ability parameter.

[0107] Then, when the second game card is permitted to grow, the parameter control unit 105 then executes a process (hereinafter referred to as "special ability parameter growth control process") to vary the value (i.e., growth element) of the permitted special ability parameter as the game progresses, causing it to grow (also called evolve).

[0108] The timer management unit 110 has a timer function, and is used to manage each period during the game in conjunction with the game card management unit 104 or the terminal device 20, etc.

[0109] In particular, the timer management unit 110 outputs the current time or a preset time to each unit based on a request from the game management unit 103, the game card management unit 104, or other units. In addition, the timer management unit 107 is used to synchronize with each terminal device 20 .

[0110] The information providing unit 111 generates various types of game information (including information related to presentation) for causing the terminal device 20 to process the game, and provides the information to the terminal device 20 in question.

[0111] [3] Terminal device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the terminal device 20 of this embodiment. The terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (units) of Fig. 2 are omitted.

[0112] The input unit 260 is a device for inputting input information from the player, and outputs the player's input information to the processing unit 200. The input unit 260 of this embodiment includes a detection unit 262 that detects the player's input information (input signal). The input unit 260 may be, for example, a lever, a button, a steering wheel, a microphone, a touch panel display, a keyboard, or a mouse.

[0113] The storage unit 270 serves as a work area for the processing unit 200, the communication unit 296, etc., and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 270 of this embodiment includes a main memory unit 271 used as a work area, and an image buffer 272 in which the final display image, etc. are stored. Note that a configuration in which some of these components are omitted may also be used.

[0114] The information storage medium 280 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM), etc.

[0115] The processing unit 200 performs various processes of this embodiment based on programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 280. The information storage medium 280 can store programs for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (programs for causing a computer to execute the processing of each unit).

[0116] In this embodiment, the programs and game data for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment, which are stored in the information storage medium 180 and storage unit 140 of the server device 10, are received via a network, and the received programs and data are stored in the information storage medium 280. The programs and data received from the server device 10 may also be stored in the storage unit 270. Such cases of receiving programs and data and causing a network system to function are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0117] The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), etc. The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, etc.

[0118] The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, other terminals, servers), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, etc.

[0119] The processing unit 200 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, display control, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on information about the game acquired from the server device 10 via the communication unit 296, input information acquired from the input unit 260, or programs, etc.

[0120] The processing unit 200 performs various processes using a main memory unit 271 in the memory unit 270 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

[0121] The processing unit 200 includes a communication control unit 210, a web browser 211, a game processing unit 212, a display control unit 213, an input reception processing unit 214, a drawing unit 220, and a sound processing unit 230. Note that some of these units may be omitted.

[0122] For example, the communication control unit 210 of this embodiment constitutes a communication control means of the present invention, and the display control unit 213 constitutes a display control means of the present invention. Also, for example, the input reception processing unit 214 of this embodiment constitutes a reception processing means of the present invention.

[0123] The communication control unit 210 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data to and from each server device 10. The communication control unit 210 also performs processing for storing data received from the server device 10 in the storage unit 270, processing for analyzing the received data, and other control processing related to the transmission and reception of data.

[0124] The communication control unit 210 may store and manage destination information (IP address, port number) of the server in the information storage medium 280. The communication control unit 210 may then communicate with the server device 10 when receiving input information from the player to start communication.

[0125] In particular, the communication control unit 210 transmits player identification information and operation information to the server device 10 and performs processing to receive information about the game (player information, game card information, the player's web page, game screen, etc.) from the server device 10.

[0126] The communication control unit 210 may transmit and receive data to and from the server device 10 at a predetermined cycle, or may transmit and receive data to and from the server device 10 when input information is received from the input unit 260. In particular, the communication control unit 210 of this embodiment performs processing to receive a game screen from the server device 10.

[0127] The web browser 211 is an application program for viewing web pages (game screens), downloading HTML files, image files, etc. from the web server (server device 10), analyzing the layout, and controlling the display. The web browser 211 also transmits data to the web server (server device 10) using input forms (links, buttons, text boxes, etc.).

[0128] The web browser 211 of this embodiment can realize a browser game. For example, the web browser 211 may execute a program written in JavaScript (registered trademark), FLASH, Java (registered trademark), or the like, received from a web server (server device 10).

[0129] The terminal device 20 can display information from a web server specified by a URL via the Internet using the web browser 211. For example, the terminal device 20 can display a game screen (data such as HTML) received from the server device 10 using the web browser 211.

[0130] The game processing unit 212 performs various game calculation processes, such as starting a game when a game start condition is met, progressing the game, and ending a game when a game end condition is met. There is a process to end the game if the

[0131] The game processing unit 212 may then perform processing to place and set various objects (objects composed of primitives such as polygons, free-form surfaces, or subdivision surfaces) representing display objects such as player characters, buildings, stadiums, cars, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain) in the object space.

[0132] Here, the object space is a virtual space, and includes both two-dimensional space and three-dimensional space. Two-dimensional space is a space in which an object is placed, for example, using two-dimensional coordinates (X, Y), and three-dimensional space is a space in which an object is placed, for example, using three-dimensional coordinates (X, Y, Z).

