Game device

Abstract

Regarding game devices, etc., by overlaying the actual device with the image on the display surface, We provide technology that can enhance the level of interest and other aspects. [Solution] The game device 1 comprises a housing 10, a game execution unit that executes the game, a display unit 20 including a display surface 23 that displays the game elements of the game, an operation unit 30 that allows the user to perform operations related to the game, and a detection unit 50 that detects the movement of the operation unit 30. The game execution unit can execute the game in such a way that it changes the display of the game elements on the display surface 23 based on the detection result of the operation unit 50's detection of the movement of the operation unit 30. The operation unit 20 is positioned such that, at least during operation of the operation unit 30 related to the execution of the game, in a first direction from the user's viewpoint when viewing the display surface 23, at least a part of the operation unit 30, a first portion 31, appears superimposed on the image of the game elements on the display surface 23.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to technologies such as game devices and toys.

Background Art

[0002] In game devices, toys, etc., various proposals have been made to bring interest by using technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR). For example, there is a device that overlays and displays an image on the display surface of a display device arranged in front of or behind a real object (e.g., a model) as viewed from the user's perspective.

[0003] As a prior art example related to the above, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-218293 (Patent Document 1) can be cited. Patent Document 1 describes the following as a toy. Inside a room (corresponding to a model of a house), a transparent LCD screen visible from the front of the room is arranged, and interior bodies such as chairs and exterior bodies such as trees are arranged in front of and behind the screen. A character (corresponding to an image) such as a girl is displayed on the screen. The user can enjoy the game while looking at the characters etc. on the screen.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As exemplified by Patent Document 1, game devices and toys have been proposed that provide entertainment by having a display surface placed inside a structure such as a model, and by changing the image on the display surface in relation to real objects placed in front of or behind the display surface. However, in such prior art, for example, the toy in Patent Document 1, the real objects such as the interior and exterior parts are not operated by the user, and the game is operated by predetermined switches / buttons. Therefore, it is not sufficient in terms of the entertainment value of playing the game through user operation.

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to provide a technology that can enhance the entertainment value of game devices and the like, which are capable of changing the image on the display surface in relation to real objects. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A typical embodiment of the present invention has the configuration shown below. The game device of one embodiment comprises a housing, a game execution unit that executes a game, a display unit including a display surface that displays game elements of the game executed by the game execution unit, an operation unit that allows a user to operate the game, and a detection unit that detects the movement of the operation unit. The game execution unit is capable of executing the game in such a way that it changes the display of the game elements on the display surface based on the detection result of the operation unit's movement. The operation unit is positioned such that, at least during operation of the operation unit related to the execution of the game, in a first direction from the user's viewpoint, the first part of the operation unit appears superimposed on the image of the game elements on the display surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to a representative embodiment of the present invention, with regard to technologies such as game devices, it is possible to enhance the entertainment value by superimposing the actual object and the image on the display surface. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view from the front, showing the overall external configuration of the game device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration overview of the game device according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the front. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration overview of the game device according to Embodiment 1, viewed from the side. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration overview of the game device according to Embodiment 1, viewed from above. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the game device according to Embodiment 1, as seen from the rear. [Figure 6] This figure shows display examples (first example, second example) of the game device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This figure shows display examples (third example, fourth example) of the game device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration overview of a game device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, viewed from the side. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Embodiment 1) The game device of Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described using Figures 1 to 7. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the overall external configuration of the game device 1 of Embodiment 1, as seen from the front. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the game device 1 in a plane (XY plane) corresponding to a plan view of the front from the user's viewpoint. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the game device 1 in a cross-section (YZ plane) corresponding to a plan view of the side. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the game device 1 in a cross-section (XZ plane) as seen from above. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the game device 1 from the rear. Note that the X, Y, and Z directions shown in the figures may be used as explanatory directions. The X direction corresponds to the left-right direction (horizontal direction on the display surface 23), the Y direction corresponds to the up-down direction (vertical direction on the display surface 23), and the Z direction corresponds to the front-back direction, depth direction, and the first direction from which the display surface 23 of the game device 1 is viewed from the user's viewpoint.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, etc., the game device 1 is, in general terms, a device or toy that enables a game that mimics food and beverages (for example, tapioca drinks) as the target object. The housing 10 of the game device 1 is a structure that mimics the food and beverage. The game device 1 displays images related to the game on the display surface 23 on the front side, and the user, such as a child, can play the game by operating the straw-shaped control unit 30 with their fingers.

[0012] The game device 1 comprises a housing 10, a game execution unit that executes a game, a display unit 21 including a display surface 23 that displays images of game elements of the game executed by the game execution unit, an operation unit 30 that allows the user to perform operations related to the game, and a detection unit 50 that detects the state of the operation unit 30, such as its movement. The game execution unit can execute a game in such a way that it changes the display of game elements on the display surface 23 based on the detection result of the operation unit 50's detection of the operation unit 30's movement. The operation unit 30 is positioned such that, at least during operation of the operation unit 30 related to the execution of the game, in a first direction from the user's viewpoint when viewing the display surface 23, at least a first part 31 of the operation unit 30 appears superimposed on the images of game elements on the display surface 23.

[0013] The user can operate the control unit 30 in two ways: a first operation corresponding to a first action AC1, such as swinging the second part 32 mainly in the X direction, and a second operation corresponding to a second action AC2, such as pushing a predetermined object in the Y direction. These actions and operations correspond to input to the game. In this embodiment, the first action AC1 is an action that mimics stirring a straw. The second action AC2 is an action that mimics poking a straw.

[0014] [1-1: Overall Structure] As shown in Figure 1, the game device 1 of Embodiment 1 comprises, broadly speaking, a housing 10, a display unit 20, an operation unit 30, a button operation unit 40, a detection unit 50, and a shielding unit 60. Although not shown in Figure 1, the game device 1 also comprises a regulating unit 80 (Figures 3 to 5), a circuit board 100 (Figure 3), a battery housing 90 (Figure 3), a speaker, etc. The housing 10 generally has two parts: a lid 11 and a container 12, which have shapes that mimic the lid and container of food and beverages. The lid 11 is fixed to the top surface of the container 12. In this example, the housing 10 generally has a shape as if a part of the back side of a cylinder has been cut flat vertically (in the Y direction) and removed, and has the shape shown in Figure 4 in the XZ plane corresponding to the horizontal plane. As shown in Figure 4, the housing 10 generally has a convex curved shape on the front side and a planar shape on the back side.

[0015] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, a display unit 20 is provided on the front side of the housing 10. The display unit 20 has a display device 21 and a window 22. The window 22 is provided on a part of the front of the housing 10, for example, as a roughly rectangular area. The window 22 can be simply an opening, or a transparent member fixed to the opening. The window 22 may also be provided with a door or the like. The display device 21 is located behind the window 22. The display device 21 has a transparent display surface 23 and a display driving circuit, etc. The display driving circuit of the display device 21 displays an image on the display surface 23 based on control from the circuit board 100 (Figure 3). The display surface 23 corresponds to an area on which an image can be displayed. The transparent display surface 23 is a display surface that has the property and function of allowing real objects such as the first part 31 located on the rear side to be seen through it in a first direction from the user's viewpoint. Note that the display surface 23 has a larger area in the XY plane than the window 22. Even if the direction from which the user views the display surface 23 deviates by a certain angle from the Z direction, the visibility of the image on the display surface 23 is not affected. In this embodiment, a transmissive liquid crystal display device is used as the display device 21, but any display device that has transparency that allows the operation unit 40 to be viewed through the display device 21 in the first direction from the user's viewpoint is applicable.

