Throwing game device, information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide a throwing game device or the like capable of increasing fun of a throwing game.SOLUTION: An information processing device outputs display data regarding a throwing game in which a finish is determined by successively subtracting obtained points correlated with a segment against which a throwing instrument hits from among multiple segments provided in a target from awarded points, and matching the awarded points to a reference value. The information processing device comprises: a segment minimum number calculation section for calculating the minimum number of segments that is the minimum number of throwing required for matching awarded points to a reference value when assuming that a throwing instrument hits against segments in the next throwing in association with the respective segments of multiple segments; a display data generation section for generating display data for displaying at least one segment from among multiple segments in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments correlated with the segment; and an output section for outputting display data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a throwing game device, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Various throwing game devices have been proposed for playing dart games. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a dart game device called Zero One that is capable of calculating points, the number of throws, the number of rounds, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-190487 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In darts games such as Zero One, the points of each segment hit by a dart are sequentially subtracted from a preset score, and the player wins when the score reaches a reference value such as zero. Therefore, in order to win with as few throws as possible, the segment to be hit with the next throw is not necessarily limited to a segment with a high score, and various variations are possible depending on the score. However, the variations in the segment to be hit with the next throw are extremely diverse depending on the score and strategy, and understanding them requires a high level of skill on the part of the player.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a throwing game device, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that can improve the entertainment value of a throwing game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device that outputs display data relating to a throwing game in which the score associated with each of a plurality of segments provided on a target that has been hit by a throwing tool is sequentially subtracted from the player's score and the winner is determined by matching the player's score to a reference value. The information processing device includes: a minimum number of segments calculation unit that calculates, for each of the plurality of segments, the minimum number of throws required to match the player's score to the reference value, assuming that the throwing tool will hit that segment with the next throw; a display data generation unit that generates display data for displaying at least one of the plurality of segments in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments associated with that segment; and an output unit that outputs the display data.

[0007] According to this aspect, at least one of the multiple segments is displayed in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments, which is the minimum number of throws required to make the player's points equal to the reference value, assuming that the throwing implement will hit that segment in the next throw. This allows the player to grasp the minimum number of segments for at least one segment, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the throwing game. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a throwing game device, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that can improve the entertainment value of a throwing game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of the appearance of a dart game device 10. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a darts game device 10. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of a target 101A. [Figure 4] 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functional units included in a control device 111. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of an arrange table. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen G displayed based on display data generated by an output data generating unit. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the darts game device 10. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. (Note that in each drawing, components with the same reference numerals have the same or similar configurations.)

[0011] (1) Darts game device 10 Fig. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of the appearance of the darts game device 10. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the darts game device 10.

[0012] The darts game device 10 is a game device for playing a darts game (an example of a throwing game), and is configured with various components inside and outside a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing. The darts game device 10 includes, for example, a dart board 101, a segment detection unit 102, a communication unit 103, an operation unit 104, a display unit 105, an audio output unit 106, a card slot 107, a card RW unit 108, a coin insertion unit 109, an external storage interface 110, and a control unit 111.

[0013] A target 101A having a substantially circular shape is provided on the dartboard 101. The target 101A is provided with a plurality of segments defined by the distance and direction from a center located approximately in the center of the target 101A. Each of these segments is defined, for example, by a frame erected on the target 101A. Each segment on the target 101A is provided with a plurality of receiving holes capable of receiving darts (an example of a throwing tool). When a dart thrown by a player reaches one of the receiving holes, the dart is held in a state in which a part of the dart is inserted (pierced) in the receiving hole. The segment including the receiving hole in which the dart is held is the segment in which the player hit the target with the dart during the throw, and the player is awarded points associated with that segment.

[0014] The target 101A will now be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the appearance of the target 101A. The target 101A has an inner bull's eye IB, an outer bull's eye OB, an inner single segment ISS, an outer single segment OSS, a triple segment TS, and a double segment DS, each of which is provided with a different type of segment.

[0015] A circular inner bull IB is placed at the center of target 101A. A ring-shaped outer bull OB is placed around the inner bull IB. A fan-shaped inner single-segment ISS is placed around the outer bull OB. A fan-shaped triple-segment TS is placed around the inner single-segment ISS. A fan-shaped outer single-segment OSS is placed around the triple-segment TS. A fan-shaped double-segment DS is placed around the outer single-segment OSS.

