Game system, computer program used therefor, and control method

Abstract

To provide a game system capable of increasing the number of users who can be matched with a special user.SOLUTION: A center server 2 (game system) provides a quiz game progressing in group units via a game machine 3. The center server 2 also acquires a request for requesting matching with a special group SG to which a special user SU as a user U who satisfies a special condition belongs from each general user NU as the user U differing from the special user SU. While the center server 2 overlappingly matches the special user SU with multiple special groups SG such that the multiple special groups SG in which a quiz game progresses in parallel are formed, it matches each general user NU such that each general user NU selectively belongs to one of the multiple special groups SG on the basis of a request.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system that provides a game in which a game progresses in units of groups formed by matching users up to a fixed number. [Background technology]

[0002] There are game systems that provide a game in which each user is matched up to a certain number of groups to form a group. For example, a game system that provides a battle game in which a plurality of users play by operating characters corresponding to each user is known as such a game (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6419112 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the game of Patent Document 1, a user is matched with other users who wish to play multiplayer games by spending virtual currency set by the user. This allows the user to be matched (multiplayer games) with a desired user, such as a famous user such as a professional gamer. However, because matching with a desired user requires spending virtual currency, excessive multiplayer requests to a specific user (e.g., a desired user such as a famous user) may be suppressed. However, the specific user is only matched one-to-one with the user. Therefore, if many users wish to play with the same specific user, there is a possibility that many users will remain unable to play with the specific user. This tendency is particularly pronounced when the number of specific users is small.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game system etc. that can increase the number of users who can be matched with special users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The game system of the present invention is a game system that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user up to a maximum number of users, and is equipped with a request acquisition means that acquires a request from each general user, who is a user other than the special user, to be matched with a special group to which a special user, who is a user that meets special conditions, belongs, and a matching means that matches the special user to a plurality of special groups in an overlapping manner so that a plurality of special groups in which the game progresses in parallel are formed as the special groups, while matching each general user so that each general user belongs alternatively to one of the plurality of special groups based on the request.

[0007] On the other hand, the computer program of the present invention is configured to cause a computer to function as each of the means of the above-mentioned game system.

[0008] In addition, the control method of the present invention causes a computer incorporated into a game system that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user up to a maximum number of users to execute a request acquisition procedure that acquires, from each general user who is a user other than the special user, a request to be matched to a special group to which a special user who is a user that satisfies special conditions belongs, and a matching procedure that matches the special user to a plurality of special groups in an overlapping manner so that a plurality of special groups in which the game progresses in parallel are formed as the special groups, while matching each general user so that each general user alternatively belongs to one of the plurality of special groups based on the request. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the main parts of a control system of the game system. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a special matching service. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a role of a special user in a special group. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the difference between normal progression and special progression in a quiz game. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a game screen for a quiz game. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a special matching process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a progress switching process. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for character placement processing. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a synchronization control process. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a game screen according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An example of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of the game system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The game system 1 includes a center server 2 and a plurality of game machines 3 as client devices connectable to the center server 2 via a predetermined network 5. The center server 2 is configured as a single logical server device by combining server units 2A, 2B, etc. as a plurality of computer devices. However, the center server 2 may also be configured by a single server unit. Alternatively, the center server 2 may be configured logically using cloud computing.

[0011] The game machine 3 may be any suitable computer device that provides games. Such computer devices include, for example, user terminal devices. A user terminal device is a computer device that can be connected to a network and is provided for personal use by a user. For example, such computer devices include a desktop or notebook personal computer, a desktop home game console, or a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a portable game console, or a portable tablet terminal device. While various types of computer devices may be used as the game machine 3, the example in FIG. 1 shows a commercial (service-use) game machine used as the game machine 3. A commercial game machine is an example of a game machine that allows users to play games within a range corresponding to a predetermined play fee in exchange for the payment of the play fee. This type of game machine 3 is sometimes called an arcade game machine and is installed in a predetermined facility such as a store 6 with the primary purpose of generating revenue by having many users repeatedly play games.

[0012] The game machine 3 provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching users up to a certain number of users. In other words, the game machine 3 provides a type of game that progresses in common among a plurality of users grouped by matching. The game machine 3 may appropriately provide various types of games such as action games, role-playing games, simulation games, or music games, and provides a quiz game as an example. A quiz game is a type of game in which users answer questions posed and the correctness of their answers is evaluated. The quiz game may be a cooperative game in which groups (teams) cooperate, but the following description will be given of a case in which the quiz game is configured as a competitive game in which groups compete for scores.

[0013] The network 5 may be configured appropriately as long as it can connect the game machines 3 to the center server 2. As an example, the network 5 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Typically, the network 5 is constructed by connecting the Internet 5A as a WAN with LANs 5B and 5C, which connect the center server 2 and the game machines 3 to the Internet 5A, respectively, via a router 5D. Note that a local server may be installed between the game machines 3 and the router 5D of the store 6, and the game machines 3 may be connected to the center server 2 so as to be able to communicate with the center server 2 via the local server. The server units 2A, 2B, etc. of the center server 2 may be connected to each other by a WAN 5A instead of or in addition to the LAN 5C.

[0014] The center server 2 provides various game machine services to the game machines 3 or their users. The game machine services may include various services necessary for the game machines 3 to provide a quiz game, and examples thereof include a matching service and a progress support service. The matching service is a service that matches users when multiple users play a quiz game via the network 5. Groups of players may be formed as appropriate, and examples thereof are formed through such a matching service. In other words, in a quiz game, users using game machines 3 installed in the same store 6 or different stores 6 are matched as players through the matching service.

[0015] The matching service also includes a normal matching service and a special matching service. The normal matching service is a service for realizing normal matching. In normal matching, each user is treated equally, as in general matching, and is selectively matched to one of the groups for playing the quiz game.

[0016] On the other hand, the special matching service is a service for realizing special matching. In special matching, some users among multiple users to be grouped are distinguished as special users from other users (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as general users), and these special users and general users are matched to form one group.

[0017] Specifically, in the special matching service, a request to be grouped (matched) with a special user is accepted from a general user, and the general user is matched with the special user in response to the request. Then, the general user and the special user are matched in response to the request, but the special user is allowed to belong to multiple groups. In other words, a special user may be matched through special matching so as to belong to multiple groups (hereinafter, the group to which the special user belongs may be referred to as a special group). On the other hand, a general user is matched to belong to one of the groups, as in normal matching, and is distinguished from a special user at least in terms of whether or not they are matched with other users. Details of the special matching service will be described further below.

[0018] The progress support service is a service for supporting the progress of a quiz game. Such a service may include, for example, sharing the results (such as whether an answer was correct or incorrect) of each user in a group as appropriate. The progress support service may be omitted as appropriate when the quiz game is configured so that support is not required, but as an example, the progress support service is configured to support special progress in a quiz game.

[0019] A special progression is a progression that differs from the normal progression. In a quiz game, a special progression may be provided as appropriate, but as an example, it is provided when a special user is present in a group. In other words, the progress of the quiz game is switched depending on the presence or absence of a special user, so that the game progresses in the normal progression when no special user is present in the group, and in the special progression when a special user is present in the group. The role (function) of the special user may be set as appropriate, but as an example, includes a role for switching such progression. Then, when a special progression is provided, a progression support service is provided to support the progress of the special progression.