[0016] In the Z direction, the rear side of the display surface 23 is a space (as shown in FIG. 3 etc.), and it is possible to move the first part 31 of the operation unit 30 in this space. A shielding part 60 is arranged on the rear side of the first part 31 so as to partition the space inside the housing 10. By the shielding part 60, objects behind the shielding part 60 when viewed in the first direction are shielded from view. On the rear side of the shielding part 60, the third part 33 of the operation unit 30, the detection unit 50, the battery housing part 90 in FIG. 3, etc. are arranged.

[0017] The operation unit 30 includes a first part 31, a second part 32, a third part 33, a bearing part 35, a connecting part 36, etc. A part of the lid 11 has the bearing part 35. In the bearing part 35, the operation unit 30 is supported. The bearing part 35 serves as a fulcrum for the movement of the operation unit 30. In the bearing part 35, the second part 32 and the first part 31 are connected so as to be approximately a single rod-shaped object. The second part 32 is arranged so as to protrude outside the housing 10, particularly above the lid 11. The second part 32 is a part that can be directly gripped, touched, and moved by the user's fingers for operation. The first part 31 is a part arranged to overlap the display surface 23 in the first direction inside the housing 10. The third part 33 is a part arranged to overlap the rear sides of the first part 31 and the shielding part 60 in the Z direction. The third part 33 is fixed to the first part 31 via the connecting part 36. The third part 33 moves integrally in conjunction with the movement of the first part 31. The third part 33 is shielded by the shielding part 60 and the restricting part 80 and is arranged so as not to be visible from the user's viewpoint.

[0018] In the first embodiment, as operations by the operation unit 30, a first operation AC1 and a second operation AC2 are independently possible. As shown in FIG. 1 etc., the first operation AC1 includes an operation such as at least a rocking motion left and right in the X direction. The second operation AC2 includes an operation such as at least a pushing-in and returning motion up and down in the Z direction.

[0019] In the housing 10, for example, below the window 22 on the front side, a button operation unit 40 is provided. The button operation unit 40 is a part where basic operations related to the game device 1 can be input by the user. As shown in FIG. 2, the button operation unit 40 has, for example, three hardware buttons, buttons 41, 42, and 43. For example, the button 41 is set to enable a selection operation, the button 42 is set to enable a determination operation, and the button 43 is set to enable a cancellation operation. The button operation unit 40 is connected to a substrate 100 (FIG. 3), and the operation state of each button is grasped by the controller. Note that operation buttons or the like may be provided on other surfaces of the housing 10.

[0020] The detection unit 50 is schematically shown in FIG. 1 as to the placement location, and is specifically shown in FIGS. 2 to 5. The detection unit 50 is a part that detects the operation state of the operation unit 30. The detection unit 50 has a first detection unit 51 and a second detection unit 52 shown in FIG. 2 and the like. The first detection unit 51 is a part that detects the movement and position state in the X direction of the third part 33 corresponding to the first operation AC1. The second detection unit 52 is a part that detects the movement and position state in the Y direction of the third part 33 corresponding to the second operation AC2. The state detected by the detection unit 50 is grasped as an operation input by the operation unit 30 by the controller of the substrate 100 (FIG. 3).

[0021] In Embodiment 1, the operating section 30, which mimics a straw, has different shapes for each part, rather than simply being a cylinder or cylindrical shape for the first part 31, the second part 32, and the third part 33. Specifically, the second part 32 is cylindrical or cylindrical, meaning its cross-section in the horizontal plane is approximately a perfect circle, so that it appears to have a three-dimensional shape close to that of a real straw (in this embodiment). (Figure 4, etc.) Although the operating section 30 in this embodiment mimics a straw, unlike a real straw, the second part 32 is cylindrical with a closed upper end. This improves the strength of the second part 32. The first part 31 only needs to look like a straw in the first direction (Figure 2), and is not limited to a cylinder or cylindrical shape. In this example, it is shaped like a cylinder flattened in the Z direction, meaning its cross-section in the horizontal plane is elliptical (Figures 1 and 3). Specifically, the thickness in the Z-direction corresponding to the first direction is made different for the first part 31 and the second part 32 (in this embodiment, the thickness of the first part 31 is smaller than the thickness of the second part 32). By making the shape as seen by the user from the Z-direction corresponding to the first direction approximately the same as the shape of the second part 32, when viewed by the user from the first direction, the first part 31 and the second part 32 appear as a single, integrated three-dimensional object. Furthermore, by making the thickness dimension of the first part 31 in the Z-direction smaller than the thickness dimension of the second part 32, the overall thickness dimension of the housing 10 of the game device 1 is kept small in the Z-direction. Therefore, when a child holds and operates the housing 10 of the game device 1, it becomes easier for the child to operate the housing 10 even with small hands. Consequently, it becomes easy for a child to hold the housing 10 with one hand, look at the front display surface 23, and operate the second part 32 with the other hand. Since the third part 33 is positioned so that it is shielded and not visible when viewed from the first direction by the shielding part 60, various shapes are permitted, and in this example, it is a flat plate shape that is thinner than the thickness of the second part 32 in the Z direction (Figures 1 and 3). As a result, the thickness of the first part 31 and the third part 33 in the Z direction is thinner than the thickness of the second part 32 in the Z direction, which can produce the same effect as when the thickness of the first part 31 in the Z direction is reduced. Note that the first part 31 and the third part 33 may be the same shape as the second part 32.

[0022] [1-2: Front configuration] In Figure 2, the front of the game device 1, the window 22, display surface 23, first section 31, and shielding section 60 are arranged around the center of the container 12, for example, indicated by the dashed line. Images of game elements are displayed on the transparent display surface 23 based on game-related controls by the controller on the circuit board 100 (Figure 3) (see Figure 6, described later). From the user's perspective, the first section 31 appears to be superimposed on the image behind it, transparent to the display surface 23. In other words, the user can operate and view the contents of the food and beverage container, which is represented as an image on the display surface 23, as if stirring it with a straw represented by the first section 31.

[0023] In Figure 2, the state of the first part 31 and the second part 32, indicated by the solid lines of the operating section 30, represents the basic state where they are at the central position XC in the X direction and upright in the Y direction. In the basic state, the second part 32 is located from a predetermined upper position Y1 to a predetermined lower position Y2. The first part 31 is located from a predetermined upper position Y3 to a predetermined lower position Y4. Behind the first part 31, as shown by the dashed line, the third part 33 is hidden. In this example, the first part 31 and the third part 33 are longer than the second part 32 in the Y direction. Therefore, with respect to the first operation AC1, the range of operation AC1a of the tip 31a of the first part 31 and the range of operation of the tip 33a of the third part 33 are wider than the range of operation of the tip of the second part 32.