[0016] The inner single segment ISS, outer single segment OSS, double segment DS, and triple segment TS are assigned labels of numbers from 1 to 20 in each radial direction. In this disclosure, the inner bull IB and outer bull OB may be referred to as "bulls," the single segment ISS and single segment OSS may be referred to as "singles," the triple segment TS may be referred to as "triples," and the double segment DS may be referred to as "doubles." In addition, in this disclosure, a symbol indicating the type of segment (such as S for single segment or D for double segment) and a label associated with the segment may be used to represent the segment, such as "S5."

[0017] Each segment may be associated with a score that is awarded when the dart hits (targets) the segment, for example, as follows: An inner bull IB may be associated with a predetermined score (e.g., 50 points). An outer bull OB may be associated with a predetermined score (e.g., 50 points). The predetermined score associated with an outer bull OB may be the same as the score associated with the inner bull IB (fat bull), or may be half the score associated with the inner bull IB (e.g., 25 points) (separate bull). In the case of a separate bull, the inner bull IB may be referred to as a "double bull," and the outer bull OB may be referred to as a "single bull." An inner single segment ISS and an outer single segment OSS may be associated with the score of a label associated with the segment, for example. A double segment DS may be associated with the score that is twice the score of the label associated with the segment, for example. A triple segment TS may be associated with the score that is three times the score of the label associated with the segment, for example.

[0018] The darts game device 10 according to this embodiment is applicable to any darts game, and in particular to a darts game in which the winner is determined based on a comparison between the total score associated with the segment that is hit by the dart and a reference value, out of multiple segments provided on the target.

[0019] In this disclosure, as an example, a case will be described in which the darts game device 10 according to the present embodiment is applied to a darts game called Zero One. In Zero One, a match consists of multiple rounds. In each round, each player throws a predetermined number of darts (e.g., three darts). A player starts with a preset starting score. The value of the starting score is not particularly limited and can be set arbitrarily. For example, it may be a value with a fraction of 1, such as 301 points or 501 points, or a value other than 1, such as a fraction of 0. Each time a dart hits a segment, the player subtracts (subtracts) the score of the segment that the dart hit from their own score, and the resulting value becomes their new score. If the player can match their own score to a reference value (e.g., 0), they win. The player who reduces their own score to 0 the fastest in this way wins. On the other hand, if the dart hits a segment with a score higher than their own score, it is considered a burst and a preset penalty is imposed instead of winning. The handling of a bust can be defined arbitrarily, but for example, the player may be replaced by the next player even if he has not finished throwing three darts, and his points may be returned to what they were at the start of the round.

[0020] In ZeroOne, a segment that must be hit with the first throw may be set as an in option. In options may include, for example, a "double in" that requires a double to be hit with the first throw, or a "master in" that requires a double or triple to be hit with the fewest throws. Note that an "open in" option may be set, which allows any segment to be hit with the first throw.

[0021] In Zero One, as an out option, an "open out" rule may be imposed, which has no restrictions on the segment that the dart must hit when going up, or a rule may be imposed that requires the dart to hit a specific segment when going up. The specific segment that the dart must hit when going up is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, either the double segment DS or the inner bull IB ("double out" rule), or either the double segment DS, triple segment TS, inner bull IB, or outer bull OB ("master out" rule).

[0022] 1 and 2 again. The segment detection unit 102 is for detecting a segment hit by a dart thrown by a player, and multiple segment detection units 102 are provided corresponding to the segments of the target 101A provided on the dartboard 101. In this embodiment, when a dart thrown by a player hits a specific segment, that segment of the dartboard 101 moves slightly backward due to the impact of the dart. The segment detection unit 102 detects the displacement of that segment of the dartboard 101, and sends a detection signal indicating the segment hit by the dart to the control device 111. The segment detection unit 102 may be configured as a membrane switch, for example, configured by stacking a membrane sheet and multiple electrical contacts that become conductive when pressure is applied from the outside.

[0023] The communication device 103 includes a communication interface circuit for connecting the darts game device 10 to a communication network, and communicates with the communication network. The communication device 103 supplies data received from other information processing devices via the communication network to the control device 111. The communication device 103 also transmits data supplied from the control device 111 to other information processing devices via the communication network.

[0024] The operation device 104 is used by the player to perform various operations, and is configured, for example, with operation buttons provided on an operation panel. The operation device 104 in this embodiment is operated by the player, for example, when selecting various darts games (e.g., Zero One, Cricket, etc.).