[0020] The special progression may be implemented as appropriate, and the progression support service may provide appropriate support in response to the special progression. For example, support is provided to create at least a partial common progression among multiple special groups to which the same special user belongs. The common progression among multiple special groups may be implemented as appropriate, for example, by common timing, such as the start time of the quiz game so that the games start at the same time, or the timing of the questions being asked in a game that includes multiple questions, or by commonality of the scope of questions (e.g., genres in a game where the questions are categorized). For example, commonality of questions may apply only to questions asked to a special user in a game that includes multiple questions, or may apply to all questions, including those for the special user. In other words, in the case of a special progression, the question presentation is controlled so that all questions are common as part of the progression among multiple special groups to which the same special user belongs. For example, the progression support service provides support to create such commonality of questions. Specifically, through the progress support service, questions to be posed to multiple special groups to which the same special user belongs are determined by the center server 2, and the determined questions are shared with the game devices 3 of the users who form the multiple special groups so that they are actually asked in the quiz game. Details of the special progress will be further described below.

[0021] The game machine services may also include a distribution service that distributes and updates programs or data for the game machine 3 via the network 5, a service that receives user identification information from the game machine 3 and authenticates the user, and a service that receives and stores play data of the authenticated user from the game machine 3 or provides the stored play data to the game machine 3. Furthermore, the game machine services may also include a billing service that collects fees from users, as appropriate.

[0022] Next, the main parts of the control system of the game system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. First, the center server 2 is provided with a control unit 21 and a storage unit 22 as storage means. The control unit 21 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU, which is an example of a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined computer program, with an internal memory and other peripheral devices required for its operation.

[0023] The memory unit 22 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk array. The memory unit 22 may be configured to store all data on a single storage unit, or may be configured to store data in a distributed manner across multiple storage units. The memory unit 22 stores a server program PG1 as an example of a computer program that causes the control unit 21 to execute various processes necessary to provide various services to users. The memory unit 22 also stores server data SD necessary for providing various services. The server data SD includes various data necessary for providing various services. Such data may include various data for the quiz game as appropriate, and the example in FIG. 2 shows play data PD and question data QD.

[0024] The play data PD is data that describes information about each user's past play results. The play data PD is used, for example, to carry over previous play results (past results) to subsequent games or to carry over settings specific to each user. The play data PD may also be used to identify each user, such as a special user or a general user. Furthermore, the quiz game may be configured to rank users according to their past performance, or to form multiple leagues based on the rankings, etc. In such cases, the play data PD is also used to manage rankings, leagues, etc.

[0025] The question data QD is data used to manage questions asked in a quiz game and the answers to those questions. Therefore, the question data QD describes various questions and their corresponding answers in association with each other. The question data QD may also include various other information related to the question, such as the genre to which each question belongs and hints, as appropriate.

[0026] The control unit 21 is also provided with various logical devices realized by combining the control unit 21's hardware resources and the server program PG1 as software resources. The control unit 21 is appropriately provided with various logical devices, and the example in FIG. 2 shows a game machine service management unit 24. The game machine service management unit 24 is a logical device that executes processes for providing the above-described game machine services. Therefore, such processes include various processes for implementing the above-described matching service and progress support service. For example, the game machine service management unit 24 executes well-known processes for implementing normal matching (i.e., the normal matching service). Similarly, the game machine service management unit 24 executes various processes for implementing special matching (i.e., the special matching service), including, for example, special matching processing. The game machine service management unit 24 also executes various processes for implementing the progress support service, including, for example, synchronization control processing. The procedures for the special matching processing and synchronization control processing will be described in detail below. It should be noted that an input device such as a keyboard, an output device such as a monitor, etc. may be connected to the control unit 21 as needed, but these are not shown in the drawings.

[0027] On the other hand, the game machine 3 is provided with a control unit 31 as a computer and a storage unit 32 as storage means. The control unit 31 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU, which is an example of a processor that executes various processes according to a predetermined computer program, with internal memory and other peripheral devices required for its operation. The control unit 31 is provided with various logical devices that are realized by combining the hardware resources of the control unit 31 with the game program PG2, which is a software resource. In the example of Figure 2, a matching unit 36, an action determination unit 37, a display control unit 38, and a progress control unit 39 are shown.

[0028] The matching unit 36 ​​is a logical device that executes various processes related to matching through the matching service. For example, the matching unit 36 ​​executes processes such as requesting matching to play a quiz game from the center server 2, obtaining the results, and identifying multiple users who belong to each group. Therefore, for example, if a general user wishes to belong to a special group, the matching unit 36 ​​executes a process of requesting matching for that purpose.

[0029] The action determination unit 37 is a logical device that executes various processes for determining the actions of a user playing a quiz game. The user's actions do not have to be utilized, in which case the action determination unit 37 may be omitted, but as an example, the user's actions are utilized in playing the game. The user's actions may also be utilized appropriately, for example, for various play actions such as inputting an answer in a quiz game (including cases where an action is required as an answer) or requesting a hint, but as an example, they are utilized to be reflected in the actions of each character appearing in the quiz game.

[0030] Specifically, the quiz game may be provided as appropriate, for example, by presenting questions and inputting answers via audible input through a speaker SP and a microphone MI (described below), or by presenting questions on a game screen and inputting answers via touch operations through a monitor MO and a touch panel TP (described below). Similarly, the game screen may be configured as appropriate, and the quiz game may be provided as appropriate through the game screen. For example, the game screen may include characters (sometimes referred to as user characters) as avatars corresponding to each user, and the quiz game progresses through the user characters. The user's actual movements are reflected in the movements of the user characters on the game screen. For this reason, the processing performed by the movement determination unit 37 includes, for example, processing for determining the movements of each user and determining the movements of the characters based on the results of the determination.

[0031] The display control unit 38 is a logical device that executes various processes for controlling the display of a game screen for playing a quiz game. Such processes include, for example, a process for presenting questions and answers on the game screen. Similarly, the processes executed by the display control unit 38 include a process for displaying a user character that reflects the user's actions on the game screen (for example, causing the user character to perform an action corresponding to the user's actions) and placing the user character at an appropriate position. For example, the display control unit 38 executes a character placement process as one of the processes for placing the character. The details of the procedure for the character placement process will be described later.

[0032] The progress control unit 39 is a logical device that executes various processes for controlling the progress of the quiz game. The progress control unit 39 can appropriately execute various processes related to the progress of the quiz game, for example, executing processes such as determining whether the answers of each user (user character) are correct or incorrect and tallying up the results. The progress control unit 39 also executes processes such as switching the game progress between normal progress and special progress, and realizing progress in accordance with either the normal progress or the special progress. For example, the progress control unit 39 executes a progress switching process as one of the processes for switching the game progress. The procedure of the progress switching process will be described in detail later.

[0033] The storage unit 32 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk or semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 32 stores various data together with the game program PG2 described above, and the example in FIG. 2 shows game data GD. The game data GD is data used to allow the user to play the quiz game in accordance with the game program PG2. The game data GD may include various data, such as image data for displaying various images for the quiz game and background music (BGM) data for playing various background music, and the example in FIG. 2 shows play data PD and question data QD.

[0034] The game data GD may be stored in the storage unit 32 by any suitable method, for example, it may be pre-installed on the game machine 3, or it may be stored in the storage unit 32 via various recording media. In this way, the game data GD may be stored in the storage unit 32 by any suitable method, but as an example, the play data PD and question data QD may be provided from the center server 2 via a distribution service so that the necessary parts are included.

[0035] The game machine 3 may also be provided with various output devices and input devices necessary for an arcade game machine, and these may be connected to the control unit 31, but in the example of FIG. 2, a monitor MO and a speaker SP are connected as output devices. In other words, the output devices provided in the game machine 3 include the monitor MO and the speaker SP. The monitor MO is a display device for displaying a game screen including various images for the quiz game. The monitor MO displays various game screens (images) for providing the quiz game in accordance with an output signal from the control unit 31. In this example, the monitor MO functions as the output device of the present invention.

