Entertainment systems and programs

Abstract

To provide an entertainment system that enables more reliable and easier recognition of shared information when a large amount of shared information is placed as objects within a virtual space. [Solution] The server device 10 of this embodiment is a system that works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to manage shared information shared within a virtual space. Based on user operations, it generates shared information to be shared with other users as shared information objects, and has a configuration that executes processing to classify the generated shared information objects based on the supplementary information of the shared information and place them within the virtual space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to entertainment systems, programs, and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in virtual spaces such as games or metaverses, information that should be shared with players or users (i.e., shared information) is often presented, for purposes such as presenting some kind of hint to players or users, or presenting rules.

[0003] For example, among games that provide such shared information, there is a known game in which play data related to a user (i.e., an information object related to the user, hereinafter also referred to as "user information object") is registered at a predetermined position in the game field, and the user information object is displayed when another user approaches within a predetermined range (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the system described in the above Patent Document 1, shared information is merely displayed, and when a large amount of shared information is registered at the same location, the amount of displayed shared information increases, which tends to make it difficult for other users to find (i.e., recognize) necessary shared information or useful shared information.

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide an entertainment system, etc., that can more reliably and easily recognize shared information when a large amount of shared information is placed as objects in a virtual space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is An entertainment system that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, An execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user; Equipped with, The aforementioned arrangement control means When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the placement control process has a configuration that allows the shared information objects to be categorized and placed in the virtual space according to the associated information. It is.

[0008] With this configuration, the present invention allows the terminal device to display image information or output sound when multiple shared information objects are arranged in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, while classifying the shared information objects according to their accompanying information.

[0009] Therefore, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention makes it possible for users to easily and quickly recognize shared information that is in line with their purpose, thereby improving user convenience in the virtual space.

[0010] For example, "entertainment" includes: (A1) A game that is executed within a virtual space as a game space. (A2) Performances by characters that are placed in a virtual space and perform actions such as acting (specifically, idol-like character objects, etc.) and static objects (specifically, characters that only emit sound, etc.), (A3) Events performed in the virtual space (for example, interaction with other users, lottery draws such as gacha, message exchange, collaborative work, or shopping), This includes things like:

[0011] Furthermore, "shared information" refers to information that is shared with other users within a virtual space and transmitted by a user to other users, which is generated in association with supplementary information for classifying said shared information, and is placed as a shared information object in association with a given location or area in the virtual space.

[0012] In particular, "shared information" includes information about games played in the virtual space and gameplay information, information about items or characters used in the virtual space, game or task walkthroughs, events (games, performances, and gacha draws, etc.) or announcements to other users, and the content of conversations with other users (so-called casual chats).

[0013] In addition, supplementary information may include, for example, (B1) Attributes of the shared information itself, such as the type of shared information (hereinafter referred to as "shared information attributes"), (B2) Identification information of the user who instructed the placement of the shared information (i.e., User ID), (B3) The attributes of the user in question (hereinafter referred to as "user attributes") (B4) The user's activity history in the virtual space, and, (B5)(B1)~(B4) combinations, This includes things like:

[0014] For example, shared information attributes include the type of image (whether or not an image is present, the type of video and still image, and the data format), the type of item, character, and event being announced, and the type of announcement content (information gathering, event promotion, team recruitment, friend recruitment, and opponent recruitment).

[0015] Furthermore, "user attributes" include, for example, the identification information of the team to which the user belongs (team ID), the type of avatar (the character controlled by the user), whether or not the user is a paying user, age, address or residence, and the level or rank to which the user, such as the player or avatar, belongs.

[0016] And, for example, in "User Behavior History," (B4-1) Actions previously performed within the virtual space (for example, playing a specific game, making a purchase, participating in a specific event, or acting together with a specific user), (B4-2) Total time spent by a user in the virtual space, time spent while currently logged in, or time spent in a specific situation such as after acquiring a specific item (such as the Hero's Sword or possessing a certain amount of currency usable in the virtual space) or after entering a specific state (such as becoming invincible). (B4-3) The number of times a user logs into the virtual space, and (B4-4) Places or areas visited within the virtual space (including, for example, visiting a designated location more than a predetermined number of times), This includes information such as the following.

[0017] Then, "arrange in the virtual space in a classifiable manner" includes, for example, arranging shared information objects in a classified state, and also includes classifying the shared information objects as desired by the user when the user accesses the shared information objects, such as when the user wishes to notify the content of the shared information objects and issues a notification instruction to the shared information objects.

[0018] Further, "arrange in the virtual space" indicates, for example, arranging at a predetermined coordinate or area in the virtual space, and indicates arranging based on an instruction of the user who generated the shared information object, or automatically arranging at a predetermined position when the shared information object is generated.

[0019] In addition to the above, "position or area regarded as the same" indicates a position or area within a predetermined range in the virtual space from the same position or area.

[0020] Then, "arrangement control processing" indicates classifying and arranging the arranged shared information objects according to the shared information attribute, user ID, user attribute, or action history of the user.

[0021] In particular, as the "arrangement control processing", it indicates that shared information objects each formed in a predetermined format are classified and arranged, the shared information objects are collectively formed and arranged (as a group) for each attribute, or formed and arranged as one object for each attribute.

[0022] Further, "recognition control information for making the user recognize the shared information of the shared information object" includes display control information for displaying the shared information by the terminal device, or output control information for outputting sound by the terminal device, and the like.

[0023] (2) Further, the present invention relates to An entertainment system that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network and manages shared information shared in a virtual space, the entertainment system comprising: An execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user; Equipped with, The aforementioned arrangement control means The shared information objects are classified according to the aforementioned supplementary information. The system has a configuration in which the classified shared information objects are placed in a given location or area within a virtual space, which is predetermined for each piece of supplementary information.

[0024] With this configuration, the present invention allows the terminal device to display image information or output sound when multiple shared information objects are arranged in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, while classifying the shared information objects according to their accompanying information.

[0025] Therefore, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention makes it possible for users to easily and quickly recognize shared information that is in line with their purpose, thereby improving user convenience in the virtual space.

[0026] (3) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned supplementary information includes at least one of the following: the attributes of the shared information object, the identification information of the user providing the shared information, the attributes of the user, and the user's activity history in the virtual space.

[0027] With this configuration, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention can classify the shared information objects based on the attributes of the shared information object, the type of user, the user's attributes, or the user's behavior history, so that users can easily and quickly find shared information objects that suit their purpose.

[0028] (4) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in locations or areas considered to be the same, the placement control process includes classifying the shared information objects according to the attributes of the shared information as supplementary information and placing them in the virtual space.

[0029] This configuration allows the present invention to easily and quickly find shared information objects that align with the user's purpose by classifying them based on the type of notification target or the type of notification content.

[0030] (5) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means When providing multiple shared information objects to the user, the identification information of the user receiving the information is identified, and Based on the identification information of the identified user, the classification specification information stored in the storage means is identified. The system has a configuration that classifies the shared information object based on the identified classification specification information and provides it to the terminal device of the corresponding user.

[0031] With this configuration, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention can provide shared information objects that are classified for each user and according to the user's wishes, so that users can easily and quickly find shared information objects that suit their purpose.

[0032] The "classification specification information" includes the order in which shared information is communicated to users (based on the attributes of the shared information object or the attributes of the user providing the shared information), the type of shared information to be communicated (for example, setting the system to recognize shared information of the applicable type and not recognize shared information of the inapplicable type), and how the shared information is grouped (grouped by player, by player attribute, by attribute of shared information, or by player's behavior history).

[0033] (6) Furthermore, the present invention is A means for identifying other users who are within a predetermined range from the location of a specific user in the virtual space to whom the shared information of the shared information object should be provided, User-related information acquisition means for acquiring information about the other identified user as user-related information, Furthermore, The aforementioned arrangement control means The common elements of each user-related piece of information obtained are detected, The system has a configuration that classifies the shared information objects based on the detected common elements and provides them to the terminal devices of the corresponding users.

[0034] With this configuration, the present invention can classify information objects based on information about other users present around the user in the virtual space, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space.

[0035] For example, the present invention allows for the classification of shared information objects based on the information the team is focusing on, when working with other users belonging to the same team.

[0036] Furthermore, for example, the present invention can classify shared information objects according to the interests of other users participating in a specific event that is taking place at a point where a user is located.

[0037] In other words, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in a virtual space, the present invention can provide users with useful information, clues to surrounding trends, or information to be collected.

[0038] Furthermore, "within a specified range" in the virtual space includes not only a specified range from a specific user's location, but also a predetermined area set in advance for entertainment purposes, or the field of view of a virtual camera from the perspective of a specific user.

[0039] Furthermore, under "User-related information," (C1) Information regarding the user's status or the current state / level of the user character (e.g., avatar) operated by the user, or past states (hereinafter referred to as "user status information"), (C2) Information regarding the amount of money charged by the user and their billing history (hereinafter also referred to as "billing information"), (C3) Information regarding the currency in the virtual space owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as "currency information"), or information regarding points obtained through lotteries or games (hereinafter referred to as "point information"), (C4) Information concerning the user character (hereinafter referred to as "character information"), (C5) Information about items owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as "item information"), (C6) Time of day the user is in the virtual space (morning, noon, evening, night, late night, etc.), (C7) If you belong to a group, please provide the group ID, the period or history of your membership in that group, and (C8) The above classification specification information, This includes things like:

[0040] (7) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means The aforementioned placement control process has a configuration that classifies and places the shared information objects according to a given notification specification determined based on the aforementioned supplementary information.

