Game system, information processing device, and program

Abstract

The goal is to provide game systems and other features that can strengthen connections between players and enhance the enjoyment of the game. [Solution] In a game system that rents out game media, the parameters of each player are controlled. A player rents out the game media of another player. Based on the difference between the player's parameters and the other player's parameters, control is performed regarding the other player's rental of the game media.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system, an information processing apparatus, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, game systems that promote active communication between players exist.

[0003] For example, in a game system that allows a player to select and play a character of another player, there exists a game system that adjusts the parameters of the selected character based on the relationship between the player and the other player (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] For example, an example is disclosed in which the value of an execution parameter is adjusted based on relationship information indicating a follow or follower relationship between the own player and another player (for example, see paragraph 0007 of Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In recent years, it has been further desired to strengthen the connections between players and enhance the interest of games.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a game system and the like capable of strengthening the connections between players and enhancing the interest of games.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] (1) The present invention is In a game system that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, The present invention relates to a game system characterized by controlling the rental of the game medium by the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the aforementioned player and the parameters of the other player.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an information processing device (for example, a server device, a game device, etc.) including the above-mentioned parts. The present invention relates to a program that causes a computer to function as the above-mentioned parts. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to function as the above-mentioned parts.

[0010] This invention controls the rental of the game medium by other players based on the difference between a player's parameters and the parameters of other players, thereby strengthening connections between players and enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0011] (2) The present invention is In a game system that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of the game medium for each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, The present invention relates to a game system characterized by performing control over the rental of the game medium of the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the player's game medium and the parameters of the other player's game medium that is to be rented.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an information processing device (for example, a server device, a game device, etc.) including the above-mentioned parts. The present invention relates to a program that causes a computer to function as the above-mentioned parts. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to function as the above-mentioned parts.

[0013] This invention controls the rental of other players' game media based on the difference between the parameters of a player's game media and the parameters of other players' game media that are being rented. This strengthens connections between players and enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0014] (3) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The parameters of the aforementioned player are: This may include at least one parameter related to gameplay and / or a parameter related to the connections between each player.

[0015] The present invention allows for appropriate control over the rental of game media by other players based on the difference obtained by comparing player-related parameters.

[0016] (4) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The parameters of the aforementioned game medium are: These parameters may relate to at least one of the performance of the game medium and the experience points of the game medium.

[0017] The present invention enables appropriate control over the rental of game media by other players based on the difference obtained by comparing parameters related to at least one of the performance of the game media and the experience points of the game media.

[0018] (5) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The parameter of the game medium is It may be a parameter of one of the game media that satisfies a predetermined condition among the game media of the player.

[0019] According to the present invention, the parameter of the player's game medium can be appropriately determined.

[0020] (6) Further, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention The rental control unit At least one of the information related to the game medium of the other player, the information related to the rental condition, the rentable period, the number of rentals, the information related to the other player, and the information related to the player may be controlled.

[0021] According to the present invention, at least one of the information related to the game medium of another player, the information related to the rental condition, the rentable period, the number of rentals, the information related to the other player, and the information related to the player is controlled, so that the connection between players can be strengthened and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

[0022] (7) Further, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention The rental control unit The setting degree related to the rental of the game medium and the probability related to the rental of the game medium may be changed according to the difference.

[0023] According to the present invention, since the setting degree related to the rental of the game medium and the probability related to the rental of the game medium are changed according to the difference, the connection between players can be strengthened and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

[0024] (8) Further, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention The rental control unit The rental process may be controlled according to the degree of the relationship between the aforementioned player and the other players.

[0025] According to the present invention, rental control is performed according to the degree of relationship between players, thereby strengthening the connections between players and enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0026] (9) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are: The aforementioned relationship is, This may be at least one of the following relationship between the aforementioned player and the other player, and the degree of intimacy between the aforementioned player and the other player.

[0027] This invention uses at least one of the following relationship level between players and other players, and the degree of intimacy between players, as the relationship level, thereby strengthening the connections between players and enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0028] (10) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The rental control unit, Depending on the degree of the relationship, the degree to which the game medium is set to be rented and the probability of renting the game medium may be changed.

[0029] This invention changes the degree to which game media are rented and the probability of renting game media according to the degree of relationship, thereby strengthening the connection between players and enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0030] (11) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are: The aforementioned game media available for rental are: This could also be a game medium related to the selection process of choosing items.

[0031] This invention provides control over rentals for a game medium related to the selection process of selecting items based on differences, thereby strengthening the connection between players and enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0032] (12) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are: The system may further include a reward granting unit that grants rewards to other players based on at least one of the number and type of items selected in the selection process.

[0033] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the satisfaction of other players with the game and strengthen the connections between players.

[0034] (13) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The system further includes a bonus granting unit that grants bonuses to the aforementioned other players, The rental control unit, The aforementioned player and the other player can rent game media from each other. The aforementioned benefit granting unit is: When the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player rent game media from each other, the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player may be granted benefits according to given conditions.

[0035] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the satisfaction of players with the game and strengthen the connections between players.

[0036] (14) