Program and System

Abstract

This technology provides advantages in improving the convenience of services delivered over a network. [Solution] The program according to the present invention makes a computer function as a rewarding means that grants a reward to the user according to the type of terminal the user is using.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a program and a system.

Background Art

[0002] In services provided via a network, generally, terminals such as mobile phones and personal computers are used (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to improve convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention relates to a program, and the program causes a computer to function as means for giving a user a reward according to the type of terminal the user is using. This is the gist of the invention.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, convenience can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] A diagram showing a configuration example of a system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] A diagram showing a reference example of display contents for various types of terminals. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of display contents when a laptop personal computer is used. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of what is displayed when a smartphone is used. [Figure 5] A flowchart showing the server-side processing steps. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of a lottery table. [Figure 7] A diagram showing another example of a lottery table. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing the processing steps on the terminal side. [Figure 9] A diagram illustrating the content of communication between a server and a terminal. [Figure 10] A diagram showing other examples of what is displayed when a laptop computer is used. [Figure 11] A diagram showing other examples of what is displayed when a smartphone is used. [Figure 12] A diagram illustrating the content of communication between a server and a terminal. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of the display content when the display method is changed. [Figure 14] This diagram shows an example of what is displayed when using multiple monitors. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. While the embodiments describe multiple features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any way. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, identical or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0009] [Regarding the system configuration] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of system SY according to the embodiment. System SY comprises a server 1 and a plurality of terminals 2, each of which terminals 2 can communicate with server 1 via network N.

[0010] Server 1 comprises a processor 11, memory 12, storage 13, operation input unit 14, and display unit 15. The processor 11 is a broad-sense arithmetic unit that performs calculations to realize each function of Server 1, and includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. The memory 12 is a storage medium that temporarily stores intermediate data used in the calculations of the processor 11, and volatile storage media such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory) can typically be used. The storage 13 is a storage medium that stores information necessary for the calculations of the processor 11, such as programs and parameters, and data showing the results of the calculations, and non-volatile storage media such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive) can typically be used.

[0011] The operation input unit 14 is configured to accept operation input from the administrator of server 1 and may include hardware keys, software keys, levers, etc. The processor 11 performs calculation processing, for example, based on the operation input to the operation input unit 14 and / or based on communication with terminal 2 as described later. The display unit 15 is configured to display information necessary for the administrator of server 1 and, for example, an LCD display is used. The administrator of Server 1 corresponds to the provider of the designated service, and the service is provided to each of the multiple terminals 2 via Network N.

[0012] The plurality of terminals 2 may be of different types. Examples thereof include desktop personal computers, laptop personal computers, smartphones, tablets, and the like. Further examples include XR terminals (XR is an abbreviation for cross reality, a general term for VR (virtual reality), AR (augmented reality), MR (mixed reality), etc.), and wearable devices that can be worn in relation thereto. The owner of the terminal 2 can access the server 1 using the terminal 2 as a user of the service distributed from the server 1 and receive the service.

[0013] Each terminal 2 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a storage 23, an operation input unit 24, and a display unit 25. The processor 21, the memory 22, the storage 23, the operation input unit 24, and the display unit 25 each have a configuration or function similar to that of the processor 11, the memory 12, the storage 13, the operation input unit 14, and the display unit 15. The operation input unit 24 is configured to receive operation inputs by the user, such as selection of menus and commands related to the service, cancellation thereof, and change of selection targets. The display unit 25 is configured to display information related to the service and may include a screen on which the information is displayed, a frame (bezel) around it, and the like. When the terminal 2 is a desktop personal computer or a laptop personal computer, for example, a keyboard and a mouse are used for the operation input unit 24, and a liquid crystal display is used for the display unit 25. When the terminal 2 is a smartphone or a tablet, the operation input unit 24 and the display unit 25 may be integrally configured, and in such a case, a touch panel display is typically used.

[0014] In this embodiment, the service is a distribution service for a game (referred to as this game in the following description). Examples of this game include location information games, role-playing games, action games, adventure games, simulation games, strategy games, racing games, puzzle games, rhythm games, shooting games, card games, and the like. Such a system SY may be described as a game distribution system or simply a distribution system, or as a game service system or simply a service system.

[0015] [About the service] Users can play this game by downloading the game's program and / or data from server 1 to terminal 2. Gameplay is achieved by the user referring to the screen on display unit 25 and inputting desired operations into the input unit 24. Provisional data generated during gameplay is saved to the storage 13 of server 1 or temporarily stored in the memory 22 of terminal 2 as needed, allowing the game to be interrupted or resumed at any time.