[0024] In Embodiment 1, as shown in the figure, the operating unit 30 is arranged such that in the Z direction, the first part 31 and the third part 33 are separated by a shielding part 60, etc., and in the Y direction, the third part 33 is longer than the first part 31 on the lower side. The lower tip 33a of the third part 33 is located at a position Y7 lower than the position Y4 of the lower tip 31a of the first part 31. As a result, in the first direction from the user's viewpoint, the tip 31a of the first part 31 is designed to be visible at a suitable position Y4 within the window 22 and the display surface 23. In particular, the tip 31a is located in the lower half of the display surface 23. This design is intended to make it easier for the user to see simulated actions such as poking granular objects, which are game elements described later, with the tip of the straw. Furthermore, the tip 33a of the third part 33, which is not visible due to the shielding part 60, is designed to be easily detected by the push switch of the second detection unit 52 located near the bottom surface of the housing 10. In addition, the movement of the first part 31 is restricted primarily by the restricting section 80 (Figures 3 to 5) to restrict the movement of the third part 33. No other physical objects are placed in the space 301 (Figure 3) that includes the first part 31. This enhances the sense of simulating food and drink through the superimposition of the image on the display surface 23 in the first direction with the first part 31 which resembles a straw.

[0025] As a variation, the tip portion 31a of the first portion 31 may be positioned at another location, for example, near the lower edge of the area of ​​the window 22 or the display surface 23.

[0026] The states of the first part 31 and the second part 32, indicated by the dashed lines on the operating unit 30, represent the left and right positions in the X direction corresponding to the first operation AC1. The dashed arrows indicate the approximate range of motion of the first operation AC1, which represents the range of motion of the second part 32. The dashed arrows indicate the approximate range of motion of the tip 31a of the first part 31, which represents the first operation AC1. In response to the first operation AC1 performed by the user on the second part 32, the tip 31a of the first part 31 swings in an arc from side to side in the X direction, as shown in operation AC1a. For example, if the user tilts the second part 32 to the right, the tip 31a of the first part 31 moves to the left. In conjunction with the movement of the tip 31a of the first part 31, the tip 33a of the third part 33 moves towards the left position XL. Such first operation AC1 is designed to be possible within a predetermined range of motion and is also restricted by the restricting section 80 and the shielding section 60, which will be described later.

[0027] The first detection unit 51 detects the movement and position of the tip portion 33a of the third portion 33 in the X direction. In this example, the first detection unit 51 detects the position of the tip portion 33a as a three-value approximate position: near the left position XL, near the right position XR, or near the center position XC. As a result of detection by the first detection unit 51, the state when the position is neither the left position XL nor the right position XR is associated with the state near the center position XC. More precisely, this near-center state is a state between the left position XL and the right position XR.

[0028] The dashed arrow indicates the second operation AC2, which schematically shows the range of movement when the user presses down on the second part 32. Correspondingly, operation AC2a of the second operation AC2 schematically shows the range of movement of the tip 31a of the first part 31. The second operation AC2 is also possible even when the first part 31 etc. are in left and right positions in the X direction due to the first operation AC1. In this example, the second detection unit 52 for detecting the second operation AC2 is configured using, for example, a push switch. This push switch is located near the bottom surface of the housing 10. This push switch is switched from an off state to an on state in response to contact and pressing by the tip 33a of the third part 33. If the tip 31a of the first part 31 is positioned so that it overlaps with the image on the display surface 23 that simulates the inside of the container when viewed by the user from a first direction, then the tip 33a of the third part 33 must be positioned at a position Y7 lower than the position Y4 of the tip 31a of the first part 31 so that it can contact the upper surface of the push switch during the second operation AC2, and the length of the third part 33 in the Y direction will be longer than the length of the first part 31 in the Y direction.

[0029] [1-3: Side configuration] In Figure 3, in the configuration viewed from the side of the housing 10, from the user's perspective, in a first direction, for example, at position YC near the center in the Y direction, the window 22, the display surface 23 of the display device 21, the first part 31, the shielding part 60, the third part 33, and the battery housing 90 are arranged in order from front to back. In the Z direction, the window 22 is at position Z1, the display surface 23 is at position Z2, the first part 31 is at position Z3, the shielding part 60 is at position Z4, and the third part 33 is at position Z5. The distance between position Z2 and position Z3 is distance d1. In this example, the display surface 23 is located at position Z2, which is behind position Z1 of the window 22 in the Z direction, but this is not limited to this, and the display surface 23 may also be located at position Z1 of the window 22.

[0030] A circuit board 100 is located near the bottom of the housing 10. However, the circuit board 100 may be located in any available area within the housing 10, such as near the back of the housing 10 or behind the shielding section 60. The circuit board 100 may be composed of multiple circuit boards. A battery housing 90 is provided near the back of the housing 10. A battery is removably housed in the battery housing 90 in accordance with the opening and closing of the lid on the back of the housing 10. This battery supplies power to the circuit board 100 and the like. Sensors and switches of the button operation section 40, display device 21, and detection section 50 are also connected to the circuit board 100. The controller of the circuit board 100 understands the state of the operation section 30 based on the detection results of the first detection section 51 and the second detection section 52.

[0031] The circuit board 100 is an electronic circuit board that controls the game device 1, and in particular corresponds to a computer or controller that controls games, etc. The circuit board 100 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, input / output interface, communication interface, and bus, etc., and the CPU etc. constitute the controller. The controller constitutes a game execution unit that controls and executes the game based on program processing, etc. The game execution unit controls the display of images of game elements etc. that constitute the game on the display surface 23 of the display device 21.

[0032] The housing 10 has a space 301 enclosed by a window 22 and a shielding portion 60, which contains most of the first portion 31. This space 301 is perceived by the user as a portion that mimics the liquid inside a food or beverage container. As shown in Figure 3, the shielding portion 60 has at least a flat plate-shaped portion 60a with XY planes positioned between the first portion 31 and the third portion 33, and this portion 60a shields the third portion 33 and the detection portion 50 in the first direction. Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the shielding portion 60 may have an upper surface portion with an XZ plane extending forward from its portion 60a to the vicinity of the window 22, a lower surface portion with an XZ plane, and left and right side portions with YZ planes. In this way, the shielding portion 60 can constitute the space 301 which contains most of the first portion 31. The display device 21 is fixed to, for example, the container 12 or the shielding portion 60. Furthermore, a portion of the upper surface of the shielding portion 60 also has a restricting portion 61 that allows the first portion 31 to pass through vertically. The movement of the first portion 31 is also restricted by the restricting portion 61.

[0033] Below the lid 11, at a position between the bearing portion 35 and the regulating portion 61, one end of the connecting portion 36 is fixed to a part of the upper side of the first portion 31 and extends rearward in the Z direction. The other end of the connecting portion 36 is fixed to a part of the upper side of the third portion 33, and the third portion 33 extends downward in the Y direction to position Y7.