[0041] With this configuration, the present invention allows setting or changing the position (left / right), height, appearance (size, color, or shape), order, and movement of the shared information object when shared information is displayed, according to the accompanying information, and when shared information is output as sound, it allows setting or changing the order and volume of the shared information output according to the accompanying information.

[0042] In other words, the present invention allows for the classification of shared information objects according to supplementary information, while also enabling the setting or modification of display and output methods, thereby providing shared information in a manner suitable for the user.

[0043] Furthermore, the "given notification specifications" include not only display conditions or installation conditions such as the height, position, or duration for which the shared information object is displayed, but also specifications such as the appearance (size, color, or shape), the order in which it is displayed or output, and its movement.

[0044] (8) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the placement control process includes aggregating them according to the associated information, and then classifying and placing each aggregated shared information object in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same.

[0045] With this configuration, the present invention can display shared information objects aggregated by their associated information when they are displayed, or output shared information aggregated by its associated information when it is output as sound.

[0046] Therefore, the present invention can easily and centrally provide users with multiple pieces of shared information that share common ancillary information, thereby improving the convenience for each user in obtaining common information.

[0047] (9) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means The system has a configuration in which multiple shared information objects, aggregated for each piece of supplementary information, are classified and arranged within the virtual space as a single display object for the user to view.

[0048] With this configuration, the present invention makes it possible to easily recognize the content of multiple aggregated shared information objects and to easily access them by using icons or other displays that represent aggregated shared information objects as display objects.

[0049] Furthermore, "display object" refers to a distinctive, image-based shape or design that is distinguishable from other display objects, such as icons.

[0050] (10) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means The configuration includes a mechanism that changes the display specifications of the display object in accordance with the feature quantities that change due to the aggregated multiple shared information objects.

[0051] With this configuration, the present invention can improve user visibility by changing the size, shape, or display position of the display object's appearance based on the feature quantities that change depending on the shared information objects being aggregated, when aggregating multiple shared information objects into a single display object.

[0052] Furthermore, "features that change due to aggregated shared information objects" include the number of shared information objects, the presence or absence of images (still images and videos), the amount of text, the amount of display (including text + images, or display area, etc.), the amount of data, or a combination thereof.

[0053] Furthermore, "display object specifications" refer to the size, shape, or display position (such as height, width, and position in the virtual space).

[0054] (11) Furthermore, the present invention is The system further includes identification means for identifying the relationship between a plurality of shared information objects and a user who views the display object, based on a plurality of shared information objects aggregated in the display object and user-related information related to the user who views the display object. The aforementioned arrangement control means The system has a configuration that changes the specifications for when the corresponding display object is displayed according to the identified relationship.

[0055] With this configuration, the present invention can change the display specifications of display objects according to user-related information such as the user's situation, thereby making display objects visible to the user in a way that is appropriate for that user, and as a result, improving the convenience of users in obtaining common information.

[0056] (12) Furthermore, the present invention is A receiving means for receiving an evaluation of the arranged shared information object based on the user's operation, A registration means for registering the evaluation information indicating the received evaluation in association with the corresponding shared information object, It has a configuration that further includes the following.

[0057] With this configuration, the present invention can use evaluation information when arranging shared information objects, so that, for example, it can appropriately provide shared information that is convenient for users, such as extending the arrangement period for shared information objects with high evaluations.

[0058] In addition to information indicating positive ratings such as "likes" or negative ratings such as "dislikes" (including the number of ratings), "rating information" also includes information such as comments on shared information objects.

[0059] (13) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means The system has a configuration that controls the notification period for the relevant shared information object, or prioritizes notification to other shared information objects, according to the evaluation information registered in association with the shared information object.

[0060] With this configuration, the present invention can use evaluation information when arranging shared information objects, so that, for example, it can appropriately provide shared information that is convenient for users, such as extending the arrangement period for shared information objects with high evaluations.

[0061] Furthermore, "priority notification" includes, if the shared information object is a display object, displaying it earlier, extending its display period, increasing its size, making it more decorative, or placing it closer to the user's viewpoint. If the shared information object is an audio output object, it includes extending the access period to the information, outputting it earlier, or increasing its output volume.

[0062] (14) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned arrangement control means If the shared information object is formed by a display object visible to the user in the virtual space, an interference determination process is performed to determine whether the shared information object to be placed interferes with other shared information objects on display. If the interference detection process determines that the shared information object is interfering with another shared information object, the configuration includes a placement control process that arranges the shared information object in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the associated information.

[0063] With this configuration, the present invention makes it possible to easily identify each display object even when multiple display objects are arranged in close proximity.

[0064] Furthermore, for the "interference detection process," in addition to detecting interference when the display area itself interferes based on the size of the display object as a shared information object, an interference area wider than the size of the display object may be set, and if the interference areas of each display object interfere with each other, it may be determined that the display objects are interfering with each other.

[0065] (15) Furthermore, the present invention is A program that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, Execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, and When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user. To make the computer function as, The aforementioned arrangement control means When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in locations or areas considered to be the same, the placement control process includes a configuration that allows the shared information objects to be classified and placed in the virtual space according to the associated information.

[0066] With this configuration, the present invention allows the terminal device to display image information or output sound when multiple shared information objects are arranged in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, while classifying the shared information objects according to their accompanying information.

[0067] Therefore, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention makes it possible for users to easily and quickly recognize shared information that is in line with their purpose, thereby improving user convenience in the virtual space.

[0068] (16) Furthermore, the present invention is A program that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, Execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, and When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user. To make the computer function as, The aforementioned arrangement control means The shared information objects are classified according to the aforementioned supplementary information. The system has a configuration in which the classified shared information objects are placed in a given location or area within a virtual space, which is predetermined for each piece of supplementary information.

[0069] With this configuration, the present invention allows the terminal device to display image information or output sound when multiple shared information objects are arranged in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, while classifying the shared information objects according to their accompanying information.

[0070] Therefore, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the present invention makes it possible for users to easily and quickly recognize shared information that is in line with their purpose, thereby improving user convenience in the virtual space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0071] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a system configuration illustrating the configuration of a virtual space provisioning system in one embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the functional block of a server device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the functional block of a terminal device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the shared information object placement management process within a virtual space in one embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of shared information object data stored in the shared information object storage unit of one embodiment. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates a placement control process performed by a server device of one embodiment, and shows an example of the placement of shared information objects. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the classification and arrangement of shared information objects according to supplementary information executed by a server device of one embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the aggregation and arrangement of shared information objects performed by a server device in one embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates a modified example of one embodiment, specifically a diagram illustrating a placement control process that controls the placement of shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information. [Figure 10] This figure illustrates a modified example of one embodiment, specifically a diagram illustrating a placement control process that controls the placement of shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows the operation of the shared information object placement management process performed by a server device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0072] The following describes this embodiment. Note that the embodiment described below does not unduly limit the scope of the present invention as described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in this embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0073] [1] Virtual space provision system First, we will explain the overview and general configuration of the virtual space provisioning system 1 of this embodiment using Figure 1.

[0074] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration illustrating the configuration of the virtual space provisioning system 1 of this embodiment.

[0075] As shown in Figure 1, the virtual space provision system 1 of this embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 that provides a virtual space such as a metaverse and terminal devices 20 (for example, terminal devices 20A, 20B, 20C) can connect to the internet (an example of a network).

[0076] Users can access the server device 10 from their terminal device 20 and participate in the virtual space transmitted from the server device 10 via the internet. Furthermore, users can communicate with other users by accessing the server device 10 from their terminal device 20.

[0077] The server device 10 is an information processing device that can provide a service (hereinafter referred to as the "virtual space provision service") that allows users to participate in a virtual space using terminal devices 20 connected via the Internet.

[0078] Furthermore, the server device 10 may function as an SNS server that provides communication-type services. Here, the SNS server may be an information processing device that provides services capable of facilitating communication among multiple users.

[0079] In particular, the server device 10 is capable of providing a virtual space on the web browser of the terminal device 20, using browsers created in various languages ​​such as HTML, FLASH®, CGI, PHP, Shockwave, Java® applets, and JavaScript®.

[0080] On the other hand, the server device 10 may consist of one (device, processor) or multiple (devices, processors).

[0081] Furthermore, the billing information stored in the storage area of ​​the server device 10 (storage unit 140 described later) and the information necessary to allow users to participate in the virtual space may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or internet). Alternatively, when functioning as an SNS server, the user-related information storage unit 146 and other information stored in the storage area may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or internet).

[0082] Specifically, the server device 10 of this embodiment receives input information based on the operation of the user of the terminal device 20 (i.e., the participant joining the virtual space), and performs an action control process (i.e., the user's operation response) to control the actions of the avatar in the virtual space based on the received input information. The system is designed to perform behavioral control processing using an avatar character that represents an elephant (hereinafter simply referred to as "avatar").

[0083] The server device 10 then transmits the behavior control processing results to the terminal device 20, and the terminal device 20 performs various processes to provide the behavior control processing results received from the server device 10 to the terminal device 20 in a viewable format for the user.

[0084] The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a smartphone, mobile phone, PHS, computer, game device, PDA, portable game console, or image generation device, and is capable of connecting to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN. The communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

[0085] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 is equipped with a web browser capable of viewing web pages (data in HTML format).

[0086] In other words, the terminal device 20 is equipped with a communication control function for communicating with the server device 10, a web browser function that performs display control using data received from the server device 10 (such as web data and data created in HTML format), and sends user operation data to the server device 10, and performs various processes to provide the user with a display of the avatar's actions in the virtual space, allowing the user to control the avatar's actions in the virtual space. However, the terminal device 20 may also acquire various information provided by the server device 10 and perform predetermined action control processing, and then perform action control of the avatar character in the virtual space based on the action control processing.

[0087] Specifically, when terminal device 20 requests server device 10 to participate in the virtual space, it connects to the site that server device 10 provides the virtual space, and control of the avatar's actions within the virtual space begins.

[0088] In particular, the terminal device 20 has a configuration that, by using an API as needed, causes the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, to perform predetermined processing, or to obtain the user-related information storage unit 146 managed by the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, in order to perform avatar-based behavior control within the imaginary space.

[0089] [2] Server equipment Next, the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 2.

[0090] Figure 2 shows the functional blocks of the server device 10 in this embodiment. Furthermore, the server device 10 in this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (parts) shown in Figure 2 are omitted.

[0091] The server device 10 includes an input unit 120 for use by administrators and others, a display unit 130 for displaying predetermined information, an information storage medium 180 in which predetermined information is stored, a communication unit 196 for communicating with terminal devices 20 and others, a processing unit 100 that mainly performs processing related to avatars in the virtual space provided, and a storage unit 140 that mainly stores various data for forming the virtual space and executing various events.

[0092] The input unit 120 is used by system administrators and others to configure settings related to the virtual space and other necessary settings and input data. For example, the input unit 120 in this embodiment is composed of a mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0093] The display unit 130 displays an operation screen for the system administrator. For example, the display unit 130 in this embodiment is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like.

[0094] The information storage medium 180 (a medium readable by a computer) stores programs, data, etc., and its function is comprised of optical discs (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical discs (MOs), magnetic discs, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

[0095] The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with external parties (e.g., terminals, other servers, or other network systems), and its functions are comprised of hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, as well as programs.

[0096] The memory unit 140 serves as the work area for the processing unit 100 and the communication unit 196, and its functions are comprised of RAM (VRAM), etc. The information stored in the memory unit 140 may be managed by a database.

[0097] Furthermore, in addition to the main memory unit 142, the storage unit 140 of this embodiment includes a virtual space data storage unit 144 in which data for forming a virtual space and operating a virtual world (virtual society) formed within that virtual space (hereinafter referred to as "virtual space data") is stored, a user-related information storage unit 146, and a shared information object storage unit 148, thus constituting the storage means of the present invention.

[0098] The virtual space data storage unit 144 stores virtual space data in order to perform processing related to the formation of a virtual space and the operation of the virtual world formed within that virtual space.

[0099] In particular, the virtual space data storage unit 144 stores information about fields containing various objects that form the virtual space, condition information used for various determinations, information about various events, information for modifying each object, various table information, information about each user's avatar, and information about each item used in events, etc.

[0100] The user-related information storage unit 146 stores information about each user and information about each user's avatar (hereinafter collectively referred to as "user-related information").

[0101] In particular, user-related information is associated with a user ID for each user. (A1) User-related information including name, age, gender, and account information for payment processing, and information about the avatar (hereinafter referred to as "avatar information"), (A2) Information on the history of the user's actions within the virtual space (hereinafter referred to as "user action history") (hereinafter referred to as "user action history information"), This is stored in memory.

[0102] The avatar information includes various details necessary to set up the avatar, such as the basic shape (basic form of a person, animal, or robot, including size), appearance (including color), hairstyle, and makeup), and owned items (clothing, accessories, possessions (towels, glow sticks, etc.)).

[0103] The shared information object storage unit 148 stores data relating to shared information objects (hereinafter referred to as "shared information objects") which are information generated by users and other entities for sharing with each user, and which are arranged in virtual space in object format.

[0104] The processing unit 100 performs various operations using the main memory unit 142 within the storage unit 140 as the work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

[0105] The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores programs that cause the computer to function as each part of this embodiment (programs that cause the computer to execute the processing of each part).

[0106] For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on the program stored in the information storage medium, and also performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between each part.

[0107] Specifically, the processing unit 100 of this embodiment includes at least a communication control unit 101, a Web processing unit 102, a virtual space management unit 103, a user management unit 104, a shared information object management unit 105, an evaluation processing unit 106, a virtual camera control unit 107, a sound generation unit 108, an image generation unit 109, a timer management unit 110, and an information provision unit 111.

[0108] The communication control unit 101 performs processing to send and receive data with the terminal device 20 via the network. In other words, the server device 10 performs various processing based on the information received from the terminal device 20, etc., by the communication control unit 101.

[0109] In particular, the communication control unit 101 of this embodiment performs the process of transmitting a given screen relating to the virtual space to the user's terminal device 20 based on a request from the user's terminal device 20.

[0110] Furthermore, the communication control unit 101 performs various processes to receive user instructions input into the terminal device 20.

[0111] The Web processing unit 102 functions as a Web server. For example, the Web processing unit 102 performs the process of sending data in response to a request from a Web browser 211 installed on the terminal device 20 via a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), and the process of receiving data sent by the Web browser 211 on the terminal device 20.

[0112] In this embodiment, we will describe the case where the server device 10 also functions as an SNS server, but the server device 10 may be configured separately as a server for providing virtual space and a server for SNS.

[0113] Furthermore, the processing related to the formation of the virtual space and the operation of the virtual world (virtual society) formed within the virtual space in this embodiment may be partially or entirely performed by the server device 10, or partially performed by the terminal device 20.

[0114] The virtual space management unit 103 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to construct a virtual space and performs processing related to the formation of the virtual space and the operation of the virtual world formed within that virtual space.

[0115] In particular, the virtual space management unit 103 performs various processes related to communication among multiple users, implementation of various events, formation of communities within the virtual space, and management of said communities, based on user operations entered via the terminal device 20.

[0116] Furthermore, the virtual space management unit 103 executes various behavioral control processes related to the avatar in question based on the user's operation instructions transmitted from the terminal device 20.

[0117] In particular, the virtual space management unit 103 controls the movement, participation in events, communication with other users, and operation of various communities of the avatar controlled by each user in response to user input entered into the terminal device 20, while also controlling the movements and actions of other related characters and objects.

[0118] The user management unit 104 registers and manages items owned by the user and rewards acquired by the user as user-related information in the user-related information storage unit 146, and also manages the avatars that the user controls.

[0119] The shared information object management unit 105 generates shared information objects to be placed in the virtual space based on instructions from users and other parties, and manages the placement of the generated shared information objects in the virtual space.

[0120] The evaluation processing unit 106 executes an evaluation process that causes a user other than the user who placed the shared information object in the virtual space (hereinafter referred to as the "placement user") (hereinafter referred to as the "general user") to evaluate the placed shared information object.

[0121] The virtual camera control unit 107 is located in object space (i.e., virtual space) and performs control processing for virtual cameras (viewpoints, reference virtual cameras) to generate images visible from the position (viewing position) of each avatar, which functions as the viewpoint of each user.

[0122] Specifically, this involves processing to control the position (X, Y, Z) or rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, Z axes) of the virtual camera (processing to control the viewpoint position, line of sight direction, or field of view).

[0123] The sound generation unit 108 generates background music or performance sounds, character voices (singing sounds), and environmental sounds within the virtual space in accordance with the progress of the virtual space provision service.

[0124] The image generation unit 109 performs drawing processing based on the image generated by the virtual camera control unit 107, thereby generating an image (including sound), and transmits the generated data to the corresponding terminal device 20.

[0125] In particular, the image generation unit 109 generates an image for each viewer of the virtual space as seen from the avatar's viewing position.

[0126] Specifically, the image generation unit 109 performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping, perspective transformation, or light source processing, and based on the results of this processing, drawing data (position coordinates of primitive face vertices, texture coordinates, color data, normal vectors, or alpha values, etc.) is created. Then, based on this drawing data (primitive face data), the object (one or more primitive faces) after perspective transformation (after geometry processing) is drawn to a drawing buffer (a buffer that can store image information on a pixel-by-pixel basis, such as a frame buffer or work buffer) which is not shown. This generates an image that can be seen from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) within the object space.

[0127] The drawing process performed in the image generation unit 109 can be implemented using vertex shader processing, pixel shader processing, and the like.

[0128] Furthermore, if the terminal device 20 is formed by an HMD, the image generation unit 109 generates parallax images (for the right eye and the left eye) to enable stereoscopic viewing by allowing the viewer wearing the HMD to see an image of a virtual three-dimensional space with a predetermined amount of parallax in both eyes.

[0129] The timer management unit 110 has a timer function and is used to manage time within the virtual space. In particular, the timer management unit 110 works in conjunction with the virtual space management unit 103 and outputs the current time and a preset time to each unit. The timer management unit 110 is also used to synchronize with each terminal device 20.

[0130] The information provision unit 111 generates various types of information and provides them to the terminal device 20 in order to perform avatar behavior control processing and processing related to shared information objects within the virtual space.

[0131] [3] Terminal device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 3.

[0132] Figure 3 shows the functional blocks of the terminal device 20 of this embodiment. Furthermore, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (parts) shown in Figure 2 are omitted.

[0133] The input unit 260 is a device for receiving input information from the user and outputs the user's input information to the processing unit 200.

[0134] The input unit 260 of this embodiment includes a detection unit 262 that detects user input information (input signals).

[0135] For example, the input unit 260 consists of levers, buttons, a steering wheel, a microphone, a touch panel display, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like.

[0136] The memory unit 270 serves as the work area for the processing unit 200 and the communication unit 296, and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM) or the like. In this embodiment, the memory unit 270 includes a main memory unit 271 used as the work area and an image buffer 272 where the final display image and the like are stored. Note that some of these components may be omitted.

[0137] The information storage medium 280 (a medium readable by a computer) stores programs, data, etc., and its function can be realized by optical discs (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical discs (MOs), magnetic discs, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

[0138] The processing unit 200 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 280. The information storage medium 280 can store programs for causing the computer to function as each part of this embodiment (programs for causing the computer to execute the processing of each part).

[0139] In this embodiment, the server device 10 receives programs and various data for making the computer function as each part of this embodiment, which are stored in the information storage medium 180 and the storage unit 140, via the network, and stores the received programs and data in the information storage medium 280.

[0140] The program and data received from the server device 10 may be stored in the storage unit 270. The case where the network system functions by receiving such programs and data is also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0141] The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function is to output the image generated by this embodiment. This can be achieved using CRT, LCD, touch panel displays, or HMDs (head-mounted displays).

[0142] The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and this function can be realized by a speaker or headphones, etc.

[0143] The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communication with external devices (e.g., other terminals, servers), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, or by programs.

[0144] The processing unit 200 (processor) performs processing such as display control, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on various information obtained from the server device 10 via the communication unit 296, input information from the acquired input unit 260, or programs.

[0145] This processing unit 200 performs various processes using the main memory unit 271 within the storage unit 270 as the work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

[0146] The processing unit 200 includes a communication control unit 210, a web browser 211, a display control unit 213, a drawing unit 220, and a sound processing unit 230. Note that some of these components may be omitted.

[0147] The communication control unit 210 performs data transmission and reception with each of the server devices 10. The communication control unit 210 also performs data storage in the storage unit 270, data analysis, and other control processing related to data transmission and reception.

[0148] Furthermore, the communication control unit 210 may store and manage the server's destination information (IP address, port number) in the information storage medium 280. The communication control unit 210 may also initiate communication with the server device 10 upon receiving communication initiation input from the user.

[0149] In particular, the communication control unit 210 transmits user identification information and operation information to the server device 10, and processes information regarding the avatar used for actions within the virtual space and information regarding the results of those actions from the server device 10.

[0150] The communication control unit 210 may perform data transmission and reception with the server device 10 at predetermined intervals, or it may perform data transmission and reception with the server device 10 when it receives input information from the input unit 260. In particular, the communication control unit 210 in this embodiment performs processing to receive a screen related to the virtual space avatar from the server device 10.

[0151] The web browser 211 is an application program for viewing web pages (screens related to avatars in a virtual space). It downloads HTML files, image files, etc., from the web server (server device 10), analyzes the layout, and controls the display. The web browser 211 also sends data to the web server (server device 10) using input forms (links, buttons, text boxes, etc.).

[0152] The Web browser 211 in this embodiment may execute programs written in JavaScript®, FLASH, Java®, etc., that are received from a Web server (server device 10).

[0153] The terminal device 20 can display information from a web server specified by a URL via the internet using its web browser 211. For example, the terminal device 20 can display a screen (data such as HTML) related to a virtual space avatar received from the server device 10 using its web browser 211.

[0154] The display control unit 213 performs various calculations related to the avatar in the virtual space.

[0155] Furthermore, the display control unit 213 may perform the process of arranging and setting various objects (objects composed of primitives such as polygons, freeform surfaces, or subdivision surfaces) that represent display items such as avatars, shared information, buildings, stadiums, cars, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain) in the object space.

[0156] Here, object space refers to a virtual space that includes both 2D and 3D spaces. 2D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 2D coordinates (X,Y), while 3D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 3D coordinates (X,Y,Z).

[0157] Furthermore, the display control unit 213 performs the processing to display on the display unit 290. For example, the display control unit 213 may use a web browser 211 for display.

[0158] The drawing unit 220 performs drawing processing based on various processes (for example, display control processing) performed by the processing unit 200, thereby generating an image, which is then output to the display unit 290 by the display control unit 213. The image generated by the drawing unit 220 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a so-called three-dimensional image.

[0159] The sound processing unit 230 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200, generates various sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and outputs them to the sound output unit 292.

[0160] [4] The method of this embodiment [4.1] Overview Next, we will explain the outline of the method (shared information object placement management process) of this embodiment using Figure 4.

[0161] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the shared information object placement management process within the virtual space in this embodiment.

[0162] The server device 10 of this embodiment works in conjunction with a terminal device 20 connected via a network, and provides the terminal device 20 with control data (i.e., data provided for the virtual space provision service) such as avatars and other characters, a virtual space and a part thereof, various parameters, background music, and event execution for each user, thereby configuring a server system that realizes the actions of multiple users in the virtual space, each using a given character such as an avatar.

[0163] In particular, the server device 10 of this embodiment has a configuration for controlling the movement of characters such as avatars in the virtual space based on the operations of each user input via the terminal device 20, and for executing processes related to the formation of the virtual space and the operation of the virtual world (virtual society) formed within the virtual space.

[0164] Furthermore, the server device 10 of this embodiment is a system that works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to manage shared information shared within the virtual space, and shares it with other users based on user operations. The system has a configuration that generates shared information as an object (i.e., a shared information object), and then executes a process to classify the generated shared information objects based on the accompanying information of the shared information and place them in a virtual space.

[0165] Specifically, the server device 10 of this embodiment is as shown in Figure 4, (A1) Execute control over virtual space provision services within the virtual space, (A2) Based on user operations, etc., a placement control process is executed to place shared information objects in the virtual space as shared information objects, associating them with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information. (A3) When a shared information object that has been placed is selected by a given operation such as an instruction from the program or an operation instruction from the user, recognition control information is provided to the terminal device so that the shared information of the designated shared information object is recognized by the user. It has a structure.

[0166] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the server device 10 of this embodiment has a configuration that, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in locations or areas considered to be the same, within the virtual space, arranges the shared information objects in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the accompanying information as part of the arrangement control process.

[0167] Figure 4 shows an example in which, during the execution of control processing related to the virtual space provision service ([A1] in Figure 4), when the system receives a user's instruction to generate a shared information object, the shared information to be generated, and the placement location of the shared information object from the terminal device 20 (execution of the reception processing in Figure 4), it executes placement control processing including the generation, classification, and placement of the shared information object ([A2] in Figure 4), and provides the terminal device 20 with virtual space provision service provision data (including recognition control information) to allow the user to recognize the shared information object placed by the placement control processing ([A3] in Figure 4).

[0168] With this configuration, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, the server device 10 or virtual space provisioning system 1 of this embodiment can display image information or output sound from the terminal device 20 while classifying the shared information objects according to their accompanying information.

[0169] Therefore, even if a large number of shared information objects are placed in the virtual space, the server device 10 or virtual space provisioning system 1 of this embodiment can make it easy and quick for users to recognize shared information that is in line with their purpose, thereby improving user convenience in the virtual space.

[0170] In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the virtual space provision service, as entertainment provided using a virtual space, will be described using a game provision service or a game. However, the entertainment may also include performances by characters that perform actions such as acting (specifically, idol-like character objects) or static objects (specifically, characters that only emit sound) placed in the virtual space, or events that take place in the virtual space (for example, interaction with other users, lotteries such as gacha, message exchange, cooperative work, or shopping).

[0171] [4.2] Shared information and shared information objects Next, the shared information and shared information objects of this embodiment will be described using Figure 5.

[0172] Figure 5 shows an example of shared information object data stored in the shared information object storage unit 148 of this embodiment.

[0173] Shared information is information that is shared with other users within a virtual space and transmitted by a user to other users, and is generated in association with supplementary information for classifying said shared information, and is placed as a shared information object in association with a given location or area in the virtual space.

[0174] In particular, the shared information in this embodiment includes information about games played in the virtual space and gameplay information in said games, information about items or characters (including avatars) used in the virtual space, game or task walkthroughs, events (games, shopping coupons and sales events, performances such as music and theater, and raffles such as gacha), announcements to other users such as recruiting friends or companions, and the content of conversations with other users (so-called casual chats).

[0175] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, shared information objects are generated in association with supplementary information for classifying the shared information, and are stored in the shared information object storage unit 148 as shared information object data.

[0176] For example, the data of each shared information object (hereinafter referred to as "shared information object data") is associated with the object ID and the user ID that instructed the creation of the shared information, as shown in Figure 5. (A1) Supplementary information, (A2) The main data of the shared information (including image data, location data and text data), and (A3) Coordinate data indicating the placement position in the virtual space, It includes.

[0177] In particular, the user ID is used not only when classifying shared information objects for each user, but also to identify a user when referring to user behavior history information (i.e., user behavior history information) included in user-related information.

[0178] Furthermore, the supplementary information includes at least one of the following: the attributes of the shared information object (shared information attributes), the identification information of the user providing the shared information (user ID), the attributes of the user (user attributes), and the user's activity history in the virtual space.

[0179] Specifically, shared information attributes include the type of image (whether or not an image is present, the type of video and still image, and the data format), the type of announcement target such as items, characters, and events, and the type of announcement content such as community or communication (information gathering, attracting people to events, recruiting teams, recruiting friends, and recruiting opponents).

[0180] User attributes also include team identification information (team ID), avatar type, whether or not they are paying users, age, location, total time spent in the virtual space, and level.

[0181] For example, the supplementary information includes, as shown in Figure 5, (A1-1) Attributes of the shared information itself, such as the type of shared information (hereinafter referred to as "shared information attributes"), or attribute IDs indicating them (hereinafter referred to as "shared attribute IDs"), (A1-2) The user's attributes (hereinafter referred to as "user attributes") or the attribute ID indicating them (hereinafter referred to as "user attribute ID") (A1-3) Identification information of the user who instructed the placement of the shared information (i.e., User ID), and (A1-4) The user's activity history in the virtual space (user activity history), It includes.

[0182] Furthermore, when these supplementary information items are used for classification and arrangement, two or more combinations of (A1-1) to (A1-4) may be used.

[0183] Furthermore, the user's behavior history includes: (A1-4-1) Actions previously performed within the virtual space (for example, playing a specific game, making a purchase, participating in a specific event, or acting together with a specific user), (A1-4-2) Total time spent by a user in the virtual space, time spent while currently logged in, or time spent in a specific situation such as after acquiring a specific item (such as the Hero's Sword or possessing a certain amount of currency usable in the virtual space) or after entering a specific state (such as becoming invincible). (A1-4-3) The number of times a user logs into the virtual space, and (A1-4-4) A location or area visited within the virtual space (for example, visiting a predetermined location more than a predetermined number of times), This includes information such as the following.

[0184] [4.3] Placement control processing [4.3.1] Basic Concepts of Placement Control Processing Next, using Figure 6, the basic concepts of the placement control process performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment will be explained.

[0185] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the placement control process performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment, and shows an example of the placement of shared information objects.

[0186] (Creation of shared information objects) When the shared information object management unit 105 executes a placement control process to place a shared information object in the virtual space, it first generates the shared information object by associating it with supplementary information that indicates supplementary information to the shared information.

[0187] In particular, when the shared information object management unit 105 executes the placement control process, it generates shared information objects based on user instructions or program instructions, while associating them with supplementary information, or generates them using pre-generated shared information objects.

[0188] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 executes reception processing to receive the user's generation instruction (shared information object), the shared information to be objectified in the shared information object, and the placement location of the said shared information object in the virtual space, which are transmitted from the terminal device 20.

[0189] Then, when the shared information object management unit 105 receives a user's generation instruction, it identifies supplementary information based on the received shared information, generates a shared information object that has a placement location in the virtual space, and registers it as shared information object data in the shared information object storage unit 148.

[0190] For example, the shared information object management unit 105, under the user's instructions, associates shared information attributes, user attributes, and user ID with text and images entered via the terminal device 20. A display object (including sound) or sound object containing shared information, such as an image and sound, is created as a shared information object.

[0191] Furthermore, when generating a shared information object, the shared information ID, user ID, or user attribute ID identified when a user logs in, or which is input from the terminal device 20, is used as supplementary information by the shared information object management unit 105.

[0192] Furthermore, in the case of shared information that is a standardized announcement such as a friend request or an event participation notice, the shared information object management unit 105 may generate (i.e., use) a standardized shared information object that is pre-registered in the shared information object storage unit 148 by associating it with the associated information such as shared information attributes, user attributes, and user ID.

[0193] Furthermore, when generating a shared information object, the shared information object management unit 105 may, for example, use AI or pre-configured dictionary data to recognize the content of the received shared information, such as text information, image information, and sound information, and identify the attributes of the object (i.e., shared information attributes) as supplementary information based on the recognized content.

[0194] (Placement control processing) When the shared information object management unit 105 generates a shared information object, it performs a placement control process similar to other objects in the virtual space, by placing it at a location in the virtual space instructed by the user, or by automatically placing the shared information object at a predetermined coordinate or area in the virtual space, such as the position of the feet of the character being operated on, when the shared information object is generated.

[0195] In this case, if multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 performs placement control processing, which involves arranging the shared information objects in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the accompanying information.

[0196] In other words, as will be described later, when a shared information object is generated, the shared information object management unit 105 automatically identifies a predetermined location or area in the virtual space where the generated shared information object should be placed, based on user instructions or program instructions, and classifies and places the identified shared information object in the predetermined location or area within the virtual space.

[0197] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places the shared information objects using the shared attribute ID, user attribute ID, and user ID (including the user ID used to identify the user when referring to user behavior history information) as supplementary information.

[0198] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 uses supplementary information to classify and arrange shared information objects according to the type of shared information, according to the user providing the shared information (for each user, or according to the attributes defined for the user), or according to the user's behavioral history.

[0199] In other words, the shared information object management unit 105 has a configuration in which shared information objects, each formed in a predetermined format, are classified and arranged according to the accompanying information, and shared information objects are formed and arranged in groups (as a group) for each piece of accompanying information, or each piece of accompanying information is formed and arranged as a single display object.

[0200] Then, once a shared information object is placed in this manner, the shared information object management unit 105 manages it in a way that allows it to be associated with a predetermined location or area in the virtual space and notified to other users.

[0201] Figure 6 shows an example in which, within the virtual space, around the target character C, there are unclassified shared information object OB3, along with a group of shared information objects OB1 formed by classifying and arranging multiple shared information objects through the supplementary information "recruitment" (hereinafter referred to as the "classified shared information object group") and a group of classified shared information objects OB2 formed by classifying and arranging multiple shared information objects through the supplementary information "notification".

[0202] Furthermore, the shared information object management unit 105 of this embodiment, as part of its placement control process, may, in addition to placing shared information objects in a classified state as described above, classify them according to the user's wishes when a user accesses them with the request to be notified of the contents of the shared information objects. However, the classification according to the user's wishes when a user accesses them with the request to be notified of the contents of the shared information objects will be explained in the later section on modifications.

[0203] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the shared information object management unit 105 uses, for example, coordinates within a predetermined range from the specified coordinates in the virtual space, or areas adjacent to the specified area, as locations or areas considered to be the same. However, in this embodiment, the locations or areas considered to be the same are not limited to these, and locations or areas that are generally assumed to be the same may be used.

[0204] [4.3.2] Classification and arrangement of shared information objects according to supplementary information Next, using Figure 7, we will explain the classification and arrangement of shared information objects according to the supplementary information executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0205] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the classification and arrangement of shared information objects according to the ancillary information executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0206] (Basic principles of classifying and arranging shared information objects according to accompanying information) When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105, based on user instructions or automatically according to a program, performs a placement control process to arrange the shared information objects in a classifiable manner according to their associated information.

[0207] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 uses at least one of the following as supplementary information: a shared attribute ID, a user attribute ID, and a user ID for identifying a user when referring to user behavior history information.

[0208] In other words, the shared information object management unit 105 uses shared attribute IDs, user attribute IDs, user behavior history information, or a combination thereof as supplementary information.

[0209] Furthermore, the shared information object management unit 105 may arrange the shared information objects in a categorized state, or multiple shared information objects may be categorized and provided when a user accesses a shared information object.

[0210] (Classification and arrangement according to shared information attribute ID (attributes of shared information)) The shared information object management unit 105 determines the arrangement when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same. As a control process, shared information objects are classified and placed in the virtual space according to the attributes of the shared information as supplementary information (shared information attribute ID).

[0211] In other words, if multiple shared information objects are located in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places the shared information objects according to their shared information attribute IDs.

[0212] Specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and arranges multiple shared information objects according to the attributes of the shared information, such as by image type, by notification target such as items, or by communication type such as event announcements or the provision of event or game strategy information.

[0213] Figure 7 shows an example where multiple shared information objects are classified based on the attributes of the shared information for event announcements and member recruitment, and arranged as a group of classified shared information objects OB1.

[0214] In particular, Figure 7 shows an example in which, when the target character C approaches within a predetermined range from the location of the classified shared information object group OB1 placed in the virtual space, the shared information of each shared information object classified in OB1 is projected into the virtual space to notify the character C.

[0215] (Classification and arrangement according to user ID) When multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 may, as a placement control process, arrange the shared information objects in the virtual space in a way that allows them to be classified for each user using the user ID as supplementary information.

[0216] In other words, if multiple shared information objects are located in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places the shared information objects according to the user ID.

[0217] (Classification and arrangement based on user attributes) The shared information object management unit 105 may, as a placement control process, arrange the shared information objects in the virtual space in a way that allows them to be classified according to user attributes as supplementary information, if multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same.

[0218] In other words, if multiple shared information objects are located in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places the shared information objects according to user attributes.

[0219] For example, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places shared information objects according to the team to which the user belongs, the communication environment (wired or wireless), or the user's level.

[0220] (Classification and arrangement based on the user's behavioral history in the virtual space) The shared information object management unit 105 may, as a placement control process, arrange the shared information objects in the virtual space in a way that allows them to be classified according to the user's behavior history as supplementary information, if multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same.

[0221] In other words, if multiple shared information objects are located in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places the shared information objects according to the user's behavior history identified based on the user ID.

[0222] For example, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies and places shared information objects according to whether or not a user has played a specific game, whether or not they have purchased a specific product or service, whether or not they have stayed in the virtual space for a predetermined amount of time or more, or whether or not the number of logins in the virtual space exceeds a certain number.

[0223] [4.3.3] Placement of shared information objects based on notification specifications Next, the arrangement of shared information objects based on the notification specifications executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0224] The shared information object management unit 105 may, as part of its placement control process, classify and place the shared information objects according to a given notification specification determined based on the supplementary information.

[0225] In this case, the shared information object management unit 105 has a configuration that allows it to classify shared information objects according to the accompanying information, and to set or change the display method and output method.

[0226] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 determines notification specifications, based on the shared attribute ID, user attribute ID, or user behavior history information (specifically identified via the user ID), which include display conditions or installation conditions such as the height, position, or duration for which the shared information object is displayed, the appearance of the shared information object (size, color, or shape), the order in which it is displayed or output, and its movement.

[0227] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 determines the notification specifications using table data in which supplementary information and notification specifications are pre-configured in association with each other.

[0228] [4.3.4] Aggregation and Placement of Shared Information Objects Next, using Figure 8, the aggregation and arrangement of shared information objects performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0229] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the aggregation and arrangement of shared information objects performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0230] (Basic principle) The shared information object management unit 105 may, as a placement control process, aggregate the associated information for each of the multiple shared information objects when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, and then classify and place each of the aggregated one or more shared information objects.

[0231] In other words, the shared information object management unit 105 has a configuration that allows it to aggregate multiple shared information objects into one or more shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information, and to display or output the aggregated one or more shared information objects.

[0232] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 displays one or more shared information objects aggregated for each piece of supplementary information as a single display object (i.e., eye) for the user to see. They may be classified and placed within the virtual space as "con".

[0233] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 may, for example, as shown in Figure 8, arrange the shared information objects, which are classified for each piece of supplementary information, as a single display object (i.e., an icon) formed by aggregating multiple shared information objects, where each piece of supplementary information is composed of a characteristic graphic or pattern that is identifiable from other display objects such as icons.

[0234] Figure 8 shows examples where the shared information object group OB1, classified by the shared attribute "Announcements from the Management," the shared information object group OB2, classified by the shared attribute "HELP," and the shared information object group OB3, classified by the shared attribute "Match Recruitment," are each formed by an announcement icon, a HELP icon, or a game control icon.

[0235] Figure 8 also shows an example where the shared information object group OB1 and the shared information object group OB2 are located in the same position.

[0236] (Display specification changes based on the features of the shared information object) The shared information object management unit 105 may change the specifications for when a single display object is displayed, depending on the feature quantities that change due to the multiple shared information objects aggregated into that display object, when placing a single display object.

[0237] In particular, in this case, the shared information object management unit 105 uses the number of shared information objects, the presence or absence of images (still images and videos), the amount of text, the amount of display (including text + images, or display area, etc.), the amount of data, or a combination thereof, as feature quantities.

[0238] The shared information object management unit 105 then modifies the specifications for when a single display object is displayed, such as the size, shape, or display position (position in virtual space, such as height, width, and left / right) of the display object.

[0239] For example, if the shared information object management unit 105 meets certain conditions, such as the amount of text exceeding a predetermined amount, it may double the size of the display object compared to when the conditions are not met, and change the vertical length of the display object (specifically, the upward direction in the virtual space) to match the amount of image data.

[0240] (Display specification changes based on the relationship between shared information objects and users) The shared information object management unit 105, if a single display object is already placed, may, in conjunction with the information provision unit 111, identify the relationship between multiple shared information objects and the user based on the multiple shared information objects aggregated in the display object and user-related information related to the user viewing the display object, and may change the specifications for when the corresponding display object is displayed according to the identified relationship.

[0241] In particular, in this case, the shared information object management unit 105 uses, as the user-related information, (A1) information related to the current state and level of the user's situation or a user character (e.g., an avatar) operated by the user, or a past state (hereinafter referred to as "user situation information"), (A2) information related to the user's charge amount and charge history (hereinafter also referred to as "charge information"), (A3) information on currency in a virtual space owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as "currency information"), or information on points acquired in a lottery, a game or the like (hereinafter referred to as "point information" .), (A4) information related to the user character (hereinafter referred to as "character information"), (A5) information related to items owned by the user (hereinafter referred to as "item information"), (A6) a time zone (morning, noon, evening, night, midnight, etc.) during which the user stays in the virtual space, and (A7) when belonging to a group, a group ID, a period of belonging to the group or a belonging history, and the like are used.

[0242] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 works in conjunction with the information providing unit 111, and identifies the relationship between the plurality of shared information objects and the user based on the plurality of shared information objects aggregated into a single display object and the user-related information related to the user who views the display object.

[0243] Then, the shared information object management unit 105 works in conjunction with the information providing unit 111, and changes the specification when the corresponding display object is displayed according to the identified relationship.

[0244] For example, assume a case where a plurality of shared information objects are aggregated as one display object according to a charge amount, and a plurality of shared objects are aggregated as one display object according to the number of items and arranged at the same position.

[0245] In this case, the shared information object management unit 105 will change the specifications for user A by making the appearance of the display object aggregated as a notification regarding billing larger if the amount billed exceeds a certain level, and by making the appearance of the display object aggregated as a notification regarding item information smaller if user A has no items.

[0246] On the other hand, in this case, the shared information object management unit 105 makes specification changes for user B, such as reducing the appearance of the display object aggregated as a notification regarding billing if the amount billed does not exceed a certain level, and increasing the appearance of the display object aggregated as a notification regarding item information if the number of items owned exceeds a certain number.

[0247] [4.4] Evaluation process and placement control process based thereon Next, the evaluation process performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment and the placement control process based thereon will be described.

[0248] (Evaluation process) The evaluation processing unit 106 may execute an evaluation process that causes a general user, different from the user who placed the shared information object in the virtual space, to evaluate the placed shared information object.

[0249] In particular, the evaluation processing unit 106 executes an acceptance process to receive an evaluation of the placed shared information object based on the user's operation, and registers the evaluation information indicating the accepted evaluation in association with the corresponding shared information object in the shared information object storage unit 148.

[0250] Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 106 performs an evaluation process based on a single input, such as information indicating a positive evaluation like "like" or a negative evaluation like "dislike" (including the number of evaluations). In addition, it also performs an evaluation process that adds evaluation information, such as comments on a shared information object, as an evaluation of the shared information object.

[0251] The evaluation processing unit 106 then registers the evaluation information received through the evaluation process in the shared information object storage unit 148, associating it with the corresponding shared information object (specifically, associating it with the ID of the shared information object).

[0252] (Placement control processing based on evaluation processing) The shared information object management unit 105, for example, if a certain number of positive evaluations or comments have been registered, or if a certain number of evaluations, including both positive and negative evaluations, have been registered, considers the shared information to be highly convenient for users and sets the deployment period of the relevant shared information object to be longer than usual.

[0253] In other words, the shared information object management unit 105 controls the notification period for the relevant shared information object, or prioritizes notification to other shared information objects, according to the evaluation information registered in association with the shared information object.

[0254] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 controls priority notifications by, if the shared information object is a display object, displaying highly rated shared information objects earlier than those with lower ratings, increasing their size, making them more decorative, and positioning them closer to the user's viewpoint within the virtual space; and if the shared information object is a sound output object, prioritizing the output order or increasing the output volume.

[0255] Furthermore, the shared information object management unit 105, for example, displays highly-rated shared information objects at a higher layer than less-rated shared information objects, thereby positioning the highly-rated shared information objects at a geographically closer location within the virtual space from the user's viewpoint.

[0256] [4.5] Provisioning process Next, the information provision process of this embodiment will be described.

[0257] The information providing unit 111 provides the corresponding terminal device 20 with information and data related to processing for the user to enjoy the virtual space providing service, and displays required in the execution of the processing, while the virtual space providing service is being provided to the user.

[0258] In particular, the information providing unit 111 acquires an image of the virtual space generated by the image generation unit 109 in conjunction with the virtual camera control unit 107 and the sound generation unit 108 (including sound components), the image including the shared information object formed in the viewing direction of the user from the position of the user character in the virtual space.

[0259] Then, the information providing unit 111 provides the acquired image information to the corresponding terminal device 20 as control data that can be displayed (output) on the terminal device 20.

[0260] Further, when an arranged shared information object is designated based on a user operation, the information providing unit 111 provides, as display-related information, recognition control information for allowing the user to recognize the shared information of the designated shared information object to the corresponding terminal device 20.

[0261] Specifically, for each terminal device 20, when the user is logged in to the virtual space and a request for notification of the shared information object arranged in the virtual space is made, the information providing unit 111 transmits information (recognition control information) related to the shared information object to provide.

[0262] [4.6] Modified Example [4.6.1] Modified Example 1: Provision of Shared Information Objects Classified According to User Preferences Next, as Modified Example 1, a case of providing shared information objects classified according to user preferences will be described.

[0263] This modified version is characterized in that, instead of classifying the shared information objects when placing them in the above embodiment, the shared information objects placed in the virtual space are classified and provided according to the user's wishes when the user is notified of the shared information objects.

[0264] In particular, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the server device 10 may have a configuration that allows the shared information objects to be classified and placed in the virtual space for each user using a user ID as supplementary information, as part of the placement control process.

[0265] In other words, in this case, the server device 10 is (A1) When providing multiple shared information objects to a user, identify the user's identification information (user ID) and, (A2) Based on the identification information of the identified user, the user-specific classification specification information pre-stored in the user-related information storage unit 146 is identified, (A3) Based on the identified classification specification information, the shared information object classifies and provides it to the terminal device 20 of the corresponding user.

[0266] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 has a configuration in which, when providing multiple shared information objects to a user, it identifies the user's identification information, identifies classification specification information based on the identified user's identification information, and classifies the shared information objects based on the identified classification specification information and provides them to the terminal device 20 of the corresponding user.

[0267] For example, consider a scenario where, within a virtual space, multiple shared information objects associated with the supplementary information attribute "Shared Information Attribute: Recruitment" and multiple shared information objects associated with the supplementary information attribute "Shared Information Attribute: Announcement" are located at the same location (point P).

[0268] Furthermore, consider a scenario where, for example, User A prioritizes announcing the supplementary information "Shared Information Attribute: Recruitment" as classification specification information, and User B prioritizes announcing the supplementary information "Shared Information Attribute: Announcement" as classification specification information, both of which are registered in the user-related information storage unit 146 as classification specification information for each user.

[0269] In this case, when it is detected that user A has approached within a certain range from point P, the shared information object management unit 105 first provides the notification order of the shared information with the supplementary information attribute "shared information attribute: recruitment," and then provides the notification order of the shared information with the supplementary information attribute "shared information attribute: announcement."

[0270] Furthermore, in this case, when it is detected that user B has approached within a certain range from point P, the shared information object management unit 105 first provides the notification order of the shared information for the supplementary information "shared information attribute: announcement," and then provides the notification order of the shared information for the supplementary information "shared information attribute: recruitment."

[0271] In this case, the information provision unit 111 works in conjunction with the shared information object management unit 105 to provide the corresponding terminal device 20 with information (i.e., recognition control information) related to shared information objects classified for each user.

[0272] [4.6.2] Variation 2: Providing shared information objects categorized according to information of other users in the vicinity Next, as a second variation, we will describe the case where shared information objects are provided that are categorized according to the information of other users in the vicinity.

[0273] This modified version is characterized in that, in this embodiment, instead of classifying the shared information object when it is placed, when announcing the shared information object placed in the virtual space, the shared information object is classified and provided in accordance with the user-related information of other users in the surrounding virtual space (including the classification specification information of Modified Version 1).

[0274] In particular, the server device 10, specifically the shared information object management unit 105, may have a configuration that identifies specifications (hereinafter referred to as "classification specifications") for classifying shared information objects from information of other users that exist within a predetermined range from the location (same area, or a location or area considered to be the same) of a specific user in the virtual space to which the shared information of the shared information object should be provided, and then arranges the shared information objects in the virtual space in a classifiable manner based on the identified classification specifications.

[0275] In other words, the server device 10 is (A1) Identify other users who are within a predetermined range from the location of a specific user in the virtual space to which the shared information of the shared information object should be provided. (A2) Obtain information about other identified users as user-related information, (A3) The placement control means detects common elements of each user-related information acquired, classifies the shared information object based on the common elements, and provides it to the terminal device 20 of the corresponding user. It has a structure.

[0276] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 identifies other users within a predetermined range from a specific user's location in the virtual space, and obtains user-related information (for example, the classification specification information mentioned above) from the user-related information of the identified users.

[0277] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 uses, as a predetermined range, a predetermined range from the location of a specific user in the virtual space (for example, within a radius of 10m), a predetermined area set in advance for entertainment purposes (in a game) (for example, the area in front of a train station or inside a school), or the field of view of a virtual camera with the specific user as its viewpoint.

[0278] Furthermore, the shared information object management unit 105 detects common items from each user's user-related information (for example, items set as priority notification in classification specification information), and identifies items to be classified from among the common items, such as the number of users exceeding a certain number, or the maximum number of users.

[0279] The shared information object management unit 105 then classifies the shared information objects based on the identified common items for classification and provides them to the terminal device 20 of the corresponding user.

[0280] For example, within a virtual space, five shared information objects associated with the supplementary information attribute "Shared Information Attribute: Recruitment" and associated with the supplementary information attribute "Shared Information Attribute: Announcement" Assume that the shared information object 1 is located at the same location (point P).

[0281] Furthermore, consider a scenario where, for example, users B, C, and D exist within a predetermined range of user A, and each of them has registered in the user-related information storage unit 146 as user-related information that priority notification of the supplementary information "shared information attribute: notification" is to be given as user-related information.

[0282] In this case, when it is detected that user A has approached within a certain range from point P, the shared information object management unit 105 detects user A's current location in the virtual space, identifies users B, C, and D who are located within a predetermined area based on that current location, and obtains classification specification information (information on priority notification of shared information attributes) from the user-related information of the identified users B, C, and D.

[0283] Then, based on the acquired classification specification information, the shared information object management unit 105 identifies "Shared Information Attribute: Announcement" as the highest priority announcement, and classifies the multiple shared information objects located at point P as "Shared Information Attribute: Announcement" and provides them to the terminal device 20 of the corresponding user.

[0284] The shared information object management unit 105 may use the field of view of a virtual camera with a specific user as its viewpoint as a predetermined range.

[0285] [4.6.3] Modification 3: Placement of shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information Next, using Figures 9 and 10, we will describe a configuration control process that controls the placement of shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information, as a modified example (modification 2).

[0286] Figures 9 and 10 are diagrams illustrating Modification Example 2, and illustrate the placement control process that controls the placement of shared information objects for each piece of supplementary information.

[0287] This modified version is characterized in that, instead of classifying and arranging multiple shared information objects according to their associated information when placing them in the same location or area in the virtual space as in the above embodiment, the objects are placed in different locations or areas according to their associated information.

[0288] In particular, the server device 10 of this modified example is as shown in Figures 9 and 10, (A1) Perform control over entertainment within the virtual space, (A2) Execute a placement control process to place the shared information object as a shared information object in the virtual space, corresponding to the supplementary information that indicates supplementary information to the shared information. (A3) When a placed shared information object is specified based on user operation, recognition control information is provided to the corresponding terminal device 20 so that the shared information of the specified shared information object is recognized by the user. It has a structure.

[0289] Furthermore, the server device 10 of this modified example has a configuration that classifies shared information objects according to the accompanying information and places the classified shared information objects in a given location or area within a virtual space predetermined for each type of accompanying information.

[0290] Specifically, the shared information object management unit 105 classifies each shared information object according to at least one of the following as supplementary information: a shared attribute ID, a user attribute ID, and a user ID used to identify a user when referring to user behavior history information. The system has a configuration that places classified shared information objects in a given location or area within a predetermined virtual space.

[0291] Figure 9 shows an example in which, during the execution of control processing related to the virtual space provision service ([A1] in Figure 9), when the system receives a generation instruction for a user's shared information object and the shared information to be generated from the terminal device 20 (execution of the reception processing in Figure 9), it executes placement control processing including the generation, classification, and placement of the shared information object ([A2] in Figure 9), and provides the terminal device 20 with virtual space provision service provision data (including recognition control information) to allow the user to recognize the shared information object placed by the placement control processing ([A3] in Figure 4).

[0292] In particular, Figure 9 shows an example of how, in the placement control process, shared information objects are placed at predetermined specific locations for each piece of supplementary information.

[0293] Furthermore, Figure 10 shows an example of a virtual space in which placement areas are pre-formed around the target character C for placing shared information objects according to the associated information. In particular, it shows an example in which multiple shared information objects are classified and placed in the first placement area as a group of classified shared information objects OB1 based on the associated information "shared attribute: recruiting members", and multiple shared information objects are classified and placed in the second placement area as a group of classified shared information objects OB2 based on the associated information "shared attribute: game strategy".

[0294] [4.6.4] Modification 4: Interference between display objects in a display object Next, as a third modification, we will describe the placement control process when a display object interferes with other display objects.

[0295] In the above embodiment, when placing shared information objects in the virtual space, they are classified and placed according to their associated information. However, if shared information objects as display objects placed in the virtual space interfere with each other in terms of display, these shared information objects may be classified and placed according to their associated information.

[0296] In other words, when the shared information object management unit 105 places a shared information object in the virtual space, if it does not visually interfere with a shared information object already placed in the virtual space, it places the target shared information object as is. However, if it does visually interfere with a shared information object already placed in the virtual space, it executes a placement control process that classifies the target shared information object, including the already placed shared information object, and places them accordingly.

[0297] Specifically, in this case, the shared information object management unit 105 performs interference determination processing to determine whether the shared information object to be placed interferes with other shared information objects on display, given that the shared information object is formed by a display object visible to the user in the virtual space.

[0298] Then, if the shared information object management unit 105 determines through interference detection processing that the shared information object to be placed is interfering with other shared information objects, it performs placement control processing and places the shared information object to be placed in the virtual space in a classifiable manner together with other shared information objects that have already been placed, according to the accompanying information.

[0299] In particular, the shared information object management unit 105 performs interference detection processing, and the shared information object Based on the size of the display object as an object, in addition to cases where the display area itself interferes in the virtual space, an interference area wider than the display size of the shared information object may be set, and it may be determined that the display objects are interfering with each other when the interference areas of each shared information object interfere with each other.

[0300] [4.6.5] Variation 5: Other server device configuration examples Next, as a fourth modification, another configuration example of the server device 10 in this embodiment will be described.

[0301] Although each function of the server device 10 in this embodiment is configured by a single server device 10, it may also be implemented by multiple server devices.

[0302] [5] Operation in this embodiment Next, the operation of the shared information object placement management process performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 11.

[0303] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the shared information object placement management process performed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0304] In this operation, it is assumed that each user's user-related information is already stored in the user-related information storage unit 146, and that information regarding shared information objects already placed in the virtual space is already registered in the shared information object storage unit 148.

[0305] Furthermore, in this operation, the shared information object will be explained using an object that is visible within the virtual space as a display object.

[0306] Furthermore, in this operation, a new shared information object is created and then placed in the virtual space, and a placement control process is executed to classify the new shared information object when it is placed.

[0307] First, when the shared information object management unit 105 receives a user instruction from a terminal device 20, which is an instruction to place a new shared information object (step S101), it works in conjunction with the corresponding terminal device 20, identifies the associated information, and generates a new shared information object (step S102).

[0308] Next, the shared information object management unit 105, in conjunction with the terminal device 20, identifies the placement location of the newly generated shared information object in the virtual space (step S103), and then performs a determination process to determine whether or not another shared information object is placed at the same location (i.e., the planned placement location) or a location considered to be the same (for example, within a radius of 5m in the virtual space) as the identified placement location (step S104).

[0309] At this time, if the shared information object management unit 105 determines that no other shared information objects are located at the planned location or a location considered to be the planned location, it proceeds to place the new shared information object at the planned location (step S105) and terminates this operation.

[0310] On the other hand, if the shared information object management unit 105 determines that other shared information objects are located at the planned location or a location considered to be the planned location, it classifies them into shared information objects for each predetermined attribute based on the accompanying information, including the shared information objects that are already located (step S106).

[0311] Next, the shared information object management unit 105 places each classified shared information object in the virtual space as, for example, a group of classified shared information objects (step S107) and terminates this operation.

[0312] [6] Others The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous in the specification or drawings may be replaced with broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

[0313] In this embodiment, each virtual space provision service may be provided to the terminal device 20 by a single server device 10, or a server system may be constructed by linking multiple server devices 10 together to provide each virtual space provision service to the terminal device.

[0314] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server device 10 executes each process of the virtual space provision service. However, some functions of the processing unit 100 of the server device 10, and the program that executes those functions, may be executed on the terminal device 20, and the above processes may be executed in conjunction with the server device 10.

[0315] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it may be implemented by a single terminal device equipped with the functions of the server device 10, that is, a device that operates independently without relying on other devices such as server devices (standalone).

[0316] Furthermore, it is possible to connect multiple such terminal devices via wired or wireless connections, with one terminal device functioning as a server device 10, and to implement this using multiple terminal devices.

[0317] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially identical to those described in the embodiments (for example, configurations with the same function, method, and result, or configurations with the same purpose and effect). Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations that produce the same effects or achieve the same purpose as those described in the embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations that add known technology to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0318] As described above, embodiments of the present invention have been explained in detail, but it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible without substantially departing from the novel aspects and effects of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are included within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0319] 1: Virtual Space Provisioning System 10: Server device 20: Terminal device 100: Processing Unit 101: Communication Control Unit 102: Web Processing Unit 103: Virtual Space Management Department 104: User Management Department 105: Shared Information Object Management Department 106: Evaluation Processing Unit 107: Virtual Camera Control Unit 108:Sound generation section 109: Image generation unit 110: Timer Management Department 111: Information provision department 120: Input section 130: Display section 140: Storage section 142: Main memory 144: Virtual Space Data Storage Unit 146: User-related information storage unit 148: Shared Information Object Storage Unit 180: Information storage medium 196: Communications Department 200: Processing Unit 210: Communication Control Unit 211: Web browser 213: Display Control Unit 220: Drawing section 230: Sound Processing Unit 260: Input section 262: Detection unit 270: Storage section 271: Main memory 272: Image buffer 280: Information storage medium 290: Display section 292: Sound output section 296: Communications Department

Claims

1. An entertainment system that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, An execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user; Equipped with, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system characterized in that, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the placement control process arranges the shared information objects in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the associated information.

2. An entertainment system that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, An execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user; Equipped with, The aforementioned arrangement control means The shared information objects are classified according to the aforementioned supplementary information. An entertainment system characterized by placing the classified shared information objects in a given location or area within a virtual space, which is predetermined for each of the aforementioned supplementary information items.

3. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, An entertainment system in which the aforementioned supplementary information includes at least one of the following: the attributes of the shared information object, the identification information of the user providing the shared information, the attributes of the user, and the user's activity history in the virtual space.

4. In the entertainment system described in claim 3, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, classifies the shared information objects according to the attributes of the shared information as ancillary information and places them in the virtual space as part of the placement control process.

5. In the entertainment system described in claim 3, The aforementioned arrangement control means When providing multiple shared information objects to the user, the identification information of the user receiving the information is identified, and Based on the identification information of the identified user, the classification specification information stored in the storage means is identified. An entertainment system that classifies the shared information objects based on the identified classification specification information and provides them to the terminal devices of the corresponding users.

6. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, A means for identifying other users who are within a predetermined range from the location of a specific user in the virtual space to whom the shared information of the shared information object should be provided, User-related information acquisition means for acquiring information about the other identified user as user-related information, Furthermore, The aforementioned arrangement control means The common elements of each user-related piece of information obtained are detected, An entertainment system that classifies the shared information objects based on the detected common elements and provides them to the terminal devices of the corresponding users.

7. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that, as part of the placement control process, classifies and places the shared information objects according to a given notification specification determined based on the supplementary information.

8. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system in which, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same, the placement control process aggregates them according to the associated information, and then classifies and places each of the aggregated one or more shared information objects in the same location or area, or a location or area considered to be the same.

9. In the entertainment system according to claim 8, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that classifies and arranges multiple shared information objects, aggregated for each piece of supplementary information, as a single display object within the virtual space for the user to view.

10. In the entertainment system described in claim 9, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that changes the specifications of how the displayed display object is shown in accordance with the feature quantities that change due to the aggregated multiple shared information objects.

11. In the entertainment system described in claim 9, The system further includes identification means for identifying the relationship between a plurality of shared information objects and a user who views the display object, based on a plurality of shared information objects aggregated in the display object and user-related information related to the user who views the display object. The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that changes the specifications for when the corresponding display object is displayed according to the identified relationship.

12. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, A receiving means for receiving an evaluation of the arranged shared information object based on the user's operation, A registration means for registering the evaluation information indicating the received evaluation in association with the corresponding shared information object, An entertainment system that further enhances this feature.

13. In the entertainment system according to claim 12, The aforementioned arrangement control means An entertainment system that controls the notification period for a given shared information object, or preferential notification to other shared information objects, according to the evaluation information registered in association with the shared information object.

14. In the entertainment system according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned arrangement control means If the shared information object is formed by a display object visible to the user in the virtual space, an interference determination process is performed to determine whether the shared information object to be placed interferes with other shared information objects on display. If the interference detection process determines that the shared information object is interfering with another shared information object, the entertainment system, as part of the placement control process, places the shared information object in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the accompanying information.

15. A program that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, Execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, and When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user. To make the computer function as, The aforementioned arrangement control means A program characterized in that, when multiple shared information objects are placed in the same location or area, or in a location or area considered to be the same, the placement control process arranges the shared information objects in the virtual space in a classifiable manner according to the associated information.

16. A program that works in conjunction with terminal devices connected via a network to manage shared information shared within a virtual space, Execution control means for performing control related to entertainment within the virtual space, A placement control means that performs a placement control process to arrange objects of the shared information as shared information objects in the virtual space, in association with supplementary information indicating supplementary information of the shared information, and When a shared information object arranged by a given operation is selected, a means for providing recognition control information to the terminal device so that the shared information of the selected shared information object can be recognized by the user. To make the computer function as, The aforementioned arrangement control means The shared information objects are classified according to the aforementioned supplementary information. A program characterized by placing the classified shared information objects in a given location or area within a virtual space predetermined for each of the aforementioned supplementary information items.

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