[0133] In addition to setting the game cards as deck data, the game processing unit 212 also controls the sending and receiving of various information at login, executes game processing based on the player's operation when the game is executed in real time in conjunction with the server device 10, and executes game processing including replaying received automatic calculation data when the game is executed by automatic calculation.

[0134] Furthermore, the display control unit 213 performs processing for displaying on the display unit 290. For example, the display control unit 213 may use the web browser 211 for display.

[0135] The input reception processing unit 214 performs a recognition process for the input information input by the player from the input unit 260. Specifically, the input reception processing unit 214 of this embodiment receives instructions for the first game card and the second game card to be used in combination.

[0136] The drawing unit 220 performs drawing processing based on various processes (for example, game processing) performed by the processing unit 200, thereby generating an image, which is output to the display unit 290 by the display control unit 213. The image generated by the drawing unit 220 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a so-called three-dimensional image.

[0137] The sound processing unit 230 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200 , generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and outputs them to the sound output unit 292 .

[0138] [4] Processing method of this embodiment [4.1] Overview Next, a method of the special ability parameter growth permission process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the special ability parameter growth permission process of this embodiment.

[0139] The server device 10 of this embodiment is configured to work in conjunction with the terminal devices 20 and provide each player with a player character, other characters, a game space or parts thereof, game parameters, background music, a game scenario, etc., and each player uses multiple game cards to play games such as fighting games, combat games, RPGs, or simulation games.

[0140] During the game, the server device 10 of this embodiment executes various games using a first game card (hereinafter also referred to as a "main game card") that defines a player character and defines upper limit setting parameters, and a game card (hereinafter also referred to as a "support game card") that defines a character (hereinafter also referred to as a "support character") or an item that supports the player character and has a given relationship with the main game card (for example, a state in which they can be used in combination at the same time). The game is configured to execute the above game.

[0141] In particular, the server device 10 of this embodiment uses support game cards having a given relationship to grow (also called evolve) all game cards including the main game card. (A1) When the upper limit setting parameter specified on the main game card reaches the upper limit value, a special ability parameter growth permission process is executed to allow the support game card to newly add a special ability parameter that complements the ability or performance of the player character specified on the main game card and to allow the value of the special ability parameter to change; and (A2) When the growth of the support game card is permitted, a special ability parameter growth control process is executed to vary the value of the special ability parameter (i.e., growth factor) as the game progresses. It has the following structure.

[0142] In other words, the server device 10 of this embodiment is configured to grow the special ability parameters of the combined support game card in order to complement, improve, or change the abilities of the main game card, even if the main game card cannot be expected to improve further in ability or performance, and to grow the entire game card by growing the support game card even if it is no longer possible to grow the main game card.

[0143] Specifically, the server device 10 of this embodiment: (B1) For each player, information on the game cards owned by each player is managed as game card information, including at least a main game card, which is stored in the storage unit 140 and has an upper limit setting parameter with an upper limit set, and a support game card, which is a different type of game card from the main game card and has a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; (B2) Based on the player's instructions transmitted from the terminal device 20, the game is progressed by using a combination of a main game card and a support game card having a given relationship with the main game card; (B3) during the game, an upper limit value determination process is executed to determine whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the main game card has reached the upper limit; (B4) when it is determined by the upper limit value determination process that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a special ability parameter growth permission process is executed to permit a change of the growth element of a support game card that has a given relationship with the main game card and whose growth element is prohibited from being changed in the initial setting, (B5) Providing information about the game proceeding based on the game cards (e.g., the main game card and the support game card) to the corresponding terminal device 20, including when a change in the growth element of the support game card is permitted; It has the following structure.

[0144] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, in a competitive game, a player character PC is used to play a game in which a support character is piloted by a combination of a main game card (card ID: MI001) and a support game card (card ID: SI003) (i.e., a combination of a main game card and a support game card with a predetermined relationship), while managing an upper limit setting parameter A specified on the main game card.

[0145] In this case, the server device 10 starts a battle between the player character PC and the enemy character EC ([1] game execution phase), and then, when the player wins, When the match ends and the upper limit setting parameter A increases and reaches the upper limit value ([2] Match End Phase), the support game card (card ID: SI003) is permitted to newly add specific ability parameters that are prohibited from growing by default and to change their values ​​([3] Special Ability Parameter Growth Permission Processing Execution Phase (hereinafter also referred to as the "Permission Execution Phase")).

[0146] With this configuration, in this embodiment, it is possible to maintain the player's interest in the growth of the game content over a long period of time, and by using various game content as support game cards, it is possible to use them in combination with the main game cards to demonstrate various characteristics and effects and progress the game, thereby providing the player with a permanent interest in the game.

[0147] In this embodiment, the game media used in the game will be described using electronically provided game cards, but other media such as game coins or items or characters themselves may also be used in the game.