[0025] The display device 105 is an example of an output device, and has a function of displaying various screens related to the darts game based on display data supplied from the control device 111. Specifically, the display device 105 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0026] The audio output device 106 is another example of an output device, and has a function of outputting audio related to the darts game (audio output) based on an audio signal supplied from the control device 111. Specifically, the audio output device 106 is configured, for example, by a speaker or the like that can amplify an audio signal with a digital amplifier or the like and output the audible audio.

[0027] The card slot 107 is an insertion slot into which a player's own player card is inserted. The darts game device 10 in this embodiment is provided with four card slots 107 so that a maximum of four teams can play a match (the maximum number of players is not limited). The player card is an example of a medium, and may be configured to be able to record, for example, player identification information (ID) and stats history from past matches. The card RW unit 108 is configured to be able to read and write such information recorded on the player card inserted into the card slot 107.

[0028] The coin insertion unit 109 has a slot for inserting coins and a sensor for detecting coins inserted through the slot. In this embodiment, the game can be played when a player inserts a predetermined number of coins through the coin insertion slot. Note that the darts game device 10 may be configured so that the game can be played by electronic payment using a prepaid payment method such as electronic money.

[0029] The external storage interface 110 is an interface to which an external storage such as a flash memory (USB memory) can be connected. The functions of the darts game device 10 according to the present embodiment may be realized by a setting file read from an external storage connected to the external storage interface 110, for example.

[0030] The control device 111 has a processor 112, a memory 113, and a storage 114. The control device 111 comprehensively controls the various components of the darts game device 10.

[0031] The processor 112 may be configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls various processes in the darts game device 10 by executing programs stored in the memory 113. For example, various functional units of the darts game device 10 can be realized as programs that are temporarily stored in the memory 113 and run mainly on the processor 112.

[0032] The memory 113 is a storage medium having, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that functions as a data storage area and a work area for the processor 112. The memory 113 temporarily stores data required when a program executed by the processor 112 is executed.

[0033] The storage 114 is a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD). The storage 114 stores an operating system and various programs. The storage 114 can also store various databases (DBs). Such programs and data are loaded into the memory 113 as needed, and are then referenced by the processor 112. The programs may be stored in a non-transitory recording medium such as a USB memory or a CD-ROM. The programs may also be supplied to the storage 114 via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the programs (such as a communication network or broadcast waves). One aspect of the present invention may be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the programs are embodied by electronic transmission.

[0034] (2) Functional configuration of the control device 111 The functional configuration of the control device 111 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The control device 111 is an example of an information processing device. Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functional units included in the control device 111. The control device 111 includes, for example, a storage unit 11 and a control unit 12 as functional units realized by a processor 112, a memory 113, a storage 114, and the like included in the control device 111.

[0035] The storage unit 11 stores data necessary for processing of the darts game device 10. The storage unit 11 may store, for example, match data of a darts game. The match data may include, for example, players who will participate in the match, match rules (in option, out option, points at the start of the match, etc.), points for each throw associated with each player, the number of throws and the number of rounds, and points updated for each throw.

[0036] The storage unit 11 stores, for example, an arrangement table. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the arrangement table. The arrangement table is a table that corresponds to a point value and lists combinations (arrangements) of segments that should be hit with darts to reduce the point value to 0. In the example shown in Fig. 5, each row in the leftmost column shows a specific point value, and the column to the right of that shows, for each number of throws, combinations (arrangements) of segments that should be hit with darts to reduce the point value to 0.

[0037] In the arrangement table, for example, if the player has 32 points, the column with the number of throws "1" shows "(D16)". This indicates that the player will win if the next throw is D16. Also, for example, if the player has 32 points, the column with the number of throws "2" shows "(D15, D1)". This indicates that the player will win if the next throw is D15 and the next one is D1. Similarly, for example, "(D14, D2)" indicates that the player will win if the next throw is D14 and the next one is D2.

[0038] The arrangement table may be configured to include all possible arrangements for some or all of the points held by a player. Alternatively, the arrangement table may be configured to include only a portion of the possible arrangements for some or all of the points held by a player. When the arrangement table includes only a portion of the arrangements, the portion can be set arbitrarily, and may be, for example, some or all of the arrangements possible under a predetermined rule such as master out or double out, or only arrangements based on a predetermined theory, or arrangements associated with a specific user.

[0039] The control unit 12 has a battle progression unit 12a, a minimum segment number calculation unit 12b, a minimum target number determination unit 12c, a recommended segment selection unit 12d, an output data generation unit 12e, and an output control unit 12f.