[0034] Near the operating range of the tip 33a of the third section 33, the regulating section 80, the first detection section 51, and the second detection section 52 are arranged (as shown in Figures 4 and 5 below). At position Y6, the first detection section 51, specifically an infrared sensor, is located. Near position Y8, a push switch is located as the second detection section 52 connected to the substrate 100.

[0035] During the second operation AC2 in the basic state, the tip 31a of the first part 31 is displaced downward from position Y4 to position Y5, as in operation AC2a. In conjunction with this movement, the tip 33a of the third part 33 is also displaced downward from position Y7 to position Y8 (or the position of the upper surface of the pressure switch of the second detection unit 52), as in operation AC2b. Consequently, the tip 33a contacts the upper surface of the pressure switch of the second detection unit 52 and is pressed down to press against its upper surface. The pressure switch detects the state at the time of this pressing as at least a binary state of on / off. That is, when the second operation AC2 is performed in the basic state, the pressure switch changes from the off state to the on state. The second detection unit 52 may be composed of a pressure sensor or the like that can detect the degree of pressing as multiple values ​​in more detail. Alternatively, the second detection unit 52 may simply be composed of a touch sensor that detects a binary state of contact or absence. In this case, it is preferable that during the second operation AC2, position Y5 is positioned so that it overlaps with the image on the display surface 23 that simulates the inside of the container when viewed from the first direction by the user. By designing it in this way, even if the first part 31 is displaced during the second operation AC2, the user will be able to see up to the tip of the first part 31.

[0036] In Embodiment 1, a pressure switch is used as the second detection unit 52 to simulate the elastic feel of granular objects in food or beverages during the second operation AC2. When the upper surface of this pressure switch is pressed during the second operation AC2, it provides the user with a predetermined tactile effect, such as elasticity. That is, at this time, the user gets the sensation of poking an elastic object with the tip of a straw.

[0037] The second part 32, which protrudes from the upper side of the lid 12, may be made of a hard, deformation-resistant material such as synthetic resin or metal. However, in Embodiment 1, it is made of a softer material than the first part 31, such as an elastic material like rubber. In Figure 3, the state of the second part 32 made of this soft material is shown as the second part 32b with a dashed line. In this way, the second part 32 elastically deforms in response to the load of the first action AC1 performed by the user's fingers. If the second part 32 is made of a hard material as in the former configuration, the operation of the second part 32 is transmitted more directly to the first part 31, etc.

[0038] In the latter configuration, where the second part 32 is made of a soft component as in Embodiment 1, the following effects and benefits can be obtained. If a child user moves the second part 32 violently, the elastic deformation of the second part 32b, as shown in the figure, can absorb and cushion that movement. This prevents damage to parts caused by violent movements of the operating section 30. In Embodiment 1, the first operation AC1 is configured to primarily detect movement in the X direction (Figure 4, etc.). In the latter configuration, the user can move the second part 32 to some extent in the Z direction through elastic deformation, and while detection is mainly in the X direction, a simulated feeling of operation in the Z direction can be achieved. That is, actions such as stirring a straw in a horizontal plane (XZ plane) can be simulated to some extent.

[0039] The restricting unit 80 restricts the movement of the first part 31 by restricting the movement of the third part 33. Specifically, the movement of the tip 33a of the third part 33 is restricted by the restricting unit 80 to within a predetermined range in the left-right and front-back directions, and at the same time, the movement of the tip 31a of the first part 31, which is linked to it, is also restricted to within a predetermined range. Due to this restriction, the movement of the tip 31a of the first part 31 becomes a movement that moves on a plane (XY plane) substantially parallel to the display surface 23, as in operation AC1a, or in other words, a movement that crosses the display surface 23.

[0040] Furthermore, the shielding portion 60 may not only have a shielding function that shields at least a part of the third portion 33 and the detection portion 50 from view in the first direction, but may also have a restricting function that restricts the movement of the operating portion 30. Conversely, the restricting portion 80 may have both a restricting function and a shielding function. The shielding portion 60 and the restricting portion 80 may be configured as an integral part. As a restricting function, the shielding portion 60 may have a function that prevents the first portion 31 from coming into contact with other parts such as the display device 21, or, even if contact occurs, buffers it to prevent damage.

[0041] [1-4:Top configuration] In Figure 4, the top surface of the housing 10 has, in general terms, a rectangular area at the rear and a semi-elliptical area at the front in the Z direction. At least the front side of the housing 10 has a curved shape that mimics a food and beverage container. In Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a curved shape on the front side and a flat shape on the back side, as shown in the figure, taking into consideration the need to reduce the thickness in the Z direction and to be able to place it stably on a horizontal surface such as a desk. The shape of the housing 10 is not limited to this; the front side may be flat and the back side curved, both the front and back sides may be curved, or both the front and back sides may be flat. Also, in Figures 1 and 3, the shape of the housing 10 in the Y direction is shown with the bottom and top sides having the same area, but as shown in Figure 2, the top side may have a larger area than the bottom side.

[0042] At predetermined positions near the center on the upper surface of the lid 12 of the housing 10 (positions XC and Z3), a bearing portion 35 is provided in a hole through which the operating portion 30 passes. In the basic state, the second portion 32, the first portion 31, and the third portion 33 are arranged at the central position XC in the X direction. At the left position XL in the X direction, the left sensor 51L is arranged as an infrared sensor constituting the first detection unit 51, and at the right position XR, the right sensor 51R is arranged.

[0043] The first motion AC1 includes motion such as left-right oscillating in the X direction at least. In conjunction with the first motion AC1 applied to the second part 32, the tip 31a of the first part 31 has a range like motion AC1a, and the tip 33a of the third part 33 has a range like motion AC1b. Since the third part 33 is longer than the first part 31 in the Y direction, the range of motion AC1b in the X direction is slightly wider than that of motion AC1a.

[0044] If the first action AC1 is to more accurately simulate the stirring motion of an actual straw, it may be possible to enable not only unidirectional movements such as in the X direction, but also movements in the Z direction. In Embodiment 1, such movements in the Z direction are permitted to a certain extent. In Figure 4, the first action AC1 can also perform movements such as AC12, which is a back-and-forth oscillation in the Z direction. Furthermore, the first action AC1 can also perform movements such as AC13, which is a free rotation in an arc shape in the horizontal plane. A mechanism including a bearing section 35 is implemented according to the definition of such a first action AC1. It is also possible to implement the first action AC1 in a way that only accepts movement in the X direction.

[0045] However, if movement in the Z direction is permitted for the operating section 30, it is desirable that the first portion 31 does not come into contact with other parts, including the display device 21, in order to prevent damage to the surrounding components of the operating section 30. In Embodiment 1, when a first operation AC1 including the X and Z directions is performed on the second portion 32, the movement of the third portion 33 is restricted by the restricting section 80, thereby restricting the movement of the first portion 31. As a result, the tip portion 31a of the first portion 31 can be prevented from coming into contact with other parts, such as the display device 21.