[0148] Furthermore, the game cards used in the game are cards owned by the player, but in this embodiment, "owned" does not mean physical ownership but electronic ownership, and the cards do not need to be stored on a terminal device owned by the player, but rather may be stored in a database connected to a network such as the Internet and be in a state where the player can read them at any time, or in other words, be in a state where the player can use them freely.

[0149] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a main game card defining a player character is used as an example of a first game medium, and a support card defining a character that pilots the player character is used as an example of a second game medium. However, as long as there is a given relationship between the first and second game mediums, the first and second game mediums may be game cards defining in-game currency, items, or abilities (performance) (i.e., electronically provided game cards), or the player character, in-game currency, items, abilities (performance), or the character that pilots the player character. However, in the following description, as in the above, a main game card defining a player character is used as an example of a first game medium, and a support card defining a character that pilots the player character is used as an example of a second game medium.

[0150] [4.2] Game Cards Next, the game cards of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is an example of game card information used in this embodiment, and Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the main game cards and support game cards in this embodiment.

[0151] (Game card overview) The game card of this embodiment includes: (A1) For example, a player character that is the object of operation or instruction by the player, (A2) In-game currency, (A3) Items such as weapons and tools equipped to the player character, (A4) Abilities and characteristics added to the player character, and (A5) Relationship information indicating the relationship between the player character and a support character, such as a character riding on the player character, for progressing through the game together with the player character; It is an electronically provided game card for use in a game specified in the above.

[0152] Each player is provided with a game card as an initial setting, and during the game, (B1) When you win a game against another player, (B2) When a predetermined game stage is cleared, when the player's game level increases, or when a predetermined game task is completed (including cases where there are or are not other conditions, such as within a predetermined period of time), (B3) If you win a lottery event such as gacha, (B4) When it is a gift from another player who is registered as a friend, or (B5) When payment is made using in-game currency, points, items, or charges, or when the cost exceeds a certain amount, It is now possible to obtain it.

[0153] When a game card is acquired, the game card management unit 104 registers information about the acquired game card in the game card information storage unit 148 in association with the player as a game card that can be used in the game for each player.

[0154] In particular, the game card is registered as game card information in the game card information storage unit 148 so that it can be used in the game by the player, for example, by the corresponding terminal device 20.

[0155] (Main game card and support game card) In this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, the main game cards are defined as moving objects such as automobiles and flying objects that move within the game space, such as exploring or participating in races, or attacking enemy characters, based on the player's instructions, or as characters such as living creatures including animals and people, and anthropomorphized robots.

[0156] Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, support game cards specify support characters that move together with the player character specified on the main game card through the game space by controlling, training, or riding the player character, or that attack enemy characters, or game cards that complement the abilities or performance of the player character, such as items that can be equipped to the player character.

[0157] In particular, support game cards are game cards that correct the values ​​of the player character's parameters (parameters that are, in principle, different from upper limit parameters, such as experience points and stamina values) specified in the main game card, such as increased attack power, defense power, and recovery power, to values ​​that are advantageous to the player or player character, or that add parameters that specify new abilities of the player character, such as new attacks and defenses, including new special moves and combo attacks.

[0158] Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, for example, various parameters (including upper limit setting parameters and special ability parameters) that define abilities are defined for each player character and support character or item, and are used in the game when the player character and support character or item have a given relationship.

[0159] As a given relationship, information (relationship information shown below) indicating whether a player character and a support character or item can be combined or cannot be combined is specified, and when a player character and a support character or item that can be combined with the player character are set to be used simultaneously during a game, the main game card and the support game card are set to be used in a given relationship. It is judged that there is a relationship of mutual benefit.

[0160] Alternatively, if a player character and a support character or item are set to be used simultaneously during the game, either at the player's instruction or according to a predetermined correspondence, it is determined that they have a given relationship.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a player character and a support character or item are used in a game with a given relationship (i.e., when they are used in combination in the game at the same time), the abilities of the player character used in the game are determined.

[0162] In other words, in this embodiment, by combining the player character with a support character or item, the player character's abilities are changed, such as various abilities such as attack power, defense power, operating performance, or running performance being strengthened or deteriorated.

[0163] In addition, Figure 5 shows an example of a support character SC10 of a rideable (combinable) support game card SI002, which has specifications including special ability parameters and their current values ​​defined for the player characters PC10 and PC20 of the main game cards MI001 and MI003, respectively, which have specifications including upper limit setting parameters and their current values ​​defined for the player characters PC10 and PC20.

[0164] FIG. 5 also shows that each specification including the special ability parameters in the support game card SI002 is determined by the player character that will be piloted.

[0165] (Game card information) Each main game card has card information, for example, as shown in FIG. 6A. The game card information of each main game card is associated with a card ID and is as follows: (C1) Card type information indicating the type of game card (hereinafter referred to as "card type"), such as the type of player character; (C2) Attribute information such as the rarity of the game card and its properties determined in the game, such as "red" or "water"; (C3) Relationship information indicating the relationship between the support game card and the main game card, which specifies the card type of the support game card that can be combined, such as only the support character or only the item, and (C4) The current value of the upper limit setting parameter, which is 1 or more, and its upper limit value; etc. are stipulated.

