Game device and program

Abstract

To provide programs and game devices that offer highly entertaining games. [Means for Solving the Problem] The game device includes a game execution control means that, after the payment of a first price is detected, and on the condition that a payment of a second price lower than the first price is detected, enables the execution of a game that includes only a match using game elements, and does not include the provision of tangible or intangible items associated with the game elements.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is known a game device that provides an article such as a game card corresponding to a game element used in the game to a player after the game is played (for example, Patent Document 1). In such a game device, since the player can not only enjoy the game but also obtain an article such as a game card, there is also the fun of obtaining and collecting articles such as game cards, and the player can repeatedly play the game without getting bored.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the purposes of players who play games are individually different. For example, there are players who aim at battles in the game, and there are also players who aim at obtaining and collecting articles such as game cards rather than battles. Therefore, providing a game that can satisfy the purposes of different players in one game means providing a highly interesting game to the players. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game device and a program that provide a highly interesting game.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention is a game device comprising: a providing means for providing articles to which game elements are associated; a first game execution control means for controlling a first game to be executable, which includes a match using the game elements and the provision of the articles from the providing means, on the condition that payment of a first price has been detected; and a second game execution control means for controlling a second game to be executable, which includes a match using the game elements without providing the articles, after the payment of the first price has been detected and on the condition that payment of a second price has been detected.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute a first game execution control process that controls a first game to be executable, on the condition that payment of a first price is detected, including a match using game elements and the provision of the articles to which the game elements are associated from a providing means; and a second game execution control process that controls a second game to be executable, on the condition that payment of a second price is detected after payment of the first price has been detected and payment of a second price has been detected, without providing the articles. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This invention can provide players with highly engaging games. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the external appearance of the game device 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the overview of a game played by the game device 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the game element database 190. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game server 2 according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the player database 210. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an operation flowchart of game device 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a game continuation selection screen. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a game ending screen. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102). [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the main menu screen. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of a game results screen. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an operation flowchart of the game card distribution process (Step 207). [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a game card distribution screen. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart of the operation of the second game process (Step 107). [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a series of gameplay in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102) in the second embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is an operation flowchart for the special match processing (Step 500). [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows an example of the special match selection screen. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating the outline of a game played by the game device 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102) in the third embodiment. [Figure 23]FIG. 23 is a flowchart of the continuous game card providing process (Step 600). [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the continuous providing screen.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] <The First Embodiment of the Present Invention> [Overall Configuration]

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the game system in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system includes one or more game devices 1 and a game server 2. The game device 1 and the game server 2 can be connected to the communication line N and communicate with each other.

[0011] The communication line N means a communication path capable of data communication. That is, the communication line N includes a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection, a LAN such as Ethernet (registered trademark), and communication networks such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet, and the communication method may be wired / wireless.

[0012] The game device 1 is a device for executing a game, can be connected to the communication line N, and can perform data communication with the game server 2. The game device 1 is, for example, a business game device (arcade game device), a smartphone, a mobile phone, a portable game device, a stationary home game device, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a controller of a stationary home game device, etc. Basically, there are a plurality of game devices 1, which are operated by each player.

[0013] Figure 2 shows an example of the appearance of the game device 1. As shown in Figure 2, the game device 1 includes a display panel 11 on which game-related screens are displayed, an operation touch panel 12 integrated with the display panel 11, operation buttons 13, a first reading unit 14 for acquiring information about the player, a second reading unit 15 configured to allow items to be placed and to read information from the placed items, a coin slot 16 into which coins are inserted, and a coin outlet 17 from which items are discharged.

[0014] Game Server 2 is a server system comprising one or more server devices, storage devices, etc. Game Server 2 provides various services for operating the game of this embodiment, and can manage data necessary for game operation, distribute game programs and data necessary for running the game on Game Device 1, etc.

[0015] In this embodiment, this system configuration enables competitive play between multiple players using multiple game devices 1 via the game server 2 and communication line N. Competitive play between players includes not only play against other players, but also play against computer-controlled non-player characters.

[0016] One embodiment described below illustrates an example of applying the present invention to a game device configured to perform a series of gameplays, including competitive play (a competitive game), as an example of a game device. However, the present invention is applicable to any device capable of performing gameplay (a competitive game).

[0017] [Game Overview] To facilitate understanding of this embodiment, an overview of the game played by the game device 1 will be described. The game according to this embodiment features multiple game elements. These game elements are characters (people, vehicles, items, etc.). The game elements are further distinguished into those that are associated with objects and those that are not associated with objects.

[0018] Game elements that are associated with items play a major role in competitive play; they are indispensable elements in competitive play, and without them, competitive play itself cannot take place. Furthermore, game elements associated with items possess various character information (level, hit points, attack power, defense power, terrain suitability, weapons used, etc.) and can be said to be the primary game elements that players control in competitive play.

[0019] Furthermore, the game elements that can be associated with items come in multiple types due to differences in various character information, and among these multiple types, special types (for example, types with character information that can give an advantage in competitive play) have special value due to their rarity. Therefore, in order to satisfy the player's desire for ownership, it is preferable to provide the player with items that are tangible objects that are realistically recognizable by the player, rather than virtual ones, and to embody (associate) the game elements with them. An example of a tangible item is a game card, which is an item with physical volume (a real item). However, the item is not limited to a game card; it is not limited to a game card as long as it is an item configured in a way that allows the game elements associated with it to be identified. The item may also be a figurine or other molded object that has the appearance of a game element.