[0046] In this example, the restricting portion 80 has a flat plate-shaped portion 80a with XY planes located behind the shielding portion 60, and a flat plate-shaped portion 80b with YZ planes located on the left and right sides outside the range of the operation AC1b of the third portion 33 (see Figure 5 for details). In response to the first operation AC1, if the tip portion 33a of the third portion 33 moves outward beyond the left position XL or the right position XR in the X direction, the portion 80b of the restricting portion 80 restricts its movement to a predetermined range. Also, if the tip portion 33a of the third portion 33 moves forward in the Z direction, the portion 80a of the restricting portion 80 restricts its movement.

[0047] In this example, the first detection unit 51 uses two sensors 51L and 51R, one on the left and one on the right, as infrared sensors to detect when the tip 33a of the third part 33 is at position XL on the left, position XR on the right, or somewhere between them. The two sensors 51L and 51R are, for example, positioned between the shielding part 60 and part 80a of the restricting part 80 in the Z direction (Figure 5). For example, the left sensor 51L, positioned at position XL on the left, emits infrared light to the rear in the Z direction. This infrared light enters the space enclosed by the restricting part 80 through the hole in the restricting part 80. If the tip 33a is at position XL on the left, the infrared light is blocked and reflected by the tip 33a and returns to sensor 51L. Sensor 51L detects the infrared light as being in an off state if it is not blocked by the tip 33a, and as being in an on state if it is blocked. The controller of the circuit board 100 can determine that, with respect to the first operation AC1, if the detection result of the left sensor 51L is ON, the third part 33 is at the left position XL. That is, in that case, the controller can determine that the tip 31a of the first part 31 is roughly at the left position in the X direction. The same operation applies to the right sensor 51R. Furthermore, if the detection results of both sensors 51L and 51R are OFF, the controller can determine that at least the tip 31a is at a position between the left position XL and the right position XR in the X direction, and may further determine that the tip 31a of the first part 31 is roughly near the center position XC in the X direction. The first detection unit 51 is not limited to this configuration and may be implemented using other switches or sensors. The first detection unit 51 may be configured to detect the position in the X direction more precisely, and may also be configured to detect the position in the Z direction.

[0048] Furthermore, in this example, the push switch of the second detection unit 52 is positioned at the center XC in the X direction, and the area of ​​the upper surface that receives pressure from the tip 33a of the third part 33 is designed to be within a predetermined range. Therefore, in response to the first operation AC1, if the tip 33a of the third part 33 is near the center XC in the X direction, the push switch can be turned on by the second operation AC2. On the other hand, in response to the first operation AC1, if the tip 33a of the third part 33 is at a left or right position in the X direction, i.e., outside the above-mentioned area range, the push switch cannot be turned on even if the second operation AC2 is performed. By doing so, the position of the first part 31, which moves in conjunction with the third part 33, at the time of the second operation AC2 can be set to be near the center XC in the X direction, and the arrangement relationship between the first part 31 and the image on the display surface 23 when viewed from the first direction at the time of the second operation AC2 can be set to a predetermined arrangement relationship. The second detection unit 52 is not limited to this configuration. For example, by increasing the area of ​​the press switch in the X direction to broaden the range in which the second action AC2 is received, the press switch can be turned ON even when the tip 33a is in a left or right position in the X direction. Alternatively, by providing multiple second detection units 52 in the X direction, the second action can be detected when the tip 33a is in a left or right position in the X direction.

[0049] As shown in Figure 4, when the user moves the second part 32 in the Z direction, such as in operation AC12, the first part 31 and the third part 33 are also moved to a certain extent in the Z direction in conjunction with it, via the aforementioned elasticity (second part 32b in Figure 3) acting as a buffer. At that time, the movement of the first part 31 is restricted by the restricting part 80 and the shielding part 60 so as not to come into contact with other parts such as the display device 21. Alternatively, even if the first part 31 comes into contact with other parts, a component may be provided to provide buffering and protect it from damage. For example, protective material such as an elastic member may be provided on each surface of the shielding part 60 or on the back of the display device 21. Alternatively, the tip 31a of the first part 31 may be made of an elastic member.

[0050] [1-5: Rear configuration] In Figure 5, in the configuration viewed from the rear, the movement of the first part 31 of the operating section 30 is detected by the detection section 50 (first detection section 51 and second detection section 52) as the movement of the third part 33. The tip 33a of the third part 33 is restricted from movement by a restricting section 80 as shown in the figure, while movement AC1b in the X direction and movement AC2b in the Y direction are permitted. The restricting section 80 has a front part 80a with XY planes, left and right side parts 80b with YZ planes, and a bottom part 80c with XZ planes. The top surface of the push switch is exposed in the center of the bottom part 80c, so that movement AC2b in the Y direction is permitted.

[0051] Furthermore, in this example, the tip portion 33a of the third portion 33 has a curved shape that is convex downward in the Y direction, as shown in the figure. This makes it easier for the tip portion 33a to press the upper surface of the pressure switch of the second detection unit 52. The bottom portion 80c of the restricting portion 80 has a curved shape that matches the range of operation AC1b of the tip portion 33a. The shape of the restricting portion 80 is not limited to this. The restricting portion 80 may also have a flat plate-like portion with an XY plane on the rear side in the Z direction to restrict movement in that direction.

[0052] Furthermore, protective materials such as elastic members may be provided on the restricting portion 80 and the tip portion 33a of the third portion 33 to cushion collisions between parts. Even if the user moves the second portion 32 violently, the tip portion 33a will be stopped by hitting one of the parts (80a, 80b, 80c) of the restricting portion 80. This will keep the movement of the tip portion 31a of the first portion 31, which is linked to the third portion 33, within a predetermined range. Additionally, an elastic member or the like may be used on the tip portion 33a as a component to provide an elastic feel during the second operation AC2.

[0053] As a modified example, the first detection unit 51 may be composed of touch sensors or proximity sensors provided on the left and right side portions 80b of the regulating unit 80. For example, when the tip portion 33a contacts the sensor on the left portion 80b of the regulating unit 80, it is detected as being in the left position XL state.

[0054] [1-6: How to Play] The basic operation and gameplay of game device 1 are as follows: Children and other users perform basic operations such as selecting and confirming games by pressing buttons on the button operation unit 40 while looking at the display on the display surface 23. The game execution unit of game device 1 executes the game and displays images of game elements on the display surface 23. The user plays the game by operating the operation unit 30 while looking at the images on the display surface 23 and performing the first action AC1 and second action AC2 described above.

[0055] Initially, with the power on, the game device 1 displays a menu screen (not shown) on the display surface 23. The user selects and confirms the game to play by viewing the menu screen and operating the buttons on the button operation unit 40. From the menu screen, it is possible to transition to several game modes, including the basic games described below, as well as a user setting mode, a standby screen mode, etc. The game device 1 provides several games, including the basic games described below, through the game execution unit. Note that the games are not limited to the examples below, and various games can be provided depending on the design of the program, etc. When a basic game is selected and confirmed, the game device 1 starts displaying images of the game elements of the basic game on the display surface 23 based on the program processing.