[0040] The match progression unit 12a executes control to progress a match in the darts game on the darts game device 10. The match progression unit 12a accepts, for example, operations related to the progress of the darts game by a player via the operation device 104 or the like. The match progression unit 12a detects segments hit by darts thrown by players, and records the segments as match data in the storage unit 11. The match progression unit 12a may also determine the winner of each player based on data such as the score, and record information related to the win or loss in the storage unit 11.

[0041] The minimum number of segments calculation unit 12b calculates the minimum number of segments in association with each segment of the target 101A. Here, the minimum number of segments is the minimum number of darts (including the number of darts to be thrown next) required for the player's points to match the reference value, assuming that the next dart will hit that segment. For example, if the player's current points are 32, and the player's next dart will hit D16, at least one dart (D16) must be thrown in order for the player's points of 32 to match the reference value (0 points). Therefore, if the player's current points are 32, the minimum number of segments associated with D16 is "1 (dart)." Similarly, if the current score is 32 points, and the dart hits D15 on the next throw, at least two throws (for example, D15 and S2) are required to make the score of 32 equal to the reference value (0 points). Therefore, if the current score is 32 points, the minimum number of segments associated with D15 is "2 (darts)". Note that the minimum number of segments calculation unit 12b may determine that it cannot calculate the minimum number of segments for a segment that would result in a burst if hit.

[0042] The method for calculating the minimum number of segments is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a method of calculating the difference between the player's points and a reference value, and then checking whether any throwing pattern (combination of segments) that assumes that the next throw will result in a winning dart hitting that segment based on that difference, and then determining the minimum number of throws among the numbers of throws in the winning throwing pattern as the minimum number of segments. Here, when checking whether a throwing pattern (combination of segments) will result in a winning dart, priority may be given to segments that are associated with a larger number of points.

[0043] The minimum number of segments may be calculated by referring to an arrangement table. Specifically, the difference between the points and a reference value is calculated, and a predetermined value is continuously subtracted until the difference is equal to a point value included in the arrangement table. When the result of the subtraction is equal to a point value included in the arrangement table, the minimum number of segments may be determined as the minimum number of segments. The predetermined value to be subtracted from the points may be set arbitrarily, but may also be a fixed value such as 60 points corresponding to T20 or 50 points corresponding to Bull. The predetermined value may also be a value based on the points (e.g., a value obtained by multiplying the points by a predetermined rate) under a predetermined condition, such as when the points fall below a predetermined value.

[0044] The minimum target number determination unit 12c determines the minimum number of targets. Here, the minimum number of targets is the minimum value among the minimum numbers of segments associated with each segment of the target 101A. For example, the minimum target number determination unit 12c determines the minimum number of targets among the minimum numbers of segments associated with each segment of the target 101A calculated by the minimum segment number calculation unit 12b.

[0045] The recommended segment selection unit 12d selects a segment for which the target is recommended (recommended segment) from the segments of the target 101A. The recommended segment selection unit 12d may select a recommended segment from the segments of the target 101A based on predetermined selection conditions. The selection conditions may be defined to include at least one of the first to fourth subconditions shown below, or any other optional subcondition. The selection conditions may be defined arbitrarily according to the rules of the darts game, and may include, for example, multiple subconditions as an "and" condition, or as an "or" condition, or a priority may be set for each subcondition. Hereinafter, a segment that is to be determined as a recommended segment may be referred to as a "target segment."

[0046] The first sub-condition may be a condition based on the difference in the number of throws associated with each segment of the target 101A. Here, the difference in the number of throws is a value obtained by subtracting the minimum number of targets from the minimum number of segments associated with each of the multiple segments. The first sub-condition may be, for example, that the difference in the number of throws associated with a target segment (a segment that is the subject of a determination as to whether or not it corresponds to a recommended segment) is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (an example of a first threshold). Here, the threshold may be any number equal to or greater than 0, 1, 2, and 3. In particular, a segment with a difference in the number of throws of 0 is a segment within the target 101A that can be completed with the minimum number of throws.

[0047] Furthermore, the first sub-condition may be, for example, that the sum of the difference in number of darts associated with the target segment and the difference in number of darts associated with at least one adjacent segment adjacent to the target segment is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value (an example of a second threshold value). Here, the threshold value may be any number equal to or greater than 0, 1, 2, or 3. By taking into consideration not only the difference in number of darts in the target segment but also the difference in number of darts in the adjacent segments when selecting a recommended segment, it is possible to also take into consideration the difference in number of segments that are likely to actually be hit by the dart if the target segment is missed.