[0166] Note that the relationship information may specify relationship information indicating a relationship with a support game card different from that described above, or in cases where the player sets the main game card and the support game card, thereby establishing a relationship between the main game card and the support game card, the relationship information may not be specified in the first place.

[0167] In addition to the above, the main game card also defines specifications for each character and the like to be used in the game.

[0168] On the other hand, each support game card has card information as shown in FIG. 6B, for example, and the game card information of each main game card is associated with a card ID. And, (D1) Card type information indicating the type of card, such as the type of support character or the type of item; (D2) Attribute information such as the rarity of the game card and its properties determined in the game, such as "red" or "water," and (D3) The initial value, current value, and upper limit of special ability parameters of 1 or more; etc. are stipulated.

[0169] In addition to the above, support game cards, like main game cards, also have various specifications defined for use in the game for each character, etc. In particular, support game cards may have ability parameters set in addition to special ability parameters.

[0170] (Upper limit setting parameter) Each main game card has one or more ability parameters (i.e., upper limit setting parameters) that define the abilities and characteristics of the game card, and each upper limit setting parameter value is variably controlled according to the progress of the game, such as when the player wins a competitive game against another player.

[0171] For example, the upper limit setting parameters in this embodiment include the level specified in the game medium, various skill, ability, and power values ​​such as attack power, defense power, agility, and hit points, or values ​​that measure the progress of the game, such as experience points and points.

[0172] In addition, for each game card, (E1) When you win a game against another player, (E2) When a predetermined game stage is cleared, when the player's game level increases, or when a predetermined game task is completed (including cases where there are or are not other conditions, such as within a predetermined period of time), (E3) When experience points, energy, or items are acquired using the game card, (E4) When you use (bet on) the game card to play gacha and win the gacha, or (E5) When you make a payment for in-game currency, points, items, or other costs, The level (card level, which is different from the game level) or the value of the upper limit setting parameter defined for the game card changes (basically, the value increases).

[0173] When the card level or the value of the upper limit setting parameter changes, the game card management unit 104 updates the game card information registered in the game card information storage unit 148 according to the card level or the value of the upper limit setting parameter.

[0174] (Special ability parameters) The special ability parameter in this embodiment is a growth parameter for adding a given ability to the support game card, or a growth parameter indicating the degree of growth of the support game card.

[0175] That is, the special ability parameter in this embodiment is one of the growth elements (i.e., elements for evolving and strengthening abilities to produce advantageous effects for the player) that grow the support game card based on the player's instructions and in accordance with the progress of the game, and indicates that the support game card has a given ability and its ability value (i.e., It is a growth parameter that indicates the growth rate (i.e., the degree of growth).

[0176] Special ability parameters are parameters that indicate abilities or characteristics necessary to progress advantageously in the game, such as attack or defense abilities, investigation abilities, clairvoyance, reasoning abilities, agility, or a sense of smell, and are parameters that can be added or their values ​​changed to grow the support game cards in a concrete way.

[0177] Specifically, special ability parameters are parameters that are prohibited from being changed in the initial settings at the start of the game, and are newly set as changeable or are allowed to be changed when the upper limit value determination process determines that the value of the upper limit setting parameter specified for the main game cards combined during the game has reached the upper limit.

[0178] For example, special ability parameters are: (F1) Levels and physical strength values ​​specified in the game media, (F2) Parameters that define various abilities and performance such as attack power, defense power, agility, and hit points, or (F3) Parameters that define the game's progress, such as experience points, These include:

[0179] In addition, the special ability parameters of this embodiment may be set to "0" as the initial setting value (i.e., initial value), or a value other than "0" may be set, and the initial value other than "0" may be used in the game from the start of the game.

[0180] In particular, when a predetermined value is set as the initial value for a special ability parameter and changes to growth elements are prohibited, the special ability parameter may be used to determine the player character's actions, such as attack or defense, based on the initial value and the value of each parameter on the main game card.

[0181] Furthermore, the special ability parameters of this embodiment have flag information that is turned ON when the special ability parameters become changeable.

[0182] Once the flag information is turned ON and the special ability parameter is newly set to be changeable, or if change is permitted, the special ability parameter grows as the game progresses, similar to the upper limit setting parameter.

[0183] In particular, in this case, the special ability parameter changes in value in a direction that is advantageous to the player as the game progresses, for example.

[0184] [4.3] Special ability parameter growth permission processing (including upper limit value determination processing) Next, the special ability parameter growth permission process (including upper limit value determination process) executed by the parameter control unit 105 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0185] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the skill map set for the main game card in the game card management unit 104 of this embodiment.

[0186] (Upper limit judgment process) The parameter control unit 105, based on a player's instruction transmitted from the terminal device 20, combines a main game card with a support game card having a given relationship, and when the game is being played using the combined game cards, controls the upper limit setting parameters defined for the main game card in the combined game cards for each player. Then, an upper limit determination process is executed to determine whether the data has reached the upper limit.