[0056] [1-7: Basic Game] The configuration of the basic game in game device 1 is described below. The basic game is a game that imitates a tapioca drink as the target food or drink, and its name may be, for example, "Tapioca Hunting Game". In this basic game, users such as children search for, obtain, and collect tapioca, which is the granular material that makes up a tapioca drink. The casing 10 of game device 1 is shaped like a tapioca drink (especially the container 12 and lid 11), and the operating unit 30 is shaped like a straw. An image of a tapioca drink (especially the liquid and granular material inside the container) is displayed on the display surface 23. To the user, the image of the inside of the container on the display surface 23 and the first part 31, which is shaped like a straw, are superimposed in the first direction.

[0057] In the basic game, the user operates the control unit 30 while viewing an image on the display screen 23, simulating a first action AC1, such as stirring a tapioca drink with a straw, and a second action AC2, such as poking granular objects. In the basic game, the user searches for and finds various types of granular objects that make up the tapioca drink, such as uncollected tapioca. The user then captures and acquires the tapioca by performing an action (especially the second action AC2) that simulates a predetermined suction action by the control unit 30. The game execution unit, based on detection by the detection unit 50 during the basic game, determines the user's operation of the control unit 30 and, according to predetermined conditions, determines whether the acquisition of the granular objects was successful or unsuccessful.

[0058] The aforementioned first action AC1 (corresponding first operation) is reflected as an operation that causes the liquid and granular material inside the tapioca drink to flow by stirring with a straw. The second action AC2 (corresponding second operation) is reflected as an action that pokes or presses the elastic granular material, tapioca, with a straw. The second action AC2 is detected by the third part 33 as an action that presses the pressure switch of the second detection unit 52 with an elastic feel. As a result, the user gets the sensation of poking elastic tapioca.

[0059] Furthermore, the basic game also simulates sucking up granular objects using a straw. In Embodiment 1, this sucking action is implemented as a common action with the second action AC2, which is an up-and-down movement, taking into consideration the simplification of the mechanism and cost reduction. In the basic game, the second action AC2 switches from poking the granular objects to sucking them up as a function, depending on the change in the game progress on the time axis. As a variation, a third action that simulates a sucking action may be implemented with a separate mechanism (for example, an operation button for sucking) in addition to the second action AC2 that simulates a poking action.

[0060] [1-8: Examples of displays related to the basic game] Figures 6 and 7 show examples of displays on the display surface 23 of the display device 21 related to the basic game. 1. When the basic game starts, the game execution unit of the game device 1 displays a game setting screen on the display surface 23, which is not shown in the figure, and is modeled after ordering a tapioca drink. This game setting screen is for setting the content of the basic game, such as the difficulty level and the types of granular objects that appear. The details are not particularly limited and the configuration may be omitted.

[0061] Game device 1 displays parameters for configuring a tapioca drink (corresponding basic game) on the game settings screen and accepts user selections. On the game settings screen, the user can select values ​​for parameters such as the type of liquid that forms the base of the drink (e.g., straight tea or milk tea), the amount of ice, and the sweetness. Game device 1 determines the internal configuration of the tapioca drink in the basic game according to the selected parameter values. The internal configuration of the tapioca drink includes the distribution configuration of multiple tapioca pearls contained in the liquid, or at least one specific tapioca pearl. The distribution configuration can be implemented, for example, by probabilistically selecting tapioca pearls that appear based on program processing, or by reading a predetermined tapioca pearl from a predetermined table. The game difficulty can also be adjusted, for example, by the number of tapioca pearls or the speed at which the tapioca pearls flow.

[0062] As a basic element of the game, data including images and information is provided for multiple types of tapioca (granular objects) that the user can acquire. For example, tapioca of various colors such as black, white, orange, and blue is available. In addition, there are also tapioca that imitates foods such as strawberry tapioca, tapioca that imitates animals such as cat tapioca, and tapioca that imitates fictional or story characters. Furthermore, each type of tapioca has a rarity level, such as normal or rare, which means there are differences in the probability of it appearing. Images of each type of tapioca are also provided as still images or animations, with images of tapioca with various expressions such as smiling, angry, crying, and expressionless.

[0063] In this example, the initial tapioca drink's tapioca distribution at the start of the game will be determined by a lottery, with one specific tapioca being selected as a candidate for acquisition. Any other tapioca appearing in the drink besides this one will be treated as a visual effect and will not be obtainable. However, it is certainly possible to have two or more tapioca appear simultaneously through a lottery.

[0064] 2. After determining the settings for the basic game, the game device 1 starts the basic game. Figure 6(A) shows an example of the display at the start of the basic game (especially the "Exploration Start Phase") as a first example of the display. From the user's perspective, the display surface 23 via window 22 displays an image g0 representing the liquid inside the tapioca drink (e.g., straight tea), and images g1 representing each of the multiple tapioca pearls. In this case, the tapioca images g1 are anthropomorphized for children and have facial expressions including eyes and a mouth. Behind the images on the display surface 23, the first part 31, which resembles a straw, is visible through the transparency. Also, the display surface 23 displays images g2 (e.g., "Start!") of text to guide the user through game operations and various information as appropriate. In this example, at this point, the game device 1 does not yet display the image of the specific type of tapioca that was selected by lottery, but instead displays images g1 representing a certain number of tapioca pearls for dramatic effect. In this example, image g1 is a tapioca pearl with a consistent color and a smiling face. This increases user anticipation by making the tapioca pearls to be retrieved unknown.

[0065] 3. After the basic game starts, the user moves the second part 32, and the game execution unit changes the image on the display surface 23 in response to the detection of the operation by the operation unit 30. Figure 6(B) shows the display at that time (especially the "exploration phase") (second example). The user performs a first action AC1, such as stirring a straw, for example, repeatedly swaying it from side to side in the X direction. As a result, the tip 31a of the first part 31 repeatedly sways from side to side on the display surface 23. The game device 1 detects the state of the third part 33 (Figure 2, etc.) in response to the first action AC1 using the first detection unit 51. Depending on the detected state, the game device 1 changes the image g0 of the liquid inside the tapioca drink and the image g1 of the tapioca on the display surface 23, as shown in Figure 6(B). Specifically, the display surface 23 displays an animation or other image showing the flow of the liquid and multiple tapioca pearls inside the container. The liquid image g0 is, for example, an image where the top surface is wavy or an image where bubbles are formed within the liquid. In this case, each tapioca may flow in an arc in the X direction (arrow in the illustration) or the Y direction. Each tapioca may appear and disappear within the display surface 23 depending on the flow.

[0066] 4. The game device 1, at predetermined triggers such as when the flow due to the first action AC1 reaches a certain level or higher, displays an image g3 representing the selected tapioca on the display surface 23, as shown in Figure 6(B). In this example, at this point, the specific tapioca is still unknown and its true identity is not revealed, and the image g3 represents the unknown tapioca. This can increase the user's sense of anticipation. This unknown specific tapioca (image g3) represents a candidate state that the user can acquire, and is displayed as if flowing in the liquid, similar to the other certain tapioca (image g1). This image g3 of the unknown specific tapioca may be, for example, a tapioca wearing sunglasses or a tapioca with a '?' mark on it. As a variation, at this point, an image showing the true identity of the specific tapioca may be displayed.