[0016] In this game, one of the services offered is a lottery system where users can choose from a pool of rewards, with each reward having a rarity assigned to it. When a lottery is performed based on a user's request (lottery execution request), one of the rewards is awarded to the user with a probability corresponding to its rarity. This type of lottery is commonly referred to as "gacha." Granting rewards to users refers to making the rewards available to the user directly or indirectly, and from the user's perspective, it corresponds to acquiring the rewards. When a reward is granted to a user through a lottery, information indicating that the reward has been granted (acquired from the user's perspective) is stored in the storage 13 of the server 1, associated with terminal 2 or the user's identification information, thereby allowing the user to use the rewards. Such rewards may be described as perks, prizes, etc., or more broadly as incentives, etc.

[0017] In this embodiment, the reward is an image, such as a still image (e.g., a standby screen (so-called wallpaper)) or a video (e.g., a promotional video). For example, the winning probabilities for images Img1, Img2, and Img3, which can be obtained by lottery, may be set to 10%, 30%, and 60%, respectively. By performing a lottery within the game, the user can obtain images Img1, Img2, and Img3 with probabilities of 10%, 30%, and 60%, respectively. The obtained images Img1, Img2, or Img3 become available for use by the user, for example, they can be viewed within the game, and / or their image data (still image data or video data) can be saved in storage 23.

[0018] [Regarding the display of rewards] This game can be played on a variety of devices. Figure 2 shows, as an example, a case where terminal 2 of a certain user Ua is a laptop computer (referred to as laptop computer 2a for distinction), and terminal 2 of another user Ub is a smartphone (referred to as smartphone 2b for distinction).

[0019] The display unit 25 (referred to as display unit 25a for distinction) of a laptop computer 2a is often used as a landscape screen where the width of the screen is larger than the height of the screen. In contrast, the display unit 25 (referred to as display unit 25b for distinction) of a smartphone 2b is often used as a portrait screen where the height of the screen is larger than the width of the screen. In the following, for the sake of easier understanding, we will consider the case where display unit 25a is used as a landscape screen and display unit 25b is used as a portrait screen.

[0020] For example, if the image Img1 obtained by lottery is landscape orientation, it can be displayed appropriately on the landscape screen display unit 25a, but it may be difficult to display on the portrait screen display unit 25b (see Figure 2). Conversely, if the image Img1 obtained by lottery is portrait orientation, it can be displayed appropriately on the portrait screen display unit 25b, but it may be difficult to display on the landscape screen display unit 25a. The same applies to other images Img2 or Img3.

[0021] In this context, display difficulties refer to issues such as photos or illustrations in Image Img1 being unnecessarily reduced in size, making them difficult to see, or text within Image Img1 being unnecessarily reduced in size, making it difficult to recognize. These issues can cause the usability of this game, which can be played on various types of devices 2, to depend on the device 2 itself, thus creating a general need for technologies that further improve usability.

[0022] [First Embodiment] In the following first embodiment, for the sake of clarity, we will describe the case where the reward obtained by performing the lottery is image Img1, but the same applies to the cases of image Img2 or Img3.

[0023] (Display content on a laptop computer) Figure 3 shows the screen display content of the display unit 25a when user Ua, playing this game on a widescreen laptop PC 2a, obtains image Img1 through a lottery. When image Img1 is obtained through a lottery, first, a preview image PImg1h of image Img1 is displayed in window Wn31 on the screen. Along with this, the strings Tx311, which read "View All", and Tx312, which read "Save to Terminal", are displayed. In this example, the string Tx313, which reads "Close", is also displayed.

[0024] The preview image PImg1h is a landscape-oriented reduced image or sample image, and may also be referred to as a thumbnail.

[0025] The strings Tx311 to Tx313 each represent an icon that can be clicked (in this example, for example, using a mouse), and the user Ua can selectively click them.

[0026] Pressing the string Tx311 corresponds to the user Ua indicating an intention to view the entire image Img1h (or a detailed view). Upon pressing the string Tx311, the wide image Img1h is displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25a. At this time, the wide image Img1h displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25a can be viewed in detail (by zooming in), for example, using the mouse wheel.

[0027] Pressing the string Tx312 indicates that user Ua has requested the terminal save (or private use) of image Img1h. Upon pressing Tx312, the image data of the landscape image Img1h is saved in a predetermined file format to the storage 23 (referred to as storage 23a for distinction) of laptop computer 2a, and user Ua can view image Img1h in detail even outside of this game.

[0028] Pressing the string Tx313 corresponds to the user Ua indicating their intention to end the lottery (or return to the original screen). Upon pressing the string Tx313, the lottery ends, and the display content of the display unit 25a returns to its original state, for example, the waiting state before the lottery. At that time, a confirmation message such as "The image has been terminated without saving it to the terminal." may be displayed.