[0187] For example, as the game progresses, when the value of the upper limit setting parameter changes due to the completion of a game stage or quest, or the end of a battle with an enemy character, the parameter control unit 105 executes an upper limit value determination process for the upper limit setting parameter specified for the main game card of the corresponding game card combination.

[0188] The parameter control unit 105, for example, (C1) When a main game card is combined with a support game card that has no given relationship, (C2) When the main game card and the support game card are combined with game cards of other types, or (C3) When a main game card or a support game card is used alone, When the combination is used separately, such as above, the upper limit value determination process is not executed even if the upper limit setting parameter of the main game card changes.

[0189] In addition, the parameter control unit 105 may set a given relationship between the main game card and the support game card to be established based on, for example, an instruction to select a player character and an instruction to select a riding character from the terminal device 20.

[0190] In particular, the parameter control unit 105 can set combinations at the player's discretion depending on the game situation, such as combinations that are advantageous for attack, combinations that are advantageous against a specific enemy character, or combinations that are excellent for defense, and may have a configuration that allows combinations to be set at the player's discretion depending on the game situation, incorporates a game element such as game strategy into the game, and increases the player's interest.

[0191] (Special ability parameter growth permission processing) When the parameter control unit 105 determines through the upper limit value determination process that the value of the upper limit setting parameter specified for the main game card has reached the upper limit, it determines whether the support game card still has a special ability parameter that is prohibited from growing.

[0192] Then, if the parameter control unit 105 determines that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit and that the support game card still has a special ability parameter whose value is prohibited from changing, it either adds the special ability parameter whose growth is prohibited (i.e., sets it as available for use in the game) or executes a special ability parameter growth permission process that allows the growth of an already set special ability parameter (specifically, a change in the value of the special ability parameter).

[0193] Furthermore, when multiple special ability parameters are defined for a support game card, if the parameter control unit 105 determines through the upper limit value determination process that the value of the upper limit setting parameter defined for the main game card has reached the upper limit, it identifies special ability parameters that are still prohibited from changing according to the relationship between the main game card and the support game card, and executes special ability parameter growth permission processing to permit growth of the identified special ability parameters.

[0194] For example, when a main game card with high attack power is identified and the parameter control unit 105 determines that the upper limit setting parameter that defines the attack power has reached the upper limit value, the parameter control unit 105 selects a special ability parameter from among a plurality of special ability parameters that has the ability to complement the attack power. A special ability parameter growth permission process may be executed to permit growth of the parameters.

[0195] Furthermore, for example, when setting a main game card, a support game card, or both, as game cards to be used in a game, the parameter control unit 105 may identify, from among multiple special ability parameters, a special ability parameter that is to be the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process based on the player's instructions.

[0196] Furthermore, when the parameter control unit 105 identifies special ability parameters to be subject to special ability parameter growth permission processing based on the player's instructions, it may set a priority order for the special ability parameter to be subject to the special ability parameter growth permission processing based on the player's instructions, and each time it is determined by the upper limit value determination processing that the value of the upper limit setting parameter specified on the main game card has reached the upper limit, it may identify the special ability parameter with the highest priority as the target for the special ability parameter growth permission processing.

[0197] In addition, when multiple special ability parameters are specified on a support game card, the parameter control unit 105 identifies the special ability parameter that is the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process based on the relationship between the main game card and the support game card or the player's instructions, but it may also identify a special ability parameter that is randomly or that is pre-associated with an upper limit setting parameter whose upper limit value has been determined and is not yet permitted to change as the special ability parameter that is the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process.

[0198] On the other hand, when the parameter control unit 105 executes the special ability parameter growth control process using a map (hereinafter referred to as a "skill map") that defines multiple growth processes in which the transition paths of parameter values ​​differ according to the growth that accompanies the game progress, the parameter control unit 105 may set the skill map for the special ability parameter identified as the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process.

[0199] In other words, when the parameter control unit 105 identifies a special ability parameter as the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process, it may set the degree of growth of the special ability parameter (the law by which the parameter value changes), or the direction of growth change when the parameter transition path is complex, or a skill map that specifies the growth change.

[0200] Specifically, the parameter control unit 105 may set a predetermined skill map for the special ability parameter identified as the target of the special ability parameter growth permission process, or if multiple skill maps are prepared, the skill map may be set based on the relationship between the main game card and the support game card, such as combinations with the main game card, the period from a predetermined timing (for example, the start of the game) until a change in the special ability parameter is permitted, the experience points when a change in the special ability parameter is permitted, the score at that time, the type and number of items (game cards) owned at that time, the type and number of tasks and stages cleared up to that time, the amount charged up to that time (regardless of whether it has been consumed or not) or the amount consumed in the game, or the selection by the player.

[0201] For example, suppose that one skill map is set from among multiple skill maps for the special ability parameters of skill A of a support game card based on the relationship between the main game card and the support game card, such as the combination with the main game card.

[0202] In this case, the parameter control unit 105 sets the specific ability parameter to skill map 2 with an initial value of "5" when combined with the main game card MI001, as shown in Figure 7, and sets skill map 1 with an initial value of "1" when combined with the game card MI003.