[0048] Adjacent segments can be set arbitrarily, but may include, for example, segments that connect to the target segment at an edge and / or point, segments that connect to the target segment across one or more segments, or segments associated with a score adjacent to the score associated with the target segment.

[0049] The second sub-condition may be a condition based on the type of the target segment. Here, the type of segment may include, for example, single, double, triple, inner bull, and outer bull. The second sub-condition may be, for example, that the target segment is a single, double, triple, inner bull, or outer bull.

[0050] In addition, the second sub-condition may set a priority among these multiple types. The second sub-condition makes it possible to handle, for example, in-options and out-options. The second sub-condition also makes it possible to recommend segments according to the player's level, for example, by recommending single segments for beginners and double or triple segments for advanced players.

[0051] The third sub-condition may be a condition based on the score associated with the target segment. For example, the third sub-condition may be that the score associated with the target segment is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold can be set arbitrarily and may be any value selected from 1 to 60, such as 18.

[0052] Furthermore, the third sub-condition may be, for example, that the score associated with the target segment and the current score have a predetermined relationship. The predetermined relationship may be, for example, that the value obtained by subtracting the score associated with the target segment from the current score (i.e., the new current score when the target segment is hit) is a predetermined value. The predetermined value can be set arbitrarily, but may be, for example, a number that does not result in a bogey number (for example, the last digit is 0, 1, 4, or 7). Here, a bogey number may be, for example, an unfavorable current score, such as a specific current score that cannot be increased in one round.

[0053] The fourth sub-condition may be that the recommended segment includes points within a specified range. For example, a segment to be selected as a recommended segment may be specified in advance with respect to a predetermined range of points. Specifically, for example, if the points are greater than a specified value (e.g., 240 points), a bull may be specified as the recommended segment. The fourth sub-condition may be that if the points are within the specified range, the pre-specified segment is selected as the recommended segment.

[0054] A specific example of how to select a recommended segment is explained below. It is assumed that the in option is not set, or that the in option is set and the start has already begun (at least one throw has been made).

[0055] When using a fat bull, if the player's score is greater than 240 points, the bull (inner bull IB and outer bull OB) may be selected as the recommended segment (fourth sub-condition). When using a fat bull, if the player's score is 240 points or less, the T20 with the highest score may be selected as the recommended segment (third sub-condition).

[0056] If detachable cables are used, T20, T19, and T18 may be candidates for the recommended segment (third sub-condition). Furthermore, after T20, T19, and T18 are candidates for the recommended segment, the following conditions regarding the difference in number of lines are compared in order from top to bottom, and if only one candidate segment remains, that candidate segment may be selected as the recommended segment (first sub-condition). (i) The difference in number is 0. (ii) The difference in number between adjacent single segments is 0. (iii) The sum of the difference in the number of segments of each single (S5 and S1) and triple (T5 and T1) of adjacent labels (labels 5 and 1 in the case of T20) is the smallest. However, if there is only one throw remaining in the round, a single segment with the last digit of the points being 0, 1, 4, or 7 may be selected as the recommended segment (third minor condition).

[0057] The output data generation unit 12e generates output data for controlling the output of various output devices. The output data generation unit 12e may have the function of a display data generation unit, for example, and may generate display data (an example of output data) for displaying a predetermined screen on the display device 105. The predetermined screen may be related to a darts game.

[0058] An example of a screen G displayed based on the display data generated by the output data generating unit 12e will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The screen G includes areas G0, G1, G2, and G3.

[0059] Area G0 contains a history of the points earned in each round. In this example, as shown in FIG. 6, the points earned in round R1 are 17, the points earned in round R2 are 78, the points earned in round R3 are 180, the points earned in round R4 are 136, the points earned in round R5 are 50, and the points earned in round R6 are 8. In this example, the points earned at the start of the game are 501. In this case, the points earned at the time shown in FIG. 6 are 501-(17+78+180+136+50+8)=32.

[0060] Area G1 shows each segment of target 101A. At least one segment in area G1 is displayed in a display mode based on the legend or the like shown in area G3.