[0036] The speaker SP is an audio output device for reproducing various sounds. The speaker SP may be used as appropriate, for example, for setting questions as described above, but as an example, the speaker SP is used for reproducing various sounds such as background music. Specifically, the speaker SP reproduces various sounds such as background music for the quiz game in accordance with an output signal from the control unit 31.

[0037] Meanwhile, the example in Fig. 2 shows a camera CA, a touch panel TP, and a microphone MI as examples of input devices connected to the control unit 31. The camera CA is a well-known optical device for photographing a user playing the game machine 3. The camera CA outputs the photographed image to the control unit 31. When the user's actions are reflected in the user character, various detection devices for detecting the user's actions (motion) may be provided in the game machine 3 as appropriate, and the example in Fig. 2 shows a camera CA as an example of such a detection device.

[0038] The touch panel TP is a well-known input device that outputs signals corresponding to the user's touch operations (operations of touching with a finger). Various play actions for playing a quiz game may be input to the game machine 3 via an appropriate input device, but in the example of FIG. 2, a touch panel TP is provided for inputting touch operations as play actions. Touch operations are used for various selections in a quiz game, such as selecting the genre of a question or selecting an answer. The touch panel TP outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the touch operation to the control unit 31. In this example, the touch panel TP functions as the input device of the present invention.

[0039] The microphone MI is a well-known audio device that converts sound into an electrical signal. The microphone MI may be used as appropriate, for example, to input answers as described above, but as an example, it is used to input voices uttered by users. For example, in a quiz game, talk by special users may be permitted, and the microphone MI is used to input such talk (voice). Specifically, the microphone MI converts voices uttered by users into electrical signals and outputs the signals to the control unit 31. Note that the game machine 3 may also be provided with various other input and output devices that arcade game machines are equipped with. For example, such input devices include a fee collection device for collecting a predetermined fee. However, these are not shown in the drawings.

[0040] Next, the special matching service will be described in detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the special matching service. Also, (1) in Figure 3 shows a request when special matching is executed, and (2) shows matching based on the request (special matching). As shown in (1) in Figure 3, in the special matching service, each user U is classified into a special user SU and a general user NU, and a general user NU requests a special user SU to be matched with the special user SU in the same group.

[0041] A request for matching with a special user SU (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a special request) may be subject to a certain period of time. For example, a predetermined limit (i.e., the maximum number of special groups) may be set, and requests are closed when the limit is reached (a period of time may also be used). Information such as the acceptance of such special requests, the remaining number of matches available, and the period of time available may be notified to general users NU as appropriate. Special requests may also be realized via a device other than the game machine 3. For example, special requests are realized via the game machine 3, similar to normal matching. Specifically, for example, various user terminal devices in addition to the game machine 3 may be appropriately connected to the center server 2. In such cases, special requests may be realized through a reservation service provided in advance through the user terminal device. For example, special requests are executed through the game machine 3 when playing a quiz game. Furthermore, special requests may be subject to appropriate restrictions, such as playing conditions (e.g., skill level, playing time, participation rights granted through play, etc.), or time limits. For example, any general user NU may freely request a special request without any such restrictions.

[0042] A special user SU is a user U among the users U who satisfies a special condition. Various conditions may be set as the special condition, and for example, a condition such as a play situation, such as a predetermined level, may be used. That is, a user U who is at a predetermined level or above may function as a special user SU. Alternatively, a specific non-player character (NPC) controlled through technology such as AI may function as the special user SU, and the special condition may be set to identify such a specific NPC. Furthermore, there may be multiple special users SU as such special users SU, and the special condition may be set to identify the group. In this case, the multiple special users SU may be treated as a single team (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a special user team), and a request may be executed on a team-by-team basis. When a request is executed for a special user team, the special users SU belonging to each special group SG may be appropriate special users SU of the special user team, and may be determined under appropriate conditions, for example, randomly from the special user team or designated by a representative of the special user team. In this way, various users U (including computers) may be set as special users SU as appropriate via special conditions, and special requests may be executed in appropriate units, but in the example of Fig. 3, the results of designation by an appropriate designator such as the operator of the center server 2 or the operator of the store 6 are used as special conditions, and one user U (who may be managed appropriately via play data PD, etc.) designated in advance by such designator functions as the special user SU. In this case, a request is executed to that one special user SU.

[0043] Furthermore, in the case of a special request, as shown in (2) of FIG. 3, a special user SU is not limited to one group, but is matched to belong to multiple groups in a redundant manner. Specifically, a special user SU is allowed to belong to multiple groups, and multiple special groups SG to which the special user SU belongs in a redundant manner are formed through special matching. Furthermore, in these special groups SG, games are played in parallel. Each special group SG may have an appropriate number of special users SU. For example, two special users SU may be matched to each special group SG. In the example of FIG. 3, one special user SU is matched to each special group SG. In other words, the same special user SU requested individually by each general user NU belongs to multiple special groups SG in a redundant manner. Furthermore, the maximum number of members in one group (unit of play) may be set to an appropriate number, but in the example of FIG. 3, it is set to five. Therefore, each special group SG is formed by one special user SU and four general users NU.

[0044] Special matching, in other words, matching to form multiple special groups SG in which one special user SU overlaps with another, may be implemented as appropriate. For example, a slot (room) may be created in advance to correspond to each special group SG, with the special user SU assigned as one of the maximum number of members, and each general user NU may submit a matching request for each slot, thereby realizing special matching. While special matching can be implemented as appropriate in this manner, as an example, special matching is realized by forming each special group SG for each maximum number of members according to the number of requests for the special user SU. Specifically, special matching is realized by matching one special user SU with four general users NU with the same special user SU for each request from each of the four general users NU. Furthermore, a quiz game may allow play in groups with fewer members than the maximum number, for example, if a request period based on a time limit is set. In this case, special matching may form a special group SG with fewer members than the maximum number of members when the period ends (time runs out).

[0045] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the roles of special users SU in a special group SG. The special group SG functions as a single unit for playing a quiz game, and within the special group SG, special users SU and general users NU are assigned different roles. The example in FIG. 4 illustrates the roles of special users SU and general users NU in such a case. Although each user U in the special group SG may share a single game console 3 to play the quiz game, the example in FIG. 4 illustrates a case in which each user U plays the quiz game through a separate game console 3 connected via a network 5. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, the special user SU and each general user NU play the quiz game through a separate game console 3, but a common game screen 50 is displayed on each game console 3, and different roles are assigned to each user on the game screen 50.

[0046] Specifically, each general user NU is assigned the role of an answerer. The answerer's role is to answer questions in the quiz game. On the other hand, two roles are assigned to the special user SU: facilitator (host) and answerer. The facilitator is the role that is responsible for the progress of the quiz game. The special user SU may take on an appropriate role different from that of the general user NU, for example, it may only be the facilitator of the quiz game, but as an example, it may take on both a role as a facilitator different from that of the general user NU and as an answerer similar to that of the general user NU. In other words, the special user SU participates in the quiz game as both the facilitator and the answerer.

[0047] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the normal progression and special progression that occur in a quiz game will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the difference between the normal progression and the special progression in a quiz game. More specifically, the example in FIG. 5 shows the flow of the normal progression and the special progression in a quiz game. The special progression may be an appropriate progression different from the normal progression, and may include appropriate elements that differ from the normal progression, such as the number of questions asked, the time it takes to answer each question, the presence or absence of hints, the presence or absence of explanations, or the presence or absence of a gift corner (a process for presents). As an example, the special progression may include the same processes as the normal progression, but the content of some of the processes may be different. The example in FIG. 5 illustrates the difference between the normal progression and the special progression in such a case. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the progress of the quiz game switches between the normal progression and the special progression depending on whether or not a special user SU is present in the group. However, both the normal progression and the special progression include five processes in order: various preparations, practice questions, actual questions, result compilation, and result announcement.