[0067] Furthermore, the game device 1 displays an image g4 (e.g., a dashed circular frame) on the display surface 23 at a predetermined trigger, representing an area where a specific tapioca can be acquired ("capture area," "target frame"). In this example, this area is located in the center of the display surface 23 in the X direction and in the Y direction, it is located as the lower half of the area corresponding to the tip 31a of the first part 31. This area indicates that when a specific tapioca (image g3) is within this area, it can be acquired and sucked up by the second operation AC2.

[0068] 5. The user performs a second action AC2, which involves pushing the straw downwards, when a specific tapioca (image g3) enters the area (image g4) in Figure 6 (B). This second action AC2 corresponds specifically to the first stage of suction. The game device 1 detects this second action AC2 using the pressure switch of the second detection unit 52. As mentioned above, this second action AC2 can only be successful if it is directed towards the center in the X direction. If the pressure switch is turned on by the second action AC2 when a specific tapioca (image g3) is inside the area (image g4), the game device 1 determines that the first stage of suction for acquiring that specific tapioca has been successful. If the game device 1 determines that the first stage of suction has been successful, it proceeds to the next display as shown below. In this case, as an example of presentation, the process of the specific tapioca being sucked into the tip of the straw may be displayed using animation or the like.

[0069] 6. Figure 7(A) shows an example of the display (third example) during the second stage of suction after the first stage of suction is successful (especially the "acquisition chance phase"). At this time, the game device 1 switches the game progression phase on the display surface 23 from Figure 6(B) to Figure 7(A). In the phase of Figure 7(A), the display surface 23 displays an image representing a magnified tapioca drink and part of the straw. In this example, the display surface 23 has an image g5 representing part of the liquid and other tapioca, an image g6 representing part of the cylindrical straw, and an image g7 representing a specific tapioca that has entered the straw. In this example, at this point, the image g7 of the specific tapioca has not yet revealed its true identity and is represented as a certain tapioca (for example, a smiling tapioca). However, at this point, this image g7 may also be an image of an unknown tapioca, similar to image g3, or it may be an image that reveals its true identity, as described later.

[0070] In this phase, the user is instructed to focus on a specific tapioca pearl (image g7) and a straw in the image (image g6) and to attempt the second stage of suction using the second action AC2. In this phase, the straw in the image (image g6) is displayed, and the straw in the image overlaps with the first part 31 of the actual object. In this phase, since the user is to focus on the straw in the image (image g6), it is preferable that the first part 31 of the actual object behind it is not easily visible to the user. Therefore, in this example, the image of the straw g6 and the image of the specific tapioca pearl g7 are displayed on the display surface 23 in a large size or a specific color to make them stand out, so that the first part 31 is not easily visible.

[0071] 7. Next, the user performs the second stage of suction using the second action AC2 while looking at the display surface 23 as shown in Figure 7(A). The second action AC2 in this stage ("acquisition chance phase") simulates the action of sucking tapioca with a straw and is simulated by the second action AC2. One second action AC2 corresponds to the operation in which the detection state of the press switch of the second detection unit 52 changes from the off state, through a short on state, and then to the off state. This one second action AC2 is associated with sucking a predetermined amount in the game. A second action AC2 performed by long-pressing may also be provided. One second action AC2 performed by long-pressing corresponds to an operation in which the press switch remains on for a longer period of time and is associated with continuous suction in the game. The user performs several second actions AC2 or second actions AC2 performed by long-pressing as appropriate. In response to their second action AC2, the game device 1 displays on the display surface 23, using animation or the like, how a specific tapioca (image g7) gradually rises and is sucked up inside a long straw (image g6). The game device 1 displays, for example, a portion of the long straw on the display surface 23 as it scrolls.

[0072] Furthermore, in this phase, the game device 1 may display an image g8 representing a predetermined gauge on the display surface 23. This gauge is a game element that simulates breathing during inhalation. The game device 1 changes the amount of this gauge in accordance with the second action AC2 related to inhalation. For example, the game device 1 increases the amount of the gauge in accordance with the ON state of the second action AC2 and decreases it in accordance with the OFF state. The game device 1 may also induce a state of shortness of breath and inflict a predetermined penalty if the amount of the gauge exceeds a certain amount.

[0073] Game device 1 determines that the second stage of suction is successful, i.e., that the acquisition of that specific tapioca is successful, if the amount of tapioca (image g7) sucked up and raised by the second action AC2 exceeds a predetermined amount. Based on this, game device 1 proceeds to the next display. If the user fails to perform the second action AC2 related to suction properly, and the amount of tapioca sucked up and raised falls below the predetermined amount, game device 1 determines that the second stage of suction is a failure. In this case, game device 1 controls the display to return to the state before suction, for example, as shown in Figure 6(B), allowing the user to try again.

[0074] Furthermore, during the second stage of suction as shown in Figure 7(A), the game device 1 may display, as another game element, that other tapioca pearls in the liquid (image g5) cling to the area around the straw (image g6) in a way that interferes with the suction of a specific tapioca pearl (image g7) inside the straw. In this case, the game device 1 receives a first action AC1 from the user, and when the first action AC1 is performed, it displays a message indicating that the tapioca pearls should be shaken off.

[0075] 8. Figure 7(B) shows an example of the display (fourth example) when the acquisition of the specific tapioca is successful ("Tapioca Acquisition Success Phase"). Game device 1 transitions the display from Figure 7(A) to (B). Game device 1 displays on the display surface 23 an animation showing the specific tapioca revealing its true form, along with predetermined effects (e.g., light emission or transformation). Game device 1 displays an image g9 near the center of the display surface 23, representing the type of specific tapioca determined in the initial draw (strawberry tapioca in this example). Game device 1 also displays an image g10 along with image g9, representing the type and name of the specific tapioca, its rarity, etc. At this point, the user learns the specific tapioca and experiences a sense of accomplishment.

[0076] 9. Game device 1 registers the image and information of the tapioca acquired by the user into the user's tapioca list. Game device 1 stores lists such as the user's tapioca list in memory. The user can, as appropriate, display their tapioca list on the display surface 23 according to basic operations on the menu screen, select the desired tapioca from the tapioca list, and view detailed images and information. The user can also set the desired tapioca selected from the tapioca list ("My Tapioca") as the image to be displayed in standby screen mode, etc. When not playing a game, game device 1 displays the image including the My Tapioca along with the display of the clock, etc. In standby screen mode, for example, the My Tapioca flowing in a tapioca drink is displayed in animation, etc. At this time, the user can also influence the My Tapioca by operating the control unit 30. This allows the user to enjoy viewing the My Tapioca and interacting with it through communication, etc.

[0077] The following are variations of the basic game described above. First, regarding the configuration in which the acquisition of tapioca is controlled in two stages, the second stage (Figure 7(A)) may be omitted, and a specific tapioca may be acquired upon success in the first stage (Figure 6(B)). Furthermore, as an example of another game, a game in which the score increases depending on the number of granular objects acquired by the user, the time taken to acquire them, etc., is also possible.