[0203] [4.4] Special ability parameter growth control process Next, the special ability parameter growth control process executed by the parameter control unit 105 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining the special ability parameter growth control process based on a skill map executed by the parameter control unit 105 of this embodiment.

[0204] When the parameter control unit 105 permits a change to a special ability parameter (addition of a new special ability parameter or change in the value of a parameter) through the special ability parameter growth permission process, it updates the flag information of the corresponding special ability parameter to ON and starts the special ability parameter growth control process, which controls the change in the parameter value.

[0205] Specifically, when a combination of a main game card and a support game card is used during a game, the parameter control unit 105 changes the value of the special ability parameter in a direction that is advantageous to the player in accordance with predetermined rules.

[0206] For example, the parameter control unit 105, assuming that a combination of a main game card and a support game card is used during the game, performs the following during the game execution as described above: (A1) When you win a game against another player, (A2) When a predetermined game stage is cleared, when the player's game level increases, or when a predetermined game task is completed (including cases where there are or are not other conditions, such as within a predetermined period of time), (A3) When experience points, energy, or items are acquired, (A4) If you have conducted a gacha and won the gacha, (A5) When you make a payment for in-game currency, points, items, or charges, or (A5) When a specific item (for example, an item such as a sword equipped to a player character) is used (including when it is used a predetermined number of times), or each time it is used a predetermined number of times, A predetermined value such as "+1", "+2" or "+5" is added to the current special ability parameter to change the value.

[0207] In the special ability parameter growth control process, the parameter control unit 105 generally controls the value of the special ability parameter in a direction advantageous to the player (i.e., by adding to it), but may also control the value of the special ability parameter to decrease if the player is defeated in a match or attacked by an enemy character.

[0208] On the other hand, in the special ability parameter growth control process, when a skill map is used that specifies the degree of growth (the law by which the parameter value changes) or the direction of growth change when the parameter transition path is complex, or the growth change, and that has growth change lines that specify multiple growth directions, the parameter control unit 105 performs variation control of the special ability parameter based on the game situation or the player's instructions.

[0209] Specifically, in a route where the skill map has one growth change line, the parameter control unit 105 executes the special ability parameter growth control process in accordance with predetermined rules, similar to the above.

[0210] Furthermore, when the skill map reaches a branch point where the growth change line branches into two or more branches, the parameter control unit 105 determines whether or not the skill map is to be changed based on the game situation or the player's instruction. Based on this, one of the growth change lines is selected, and the special ability parameter growth control process is executed along the selected growth change line.

[0211] In particular, the parameter control unit 105 changes the growth change line (change process) when controlling the change of each ability parameter using the game situation, such as the number and type of game card media owned by the player, the number and number of times the upper limit of the upper limit setting parameter has been reached, the number and type of game media, the points, experience points, in-game currency acquired, match results, amount charged, the number of times a specific item has been used, and the total time spent playing the game.

[0212] For example, as shown in Figure 8A, if a special ability parameter (a newly added special ability parameter or a special ability parameter whose value is allowed to change) has two growth change lines, route A and route B, along which the special ability parameter grows and changes, the parameter control unit 105 selects route A if the game status indicates that a certain amount has been charged within a certain period of time, and selects route B to control the change in the special ability parameter if the game status indicates that the amount charged has not reached a certain amount within a certain period of time.

[0213] Also, for example, as in Figure 8A, if a special ability parameter changed by the special ability parameter growth permission process has two growth paths (hereinafter referred to as "growth change lines"), route A and route B, along which the special ability parameter grows and changes, and as shown in Figure 8B, when the game progresses and the branching point C of the routes is reached, the game card management unit 104 determines route A or route B based on the player's selection and controls the fluctuation of the special ability parameter.

[0214] Note that FIG. 8B shows an example in which the growth change line at the bottom of the drawing has already been discarded due to other game situations.

[0215] When the upper limit determination process determines that the values ​​of the upper limit setting parameters defined on multiple main game cards have reached their upper limits, the game card management unit 104 controls the growth conditions for the special ability parameters permitted on the support game cards according to the number of main game cards whose upper limit setting parameter values ​​have reached their upper limits and the total value of the parameters defined on those main game cards.

[0216] In other words, the game card management unit 104 can give the player an advantage in the game by collecting many first game media whose upper limit setting parameter values ​​have reached the upper limit, thereby incorporating a new interest in collecting many first game media into the game.

[0217] [4.5] Processing in the terminal device Next, various processes executed by the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described.

[0218] The terminal device 20 of this embodiment is (A1) Accept the player's instructions, (A2) Transmitting the received player's instructions to the server device 10, and receiving game information related to the game, including information related to growth elements, special ability parameter growth permission processing (including upper limit value determination processing), and special ability parameter growth control processing; (A3) displaying an image relating to the game on the display unit 290 based on the received game information; It has the following structure.

[0219] Specifically, the input reception processing unit 214 receives the inputs to be used in combination during the game as described above. The game device accepts instructions from the player to select a main game card to be played and a support game card to which a given relationship has been set with respect to the main game card (including instructions regarding the relationship between the main card and the support card).