[0029] (Display content on smartphones) Figure 4 shows the contents of the display unit 25b screen when user Ub, playing this game on a vertically oriented smartphone 2b, obtains image Img1 through a lottery, similar to Figure 3. When image Img1 is obtained through a lottery, first, the window Wn41 on the screen displays a preview image PImg1v of image Img1, along with the strings Tx411 that say "View all" and Tx412 that say "Save to device". In this example, the string Tx413 that says "Close" is also displayed.

[0030] The preview image PImg1v is a vertically oriented reduced image or sample image, and may also be referred to as a thumbnail.

[0031] The strings Tx411 to Tx413, like the strings Tx311 to Tx313, are icons that can be pressed (in this example, for example, on a touch panel display), and the user Ub can select and press them. When the character Tx411 is pressed, a vertically oriented image Img1v is displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25b. At this time, the vertically oriented image Img1v displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25b can be viewed in detail, for example, by pinching out. Furthermore, upon pressing the string Tx412, the image data of the vertically oriented image Img1v is saved in a predetermined file format to the storage 23 of the smartphone 2b (referred to as storage 23b for distinction). Furthermore, pressing the string Tx413 will end the lottery, and the display content of the display unit 25b will return to its original state. At that time, a confirmation message such as "The image has been terminated without saving it to the terminal." may be displayed.

[0032] Furthermore, when saving images, the image data file format can be one of the well-known formats, such as JPG, BMP, PNG, GIF, MOV, WAV, MP4, etc.

[0033] (Server-side processing details) Figure 5 shows a flowchart illustrating the processing steps on the server 1 side to realize the display method described above. This flowchart is initiated, for example, when the service is started, and each step described later in this flowchart is mainly implemented by the processor 11.

[0034] In step S5010 (simply referred to as "S5010" in the following description; the same applies to other steps described later), the processor 11 determines whether there is a lottery execution request from each terminal 2. If there is a lottery execution request, the process proceeds to S5020; otherwise, it returns to S5010.

[0035] In S5020, the processor 11 identifies the type of terminal 2 that has submitted a lottery execution request. The type of terminal 2 can be, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet, etc., and can be identified based on identification information (terminal identification information) such as the model name, serial number, IMEI, UDID, etc. Therefore, S5020 can be implemented by obtaining terminal identification information through communication with terminal 2 that has submitted a lottery execution request.

[0036] In S5030, the processor 11 refers to a predetermined lottery table and determines which reward to be awarded from a population that includes multiple types of rewards. The lottery table may be prepared for each type of terminal 2 identified in S5020, or the winning probability may be changed based on the type.

[0037] Figure 6 shows an example of a lottery table Tb1 prepared for each type of terminal 2. The lottery table Tb1 includes a lottery table Tb1h for landscape screens and a lottery table Tb1v for portrait screens. In the lottery table Tb1h for landscape screens, landscape images Img1h, Img2h, and Img3h are set with winning probabilities of 10%, 30%, and 60%, respectively. In the lottery table Tb1v for portrait screens, portrait images Img1v, Img2v, and Img3v are set with winning probabilities of 10%, 30%, and 60%, respectively. In this way, in S5030, for example, if terminal 2 is a laptop computer 2a, the lottery table Tb1h for landscape screens is referenced, and if terminal 2 is a smartphone 2b, the lottery table Tb1v for portrait screens is referenced.

[0038] Figure 7 shows an example of a lottery table Tb2 in which the winning probability changes based on the type of terminal 2. The lottery table Tb2 has separate winning probabilities set for landscape and portrait screens. For example, the winning probabilities for landscape screens are set to 10%, 30%, and 60% for landscape images Img1h, Img2h, and Img3h, respectively, and to 0% for portrait images Img1v, Img2v, and Img3v. On the other hand, the winning probabilities for portrait screens are set to 0% for landscape images Img1h, Img2h, and Img3h, respectively, and to 10%, 30%, and 60% for portrait images Img1v, Img2v, and Img3v. In this way, in S5030, for example, if terminal 2 is a laptop computer 2a, the winning probability for landscape screens is referenced, and if terminal 2 is a smartphone 2b, the winning probability for portrait screens is referenced.

[0039] In other words, in the example in Figure 6, the lottery can be performed in a way that changes the population depending on the type of terminal 2, and in the example in Figure 7, the lottery can be performed in a way that changes the winning probability depending on the type of terminal 2.

[0040] Here, the rewards actually sent to terminal 2 will be different between S5040 and S5110, as described below; therefore, in the following explanation, they will be referred to as the first reward and the second reward, respectively.

[0041] Referring again to Figure 5, in S5040, the processor 11 sends the preview image (image data) as the first reward determined in S5030 to the terminal 2 that made the lottery execution request. For example, if terminal 2 is a laptop computer 2a, a landscape preview image PImg1h is sent to the laptop computer 2a. Similarly, if terminal 2 is a smartphone 2b, a portrait preview image PImg1v is sent to the smartphone 2b. In this way, the corresponding preview image (preview image PImg1h or PImg1v) is displayed on the screen of the display unit 25 of terminal 2 that made the lottery execution request via a window (window Wn31 or Wn41) (see Figures 3-4).

[0042] In S5050, the processor 11 determines whether there is a request for overall viewing or a request for terminal saving by communicating with the terminal 2 from which the reward was sent (see Figures 3-4). If there is a request for overall viewing or a request for terminal saving at the terminal 2 from which the reward was sent (for example, if there is a press on the strings Tx311, Tx312, Tx411, or Tx412), the process proceeds to S5110; otherwise, the process proceeds to S5060.

[0043] In S5060, the processor 11 determines whether there is a request to end the lottery by communicating with the terminal 2 that sent the reward (see Figures 3-4). If there is a request to end the lottery at the terminal 2 that sent the reward (for example, if there is a press on the string Tx313 or Tx413), the process returns to S5010; otherwise, it returns to S5050.

[0044] In S5110, the processor 11 transmits the image (image data) as the second reward determined in S5030. For example, if terminal 2 is a laptop computer 2a, image Img1h is transmitted to laptop computer 2a. Similarly, if terminal 2 is a smartphone 2b, image Img1v is transmitted to smartphone 2b. In this way, when a request to view the entire image is made, the corresponding image (image Img1h or Img1v) is displayed on the screen of the display unit 25 of terminal 2, and when a request to save the image is made, the image data of the corresponding image becomes available for storage 23 of terminal 2 (see Figures 3-4).

[0045] (Processing details on the terminal side) Figure 8 shows a flowchart illustrating the processing steps on terminal 2. This flowchart begins, for example, when the waiting state before the lottery is displayed on the display unit 25, and each step described later in this flowchart is mainly implemented by the processor 21.

[0046] In S8010, processor 21 determines whether or not a lottery execution request has been made. For example, if a user performs a predetermined operation input within the game (for instance, if an icon containing the string "Perform a lottery" or "Spin the gacha" is clicked or touched), it is determined that a lottery execution request has been made. If a lottery execution request has been made, the process proceeds to S8020; otherwise, it returns to S8010.

[0047] In the S8020, the processor 21 sends lottery execution request information indicating that a lottery execution request has been made, along with terminal identification information of terminal 2, to the server 1.

[0048] In S8030, processor 21 displays the lottery result upon receiving the preview image (image data) as the first reward determined in S5030 from server 1. As a result, the corresponding preview image (preview image PImg1h or PImg1v) is displayed on the screen of terminal 2's display unit 25 via a window (window Wn31 or Wn41) (see Figures 3-4).

[0049] In S8040, processor 21 determines whether there is a request to view the entire data, a request to save the terminal data, or a request to end the lottery (see Figures 3-4). If there is a request to view the entire data, a request to save the terminal data, or a request to end the lottery at terminal 2 (for example, if there is a press on the strings Tx311, Tx312, Tx313, Tx411, Tx412, or Tx413), the process proceeds to S8110; otherwise, it returns to S8040.

[0050] In S8110, the processor 21 determines whether there is a request for overall viewing or a request for saving to the terminal (see Figures 3-4). If there is a request for overall viewing or a request for saving to the terminal at terminal 2 (for example, if there is a press on the strings Tx311, Tx312, Tx411, or Tx412), the process proceeds to S8120; otherwise, it proceeds to S8210.

[0051] In S8120, processor 21 requests the image (image data) as the second reward determined in S5030 from server 1.

[0052] In S8130, the processor 21, upon receiving the image (image data) requested by S8120 from server 1, displays the corresponding image (image Img1h or Img1v) on the display unit 25 of terminal 2 if a full view request is made, and if a terminal save request is made, the image data of the corresponding image becomes available for saving to the storage 23 of terminal 2 (see Figures 3-4).

[0053] In S8210, processor 21 terminates this flowchart as a request to end the lottery has been received (for example, a press has been made in response to the string Tx313 or Tx413).

[0054] (Content of communication between server and terminal) Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the content of the communication that takes place between Server 1 and Terminal 2. First, via communication COM91, terminal 2 sends lottery execution request information indicating a request to execute the lottery, along with terminal identification information of terminal 2, to server 1 (see S8020). Then, after a lottery is held on server 1 based on the type of terminal 2, the preview image (image data) as the first reward determined by the lottery is transmitted from server 1 to terminal 2 via communication COM92 (see S5040). If terminal 2 requests to view the entire data or save it to the terminal, the communication COM93 transmits reward request information from terminal 2 to server 1 indicating a request for an image (image data) as a second reward (see S8120). In response, the image (image data) of the second reward is sent from server 1 to terminal 2 via communication COM94 (see S5110). In this way, rewards can be awarded according to the type of device 2.

[0055] Here, we have illustrated two types of rewards: landscape and portrait images. However, in the case of smartphones and tablets, which are examples of devices 2, the screen size often varies depending on the model, so rewards may be prepared separately for each device.

[0056] (summary) According to the above processing by Server 1 and Terminal 2, the rewards obtained through the lottery are given to the user in a manner corresponding to the type of Terminal 2 the user is using. For example, as shown with reference to Figures 3-4, users Ua and Ub can use each reward in a manner corresponding to display units 25a and 25b, respectively. As a result, for example, if the reward is an image, each user can view the photograph or illustration within the image and / or recognize the text within the image. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the convenience of this game, which can be played on various types of Terminal 2, can be improved.

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3-4, the arrangement of elements on the screen (for example, the direction in which strings like Tx311 are arranged, the size of the characters, etc.) may be changed depending on the type of terminal 2.

[0058] [Second Example] According to the first embodiment described above, rewards (such as image Img1) are awarded according to the type of device 2 the user is using. On the other hand, if a user possesses multiple devices 2, it is conceivable that the user may change the device 2 they use to play the game to another device 2. One example of this is that a user may play the game using a laptop computer while at home and use a smartphone while out and about.

[0059] When playing this game in this manner, users generally register an account (or user registration) in advance, and as a result, an account (or ID) is assigned and associated with a password. This allows a user (for example, user Uc) to play the game on any one of multiple devices 2 by entering their account and password on the game's login screen.

[0060] In such cases, the reward may not be properly usable on the modified device 2 because the device 2 used to acquire the reward (e.g., a laptop computer; for distinction, let's call it laptop computer 2c1) and the modified device 2 (e.g., a smartphone; for distinction, let's call it smartphone 2c2) are of different types. Therefore, there is a need for technology that further improves the usability of this game, which can be played on a variety of devices 2.

[0061] (Display content showing the status of reward acquisition) Information indicating whether or not a reward has been granted to each user (reward grant information) is stored in storage 13 of server 1, associated with the corresponding account, for example, with "1" indicating granted and "0" indicating not granted. For example, if image Img1 has been granted but images Img2 and Img3 have not been granted, the reward grant information "1,0,0" is associated with that user's account. As another example, if all of images Img1, Img2, and Img3 have been granted to a certain user, the reward grant information "1,1,1" is associated with that user's account. Each terminal 2 communicates with server 1 and refers to the reward granting information described above, enabling the display unit 25 to show the individual acquisition status of multiple rewards. Each user can check their own reward acquisition status by, for example, selecting a reward list (e.g., encyclopedia, gallery, etc.) from the menu screen within the game.

[0062] Figure 10 shows the display content of the reward list on the display unit 25c1 of a landscape-oriented laptop computer 2c1, illustrating the display content for checking the reward acquisition status. In this example, the screen of the display unit 25c1 may display all preview images, including preview images PImg1h to PImg3h, along with information indicating whether each of the images, including images Img1 to Img3, has been acquired or not. In this example, of images Img1 to Img3, image Img1 has been acquired, while images Img2 and Img3 have not been acquired (indicated by hatching in the figure). If the preview image PImg1h is clicked at this point, it is treated as a request to view the entire image, and the image Img1h is displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25c1. At this time, the image Img1h displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25c1 can be viewed in detail, for example, using the mouse wheel. In addition, at this time, the user Uc can request to save the image to the terminal, for example, by right-clicking.

[0063] Figure 11 shows the display content of the reward list on the display unit 25c2 of a vertically oriented smartphone 2c2, and the display content for checking the reward acquisition status is shown in the same way as in Figure 10. In this example, all preview images, including preview images PImg1v to PImg3v, can be displayed side by side on the screen of the display unit 25c2, along with information indicating whether they have been acquired or not. If the preview image PImg1v is pressed at this point, it is treated as a request to view the entire image, and the image Img1v is displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25c1. At this time, the image Img1v displayed across the entire screen of the display unit 25c2 can be viewed in detail, for example, by pinching out. In addition, at this time, the user Uc can request to save the image to the terminal by, for example, long-tap or double-tap.

[0064] This allows user Uc to use their acquired rewards on both their laptop computer 2c1 and their smartphone 2c2.

[0065] (Content of communication between server and terminal) Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the content of the communication that takes place between Server 1 and Terminal 2. First, via communication COM121, terminal 2 sends a list display request information indicating a request to display the reward list, along with terminal identification information for terminal 2, to server 1. In response, via communication COM122, server 1 sends a preview image (image data) of the acquired image to terminal 2 as the first reward. The preview image sent here is determined based on terminal identification information, similar to S5040, and the reward list is displayed on the screen of terminal 2's display unit 25 based on the preview image received from server 1 in this way. If terminal 2 clicks on a preview image corresponding to an acquired image, communication COM123 sends a full viewing request information indicating that terminal 2 has requested full viewing of that image, along with terminal identification information for terminal 2, to server 1. In response, a second reward image (image data) is transmitted from server 1 to terminal 2 via communication COM124. The image transmitted here is determined based on terminal identification information, similar to S5110, and the image received from server 1 is displayed in detail on the screen of terminal 2's display unit 25. In this way, rewards can be awarded according to the type of device 2.

[0066] According to this embodiment, users can individually acquire rewards using two or more devices 2 of different types, and the rewards can be granted in a manner appropriate to each of the two or more devices 2. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the convenience of this game, which can be played on a variety of devices 2, can be further improved.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10-11, the arrangement of elements on the screen (e.g., the direction in which preview images are arranged, the direction of scrolling, etc.) may be changed depending on the type of terminal 2.

[0068] [Third Embodiment] In the first and second embodiments described above, it was assumed that the laptop computer was used with a landscape orientation and the smartphone with a portrait orientation. However, these screens 25 can be changed from landscape to portrait orientation to the other orientation by user settings. For example, with a laptop computer (and similarly with a desktop computer), the user can choose whether to use the screen in landscape or portrait orientation in the display settings. Similarly, with a smartphone (and similarly with a tablet), the user can choose whether or not to change the screen orientation based on the smartphone's orientation / position relative to the vertical.

[0069] In such cases, it is conceivable that the rewards may become difficult to use properly due to a change in the display mode of the display unit 25. Therefore, there is a need for technology that further improves the convenience of this game, which can be played on various types of terminals 2.

[0070] (Regarding changes in display format on smartphones) Figure 13 shows the contents of the display unit 25b screen when user Ub, who was using smartphone 2b in portrait mode, changes the orientation of smartphone 2b to landscape mode after obtaining image Img1 through the lottery process, similar to Figure 4.

[0071] As shown in Figure 13, in the smartphone 2b with a landscape screen, the contents of window Wn42 on the display unit 25b have the same layout as window Wn31 (see Figure 3) on the display unit 25a of the laptop computer 2a. In this example, window Wn42 displays the preview image PImg1h, along with the strings "View All" Tx421, "Save to Device" Tx422, and "Close" Tx423.

[0072] For example, after the lottery is executed (after window Wn41 in Figure 3 is displayed), the display mode of the display unit 25b changes from portrait to landscape. In response, the smartphone 2b sends a display mode change notification to the server 1 to inform it that the display mode has changed. This display mode change notification is processed as an interrupt job by the server 1, and the display mode of the display unit 25b is identified by the processor 11. Accordingly, the preview image PImg1h (image data) is sent again from the server 1 to the smartphone 2b.

[0073] According to this embodiment, rewards are awarded in a manner that can be changed on the display unit 25, thereby further improving the convenience of this game, which can be played on various types of terminals 2.

[0074] The contents of this embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment described above (in the case of smartphone 2c2). For example, if the display mode of the display unit 25c2 of smartphone 2c2 is changed from portrait to landscape while the preview image is displayed as a reward list, the smartphone 2c2 sends display mode change notification information to the server 1 accordingly. This display mode change notification information is processed as an interrupt job by the server 1, and the display mode of the display unit 25c2 is identified by the processor 11. Accordingly, the preview image PImg1h (image data) is sent again from the server 1 to the smartphone 2c2. This change in display format also applies when a request for full viewing is made in the reward list.

[0075] [Fourth embodiment] As mentioned above, examples of various types of devices 2 on which this game can be played include desktop computers, laptop computers, smartphones, and tablets. In the case of a desktop computer, the display unit 25 is separate from the main computer body, for example, an LCD display is used. On the other hand, in the case of a laptop computer, the display unit 25 is generally integrated with the main computer body, but it may also be a separate, externally connected unit (the same applies to other devices such as smartphones and tablets). Furthermore, multiple display units may be used to create a multi-screen setup (so-called multi-monitor setup; if there are two screens, it may also be referred to as a dual monitor or dual display). In such cases, it is possible that rewards may not be properly utilized depending on the display unit currently used in this game. Therefore, technology is needed to further improve the usability of this game, which can be played on a variety of devices.

[0076] (Regarding multi-monitor setups) Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram of a multi-monitor setup where the terminal 2 used by user Ud is a desktop computer (referred to as desktop computer 2d for distinction), and multiple display units 25d1, 25d2, 25d3, and 25d4 are connected to the computer body 20d. In this example, the display units 25d1 to 25d4 are of different types, and it is assumed that display unit 25d4 is currently being used for this game (the content of this game is displayed on display unit 25d4). Furthermore, it is assumed that a keyboard and mouse are connected to the PC unit 20d as the input unit 24d.

[0077] In such cases, the reward determined by lottery (see S5030) must be awarded based on the display mode of the display unit currently used in the game (display unit 25d4 in this example). The display mode is actually determined based on the screen size of the display unit currently used in the game (fixed values ​​specific to terminal 2; for example, the size in the vertical and horizontal directions, the number of pixels, etc.), and can be adjusted by parameters set for that screen (settings that can be changed within terminal 2; for example, resolution, etc.). Therefore, the reward should be awarded in accordance with the size and / or parameters of the display unit currently in use. In this case, the information on the screen size and / or parameters should be sent from terminal 2 to server 1 as supplementary information attached to the terminal identification information.

[0078] Here, since the display unit 25 is included in terminal 2 (see Figure 1), the screen size and / or parameters may be included in the type of terminal 2. Therefore, the type of terminal 2 (desktop PC 2d in this example) to be identified by the processor 11 (see S5020) may include the model name and serial number of the terminal body (PC body 20d in this example), as well as the type of display unit (display unit 25d4 in this example) currently used in this game. Thus, the screen size and / or parameter information may be transmitted from terminal 2 to server 1 as part of the terminal identification information.

[0079] In the above explanation, size was treated as a fixed value specific to terminal 2, while parameters were distinguished as settings that can be changed within terminal 2. However, size may be included in parameters in a broader sense.

[0080] According to this embodiment, rewards are awarded in a manner corresponding to the display mode of the display unit 25 currently used in the game, thereby further improving the convenience of the game, which can be played on various types of terminals 2.

[0081] [Fifth Example] In the aforementioned first embodiment, examples were shown in which the lottery is performed in a manner in which the population is changed according to the type of terminal 2 (see Figure 6), and in which the lottery is performed in a manner in which the probability of winning is changed according to the type of terminal 2 (see Figure 7). In these examples, a lottery table is prepared in which the probability of winning for each type of terminal 2 is set in advance. However, a single lottery table may be prepared by setting the population and winning probability without distinguishing between the types of terminal 2, and the reward determined from the population based on the winning probability may be subsequently changed according to the type of terminal 2.

[0082] As an example, the reward determined from the population through the lottery will be provisionally determined for landscape mode, regardless of the type of terminal 2 (for example, whether it is a laptop computer 2a or a smartphone 2b). In this case, the determined landscape mode reward should be modified according to the type of terminal 2 when it is actually transmitted to the terminal 2. For example, if the identified terminal 2 is a laptop computer 2a, the determined reward for the landscape screen is sent directly to the laptop computer 2a. On the other hand, if the identified terminal 2 is a smartphone 2b, the determined reward for the landscape screen is changed to one for the portrait screen and sent to the smartphone 2b.

[0083] [Examples of application] In the above example, still images or video images were given as examples of rewards obtainable by lottery. However, this embodiment can be applied when the reward requires size adjustment (e.g., changing the aspect ratio) depending on the screen of terminal 2. Other examples of rewards include playable characters, items, effects, emotes, icons, etc., that can be used in the game.

[0084] Furthermore, while the above examples show that rewards are awarded through a lottery, other embodiments may also involve awarding rewards based on the fulfillment of predetermined conditions, such as the completion of an in-game event.

[0085] Furthermore, while the above example uses a game distribution service as an example of a service, it is not limited to this, and this embodiment is applicable to a broad range of services that can be provided via network N. In addition, the rewards, whether paid or free, only need to be usable by the user directly or indirectly via network N, and only need to be something that can contribute to the user in relation to the service. For example, in a virtual space (metaverse) provided to a user via network N, still images and videos can be viewed or referenced as information within the virtual space. Also, for example, in a delivery service ordered by a user using network N, still images and videos of sample products can be viewed or referenced. Therefore, this embodiment is applicable in such cases. In other words, this embodiment can be applied to any internet service without departing from its spirit.

[0086] [others] In the embodiments, individual elements are named using expressions based on their primary function; however, the functions described in the embodiments may also be secondary functions, and the expressions are not strictly limited to these. Furthermore, these expressions can be replaced with other similar / equivalent expressions. Furthermore, the embodiments may incorporate known information not explicitly described herein. Furthermore, some functions of a certain element may be realized by other elements. For example, in system SY, some functions of processor 11 may be realized by processor 21, and some functions of processor 21 may be realized by processor 11.

[0087] The two or more elements exemplified as selectable in the embodiments are not strictly limited to the examples and may be combined in any way, for example, each of the two or more exemplified elements may be additionally selected or substituted. For example, when combining two elements A and B in any way, it may be expressed as "A and / or B" or "at least one of A and B" to indicate that it is either A only, B only, or both A and B.

[0088] [Note] Some of the features illustrated in the embodiments are noted below: (Note 1) The computer is made to function as a rewarding means (e.g., S5040 and S5110) that grants the user a reward (e.g., image Img1, etc.) according to the type of terminal the user is using. program. This will improve convenience by allowing users to access rewards tailored to the type of device they are using.

[0089] (Note 2) The rewarding means provides a reward corresponding to the size of the screen used by the terminal. The program described in Appendix 1. This will allow users to receive rewards based on screen size, further improving convenience.

[0090] (Note 3) The rewarding means grants rewards according to the parameters of the screen used by the terminal. The program described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2. This will further improve convenience by allowing users to utilize rewards based on the parameters displayed on the screen.

[0091] (Note 4) The reward granted by the aforementioned granting means is one that is determined by lottery from a population that includes multiple types of rewards. The program further causes the computer to function as a means of modifying the population according to the type of terminal (for example, the example in Figure 6). A program that includes one of the notes 1-3. This makes it possible to perform a lottery based on a population corresponding to the type of device.

[0092] (Note 5) The reward granted by the aforementioned granting means is one that is determined by lottery from a population that includes multiple types of rewards. The program further causes the computer to function as a means of changing the probability of the lottery according to the type of terminal (for example, the example in Figure 7). A program that includes one of the notes 1-3. This makes it possible to perform a lottery with probabilities tailored to the type of device.

[0093] (Note 6) The computer is further configured to function as a means for identifying the type of terminal (e.g., S5020). A program that includes one of the notes 1-5. This makes it possible to identify the type of device, and therefore, rewards can be given to users according to the identified type.

[0094] (Note 7) The identification means identifies the type of terminal based on the terminal's identification information (e.g., model name, serial number, IMEI, UDID, etc.). The program described in Appendix 6. This makes it possible to properly identify the type of device.

[0095] (Note 8) The aforementioned identifying means further specifies the display mode of the screen used in the terminal. The program described in Appendix 7. This makes it possible to reward users according to their display mode, such as landscape or portrait orientation.

[0096] (Note 9) Users can individually acquire the rewards granted by the granting means using two or more devices of different types (e.g., laptop computer 2c1, smartphone 2c2, etc.). The rewarding means grants rewards according to the respective types of the two or more terminals. A program that includes one of the notes 1-8. This will allow users to use their rewards appropriately on a variety of devices.

[0097] (Note 10) The reward granted by the granting means includes at least one still image and / or video that can be displayed on the terminal screen. A program that includes one of the notes 1-9. This allows users to view still images and videos appropriately according to the type of device they are using.

[0098] The elements exemplified herein can be adapted to other fields without departing from their intent, and the contents of the above-described program can also be adapted to devices, systems, methods, media, etc. For example: (Note 11) A means of identifying the type of device the user is using (e.g., S5020), The system includes a rewarding means (e.g., S5040 and S5110, etc.) that grants the user a reward (e.g., image Img1, etc.) according to the type of device the user is using. A system (e.g., SY). This will improve convenience by allowing users to access rewards tailored to the type of device they are using.

[0099] Furthermore, the program described above is not limited to a single program, but may be a collection of multiple programs. Also, the program is not limited to being executed by a single device, but may be executed by multiple devices in a shared manner.

[0100] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0101] SY: System, 1: Server, 2: Terminal, 2a: Laptop computer, 2b: Smartphone.

Claims

1. The computer is used as a means of rewarding users with rewards based on the type of device they are using. program.

2. The rewarding means provides a reward corresponding to the size of the screen used by the terminal. The program according to claim 1.

3. The rewarding means grants rewards according to the parameters of the screen used by the terminal. The program according to claim 1.

4. The reward granted by the aforementioned granting means is one that is determined by lottery from a population that includes multiple types of rewards. The program further causes the computer to function as a means of modifying the population according to the type of terminal. The program according to claim 1.

5. The reward granted by the aforementioned granting means is one that is determined by lottery from a population that includes multiple types of rewards. The program further causes the computer to function as a means of modifying the probability of the lottery according to the type of terminal. The program according to claim 1.

6. The computer is further configured to function as a means for identifying the type of terminal. The program according to claim 1.

7. The identification means identifies the type of terminal based on the terminal's identification information. The program according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned identifying means further specifies the display mode of the screen used in the terminal. The program according to claim 7.

9. Users can individually acquire the rewards granted by the granting means using two or more terminals of different types. The rewarding means grants rewards according to the respective types of the two or more terminals. The program according to claim 1.

10. The reward granted by the granting means includes at least one still image and / or video that can be displayed on the terminal screen. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A means of identifying the type of device the user is using, The system includes a means for granting rewards to users according to the type of device they are using. system.

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