[0048] The various preparations are steps in which preparations are made to start the quiz game. Such preparations include, for example, sharing information about each user U belonging to the same group. Furthermore, various other elements may also be included, such as an opportunity to select the genre of questions (types of questions to be asked) if such selection is possible. Furthermore, the selection in the selection opportunity may be realized appropriately, for example, by a majority vote, the first selection result by any user U in the group, or the selection result by a representative.

[0049] Practice questions is a process in which quizzes (questions) are given as practice questions (questions that do not affect grades). Actual questions is a process in which quizzes (questions) are given as real questions (questions that affect grades). Any number of questions (quizzes) may be prepared for the real questions, and as an example, multiple questions are included. Result aggregation is a process in which the scores for the real questions (results of correct or incorrect answers to the questions) are aggregated. Result announcement is a process in which the scores aggregated in the result aggregation are announced (shared) to each user U in the group. Steps other than the actual questions may be omitted as appropriate, but as an example, in normal progression, these steps are executed so that each step proceeds in order under automatic control according to predetermined rules.

[0050] The predetermined rules for proceeding to each step may be set as appropriate. For example, a specific play situation (situational rule) may be set according to the step, such as when a specific selection is completed or when the final question is completed, and normal progression may proceed to the next step each time a specific play situation is completed. Alternatively, each step may be provided according to a temporal rule (time schedule), such as the passage of a predetermined amount of time. In this way, the predetermined rules may be set as appropriate, and as an example, a situational rule and a temporal rule may be set in combination as appropriate. In other words, each step is provided so that the next step proceeds in order when a specific play situation is completed, when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, or when both occur.

[0051] On the other hand, the special progression also includes the same processes as the normal progression, but differs from the normal progression at least in the processes of various preparations, practice questions, result tallying, and result announcement. Specifically, in the special progression, the switching to the next process (or the end in the case of result announcement) in the various preparations, practice questions, result tallying, and result announcement is not automatically controlled according to predetermined rules, but is manually controlled based on progress instructions from the special user SU. The role of the special user SU (facilitator) in the game may be set as appropriate, but one example includes progress control of each process based on such progress instructions. Progress instructions may be executed as appropriate, for example, by voice input through the microphone MI, or by touch operations corresponding to the progress instructions via the touch panel TP. In this example, the special progression functions as the user progression of the present invention.

[0052] In addition, the special user SU may be appropriately assigned various other roles, such as a leader in the special group SG. Such roles include, for example, various roles such as making various selections for the special user SU, applying various rules such as setting an answer time including shortening the answer time (time limit) when an answer time is set for each question, or switching between questions when the actual question includes multiple questions (in this case, talk may be interposed between questions). The special user SU may be appropriately assigned these roles in addition to instructing progress, and as an example, may further be assigned the role of selecting a genre in a genre selection opportunity for selecting the genre of the question range (which may be at least some of the questions).

[0053] For example, in the various preparations, talk such as self-introductions is permitted, and this is realized by the special user SU's progress. Also, if a genre selection opportunity is provided in the various preparations, that genre is selected by the special user SU. Also, in the practice questions, various talks such as hints and conversations to relax are permitted, and this is realized by the special user SU's progress. Similarly, in the result tally, various talks are permitted, for example, to liven up the result announcement, and in the result announcement, various talks are permitted, such as a summary of the results and farewell greetings, and this is realized by the special user SU's progress. In other words, in the special progress, various talks are inserted by the special user SU as appropriate in each process. And these talks are freely executed at the discretion of the special user SU. For this reason, the end time is not set uniformly, but is manually switched based on progress instructions by the special user SU.

[0054] The talk in each step may be realized as appropriate, but as an example, the special user SU is provided with a communication (voice chat) function via the game machine 3. The communication function is a function for sharing voice input through a microphone MI with other users U. The special user SU talks through this communication function in each step of the special progression. The difference between the special progression and the normal progression may be realized as appropriate by the presence or absence of other steps, for example, by providing a gift corner in the special progression after the results are announced, but as an example, it is realized as described above.

[0055] Next, a game screen 50 for a quiz game will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a game screen 50 for a quiz game. A quiz game may include various game screens for play, and the example of FIG. 6 illustrates one type of such game screen, namely, a game screen for answering questions (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as an answer screen) that is displayed during the process of setting questions and answering the questions. The example of FIG. 6 also illustrates an answer screen 50 when a special group SG plays a quiz game. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the answer screen 50 includes a user character 51, an answer seat 52, a question display area 53, and a time limit area 54.

[0056] As described above, the user characters 51 are characters serving as avatars (embodiments) of each user U. The user characters 51 include a general user character 51N corresponding to a general user NU and a special user character 51S corresponding to a special user SU. Specifically, the answer screen 50 displays a number of user characters 51 corresponding to the number of users U who form the special group SG. In the example of FIG. 6, five user characters 51 are displayed, including four general user characters 51N corresponding to the four general users NU, and one special user character 51S corresponding to one special user SU. In this example, the special user character 51S and the general user character 51N function as the special character and the general character, respectively, of the present invention.

[0057] The answer seats 52 are positions where characters who function as answerers in a quiz game should be placed. The answer screen 50 is provided with answer seats 52 in a number corresponding to the number of user characters 51. In the example of FIG. 6, the special user SU functions as both the facilitator and the answerer, so five answer seats 52 corresponding to the five user characters 51 are arranged horizontally at equal intervals. Each answer seat 52 is provided with an answer display section 52A that displays the answer of each user character 51 (in other words, each user U) to the question posed. Furthermore, user characters 51 may be appropriately placed on each answer seat 52. For example, special user characters 51S and general user characters 51N may be placed without distinction, but as an example, they are placed so as to be distinguished according to their roles. Specifically, the answer seats 52 include a general answer seat 52N and a special answer seat 52S.

[0058] The general answer seats 52N are answer seats 52 where the general user characters 51N of each user character 51 should be placed. The general answer seats 52N may be appropriately placed for each general user character 51N, for example, they may be placed according to past performance such as level, but as an example, they may be placed randomly. In other words, the four general user characters 51N are randomly placed on the four general answer seats 52N, respectively.

[0059] On the other hand, the special answer seat 52S is an answer seat 52 where a special user character 51S among the user characters 51 should be placed. As described above, the special user character 51S also functions as a facilitator in the quiz game. Therefore, the special answer seat 52S also functions as a position where a facilitator who assists in the progress of the quiz game should be placed. If the special user character 51S does not play the role of an answerer, a position dedicated to the facilitator may be provided separately from the answer seat 52, but if the special user character 51S serves as both a facilitator and an answerer, one of the answer seats 52 (or multiple answer seats 52 if there are multiple special users SU) functions as both the facilitator and the special answer seat 52S where an answerer should be placed. In this example, the answer seat 52 and the special answer seat 52S function as the answerer position and the facilitator position, respectively, in the present invention.