[0020] In this embodiment, the items to which multiple types of game elements appearing in the game provided by the game device 1 are associated are all described as tangible game cards. Furthermore, depending on the type of game element, the game cards are considered to be either regular cards or rare cards. Rare cards are game cards associated with game elements that have higher game value than the game elements corresponding to regular cards, or that possess character information that can give an advantage in competitive play.

[0021] The game element to which a game card is associated can be determined by the reader unit described later acquiring the identification information (game element ID) attached to the game card to identify the game element. The attachment of identification information (game element ID) to a game card may be achieved, for example, by printing a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional code obtained by converting the identification information to identify the game element onto the game card, or by recording it on a tag or IC chip for near-field communication (NFC) embedded in the game card, or by other methods.

[0022] On the other hand, game elements that cannot be associated with items are not necessarily required for competitive play, but they possess character information that influences other game elements or player information (level, experience points, etc.). For example, game elements that cannot be associated with items, such as items, are secondary game elements that influence other game elements' character information or player information in a way that gives an advantage in competitive play. Therefore, such game elements do not necessarily need to be embodied in tangible objects that players can actually perceive, and can be provided to players as intangible information (data). However, this does not preclude the representation of these game elements as embodied in items, and it is possible to represent and provide them as embodied in items.

[0023] Next, I will explain the overview of the series of games. As shown in Figure 3, the game played by game device 1 consists of a first game, which is played upon detection of the first payment, and a second game, which is played after the first payment has been detected and upon detection of the second payment. The flow of the first and second games will be explained below.

[0024] (1) Game 1 The first game, played by game device 1, begins upon detection of payment of the first price, which is the cost of the game. The first game is a game that includes a match using game cards and the provision of game cards (items).

[0025] (1-1) Obtaining player information Game device 1 acquires information about the players using game device 1 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as player information). For example, game device 1 acquires player identification information from a recording medium (e.g., a player card) on which the player's identification information is recorded using the first reading unit 14, communicates with game server 2, and acquires player information managed by game server 2. Player information is updated according to the progress of the game.

[0026] (1-2) Main menu presentation Game device 1 displays the main menu on the display panel 11 and presents it to the player. Game device 1 accepts selections from the player via the operation touch panel 12. The options presented in the main menu include, for example, "Start match" and "Abandon match". If "Start match" is selected, the process proceeds to the match. Here, "Abandon match" means that the player abandons the match without actually playing it. If "Abandon match" is selected, the match is skipped (abandoned) without being played. The "Continue the match" option is for players who wish to play a match, while the "Abandon the match" option is for players who do not wish to play a match and whose goal is to acquire the game cards described later.

[0027] (1-3) Match Game device 1 executes a match using game elements. A match may include multiple sub-matches, but in this embodiment, the match associated with the payment of the first price is referred to as the first match. The game elements used in a match (including the main match or sub-matches) are characters (people, vehicles, etc.) and are associated with tangible items. In this embodiment, the items are game cards. The game cards are marked with identification information (game element ID) to identify the associated game element.

[0028] Prior to the first match, the second reading unit 15 reads the game element IDs of each game element from a group of game cards placed on it by the players, and the group of game elements corresponding to the read game element IDs are registered as game elements that can be used in the match. The match proceeds with the registered group of game elements performing battle actions in a predetermined game field. At this time, the match is controlled based on the operation input made to the registered game elements and the character information (parameters) of the game elements. The match ends when a winner is determined between the players.

[0029] (1-4) Provision of game cards (items) Game device 1, upon payment of the first game fee, enables the first match to be played and provides the player with one game card (an item associated with game elements). After the first match ends, or if the first match ends because "Forfeit Match" is selected in the main menu and the match play is skipped, game device 1 dispenses the game card (item) from the dispenser 17 and provides it to the player. It is thought that players' desire to acquire a game card is highest immediately after the end of a match. On the other hand, there are also players whose goal is to acquire a game card rather than to play a match. Therefore, in order to satisfy both players who wish to play a match and players who do not wish to play a match and whose goal is to acquire a game card, the game card is provided at the time after the end of a match.

[0030] (1-5) Displaying game results Game device 1 displays the game results. The displayed information includes, for example, the results of the first match, and the updated levels of the players and game elements based on the results of the first match. If a player chooses to "forfeit the match," i.e., forfeits the first match, a message indicating that the match has been forfeited will be displayed. Upon this message, game device 1 terminates the first game associated with the first payment.

[0031] (2) Game 2 (2-1) Display of the game continuation selection screen After displaying the game result screen and detecting the payment of the first price, and subject to the payment of the second price, the game device 1 displays a game continuation selection screen for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) indicating that the second game can be played.

[0032] The second game, played by game device 1, is a game that is played on the condition that payment of the second price is detected within a predetermined time after the end of the first game. The predetermined time after the end of the first game is, for example, while the game continuation selection screen is displayed. Unlike the first game, the second game is a game in which only the game cards are used for play, without the provision of game cards (items). Also, the second price is set lower than the first price. For example, the second price is half the first price. This is because the second game is a game in which only the game cards are used for play, without the provision of game cards (items). This makes it possible to provide a game that meets the wishes of players whose main objective is to play against others.

[0033] (2-2) Match Game device 1 executes a match using game elements. While a match may include multiple matches, in this embodiment, the match associated with the payment of the second price is referred to as the second match.

[0034] The game elements used in the second match (including the main match or sub-match) are characters (people, vehicles, etc.), similar to the first match, and are associated with tangible game cards. Prior to the second match, the second reading unit 15 reads the game element IDs from a group of game cards placed by the players, and the group of game elements corresponding to the read group of game element IDs are registered as game elements that can be used in the match. Alternatively, the registration of game elements used in the second match may be configured to use the game elements registered in the first match without requiring new registration of game elements.

[0035] The second match proceeds with a group of registered game elements taking action in a designated game field. The second match is controlled based on the inputs made to the registered game elements and their character information (parameters). The second match ends when a winner is determined between the players.

[0036] (2-3) Displaying game results Game device 1 displays the results of the second match. The information displayed includes, for example, the results of the second match, and the levels of the players and game elements that have been updated according to the results of the second match.

[0037] (2-4) Display of the game continuation selection screen After displaying the results screen for the second match, Game Device 1 displays a game continuation selection screen for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) indicating that the second game can be played upon payment of an additional second price. With this display, Game Device 1 terminates the first second game associated with the second price. The second game can be played repeatedly. While it is possible to set the number of times the second game can be played to an unlimited number, it is preferable to limit the number of plays to a predetermined number (e.g., 4 times) or less in order to prevent one player from monopolizing Game Device 1. The number of plays can be set for each Game Device 1.

[0038] Next, we will explain the configuration of each device. [Configuration of Game Device 1] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device 1. The game device 1 comprises a processing unit 20, a display unit 21, an operation input unit 22, a user information reading unit 23, a game card information reading unit 24, a price detection unit 25, a sound output unit 26, a first game card supply unit 27, a second game card supply unit 28, a communication unit 29, a storage unit 30, a first reading unit 14, and a second reading unit 15.

[0039] The processing unit 20 comprehensively controls the operation of the game device 1 based on programs and data stored in the memory unit 30, input signals from the user information reading unit 23, the game card reading unit 24, and the operation input unit 22. The functions of the processing unit 20 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, or an IC memory. The processing unit 20 includes a first game execution control unit 61 and a second game execution control unit 62 as its main functional units. These units will be described later.

[0040] The display unit 21 displays various game screens based on the image signals output from the processing unit 20. The functions of the display unit 21 can be realized by a display device such as a flat panel display like an LCD, a projector, or a head-mounted display. In Figure 2, the display panel 11 corresponds to this.

[0041] The operation input unit 22 is for the player to input various game-related operations and outputs an operation input signal to the processing unit 20 according to the input. The functions of the operation input unit 22 can be realized not only by elements that the player directly operates with their fingers, such as a touch panel, touch operation pad, home button, button switch, joystick, and trackball, but also by elements that detect movement and posture, such as an accelerometer, angular velocity sensor, tilt sensor, and geomagnetic sensor. In Figure 2, the operation touch panel 12 and operation button 13 are examples of this.

[0042] The user information reading unit 23 controls a reader (first reading unit 14) that reads a recording medium on which player identification information (player ID) is recorded, and obtains the player ID from the recording medium on which the player ID is recorded. In this embodiment, the recording medium on which the player ID is recorded is a tag or IC chip embedded in the game card. The first reading unit 14 and the user information reading unit 23 constitute a player ID acquisition means that obtains the player ID from the player card.

[0043] The game card reader 24 controls a reader (second reader 15) that reads game cards held by the player, and obtains identification information (game element ID) of the game card to be used in the game from the game card. For example, if a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional code encoding the game element ID is printed on the game card, the reader reads that code to obtain the game element ID. Also, if a short-range communication tag or IC chip containing the game element ID is embedded in the game card, the reader obtains the game element ID from the tag or IC chip. The second reader 15 and the game card reader 24 together constitute a game element ID acquisition means for obtaining the game element ID from the game card.

[0044] The payment detection unit 25 detects that payment has been made in the game device 1. Payment may be determined, for example, by detecting that a predetermined amount of coins or equivalent coins have been inserted into the input slot 16 of the game device 1, or by detecting the completion of settlement processing based on communication with a chip related to a predetermined electronic money. The game device 1 in this embodiment will be described as starting a series of processes related to the game, including a match, based on the payment of the game. Furthermore, the payment can be detected even after the start of the series of processes related to the game.

[0045] The sound output unit 26 is a speaker or the like that outputs sound effects related to the game based on the sound signal output from the processing unit 20.

[0046] The first card supply unit 27 and the second card supply unit 28 consist of card dispensers configured to dispense game cards one at a time from the storage unit. The game device 1 of this embodiment is equipped with two types of card dispensers (first game card supply unit 127 and second game card supply unit 28) inside the housing of the game device 1, and the first game execution control unit 61 controls which game card supply unit to dispense from. One card dispenser has a storage unit configured to accommodate game cards stacked in the vertical direction, and is equipped with a mechanism to dispense one game card held in the bottom layer in response to a dispensing command made by the first game execution control unit 61. The dispensed game card is guided to an accessible space via the dispensing opening 17 and provided to the player.

[0047] As described above, the game cards provided by the game device 1 of this embodiment are associated with game elements, and by using them during gameplay, the game elements can be introduced into the game. The game's progress is controlled according to the character information of the introduced game elements, and game elements with character information that allows for a more advantageous progression have higher value in the game. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game cards are classified into two types according to the value of the associated game elements in the game.

[0048] The game device 1 of this embodiment is configured to provide different types of game cards. Specifically, the first game card providing unit 27 and the second game card providing unit 28 each store different types of game cards in their respective storage units. Based on a provisioning command issued by the first game execution control unit 61, the first game card providing unit 27 or the second game card providing unit 28 is driven to provide a specific type of game card. For this reason, game cards are delivered to the store where the game device 1 is installed, etc., according to type (first type (normal cards) and second type (rare cards)). When replenishing game cards, the storage unit of the first game card providing unit 27 is set to store a bundle of first type game cards (normal cards), and the storage unit of the second game card providing unit 28 is set to store a bundle of second type game cards (rare cards). The game device 1 of this embodiment is configured to provide normal cards when the first game card providing unit 27 is driven, and to provide rare cards when the second game card providing unit 28 is driven.

[0049] The communication unit 29 is a communication interface with an external device. The communication unit 29 can connect to an external device via a communication line N (whether wired or wireless) and enable the transmission and reception of data. For example, the communication unit 29 converts information input as data to be transmitted into a predetermined format and transmits it to an external device such as a game server 2 via the communication line N. The communication unit 29 also receives information from an external device via the communication line N.

[0050] The storage unit 30 is a data-retaining recording device, such as a non-volatile memory or an HDD. The storage unit 30 stores not only the operation programs for each part of the game device 1, but also information on parameters necessary for the operation of each part, and various graphics data used in the game executed by the game device 1.

[0051] The memory unit 30 stores the game element database 190 (game element DB 190). The game element DB 190 is a database that manages information (game element information) about each of the game elements that appear in the game. In the game device 1 of this embodiment, when a player plays a game, they place a game card in the second reading unit 15 to retrieve information, thereby making the game elements associated with the game card appear in the game.

[0052] The game element information managed for a single game element, as shown in Figure 5, for example, includes, associated with a game element ID 191 that uniquely identifies the game element, drawing information 192 which includes graphics data used to generate the screen when the game element appears in the game, and character information 193 which describes the name and attributes of the game element, as well as parameters such as the game element's experience points and level (element level), and the effects that are activated when the game element is used. The character information 193 is information referenced in the game in which the game element appears and is involved in controlling the progress of the game.

[0053] In this embodiment, the game element DB190 stores graphics data, character information, etc., and the game element information is described as including this data. However, the implementation of the present invention is not limited to this. The game element information may also include information indicating the storage location of the data for each piece of information.

[0054] Next, we will describe the first game execution control unit 61 and the second game execution control unit 62, which are the main functional parts of the processing unit 20.

[0055] The first game execution control unit 61 executes the first game on the condition that it detects the payment of the first price. When the payment of the first price is detected by the price detection unit 25, the first game execution control unit 61 transmits the player identification information obtained by the first reading unit 14 and the user information reading unit 23 to the game server 2, receives the player information managed by the game server 2, and stores it in the storage unit 30. In the case of a new player, the game device 1 communicates with the game server 2 and registers the player information.

[0056] After acquiring player information, the first game execution control unit 61 displays the main menu on the display unit 21 and accepts selection input from the player. The options presented in the main menu include, for example, "Execute match" and "Forfeit match". If "Execute match" is selected, the first game execution control unit 61 executes the match process. In the match process, first, the first game execution control unit 61 accepts registration of the game card that the player will use for the first match. After that, the first game execution control unit 61 communicates with the game server 2 to execute a match against another player or a non-player character.

[0057] The first game execution control unit 61 controls either the first game card supply unit 27 or the second game card supply unit 28 when a match between players ends, and performs processing to provide game cards to the players. When a match ends or is abandoned, the first game execution control unit 61 starts a lottery process to select either the first card supply unit 27 or the second card supply unit 28, and notifies the winning card supply unit of the supply command. The lottery is performed using probability. For example, the lottery may result in a 0.8 chance of selecting the first game card supply unit 27 and a 0.2 chance of selecting the second game card supply unit 28. That is, after the end of a match, normal cards will be provided at a rate of 0.8, and rare cards at a rate of 0.2. The first game execution control unit 61 may also be configured to select only the first card supply unit 27. These are done to increase the value of rare cards. However, the above example is just one example, and the ratio of the first type of game card (regular card) provided by the first game card provision unit 27 to the second type of game card (rare card) provided by the second game card provision unit 28 may be other values.

[0058] The first game execution control unit 61, upon completion of providing game cards, processes to display the game results. The displayed game results include, for example, the results of the first match, player evaluations, and information such as updates to experience points and levels of game elements. The first game execution control unit 61 communicates with the game server 2 at predetermined timings during the game to obtain information regarding the game results. Once the display of the game results is complete, the first game execution control unit 61 notifies the second game execution control unit 62 that the first game has ended.

[0059] When the second game execution control unit 62 receives notification from the first game execution control unit 61 that the first game has ended, it displays a game continuation selection screen for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) indicating that the second game can be played, conditional on payment of the second price.

[0060] The second game execution control unit 62 terminates processing without executing the second game and displays the game end screen if the payment of the second price is not detected by the price detection unit 25 within a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). This is because the second game consists only of the second match, and whether or not to execute the second game is at the player's discretion. This allows consideration to be given to players who do not wish to play the match.

[0061] Meanwhile, when the payment of the second price is detected by the price detection unit 25 within a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds), the second game execution control unit 62 receives the player identification information updated in the first game from the game server 2 and stores it in the storage unit 30. Then, the second game execution control unit 62 executes the battle process. In the battle process, first, the second game execution control unit 62 accepts the registration of the game card that the player will use in the second battle. After that, the second game execution control unit 62 communicates with the game server 2 to execute a battle against another player or a non-player character. Note that the registration of game elements used in the second battle may be configured to use the game elements registered in the first battle without registering new game elements.

[0062] The second game execution control unit 62 performs a process to display the game results when a match between players has ended. The displayed game results include, for example, the results of the second match, player evaluations, and information such as updates to experience points and levels of game elements. The second game execution control unit 62 communicates with the game server 2 at predetermined timings during the game to obtain information regarding the game results.

[0063] When the display of the game results is finished, the second game execution control unit 62 displays the game continuation selection screen again for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). This is because the second game can be played repeatedly. However, in order to prevent one player from monopolizing the game device 1, the number of times the game can be played is set in advance in the second game execution control unit 62. When the number of times the second game has been played reaches the limit, the second game execution control unit 62 displays the second game end screen without displaying the game continuation selection screen.

[0064] [Game Server 2 Configuration] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 2. The game server 2 comprises a processing unit 200, a communication unit 220, and a storage unit 240.

[0065] The processing unit 200 is, for example, a CPU and controls the operation of each block in the server 2. Specifically, the processing unit 200 controls the operation of each block by, for example, reading the operation program of each block recorded in the recording unit 240, loading it into memory, and executing it. The processing unit 200 includes, as its main functional units, a matching processing unit 201 and a management unit 202.

[0066] The matching processing unit 201 performs matching processing for player-versus-player games (player vs. player) provided in the game system of this embodiment. Through the matching processing, sessions are established for, for example, two game devices 1 that sent matching requests at the same time among the game devices 1 connected to the server 2, and they transition to a state in which information communication related to the game is possible.

[0067] The management unit 202 manages player evaluations related to the game based on the gameplay content performed on the game device 1. More specifically, the management unit 202 evaluates the player based on the gameplay content for each game play and generates or updates player information related to the player, as described below, based on the evaluation results.

[0068] The recording unit 240 is a data storage device, such as a non-volatile memory or HDD. The recording unit 21 stores the operation programs for each block of the game server 2, as well as information such as parameters necessary for the operation of each block. The recording unit 240 also stores the player database 210 (player DB210).

[0069] The Player DB210 is a database in the game system of this embodiment that manages information (player information) indicating the usage status of games associated with each user (player) for games provided by the game device 1. The player information is information for managing the usage history of game play functions and various game elements that are available to each player. The player information is updated sequentially according to the results of games played using a player card on the game device 1, and is provided to the game device 1 when the player card is used again. This makes it possible for the game device 1 to provide game play that reflects the previous game play.

[0070] In this embodiment, player information may include, for example, progress information 212 indicating the progress of the player's gameplay, associated with a player ID 211 that identifies the player, as shown in Figure 7; ownership information 213 indicating game elements owned by the player and available for use in the game; enhancement status information 214 indicating the enhancement status of each game element available for use by the player; and provision information 215 indicating game elements that can be provided to the player.

[0071] Here, the progress information 212 may include progress information indicating which stage of a given story has been reached, performance information indicating the results of a competitive game, and evaluation information that assesses the player's performance.

[0072] Ownership information 213 is composed of sequentially added identification information of game elements owned by the player.

[0073] The enhancement status information 214 may be configured to manage character information such as experience points and element levels as indicators showing parameters that have changed due to enhancement, associated with the game element ID 191 of at least the game elements that have been enhanced (changed from their initial state). In this embodiment, in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, the enhancement status information 214 is described as being updated when the results of a game played on the game device 1 are obtained, but it may also be updated in response to information on training results obtained, for example, when a training function is used on the game device 1.

[0074] The provided information 215 records identification information of game elements that can be provided to the player. The provided information 215 may be updated when the results of a game played on the game device 1 are obtained, or when notification is received that a player has forfeited a match.

[0075] The communication unit 220 is a communication interface with an external device. The communication unit 220 can connect to an external device via a communication line N (whether wired or wireless) and enable the transmission and reception of data. For example, the communication unit 220 converts information input as data to be transmitted into a predetermined format and transmits it to an external device such as the game device 1 via the communication line N. The communication unit 220 also receives information from an external device via the communication line N.

[0076] [Operation of Game Device 1] The operation of game device 1 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 8. In the following explanation, the first price will be 200 yen, and the second price will be half of the first price, which is 100 yen.

[0077] The payment detection unit 25 performs a detection process for the first payment (200 yen) (Step 100). At the start of the game, the player inserts a 200 yen coin or equivalent coin, which is the first payment for playing the game, into the input slot 16 of the game device 1. When the payment detection unit 25 detects the first payment (200 yen) (Step 101), the first game execution control unit 61 starts the first game process (Step 102). Details of the first game process (Step 102) will be described later.

[0078] When the first game ends, the second game execution control unit 62 displays a game continuation selection screen for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) (Step 103). Figure 9 is an example of the game continuation selection screen. The game continuation selection screen in Figure 9 displays the option to run the second game and that a second price (100 yen) is required for each run of the second game.