[0061] The display mode of at least one segment may be based on, for example, the minimum number of segments associated with the segment. In particular, the display mode of at least one segment may be based on, for example, the difference in number, which is the value obtained by subtracting the minimum number of targets from the minimum number of segments associated with the segment. Specifically, the display mode of at least one segment may be determined by a color, shape, movement, or other element set according to the difference in number. For example, in area G3, a dotted pattern (assumed to be green) with the text "QUICKLY" attached indicates the segment with the smallest difference in number (0) within target 101A. In this example, as shown in area G1, D16 is a green segment. Also, for example, in area G1, a segment with the same color as the normal display is a segment with a difference in number of +1. In this example, D1, S2, D2, T2, D3, S4, D4, T4, D5, S6, D6, T6, D7, S8, D8, T8, D9, S10, D10, T10, D11, S12, D12, D13, S14, D14, D15, S16, S18, and S20 are segments of the same color as in the normal display. Also, for example, in area G3, a segment with a diagonal line pattern (assumed to be red) with the text "SLOWLY" indicates a segment with a difference in number of +2. In this example, as shown in area G1, S1, T1, S3, T3, S5, T5, S7, T7, S9, T9, S11, S13, S15, S17, S19, and outer bull OB are red segments.

[0062] The display mode of at least one segment may be a mode associated with a burst segment, for example, if the segment is a burst segment. For example, in area G3, a segment with a pattern of upward and downward diagonal lines (assumed to be blue) with the text "BUST" attached indicates a burst segment. In this example, as shown in area G1, T11, T12, T13, T14, T15, T16, D17, T17, D18, T18, D19, T19, D20, T20, and inner bull IB are blue segments as an example of a display mode associated with a burst segment.

[0063] On screen G, the display of the recommended segments may be emphasized. In this example, a case where D16 is selected as a recommended segment is shown as an example. Segment D16 is highlighted by being surrounded by a thick frame. The thick frame may be colored yellow, for example. The manner of emphasizing the display of the recommended segments is not limited to the illustrated example, and any other method may be adopted. For example, the recommended segments may be surrounded by a thick frame or other object, or the color of the recommended segments or the objects may change over time (including blinking). Furthermore, text such as "Triple 20" or "T20" may be displayed to identify the recommended segments, or an animation that emphasizes the display of the recommended segments may be displayed.

[0064] Area G2 may display the minimum number of darts corresponding to the current points, i.e., the minimum target number, which is the smallest of the minimum segment numbers of each segment included in target 101A. Area G2 may also display the number of rounds required for the minimum target number. In the example shown in FIG. 6, below the text "QUICKEST," the text "DARTS 1" is displayed, indicating that the minimum target number (the smallest of the minimum segment numbers of segments included in target 101A) is "1." In the example shown in FIG. 6, as an example, to the right of "DARTS 1" is displayed the text "ROUNDS 1," indicating that the number of rounds required for the minimum target number is "1." In addition, at the bottom of area G2, multiple rectangular objects are displayed. The minimum target number is indicated by the number of filled-in objects among the objects. In the example shown in FIG. 6, only one of the rightmost objects is filled-in. This indicates that the minimum target number is 1. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the objects are filled in starting from the right side, but the objects may be filled in starting from the left side instead.

[0065] Referring again to Figure 4, the output data generation unit 12e may have the function of an audio output data generation unit, and may generate audio output data (an example of output data) for causing the audio output device 106 to output a predetermined audio. The predetermined audio may be related to the darts game, particularly the minimum number of darts per segment, the minimum number of darts per target, the difference in number of darts, a recommended segment, the minimum number of rounds, etc. The predetermined audio may be content indicating, for example, the minimum number of darts per segment or the difference in number of darts, the minimum number of targets, the minimum number of rounds, etc. associated with a specific segment. The predetermined audio may also be content indicating a specific segment, such as a recommended segment.

[0066] The output control unit 12f is an example of an output unit, and controls output by various output devices based on the output data generated by the output data generation unit 12e. The output control unit 12f may, for example, cause the display device 105 to display a predetermined screen based on the display data generated by the output data generation unit 12e. Furthermore, the output control unit 12f may, for example, cause the audio output device 106 to output a predetermined sound based on the audio output data generated by the output data generation unit 12e.

[0067] (3) Operation processing 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the darts game device 10. The operation of the darts game device 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0068] (S11) The match progression unit 12a calculates the player's points at a predetermined timing based on the match data and the like stored in the memory unit 11. The predetermined timing is not particularly limited, and may include, for example, when it is detected that the dart has hit an arbitrary segment, when an operation by the player on the operation device 104 and the like is accepted, when predetermined data and the like is received from another information processing device and the like via the communication device 103, or at predetermined periodic timing. The match progression unit 12a may calculate the points by, for example, subtracting the total score of each throw by the player from the starting points set as a rule, or may calculate the points by subtracting the score of the latest throw from the value of the points before the latest throw.

[0069] (S12) Next, the minimum number of segments calculation unit 12b calculates the minimum number of segments for each segment of the target 101A based on the allocated points calculated in step S11. The minimum number of segments calculation unit 12b may, for example, calculate the difference between the allocated points and a reference value, and based on the difference, check whether any throwing pattern (combination of segments) assuming that the next throw will result in a winning dart hitting the segment, and then determine the minimum number of segments among the numbers of throws in the winning throwing pattern as the minimum number of segments. Note that the minimum number of segments calculation unit 12b may, for example, calculate the difference between the allocated points and the reference value, continue to subtract a predetermined value (e.g., 60 corresponding to T20) until the calculated difference becomes a value of allocated points included in the arrange table, and when the calculated difference becomes a value of allocated points included in the arrange table, determine the minimum number of segments among the numbers of throws in the throwing patterns associated with the allocated points in the arrange table as the minimum number of segments.

[0070] (S13) Next, the minimum target number determiner 12c determines the minimum number of targets. For example, the minimum target number determiner 12c determines the minimum number of segments calculated for each segment in step S12 as the minimum number of targets.

[0071] (S14) Next, the recommended segment selection unit 12d selects a recommended segment from the segments of the target 101A. The recommended segment selection unit 12d may select a recommended segment from the segments of the target 101A based on predetermined selection conditions. The selection conditions may be defined to include at least one of the first to fourth sub-conditions described above or any other sub-condition. The method of defining the selection conditions may be set according to the rules of the darts game.

[0072] (S15) The output data generation unit 12e generates output data for controlling the output of various output devices based on the minimum number of segments calculated in step S12, the minimum target number of segments determined in step S13, and / or the recommended segment selected in step S14. The output data generation unit 12e may, for example, generate display data for displaying a predetermined screen on the display device 105. The display mode of at least one segment based on the display data may, for example, be based on the minimum number of segments associated with the segment. In particular, the display mode of at least one segment may, for example, be based on the number difference, which is the value obtained by subtracting the minimum target number from the minimum number of segments associated with the segment. The output data generation unit 12e may, for example, generate audio output data for causing the audio output device 106 to output a predetermined sound. The predetermined sound may, for example, indicate the minimum number of segments or number difference, the minimum target number, and the minimum number of rounds associated with a specific segment. Furthermore, the predetermined sound may indicate a specific segment, such as a recommended segment.

[0073] (S16) Next, the output control unit 12f controls output by various output devices based on the output data generated by the output data generation unit 12e. The output control unit 12f may, for example, cause the display device 105 to display a predetermined screen based on the display data generated by the output data generation unit 12e. Furthermore, the output control unit 12f may, for example, cause the audio output device 106 to output a predetermined sound based on the audio output data generated by the output data generation unit 12e.

[0074] (4) Variations In the above-described embodiment, the control device 111 included in the darts game device 10 may transmit output data (display data and audio data) to another information processing device via a communication network such as the Internet. The other information processing device may perform various outputs (display output and audio output) based on the output data received from the darts game device 10. This makes it possible to grasp information such as the minimum number of darts in a segment, the difference in number of darts, the minimum number of targets, and recommended segments in the match, using the information processing device at a location remote from the venue where the darts game is being held.

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, the control device 111 of the darts game device 10 is equipped with the functional units shown in Fig. 4. However, at least some of the functional units shown in Fig. 4 may not be equipped in the darts game device 10, but may be equipped in any information processing device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal configured with a processor, memory, storage, etc. Furthermore, the information processing device may be used in combination with, for example, a simple dartboard device for home use. Specifically, the information processing device may acquire information on segments that have been hit by darts among segments provided on the dartboard device based on a user's operation or communication with the dartboard device, and may then calculate the minimum number of segments and the difference in number of darts, determine the minimum number of targets, select recommended segments, generate and output display data, etc.

[0076] The recommended segment selection unit 12d may select recommended segments based at least on information about the player. The information about the player is not particularly limited, but may include, for example, the type of play style (e.g., "aggressive," "conservative," "balanced," etc.) selected by the player on the member page. This allows for the selection of recommended segments customized to suit the player's play style.

[0077] The recommended segment selection unit 12d may select recommended segments based at least on a machine-learned learning model. The learning model may be one in which machine learning is performed using match data of any player (such as the player for whom the recommended segments are to be displayed, or other players at an advanced level) as learning data. The recommended segment selection unit 12d may then input match data of the player in an ongoing match into the learning model and determine the output recommended segment as the selected recommended segment. This makes it possible to analyze the throwing habits of each player, the development of the ongoing match, and the like using the learning model, and then select and display recommended segments suited to the player.

[0078] The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. The elements of the embodiments, as well as their arrangement, materials, conditions, shapes, sizes, etc., are not limited to those illustrated and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, configurations shown in different embodiments can be partially substituted or combined with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 10...darts game device, 11...memory unit, 12...control unit, 12a...match progress unit, 12b...minimum number of segments calculation unit, 12c...minimum number of targets determination unit, 12d...recommended segment selection unit, 12e...output data generation unit, 12f...output control unit, 101...darts board, 102...segment detection unit, 103...communication device, 104...operation device, 105...display device, 106...audio output device, 107...card slot, 108...card RW unit, 109...coin insertion unit, 110...external storage interface, 111...control unit, 112...processor, 113...memory, 114...storage

Claims

1. An information processing device that outputs display data relating to a throwing game in which a player wins by sequentially subtracting points from a player's total points, the points being associated with segments of a target that have been hit by a throwing implement, and matching the total points to a reference value, a minimum number of segments calculation unit that calculates a minimum number of segments, which is the minimum number of throws required to make the points equal to the reference value, in association with at least one segment among the plurality of segments, assuming that the throwing implement will hit that segment in the next throw; a display data generating unit that generates display data for displaying each of the plurality of segments in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments associated with the segment; an output unit that outputs the display data; An information processing device comprising:

2. a target minimum number determination unit that determines a target minimum number, which is the minimum value of the segment minimum numbers associated with each of the plurality of segments; and a number difference calculation unit that calculates a number difference that is a value obtained by subtracting the target minimum number from the segment minimum number associated with each of the plurality of segments, The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the display data generating unit generates the display data for displaying the at least one segment of the plurality of segments in the display mode based on the difference in number.

3. a recommended segment selection unit that selects a recommended segment that is currently recommended from the plurality of segments based on a predetermined selection condition; The information processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the display data generating unit generates the display data for displaying the recommended segments in an emphasized manner.

4. The predetermined selection condition is: a first sub-condition based on the difference in the number of segments associated with each of the plurality of segments; a second sub-condition based on the type of each of the plurality of segments; a third sub-condition based on the score associated with each of the plurality of segments; a fourth sub-condition that the recommended segment includes the allocated points within a specified range; The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the information processing device is defined to include at least one of the following:

5. The information processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the first sub-condition includes that the difference in the number of segments associated with a target segment that is a candidate for the recommended segment among the plurality of segments is equal to or less than a predetermined first threshold value.

6. The information processing device of claim 4, wherein the first sub-condition includes that the sum of the number difference associated with a target segment, which is a segment among the plurality of segments that is a candidate for the recommended segment, and the number difference associated with an adjacent segment, which is at least one segment adjacent to the target segment, is less than or equal to a predetermined second threshold.

7. a voice data generating unit that generates voice data related to the recommended segment; The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the output unit further outputs the audio data.

8. An information processing method for outputting display data relating to a throwing game, in which points corresponding to segments that are hit by a throwing implement among a plurality of segments provided on a target are sequentially subtracted from an allocated score, and a win is determined by making the allocated score equal to a reference value, a minimum number of segments calculation step for calculating, in association with each of the plurality of segments, the minimum number of segments that is the minimum number of throws required to make the points equal to the reference value, assuming that the throwing implement will hit that segment in the next throw; a display data generating step of generating display data for displaying at least one segment of the plurality of segments in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments associated with the segment; an output step of outputting the display data; An information processing method including:

9. A program for causing a computer to function as an information processing device that outputs display data relating to a throwing game in which points associated with segments of a target that are hit by a throwing implement are sequentially subtracted from an accumulated score, and a win is determined by making the accumulated score equal to a reference value, the program comprising: a minimum number of segments calculation unit that calculates a minimum number of segments, which is the minimum number of throws required to make the points equal to the reference value, in association with each of the plurality of segments, assuming that the throwing implement will hit that segment in the next throw; a display data generating unit that generates display data for displaying at least one segment of the plurality of segments in a display mode based on the minimum number of segments associated with the segment; an output unit that outputs the display data; A program to function as a

10. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; the target; A throwing game device comprising:

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