[0060] The special answer seat 52S may be appropriately distinguished from the general answer seats 52N, and may be distinguished morphologically (visually) by shape, color scheme, etc., but as an example, it is distinguished by its location. That is, the special answer seat 52S is placed at a predetermined position to indicate the special user character 51S (facilitator) so as to be distinguished from the general answer seats 52N. Such a predetermined position may be set appropriately, and may be set at various positions, for example, the answer seat 52 corresponding to the center of the five horizontally arranged answer seats 52 or the answer seat 52 corresponding to the left end, but in the example of FIG. 6, it is set at the position of the answer seat 52 corresponding to the right end. That is, the rightmost answer seat 52 of the five horizontally arranged answer seats 52 functions fixedly as the special answer seat 52S, and the special user character 51S as the facilitator is placed there.

[0061] The question display area 53 is an area where questions to be asked as a quiz are displayed. A quiz game may include various question formats, which may be presented to each user U as appropriate. In the example of FIG. 6, the question display area 53 displays the question format information in addition to the quiz questions. For example, a quiz game may include various formats, such as a buzzer format in which only the user U who performs a predetermined touch operation first is given the right to answer, or an all-participation format in which all users U are given a predetermined time and the right to answer, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, their answers and whether they are correct or incorrect are displayed. For example, in the buzzer format, information such as a buzzer quiz may be displayed in the question display area 53, and in the all-participation format, information such as all-participation may be displayed. In the example of FIG. 6, information such as "Flip Quick Writing Quiz!" is displayed as the question format information. In the "Flip Quick Writing Quiz!", everyone is given the right to answer, but the correct answer is determined on a first-come, first-served basis, and only the user character 51 who presents the correct answer first (in the example of Figure 6, the general user character 51N in the middle) is determined to have given the correct answer.

[0062] The time limit area 54 is an area that shows the remaining time of the answer time (time limit), that is, the remaining time in which each user U can answer. For example, in each question format such as "Flip Quick Writing Quiz!", answers may be allowed without a time limit until the correct answer is found, but as an example, a time limit is set, and the remaining time of the time limit is displayed through the time limit area 54. Also, the answering right of each user character 51 may be appropriately limited depending on the question format, such as only being allowed once for each question, but in the example of FIG. 6, no such limit is set, and each answerer is allowed to give multiple answers within the time limit. In other words, each user U can repeatedly submit answers until the correct answer is found.

[0063] Next, the special matching process, progress switching process, character placement process, and synchronization control process will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10. The special matching process is a process for realizing special matching. While special matching can be realized as appropriate, the example of FIG. 7 shows a case where the same special user SU is matched with a predetermined number of general users NU (the number obtained by subtracting one person corresponding to the special user SU from the maximum number of users) according to the number of requests. A period during which special requests can be made may also be set, but the example of FIG. 7 shows a case where a predetermined maximum number of users is set. In this case, when the number of special requests reaches the predetermined maximum number, the game machine service management unit 24 starts the special matching process of FIG. 7 and first acquires requests from each user U (S101). These requests include not only special requests (requests from general users NU) but also requests from special users SU.

[0064] The special user SU may participate in the quiz game as appropriate. For example, if special matching is realized through a pre-reservation service or the like, the center server 2 may issue a participation request via various communication means, such as email, at an appropriate time from the start of the reservation service until the start of play, and the special user SU may participate in the special matching based on that request. In other words, the special user SU may issue a matching request in response to various requests. In this case, the game machine service management unit 24 may execute a process to determine whether a request has been issued from the special user SU at an appropriate time near a predetermined capacity, and if no request has been issued, may request (demand) a request from the special user SU via an appropriate communication means. Alternatively, the game machine service management unit 24 may execute a similar request if the requests acquired in step S101 do not include a request from the special user SU. In that case, the game machine service management unit 24 may also wait for a request from the special user SU in step S101. Meanwhile, the special user SU may issue a matching request in the same way as the general user NU, waiting until the predetermined capacity is reached.

[0065] Next, the game machine service management unit 24 performs special matching based on the request acquired in step S101 (step S102). Specifically, the game machine service management unit 24 first distinguishes between requests from special users SU and requests from general users NU. Next, the game machine service management unit 24 matches one special user SU with a predetermined number of general users NU for each capacity so that an appropriate number of special groups SG to which the special users SU overlap are formed according to the number of requests from the general users NU. For example, if the capacity is four, a general user is randomly matched with one special user SU for every predetermined number of four users, and similar matching for the same special user SU is repeatedly performed until the number of general users reaches zero. The predetermined capacity for a special request is set according to the capacity of the special group SG. However, for example, if a special request is executed due to a time limit, the final matching may allow for matching of less than four general users NU with special users SU. In other words, matching may be performed so that a special group SG with fewer than the capacity is allowed to be formed. As an example, the game machine service management unit 24 performs special matching in this way.

[0066] Next, the game machine service management unit 24 provides each game machine 3 with the matching result of step S102 (step S103). Specifically, information on the five users U (including special users SU) in the special group SG to which each user U belongs is provided to the game machine 3 used by that user. After providing the matching result, the game machine service management unit 24 ends the current special matching process. This realizes special matching. Specifically, duplicate matching of special users SU is permitted depending on the number of special requests, and multiple special groups SG to which the same special user SU belongs duplicately are formed.

[0067] The progress switching process is a process for switching the game progress between normal progress and special progress. Switching between normal progress and special progress may be implemented appropriately based on various conditions. However, the example of FIG. 8 illustrates a case where switching is implemented based on whether or not a special user SU exists in the group, in other words, whether or not the group playing the game corresponds to a special group SG. In this case, when the progress control unit 39 acquires a matching result, for example, through the special matching process of FIG. 7, it starts the progress switching process of FIG. 8 and first determines whether or not a special user SU exists in the play group acquired as the matching result, in other words, whether or not the group to be played corresponds to a special group SG (step S201). Then, if a special user SU does not exist, that is, if the group to be played does not correspond to a special group SG, the progress control unit 39 skips the subsequent processes and terminates the progress switching process. In this case, the progress of the quiz game is not switched, and the game is provided in normal progress as usual.

[0068] On the other hand, if a special user SU exists, that is, if the group to be played corresponds to the special group SG, the progress control unit 39 switches the progress of the game from normal progress to special progress (step S202). For example, as in the example of Figure 5, if the normal progress is an automatic switching progress in which the switching of each process is automatically controlled by the game, and the special progress is a manual switching progress in which the switching of some processes is manually controlled by the special user SU, the progress control unit 39 switches the progress of the game from the automatic switching progress as normal progress to the manual switching progress as special progress. Then, after switching the progress of the game, the progress control unit 39 ends the current progress switching process.

[0069] According to the procedure of FIG. 8, if a special user SU exists in the group (corresponding to the special group SG), the progress of the game is switched from normal progress to special progress. More specifically, if the group to be played corresponds to the special group SG, the progress of the game is switched to manual switching, and changes to a flexible switching manually performed by the special user SU. On the other hand, if the group to be played does not correspond to the special group SG, the game proceeds in normal progress. More specifically, the game proceeds so that each step of the game is automatically switched in accordance with a predetermined rule such as a time schedule. As a result, the switching of the progress of the game between normal progress and special progress is realized depending on whether or not a special user SU exists in the group (whether or not it corresponds to the special group SG).

[0070] The character placement process is a process for placing each user character 51 at an appropriate position on the game screen. A quiz game may include various game screens, and the example of FIG. 9 shows a process for placing each user character 51 at an appropriate position on the answer screen 50. In this case, the display control unit 38 starts the character placement process of FIG. 9 every time it is time to display the answer screen 50, and first determines the type of each user character 51 (step S301). The user characters 51 may be classified into appropriate types, and as an example, the user characters 51 are classified into a general user character 51N and a special user character 51S on the answer screen 50. In this case, the display control unit 38 determines whether each user character 51 belongs to a general user character 51N or a special user character 51S.

[0071] Next, the display control unit 38 determines the placement position of each user character 51 on the answer screen 50 (step S302). If all user characters 51 are general user characters 51N, all five answer seats 52 on the answer screen 50 are determined to be appropriate placement positions for each general user character 51N. For this reason, the display control unit 38 randomly assigns each answer seat 52 to each general user character 51N. Then, the display control unit 38 determines the assigned answer seat 52 as the placement position for each general user character 51N. On the other hand, if any user character 51 corresponds to a special user character 51S, the rightmost answer seat 52 indicating the facilitator is determined to be the appropriate placement position for that special user character 51S on the answer screen 50. For this reason, the display control unit 38 assigns the rightmost answer seat 52 to that special user character 51S and determines that rightmost answer seat 52 as the placement position for the special user character 51S. On the other hand, on the answer screen 50, all of the remaining four answer seats 52 are determined to be appropriate positions for the remaining four general user characters 51N. For this reason, the display control unit 38 randomly assigns the remaining four answer seats 52 to the four general user characters 51N, and determines the answer seats 52 assigned to each general user character 51N as the position for each general user character 51N.

[0072] Next, the display control unit 38 places each user character 51 at the placement position determined in step S302 (step S303). Specifically, the display control unit 38 controls the display of the monitor MO so that each user character 51 is displayed at the placement position determined in step S302 on the answer screen 50. Then, the display control unit 38 ends the current character placement process after placing each user character 51. As a result, each user character 51 is placed at an appropriate position on the answer screen 50. Specifically, for example, in the case of a special group SG (when a special user SU exists in the group), the special user character 51S is placed at the answer seat 52 on the right end of the answer screen 50, and each general user character 51N is randomly placed at the remaining four answer seats 52. Specifically, the special user character 51S is placed at the special answer seat 52S indicating the facilitator, and the remaining general user characters 51N are uniformly placed at the general answer seats 52N indicating the general answerers. That is, on the answer screen 50, each user character 51 is placed at an answer seat 52 according to the role.

[0073] The synchronization control process is a process for controlling the progress of a game so that at least a portion of the progress is shared among multiple special groups SG to which a special user SU overlaps. The shared progress among multiple special groups SG may be any desired progress. However, the example of FIG. 10 illustrates a case in which questions posed in a quiz game function as a shared progress, i.e., a case in which questions are controlled among multiple special groups SG so that questions are shared. While such question sharing may only apply to questions posed to a special user SU, the example of FIG. 10 illustrates a case in which questions are shared among all questions in a quiz game that includes multiple questions. In other words, a case in which questions are controlled among multiple special groups SG so that all questions posed in the quiz game (e.g., all practice questions and all actual questions) are shared among multiple special groups SG. In this case, the game machine service management unit 24 initiates the synchronization control process of FIG. 10 after completing various preparation steps. First, it identifies the special groups SG to which questions should be shared (step S401). Question sharing is performed among multiple special groups SG to which a special user SU overlaps. For this reason, in step S401, the game machine service management unit 24 identifies a plurality of special groups SG to which special users SU included in the special group SG to which the current quiz game is provided overlappingly belong.

[0074] Next, the game machine service management unit 24 determines the question setting conditions to be reflected in the question to be set (step S402). The question setting conditions may be set as appropriate or may be omitted (in which case, the processing of step 402 may also be omitted), but for example, the genre of the question to be set is used. In this case, the special user SU is given the right to select in the genre selection opportunity so that a common genre is selected in multiple special groups SG. Furthermore, the genre selected in any one special group SG (for example, the special group SG to which various preparation processes are first provided) may automatically be reflected in the selection of genre in other special groups SG. In this case, the game machine service management unit 24 determines the genre selected by the special user SU in step S402 as the question setting condition.

[0075] Next, the game machine service management unit 24 determines questions to be posed based on the question conditions of step S403 (step S403). Specifically, the game machine service management unit 24 randomly determines, as questions to be posed, a predetermined number of questions (the number of questions required) from the genre selected by the special user SU from among a large number of questions prepared in advance.

[0076] Next, the game machine service management unit 24 transmits the determination result of step S403 to all special groups SG so that the questions determined in step S403 are shared among all special groups SG identified in step S401 and are actually asked (step S404). After this transmission, the game machine service management unit 24 terminates the current synchronization control process. As a result, all questions asked among the multiple special groups SG to which the special user SU overlaps are made common. In other words, the asking of questions (quizzes) (progress of the game) is controlled among the multiple special groups SG so that the asking of all questions is included as a common progression.

[0077] As explained above, according to this embodiment, when a special user SU exists in the group, the progress of the game is switched to a special progress that differs from the normal progress that is applied when no special user SU exists in the group. In other words, the progress of the quiz game is switched between the normal progress and the special progress depending on whether or not a special user SU exists in the group. Specifically, when no special user SU exists in the group, the game progresses in a normal progress in which each step, such as practice questions, progresses automatically according to predetermined rules. On the other hand, when a special user SU exists in the group, the game progresses in a special progress in which appropriate steps are manually progressed in accordance with progress instructions from the special user SU. This makes it possible to cause the game to progress differently depending on whether or not a special user SU exists in the group.

[0078] For example, in a special progression, the decision of whether to proceed to the next step can be left to the special user SU, so that the special user SU can intervene in a conversation with another general user NU. In other words, in the case of a special progression, a time for talking with the special user SU can be provided as a progression that does not occur in the case of a normal progression. As a result, by utilizing such a special progression including a time for talking, a privilege can be granted for the opportunity to play with the special user SU. Furthermore, by utilizing such a time for talking (a privilege), the opportunity to play with the special user SU can be utilized as an event, and its appeal can be enhanced.

[0079] Furthermore, when a step such as a practice problem proceeds (switches) to the next step in response to a progress instruction from the special user SU, the special user SU can be given the discretion to decide whether to proceed to the next step, in other words, whether to continue the conversation or end it. Therefore, by utilizing such discretion of the special user SU, the individuality of the special user SU can be reflected in the progress of the game. Furthermore, the progress content (e.g., the content of the conversation) can be made different for each play opportunity, thereby enhancing the uniqueness of each play opportunity. This further enhances the event-like nature of opportunities to play with the special user SU, and ultimately the appeal of opportunities to play with the special user SU. As a result, play with the special user SU can be promoted, which in turn can lead to increased appeal of the game and increased play.

[0080] Furthermore, in special matching, each general user NU requests a match with a special user SU, and based on that request, the special user SU is matched with each general user NU so that the special user SU overlaps with multiple special groups SG. In other words, in response to a request from a general user NU, matching is performed so that multiple special groups SG to which the special user SU overlaps are formed, centered around the special user SU. This allows the special user SU to overlap with multiple special groups SG in which the game progresses in parallel. As a result, compared to when a special user SU can only belong to one group in a single play, the number of users matched with the special user SU and, ultimately, the opportunities to play with the special user SU can be increased. Therefore, it is possible to respond to a relatively large number of requests to play with the special user SU. This is particularly effective when the event-like nature and appeal of opportunities to play with the special user SU is increased through special progress.

[0081] On the other hand, when multiple special groups SG are formed, the burden on special users SU who belong to them at the same time may increase, but this burden can be reduced by sharing part of the progress. Specifically, for example, when questions are shared between multiple special groups SG to which the same special user SU overlaps, the special users SU's consideration of the questions to be asked can be shared between the multiple special groups SG. This reduces the burden on the special users SU regarding the consideration of the questions compared to when different questions are asked between the multiple special groups SG.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the game machine service management unit 24 of the center server 2 functions as the request acquisition means and matching means of the present invention by executing the procedure of Fig. 7. Specifically, the game machine service management unit 24 functions as the request acquisition means by executing step S101 of Fig. 7, and as the matching means by executing step S102. Furthermore, the game machine service management unit 24 of the center server 2 functions as the progress control means of the present invention by executing the procedure of step S404 of Fig. 10.

[0083] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and may be implemented in an appropriate modified or altered form. For example, in the above-described embodiment, a special group SG is formed through special matching. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, a special group SG may be formed through normal matching. That is, a special user SU may be matched with other general users NU through normal matching, rather than through special matching, which is a redundant match. Alternatively, a special user SU may be set in a group formed through normal matching afterward. That is, after a group is formed by a fixed number of general users NU through normal matching, a special user SU may be set from a user U belonging to the group based on various special conditions.

[0084] In the above-described embodiment, special progression is used as a benefit for playing with a special user SU. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, various benefits, such as the granting of various items or points, or the unlocking of special songs in a music game, may be set for playing with a special user SU. For this reason, special matching (overlapping matching) may be utilized for matching for these various benefits. In other words, special matching that overlaps and matches special users SU may be provided regardless of special progression. Furthermore, when multiple benefit candidates are prepared, the benefit to be set for playing with the special user SU may be selected from these candidates by the special user SU. In other words, the special user SU may be given the authority to select the benefit to be set for playing.

[0085] In the above-described embodiment, the special user SU not only plays the role of the facilitator in the quiz game but also the role of the answerer. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the special user SU does not have to play the role of the answerer. In this case, the special user character 51S corresponding to the special user SU may be appropriately distinguished from the general user character 51N on a game screen such as the answer screen 50. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of an answer screen 50 according to a modified embodiment. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, the special user character 51S is displayed so as to be distinguished from the general user character 51N at the answer seat 52, so as to indicate the role of the facilitator, which is different from the answerer. While such a distinction may be realized appropriately, in the example of FIG. 11, the special user character 51S is displayed on the answer screen 50 in a dedicated position on the right end, indicating the facilitator, and is displayed entirely, unlike the general user character 51N who is the answerer. In addition, in the example of FIG. 11, the question is displayed as if it were being asked by the special user character 51S. The facilitator may have various roles as appropriate, but as an example, may also have the role of a question setter.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, the special user SU is given the authority to progress each step of the game (to switch between each step) through the special progression. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The special user SU may be appropriately given some of the authority held by an administrator related to the progress (including realization) of the quiz game, such as an administrator of the center server 2 or an administrator of the game machine 3. For example, as another example of such authority, the authority to set up matching (including both normal matching and special matching) may be used. In other words, various types of matching may be set by the special user SU. Specifically, the special user SU may be given authority related to the realization of advance matching, such as setting up matching opportunities to be executed in advance through a reservation service, setting the period of that matching, and setting notifications for that matching. In this case, the special user SU may also be given the option of whether or not to participate in the matching that he or she has set up. In other words, the special user SU may or may not participate in the matching that he or she has set up.

[0087] In the above-described embodiment, a common progression among multiple special groups SG is achieved by standardizing the questions. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, as described above, a common progression may be achieved appropriately by standardizing various timings, such as the timing of each question, or by standardizing the question format. Furthermore, for common progression, special users SU may be appropriately granted various progressions that differ from those of general users NU. For example, in the case of a buzzer-style question, only users U who have earned the right to answer by buzzing are usually given the opportunity to answer. However, special users SU may be given the opportunity to answer regardless of whether they have the right to answer. Specifically, for example, if a buzzer-style question format is commonly applied among multiple special groups SG and the question timing is common, whether a special user SU can obtain the right to answer depends on the buzzer status of general users NU belonging to each special group SG. Therefore, if a special user SU is only given the opportunity to answer if they have earned the right to answer, like general users NU, they will need to check the buzzer status and whether they have the right to answer for each special group SG. In order to reduce such time and effort, the special user SU is given a uniform opportunity to answer regardless of whether or not he / she has the answer right, and the answer given at that opportunity is reflected in the answer in the special group SG that has the answer right. Various progresses different from those of general users NU, such as this opportunity to answer, may be appropriately set for the special user SU.

[0088] In the above-described embodiment, the processes of FIGS. 8 to 9 are executed by the game machine 3, and the processes of FIGS. 7 and 10 are executed by the center server 2. As a result, the center server 2 alone (including the case where it is realized by a combination of multiple server devices) functions as the game system of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the game machine 3 may execute all or part of the role of the center server 2 (for example, the processes of FIGS. 7 and 10). Therefore, for example, when the game machine 3 executes all of the processes of FIGS. 7 and 10, the game machine 3 alone may function as the game system of the present invention. In this case, the center server 2 may be omitted.

[0089] Various aspects of the present invention derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described below. In the following description, corresponding components shown in the accompanying drawings will be written in parentheses to facilitate understanding of each aspect of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated forms.

[0090] The game system of the present invention is a game system (2) that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user (U) up to a maximum number of users, and includes a request acquisition means (36) that acquires a request from each general user (NU) who is a user different from a special user (SU) that requests matching with a special group (SG) to which the special user (SU) who satisfies special conditions belongs, and a matching means (36) that matches the special user to a plurality of special groups in an overlapping manner so that a plurality of special groups in which the game progresses in parallel are formed as the special groups, while matching each general user so that each general user belongs alternatively to one of the plurality of special groups based on the request.

[0091] According to the present invention, each general user requests to be matched with a special user, and based on the request, the special user is matched with each general user so that the special user overlaps with multiple groups. In other words, in response to a request from a general user, matching is performed so that multiple groups are formed around the special user to which the special user overlaps. This allows the special user to overlap with multiple groups in which the game progresses in parallel. As a result, the number of users matched with the special user can be increased compared to when the special user can only belong to one group per play. Therefore, even if there are many requests to play with special users, a relatively large number of requests can be fulfilled.

[0092] The overlapping matching of special users may be realized as appropriate. For example, multiple rooms (group slots) for matching, each of which may overlap with other special users, may be prepared in advance, and each general user may request entry into (belong to) each room. Then, each time the room reaches its capacity, the users belonging to that room may be matched as a group. Alternatively, a general user may simply request matching with a special user, and the special user may be matched with a predetermined number of general users up to the capacity in accordance with the number of requests, resulting in the formation of multiple groups to which the special users overlap. Specifically, for example, in one aspect of the game system of the present invention, the matching means may match the special user with each general user so that multiple special groups to which the special user overlaps are formed for each of the capacity in accordance with the number of requests.

[0093] The progress of the game among multiple special groups may include some or all of a common progress, or may not include such a progress. In other words, although a game may progress in parallel among multiple special groups to which the same special user belongs, the progress of these groups may be executed independently without affecting each other. On the other hand, a game progressing in parallel among multiple special groups to which the same special user belongs may be appropriately influenced by the progress of other groups so that a common progress occurs. Specifically, one aspect of the game system of the present invention may include a progress control means for controlling the progress of the part among the multiple special groups so that a common progress occurs among the multiple special groups for at least a part of the progress of the game.

[0094] A common progression may occur as appropriate in a game. For example, various types of games that progress in groups, such as action games, role-playing games, and simulation games, may be provided as appropriate. The common progression may occur as appropriate depending on the type of game. In particular, in games in which the operation status (play status) of other users is not reflected in one's own play, the inclusion of a common progression often creates a relatively small sense of incongruity. Specifically, for example, when a game includes multiple steps, the start time of each step may occur as a common progression. Furthermore, for example, when a music game is provided as a game, various progressions such as the music to be played, the difficulty level, and the start time of the music may be used as a common progression. Alternatively, when a quiz game is provided as a game, various progressions such as the time when questions are asked, the number of questions asked, the content of the questions, the genre (field) to which the questions belong, or the time required to answer may be used as a common progression. For example, in a mode in which a common progression occurs among a plurality of special groups, a quiz game including a plurality of questions posed to each group may be provided as the game, and the progression control means may control the questions posed to the special users among the plurality of special groups so that the questions posed to the special users in the quiz game are common among the plurality of special groups as part of the progression. In this case, the special users' consideration of the questions to be posed can be shared among the plurality of special groups, thereby reducing the burden on the special users.

[0095] On the other hand, the computer program (PG1) of the present invention is configured to cause the computer (21) to function as each means of the above-mentioned game system.

[0096] Furthermore, the control method of the present invention causes a computer (21) incorporated in a game system (2) that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user (U) up to a maximum number of users, to execute a request acquisition procedure for acquiring, from each general user (NU) as a user different from the special user, a request for matching to a special group (SG) to which a special user (U) who satisfies special conditions belongs, and a matching procedure for matching the special user to a plurality of special groups in a redundant manner so that a plurality of special groups in which the game progresses in parallel are formed as the special groups, while matching each general user so that each general user belongs alternatively to one of the plurality of special groups based on the request. By executing the computer program or control method of the present invention, the game system of the present invention can be realized.

[0097] (Reference example) In the game of Patent Document 1, a user is matched with other users with whom the user desires to play multiplayer games by spending virtual currency set by the user. This allows the user to be matched (multiplayer games) with a desired user, such as a famous user such as a professional gamer. However, since matching with a desired user requires spending virtual currency, excessive multiplayer requests to specific users (e.g., desired users such as famous users) may be suppressed. However, in the game of Patent Document 1, even if a user is matched with a desired user, the content of the competitive game itself remains unchanged. In other words, whether the user is playing against a desired user who is willing to spend virtual currency, or against a general user who does not require spending virtual currency, the user can only play the same competitive game. As a result, playing against a specific user, such as a famous user, once is considered sufficient, which may prevent repeated play with the same user, potentially limiting the appeal of the specific user.

[0098] Therefore, the reference example aims to provide a game system etc. that can cause a game that progresses in groups to proceed differently depending on whether or not a special user is present in the group.

[0099] The reference example game system is a game system that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user (U) up to a maximum number of users, through an output device (MO) for providing the game and an input device (TP) for inputting playing actions for the game, and is equipped with a user discrimination means (39) that determines whether or not a special user (SU) who satisfies special conditions is present in the group, and a progress switching means (39) that switches the progress of the game between a normal progress that is applied when the special user is not present in the group, and a special progress that is applied when the special user is present in the group as a progress different from the normal progress, depending on whether or not the special user is present in the group.

[0100] According to the reference example, if a special user is present in a group, the game progress is switched to a special progression that differs from the normal progression that is applied when no special user is present in the group. This allows a game that progresses on a group-by-group basis to progress differently depending on whether or not a special user is present in the group. As a result, for example, the special progression can be utilized to provide benefits for opportunities to play with special users. Furthermore, such benefits can be utilized to utilize opportunities to play with special users as events, thereby increasing their appeal. These features can encourage play with special users, which in turn can increase the appeal of the game and encourage more players.

[0101] Various types of games, such as action games, role-playing games, and simulation games, that progress in groups may be provided as appropriate. Furthermore, the special progression may differ from the normal progression as appropriate depending on the type of game. For example, the special progression may include additional elements, such as steps not included in the normal progression (e.g., a gift corner) or a play area (development). Conversely, steps included in the normal progression (e.g., a time-consuming step) may be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, for example, the normal progression may proceed automatically according to a predetermined rule such as a time schedule, while the special progression may include manual progression by the user as appropriate. In other words, the control method for the normal progression and the special progression may differ. Specifically, for example, in one aspect of the game system of the reference example, if the special user is present in the group, the progression switching means may switch the game progression to the user progression so that the user progression, which progresses based on progression instructions input by the special user through the input device, is executed as the special progression. In this case, the special user can have discretion over the game progression. Therefore, by utilizing the discretion of such special users, the individuality of the special users can be reflected in the progress of the game, which in turn can increase the appeal of opportunities to play with special users.

[0102] The user progression may be realized as appropriate. For example, in a case where a quiz game is provided as the game, the special progression may include various elements that differ from the normal progression, such as the number of questions asked, the time required to answer each question, the presence or absence of hints, or the presence or absence of explanations, and these appropriate elements may be switched as the user progression based on a user instruction. Furthermore, in a mode in which the user progression is provided as a special progression, a quiz game including a plurality of questions asked in units of the group is provided as the game, and the progression switching means may switch the game progression to the user progression so that at least one of the following is executed as the user progression based on the progression instruction: switching between each question among the plurality of questions; setting a time limit if a time limit for answering each question is set; and selecting a genre to which at least some of the plurality of questions belong if the plurality of questions are classified into a plurality of genres.

[0103] A special user may appropriately perform various roles in a game. For example, the role of a special user may be the same as or different from that of other users. Furthermore, if the role of a special user is different from that of other users, the role may or may not be presented to each user. Furthermore, the role of a special user may not be associated with a special progression. In other words, the special progression may be set independently of the role of the special user. On the other hand, the role of a special user may be associated with a special progression. For example, in a mode in which the quiz game of the reference example is provided, a display device (MO) that displays a game screen (50) including characters (51) corresponding to each user of the group, answerer positions (52) where answerers who answer each of the plurality of questions should be placed, and a facilitator position (52S) where a facilitator who assists in the progress of the quiz game should be placed is used as the output device, and when the quiz game is provided through the game screen, a mode in which a character placement means (38) is provided that places a special character (51S) corresponding to the special user and a general character (51N) corresponding to a general user (NU) who is a user other than the special user and belongs to the group at the facilitator position and the answerer position on the game screen, respectively, so that the special character and the general character function as the facilitator and the answerer, respectively, may be adopted.

[0104] On the other hand, the computer program (PG2) of the reference example is configured to cause the output device and the computer (31) connected to the input device to function as each means of the above-mentioned game system.

[0105] Furthermore, the control method of the reference example causes a computer (31) incorporated in a game system (3) that provides a game that progresses in units of groups formed by matching each user (U) up to a maximum number of users through an output device (MO) for providing the game and an input device (TP) for inputting playing actions for the game to execute a user discrimination procedure for determining whether a special user (SU) who satisfies special conditions is present in the group, and a progress switching procedure for switching the progress of the game between a normal progress that is applied when the special user is not present in the group and a special progress that is different from the normal progress that is applied when the special user is present in the group, depending on whether the special user is present in the group. By executing the computer program or control method of the reference example, the game system of the reference example can be realized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 2. Central server (game system) 21 Control unit (computer) 24 Game machine service management unit (request acquisition means, matching means, progress control means) U User NU General User SU Special User PG1 Game Program (Computer Program)

Claims

[Claim 1] A game system that provides a game in which a group is formed by matching each user up to a fixed number of users, a request acquisition means for acquiring a request for matching with a special group to which a special user, who is a user satisfying a special condition, belongs from each general user, who is a user different from the special user; a matching means for matching the special user to the plurality of special groups in a redundant manner so that a plurality of special groups in which the game progresses in parallel are formed as the special groups, and for matching each general user to belong alternatively to one of the plurality of special groups based on the request; A game system comprising:

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