[0079] If the player chooses not to play the second game (Step 104), the second game execution control unit 62 displays an end screen (Step 110). Figure 10 shows an example of the game end screen. The display of the end screen marks the end of the series of games on the game device 1.

[0080] When the player selects to play the second game (Step 104), the price detection unit 25 performs a detection process for the second price (100 yen) (Step 105). When the price detection unit 25 detects the second price (100 yen) (Step 106), the second game execution control unit 62 starts processing the second game (Step 107). Details of the second game processing (Step 107) will be described later.

[0081] On the other hand, if the price detection unit 25 does not detect the second price (100 yen) (Step 106), the second game execution control unit 62 displays an end screen (Step 110). The display of the end screen marks the end of the series of games on the game device 1.

[0082] The second game execution control unit 62 determines, after one second game has finished, whether the number of times the second game can be played has reached the maximum number of times (Step 108). This determination is made based on the counter value of counter C1, which will be described later. If the number of times the second game can be played has not reached the maximum number of times (Step 109), the process returns to Step 103 and the game continuation selection screen is displayed (Step 103). On the other hand, if the number of times the second game can be played has reached the maximum number of times, the second game execution control unit 62 displays the end screen (Step 110). The display of the end screen marks the end of the series of games on the game device 1. This concludes the explanation of the overall operation of game device 1.

[0083] Next, we will explain the operation of the first game process (Step 102). Figure 11 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102).

[0084] When the price detection unit 25 detects the first price, the player card reading process is executed (Step 200). The player touches the player card to the first reading unit 14 (reader) of the game device 1. The first reading unit 14 reads the player ID 211 from the player's player card, and the user information reading unit 23 transmits the player ID 211 read by the first reading unit 14 from the player's player card to the game server 2, thereby receiving and acquiring player information associated with the player ID 211 (progress information 212, ownership information 213, enhancement status information 214, provided information 215, etc.) from the game server 2 (Step 201).

[0085] The first game execution control unit 61 displays the main menu (Step 202). Figure 12 shows an example of the main menu screen. In the main menu screen of Figure 12, options such as "Execute match" and "Forfeit match" are displayed for selection.

[0086] The player selects their desired option from the displayed main menu. The first game execution control unit 61 determines the option selected from the main menu (Step 203).

[0087] If "Execute Match" is selected, the first game execution control unit 61 accepts the registration of the game card that the player will use in the first match (Step 205). Once the registration of the game elements corresponding to the game card that the player will use in the first match is complete, the first game execution control unit 61 executes the match processing between the players (Step 206). Then, once the winner is determined, the first match ends and the process proceeds to the game card provision process (Step 207). On the other hand, if the player does not wish to play and "Abandon Match" is selected in the main menu, the first game execution control unit 61 notifies the game server 2 by communication that the match has been abandoned (Step 204). Then, the process proceeds to the game card provision process (Step 207). Details of the game card provision process (Step 207) will be described later.

[0088] The first game execution control unit 61 displays the game result when the game card provisioning process is completed (Step 208). Figure 13 shows an example of the game result screen. If a player forfeits the match, a screen indicating that the match has been forfeited will be displayed.

[0089] Finally, the first game execution control unit 61 notifies the second game execution control unit 62 that the first game has ended (Step 209). This concludes the explanation of the operation of the first game process (Step 102).

[0090] Next, we will explain the operation of the game card provision process (Step 207). Figure 14 is a flowchart of the operation of the game card provision process (Step 207).

[0091] The first game execution control unit 61 determines whether the first match has ended or has been forfeited (Step 300). If the first match has ended or has been forfeited (Step 301), it performs a lottery to select a game card from the game card supply unit (Step 302). The lottery is conducted with a predetermined probability so that a normal card or a rare card is provided at the predetermined supply ratio described above.

[0092] The first game execution control unit 61 selects either the first game card supply unit 27 or the second game card supply unit 28 based on the result of the lottery (Step 303), and notifies the selected card supply unit of the supply order (Step 304). The first game card supply unit 27 or the second game card supply unit 28, upon receiving the supply order, dispenses one game card from the dispensing slot 17. The first game execution control unit 61 then displays the game card supply screen (Step 305). Figure 15 shows an example of the game card supply screen. This concludes the explanation of the game card provision process (Step 207).

[0093] Since the first game includes options to play a match or to forfeit a match, it is possible to provide a game that satisfies both players who want to acquire game cards and play matches, and players who only want to acquire game cards without playing matches.

[0094] Next, we will explain the operation of the second game process (Step 107). Figure 16 is a flowchart of the operation of the second game process (Step 107).

[0095] When the second game begins, the second game execution control unit 62 accepts the registration of the game card that the player will use in the second match (Step 400). Once the registration of the game elements corresponding to the game card that the player will use in the second match is complete, the second game execution control unit 62 executes the match processing between the players (Step 401). Then, when the winner is determined, the second match ends and the second game execution control unit 62 displays the game result (Step 402). The game result screen is the same as in Figure 13. Finally, in order to count the number of times the second game has been played, 1 is added to the counter C1 that counts the number of times the second game has been played (Step 403).

[0096] The game of the first embodiment includes a first game, which is executed upon payment of a first price and includes a match using game cards (items) and the provision of game cards (items); and a second game, which is executed upon payment of a second price at the end of the first game and consists only of a match using game cards without the provision of game cards (items). This makes it possible to provide a game that satisfies both players who wish to play matches and acquire game cards (items), and players who wish to play matches only. In particular, the game of the first embodiment is suitable for players who wish to play multiple matches. Furthermore, since the game of the first embodiment is configured to allow players to forgo (skip) the first match of the first game, it is also a game that can satisfy players who wish to acquire game cards (items) only.

[0097] <Second Embodiment of the Present Invention> A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The second embodiment is characterized by providing a special match different from the first match during the first game. The special match occurs if a player wins the lottery after the game cards are provided following the end of the first match. The game cards are then provided after the special match. Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a series of gameplay in the second embodiment.

[0098] As shown in Figure 17, in the second embodiment, after the provision of the game card corresponding to the first price, a lottery for a special match is held. If the player wins the lottery, they gain the right to play the special match on the condition that they pay the third price. Furthermore, the player can receive a game card after the special match.

[0099] Figure 18 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102) in the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 18, the game device 1 performs a special match process (Step 500) after the game card provision process (Step 207). The special match process (Step 500) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 19. Note that the other processes are the same as in the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0100] The first game execution control unit 61 starts a lottery process (Step 502) after the provision of game cards following the first match is complete (Step 501). The lottery process determines whether or not a special match will occur using a predetermined probability.

[0101] If the first game execution control unit 61 does not win (special match does not occur) (Step 503), it terminates the special match processing and proceeds to Step 208.

[0102] Meanwhile, the first game execution control unit 61, upon winning (occurrence of a special match) (Step 503), displays a special match execution selection screen (Step 504) and determines the content selected by the player (Step 505). Figure 20 shows an example of the special match execution selection screen. The special match execution selection screen in Figure 20 shows that a special match can be executed, that payment of the third price is required to execute the special match, and that a rare card can be obtained after the special match.

[0103] If the player does not select to execute a special match, the first game execution control unit 61 terminates the special match processing and proceeds to Step 208. On the other hand, if the player selects to execute a special match, the first game execution control unit 61 detects the payment of the third price using the price detection unit 25 (Step 506). Here, the third price is the same amount as the first price. For example, the third price is 200 yen, the same amount as the first price. The special match takes place during the gameplay of the first game, but the fact that both the special match and the game card are provided to the player is the same as the provision of the first match and game card obtained by paying the first price.

[0104] If the payment of the third price is not detected (Step 506), the first game execution control unit 61 terminates the special match processing and proceeds to Step 208. On the other hand, if the payment of the third price is detected (Step 506), the first game execution control unit 61 executes the special match (Step 507). The special match may be played between players, similar to the first match, or it may be a match against a non-player character with special abilities (a so-called boss character).

[0105] When the special match ends, the first game execution control unit 61 notifies the second game card supply unit 28 of a supply command (Step 508). As a result, the second game card supply unit 28 dispenses one game card from the dispenser 17. The game card dispensed from the second game card supply unit 28 is a rare card. This is because the special match occurs as a result of winning a lottery, and therefore this has the same value as winning a rare card. The first game execution control unit 61 then finishes the special match processing and proceeds to Step 208. The subsequent processing is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0106] The second embodiment provides players with the opportunity to play against others and acquire game cards of high game value by offering a combination of a special match and a game card (rare card) during the first game, on the condition that they win a lottery and pay a third price. It should be noted that the special match described in the second embodiment can be implemented in the first game alone, without a second game.

[0107] <Third Embodiment of the Present Invention> A third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating the outline of a game executed by the game device 1 according to the third embodiment.

[0108] In the first embodiment, the first game is played with one game card in exchange for the payment of the first price. In the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 21, in addition to providing that one game card, the player can request additional game cards (items) in exchange for a further payment of a fourth price. The reason for providing additional game cards (items) after a match is that, based on the results of the match, the player may want game cards that better compensate for their weaknesses or that are of higher value. Furthermore, even if a player aims to acquire game cards without playing a match, it is beneficial for such players if they can acquire additional game cards immediately after acquiring a game card in exchange for the payment of the first price.

[0109] Game device 1 accepts a selection operation from the player regarding whether they wish to be provided with further game cards. If the player selects to wish to be provided with further game cards, game device 1 requests payment of the fourth price from the player. Subject to detection of payment of the fourth price, game device 1 dispenses one game card from the dispenser 17 and provides it to the player. The fourth price is lower than the first price. For example, the fourth price is 100 yen, which is lower than the first price. This is because, in exchange for the first price, the player receives the right to play the first match and the right to acquire one game card, but the exchange for the fourth price is only the right to acquire one game card.

[0110] Further game cards can be provided a predetermined number of times. Hereafter, this act of repeatedly providing game cards will be referred to as continuous game card provision. For example, after providing a game card in exchange for one payment of the fourth price, the player is asked to choose whether they wish to receive further game cards. If the player wishes to receive further game cards, one more game card will be provided on the condition that they pay another fourth price. If the player does not wish to receive further game cards, or if the predetermined number of continuous game card provision sessions has been reached, the continuous game card provision will end.

[0111] Figure 22 is a flowchart of the operation of the first game process (Step 102) in the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 22, the game device 1 performs a continuous game card provision process (Step 600) after displaying the game result (Step 208).

[0112] The continuous game card distribution process (Step 600) will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 23. Note that other processes are the same as in the first or second embodiment, so detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0113] When the first game execution control unit 61 finishes displaying the game result screen, it displays an input screen (continuous provision screen) that accepts the player's selection input regarding whether to receive further game cards (Step 601). Figure 24 shows an example of the continuous provision screen. The continuous provision screen in Figure 24 is a screen for selecting the continuous provision of game cards, and it displays that payment of the fourth price is required for each card provided.

[0114] The first game execution control unit 61 determines the choice made by the player (Step 602), and if the player chooses to receive further game cards and the payment of the fourth price is detected by the price detection unit 25 (Step 603), a lottery process is performed (Step 604). The lottery process is a draw to determine whether to select the first card provision unit 27 or the second card provision unit 28. The lottery is conducted using probability, similar to the lottery for game cards provided for the first price, but the proportion of different types of game cards provided is different.

[0115] For example, the first game execution control unit 61 may set the selection rate of the first game card supply unit 27 to 0.2 and the selection rate of the second game card supply unit 28 to 0.8. In other words, the main objective of a player who continuously receives game cards is to acquire game cards with high game value, and the provision rate of rare cards is set high to align with this objective. The provision rate may also be varied depending on the number of times game cards are purchased. For example, if the number of consecutive game card distributions is set to four, then for the first game card distribution, the selection rate of the first game card distribution unit 27 is set to 0.8 and the selection rate of the second game card distribution unit 28 is set to 0.2. For the second game card distribution, the selection rate of the first game card distribution unit 27 is set to 0.5 and the selection rate of the second game card distribution unit 28 is set to 0.5. For the third game card distribution, the selection rate of the first game card distribution unit 27 is set to 0.2 and the selection rate of the second game card distribution unit 28 is set to 0.8. For the fourth game card distribution, the selection rate of the first game card distribution unit 27 is set to 0 and the selection rate of the second game card distribution unit 28 is set to 1. In other words, the more game cards are distributed, the higher the rate of rare cards being provided, and when the number of consecutive distributions is reached (the fourth time in this example), a rare card is guaranteed to be provided. Furthermore, in the case of consecutive game card distributions, the second game card distribution unit 28 may always be selected. However, the above example is just one example, and the percentage of each type of service offered may be other values.

[0116] The first game execution control unit 61 selects either the first game card supply unit 27 or the second game card supply unit 28 based on the result of the lottery (Step 605), and notifies the selected card supply unit of the supply order (Step 606). The first game card supply unit 27 or the second game card supply unit 28, upon receiving the supply order, dispenses one game card from the dispensing opening 17.

[0117] The first game execution control unit 61 adds 1 to counter C2 (initial value = 0) for counting the number of times further game cards will be provided (Step 607), and determines whether counter C2 has reached the number of consecutive possible times (e.g., 4 times) (Step 608).

[0118] If the counter C2 has not reached the number of consecutive possible plays, the first game execution control unit 61 returns to Step 601, displays the continuous play screen, and continues processing from Step 602 onward. On the other hand, the first game execution control unit 61 terminates the continuous game card provision process if it selects not to acquire a game card, fails to detect the fourth price, or the counter C2 reaches the number of consecutive possible occurrences. This concludes the explanation of how the continuous game card distribution process works.

[0119] The third embodiment provides an opportunity to acquire only game cards (items) during the first game, thus offering a game that satisfies the desires of players whose primary objective is to acquire game cards (items).

[0120] Furthermore, the continuous game card provisioning process described in the third embodiment can be implemented in the first game alone, without the provision of a second game. Also, the continuous game card provisioning process described in the third embodiment can be implemented in the first game alone, without the provision of the special match described in the second embodiment. Moreover, a combination of the first embodiment and the third embodiment is also possible.

[0121] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, two examples (the first card supply unit 27 and the second card supply unit 28) of the card supply unit (item supply unit) that provides game cards (items) were explained. However, the number is not limited to two. Depending on the type of game card (item), three or more card supply units (item supply units) may be provided.

[0122] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments and can be modified and implemented in various ways within the scope of its technical concept. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0123] 1 Game device 2 servers 1 Game device 2 Game Servers 11 Display Panel 12. Operation touch panel 13 Operation buttons 14. First Reading Section 15 Second Reading Section 16 Inlet 17 Outlet 20 Processing Units 21 Display section 22 Operation Input Section 23 User Information Reading Unit 24 Game element reading unit 25 Price detection unit 26. Sound output section 27. First Game Card Supply Department 28. Second Game Card Supply Department 29 Communications Department 30 Storage section 61 First Game Execution Control Unit 62 Second Game Execution Control Unit

Claims

1. A game execution control means that, after the payment of a first price has been detected, and on the condition that a payment of a second price lower than the first price has been detected, controls the execution of a game that includes only matches using game elements and does not include the provision of tangible or intangible items associated with the game elements. A game device equipped with the following features.

2. The game execution control means controls the provision of the tangible and intangible articles even if it detects further payment of a price during the execution of the game based on the payment of the second price. The game device according to claim 1.

3. The game execution control means controls whether or not the game can be executed using the second price based on each user's past payment history. The game device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Computers, A game execution control means that, after the payment of a first price has been detected, and on the condition that a payment of a second price lower than the first price has been detected, controls the execution of a game that includes only matches using game elements and does not include the provision of tangible or intangible items associated with the game elements. A program that makes it function as such.

Images