[0220] Then, the communication control unit 210 transmits information including the player's instructions received by the input reception processing unit 214 to the server device 10.

[0221] On the other hand, when the display control unit 213 receives via the communication control unit 210 that it has been determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the selected main card has reached the upper limit, and that it has been permitted to change the growth element of a support card that has a given relationship with the main card and for which changing the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting, it causes the display unit 290 to display an image relating to at least one of the determination result and the permitted growth element.

[0222] Furthermore, when the display control unit 213 receives game information relating to the special ability parameter growth control process via the communication control unit 210, it causes the display unit 290 to display information relating to the received game information.

[0223] [5] Operation of this embodiment (special ability parameter growth permission process) Next, the operation of the special ability parameter growth permission process, including the upper limit value determination process, executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0224] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the special ability parameter growth permission process, including the upper limit value determination process, executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0225] In this operation, it is assumed that the game card information storage unit 148 has stored card game information (including information on the initial values ​​of upper limit setting parameters and special ability parameters) of each player in advance.

[0226] This operation is performed for each player, and is an example of an operation performed for a specific player.

[0227] Furthermore, in this operation, it is assumed that, at the player's instruction, a main game card and a support game card that has a given relationship with the main game card (for example, a relationship between a player character and a character piloting the player character, which becomes aggressive when the piloted character and the player character are combined), and that has multiple special ability parameters defined, the parameters of which cannot be changed, are already combined and used in the game.

[0228] In this operation, it is assumed that the main game card and the support card having a given relationship with the main game card have already been set based on the player's instructions, and that the main game card and the support game card have a given relationship because they have been set in this way based on the player's instructions.

[0229] First, when the parameter control unit 105 detects that the upper limit setting parameter defined for the main game card in the combination of the main game card and the support game card used in the game (hereinafter referred to as the "game card combination") has changed (step S101), it executes an upper limit value determination process to determine whether the upper limit setting parameter whose value has been detected has reached the upper limit value (step S102).

[0230] At this time, the parameter control unit 105 detects a change in the parameter value and sets an upper limit setting parameter. If it is determined that the meter has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S103, and if it is determined that the upper limit setting parameter has not reached the upper limit value, the operation is terminated.

[0231] Next, when the parameter control unit 105 determines that the upper limit setting parameter that has detected a change in the parameter value has reached the upper limit value, it determines a special ability parameter that is specified for the support game card and whose parameters are prohibited from being changed as an initial setting, depending on the relationship between the main game card and the support game card used in the game card combination (step S103).

[0232] For example, if the player character is a character with primarily high attacking ability and the support character is a character that also demonstrates attacking ability, the parameter control unit 105 selects from among multiple special ability parameters a special ability parameter that complements the attacking power.

[0233] Next, the parameter control unit 105 executes a special ability parameter growth permission process that permits a change to the identified special ability parameter (step S104).

[0234] At this time, the parameter control unit 105 sets a specific skill map to the corresponding special ability parameter.

[0235] Finally, the game card management unit 104 searches for the game card information of the corresponding support game card, updates the flag information of the special ability parameter in the corresponding game card information to indicate that the special ability parameter growth permission process has been performed (step S105), and terminates this operation.

[0236] When a new change to a special ability parameter is permitted, the game card management unit 104 executes a condition determination process to determine whether or not a given game condition is met, and if it determines that the special ability parameter satisfies the given game condition, executes a special ability parameter growth control process to change the ability of the special ability parameter if applicable.

[0237] In addition, as a special ability parameter growth control process, the game card management unit 104 may execute a process to change the fluctuation process when controlling the fluctuation of the bonus ability parameter based on the player's selection (player's selection operation) or according to the game situation.

[0238] [6] Other The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. For example, terms cited in the specification or drawings as broadly defined or synonymous terms can be replaced with broadly defined or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

[0239] In this embodiment, a fighting game in which a fighting (battle) game is played as the first game and a simulation game in which a city is built as the second game are used for explanation, but this embodiment is not limited to this and various games, for example, fighting games such as sports games such as baseball games, soccer games, basketball games, etc., role-playing games, It may also be applied to other simulation games.

[0240] In addition, in this embodiment, each game may be provided to the terminal device 20 by one server device 10, or a server system may be constructed by linking a plurality of server devices 10, and each game may be provided to the terminal device 20.