[0078] As a variation, the game device 1 may display the tapioca distribution configuration determined at the start of the basic game directly as images of each tapioca on the display surface 23. The user operates by selecting the desired tapioca from among the multiple tapioca on the display surface 23 to acquire it. In this case, the content of the display surface 23 becomes more complex, and the game difficulty increases.

[0079] [1-9: Effects, etc.] As described above, according to the game device 1 of Embodiment 1, the entertainment value can be further enhanced by controlling the display by superimposing the image of the game element on the display surface 23 onto a real object (such as the casing 10 or the operation unit 30) that mimics food or drink. With this game device 1, the user can see the operation unit 30, which mimics a straw, with the real first part 31 superimposed onto the image of the game element through the display surface 23, and operate the second part 32, which can change the image of the game element in response to that operation. Therefore, the entertainment value of playing the game through user operation can be enhanced. Furthermore, this game device 1 is intended for children and can be realized at low cost without using expensive sensors, for example. In line with the configuration of the operation unit 30, the detection unit 50 can be realized using inexpensive sensors or switches.

[0080] [1-10: Variant examples] The following modifications of Embodiment 1 are also possible. The operating unit 30 may be configured without a second part 32 that the user grasps with their hand. For example, the housing 10 may be provided with an operating unit that does not resemble a straw, for moving the first part 31 etc. inside the housing 10, instead of the second part 32 that resembles a straw. As an operating unit that does not resemble a straw, for example, a button operating unit 40 may be configured to allow the movement of the second part 32. Furthermore, as a method of arranging the first part 31, by configuring the first part to extend in the X direction, the game device 1 can be configured to resemble a real object other than food or drink.

[0081] The first detection unit 51 and the second detection unit 52 of the detection unit 50 may be mounted in any location, either as part of or near the operation unit 30. For example, the detection unit 50 may be mounted in the bearing unit 35 as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the detection unit 50 may be mounted near the first part 31 in a position that does not overlap with the image on the display surface 23. In this case, the operation unit 30 does not need to have a third part 33 behind the first part 31.

[0082] The game device 1 may be configured in a state where the first part 31 and the display surface 23 are not superimposed in a first direction. For example, a mechanism for inserting and removing the first part 31 may be provided within the housing 10, such as a mechanism for extending or retracting the first part 31, or a mechanism for attaching and detaching the operation unit 30 may be provided on the housing 10. In this case, for example, when not playing a game, only the image on the display surface 23 can be seen from the first direction as viewed by the user.

[0083] (Embodiment 2) Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the game device 1 of Embodiment 2 as a modified example of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side. In Embodiment 2, the window 22, the first part 31 of the operation unit 30, the display surface 23 of the display device 21, the shielding part 60, the third part 33, etc., are arranged in order from front to back in the Z direction. In the Z direction, the first part 31 is positioned at position Z21, and behind it, at a distance d2, the display surface 23 is positioned at position Z22. In this example, the distance d2 is shorter than the distance d1 in Figure 3, and the first part 31 and the display surface 23 are positioned closer together. The first operation AC1 may be limited to operation in the X direction. Also in this example, the bearing part 35 and the connecting part 36 are mounted inside the lid 11. In Embodiment 2 as well, the first part 31 and the image can be seen superimposed from the user's viewpoint.

[0084] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the first part 31 may be made of an opaque material, but it is made of a transparent material to further enhance the sense of superimposition with the image. The user can see the image on the display surface 23 behind the first part 31. The first part 31 may also be made using an actual straw. The display device 21 may also be configured to have an opaque display surface 23, and the shielding part 60 may be omitted. If the display device 21 has an opaque display surface 23, the game device 1 can be made cheaper than if it has a transparent display surface.

[0085] In another embodiment, the game device 1 may be configured to have an opaque display surface 23, and an image representing a straw may be displayed on the display surface 23 in accordance with the user's operation of the operation unit 30, particularly the second part 32. In this case, the first part 31 may not be provided inside the housing 10, and the second part 32 may be able to operate a different physical object from the first part 31, which is positioned to overlap with the image on the display surface 23.

[0086] Although the present invention has been specifically described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. Components of the embodiments can be added, deleted, replaced, or combined in various ways. The functions described above may be implemented in part or in whole in hardware, or they may be implemented by software program processing. The programs and data constituting the functions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or in a device on a communication network. The present invention is applicable not only to food and beverages as objects related to games and simulations. Other examples of food and beverages include soups and hot pot dishes, and other examples of rod-shaped objects include spoons and chopsticks. Examples of objects other than food and beverages include fishing and insect catching. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1...Game device, 10...Housing, 11...Lid, 12...Container, 20...Display unit, 21...Display device, 22...Window, 23...Display surface, 30...Operation unit, 31...First part, 32...Second part, 33...Third part, 35...Bearing unit, 36...Connecting unit, 40...Button operation unit, 50...Detection unit, 51...First detection unit, 52...Second detection unit, 60...Shielding unit, 80...Regulation unit, 90...Battery housing unit, 100... substrate.

Claims

1. The casing and The game execution unit that runs the game, A display unit including a display surface that displays images of game elements of the game executed by the game execution unit, An operating unit that allows the user to perform operations related to the aforementioned game, A detection unit that detects the movement of the aforementioned operating unit, Equipped with, The game execution unit is capable of executing the game in such a way as to change the display of the game elements on the display surface based on the detection result of the operation unit's detection of movement, The control unit is positioned such that, at least during operation of the control unit related to the execution of the game, in a first direction from the user's viewpoint when viewing the display surface, at least a part of the control unit, which is a first portion, appears superimposed on the image of the game element on the display surface. Game device.

2. In the game device according to claim 1, The first part is located inside the housing, The game device further comprises a second part which is located outside the housing, is linked to the first part, and is operated by the user.

3. In the game device according to claim 2, The operating unit further has a third part that is interlocked with the first part, The detection unit detects the movement of the third part, The game device includes a shielding portion inside the casing that shields at least a part of the third portion so that it is not visible in the first direction.

4. In the game device according to claim 3, The shielding portion shields at least a part of the detection portion so that it is not visible in the first direction, in a game device.

5. In the game device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, In the first direction, the display surface and the first portion are arranged in that order. The aforementioned display surface is a transparent display surface, in this game device.

6. In the game device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The detection unit comprises a first detection unit capable of detecting a first operation by the operation unit and a second detection unit capable of detecting a second operation by the operation unit, in a game device.

7. In the game device according to claim 6, The first detection unit detects as a first operation a first operation in which at least a part of the operation unit crosses the display surface when the user looks at the display surface in the first direction.

8. In the game device according to claim 7, The second detection unit detects a second operation that is different from the first operation as the second operation, The second detection unit is a game device capable of providing a predetermined tactile effect during the second operation.

9. In a game device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A game device in which the first portion of the control unit is configured to move on a plane substantially parallel to the display surface in response to an operation on the control unit.

10. In a game device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The system further includes a restricting unit that restricts the movement of the aforementioned operating unit, The regulating unit is configured to restrict the movement of the first part by restricting the movement of the third part, in a game device.

11. In the game device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, A game device in which at least a portion of the second part is configured to allow movement in three dimensions.

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