[0241] The present invention has substantially the same configuration (for example, function, method and result) as the configuration described in the embodiment. The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects as the configurations described in the embodiments or that can achieve the same purpose. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0242] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail as above, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made without substantially departing from the novel features and effects of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0243] 10...Server equipment 20... Terminal equipment 100 ... Processing section 101 ... Communication control unit 102 ... Web processing section 103 ... Game Management Department 104... Game Card Management Department 105 ... Parameter control section 110 ... Timer management unit 111 … Information provision department 120 ... Input section 130 … Display section 140 … Storage section 142 … Main memory section 144 ... Game data storage section 146 ... Player information storage unit 148 ... Game card information storage section 180 … information storage medium, 196 … Communications Department 200 ... Processing section 210 ... Communication control section 211 ... Web browser 212 ... Game processing section 213 ... Display control unit 214 ... Game screen control unit 220 ... Drawing section 230 ... Sound processing section 260 ... Input section 262 ... Detector 270 … Storage section 271 … Main memory section 272 ... Image buffer 280 … Information storage medium 290…Display section 292 ... Sound output section 296 … Communications Department

Claims

1. A server system for allowing terminal devices connected via a network to execute a game that progresses using game media, comprising: a management means for managing, for each player, information on the game media owned by each player as game medium information, the information including at least a first game medium stored in a storage medium, the first game medium having an upper limit setting parameter set to an upper limit value, and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for progressing the game using the first game medium and a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium, based on an instruction from the player transmitted from the terminal device; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; a providing means for providing information about the game progressing based on the second game medium to the terminal device, including when a change to the growth element in the second game medium is permitted; A server system comprising:

2. 2. The server system according to claim 1, the first game medium is a medium in which a player character to be instructed by the player is defined; A server system in which the second game medium is a medium for complementing the abilities or performance of the player character.

3. 3. The server system according to claim 1, The server system further comprises a setting means for setting the given relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium based on instructions from the player.

4. The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the growth element is a growth parameter for adding a given ability to the second game medium, or a growth parameter indicating a degree of growth of the second game medium; The permission means: A server system that, as a process for executing permission to change the growth element, allows the second game medium to add the growth parameter or change the value of the growth parameter.

5. 5. The server system according to claim 4, a plurality of growth parameters are defined as the growth elements in the second game medium; The permission means: determining a growth parameter to be permitted by the permitting means from among a plurality of growth parameters in accordance with the set relationship between the first game content and the second game content; A server system that allows the addition of the determined growth parameter or the change of the value of the determined growth parameter.

6. 6. The server system according to claim 5, a plurality of growth parameters are defined for the second game medium; The permission means: determining a priority order for determining growth parameters to be permitted by the permitting means from among a plurality of growth parameters in accordance with the set relationship between the first game content and the second game content; A server system that, when it is determined that the first game medium meets given conditions, determines the growth parameters for which the addition or change of value is permitted in accordance with the determined priority.

7. 6. The server system according to claim 5, The second game medium has growth parameters defined therein, the growth parameters having a plurality of growth processes defined therein, each of which has a different transition path depending on growth as the game progresses; The permission means: A server system that determines the growth process according to the set relationship between the first game medium and the second game medium, and allows the addition of growth parameters that define the determined growth process or the change of the values ​​of the growth parameters.

8. The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The server system further comprises a growth control means for growing permitted growth elements in the second game medium as the game progresses.

9. 9. The server system according to claim 8, The growth control means If the determination process determines that the value of the upper limit setting parameter in multiple first game media has reached its upper limit, the server system controls the growth process of the growth parameter allowed in the second game media according to the number of first game media whose value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached its upper limit and the total value of the parameters specified for the first game media.

10. A program for causing a terminal device connected via a network to execute a game that progresses using game media, a management means for managing, for each player, information on the game media owned by each player, the game media including at least a first game medium stored in a storage medium, the first game medium having an upper limit setting parameter set to an upper limit value, and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for combining the first game medium with a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium based on an instruction from the player transmitted from the terminal device, and progressing the game using the combined game medium; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; and a providing means for providing information about the game progressing based on the second game medium to the terminal device, including when a change to the growth element in the second game medium is permitted; A program that causes a computer to function as a

11. A game system that executes a game that progresses using game media, For each player, a game medium stored in a storage medium is set with an upper limit setting. a management means for managing, as game medium information, information on game media owned by each player, the information including at least a first game medium having a predetermined parameter and a second game medium of a different type from the first game medium, the second game medium having a growth element that grows as the game progresses and is initially prohibited from being changed; a game control means for combining the first game medium with a second game medium having a given relationship with the first game medium based on an instruction from the player, and progressing the game using the combined game medium; a determination processing means for executing a determination process for determining whether or not the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the first game medium has reached an upper limit during the game; a permission means for permitting, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter has reached the upper limit, a change of the growth element in a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and in which change of the growth element is prohibited in the initial setting; A game system comprising:

12. A terminal device connected to the game system according to claim 11 via a network, a reception processing means for receiving instructions from the player; a communication control means for transmitting the received player's instructions to the game system and receiving game information relating to the game, including information relating to the determination process and the growth elements; a display control means for causing a display means to display an image relating to the game based on the received game information; Equipped with The reception processing means accepting an instruction from the player to select the first game medium and the second game medium to be used in combination during the game; The display control means In the game system, when it is determined that the value of the upper limit setting parameter for the selected first game medium has reached its upper limit, and when a change to the growth element of a second game medium that has the given relationship with the first game medium and for which changes to the growth element are prohibited in the initial setting is permitted, a terminal device characterized in that an image relating to at least one of the determination result and the permitted growth element is displayed on the display means.

Images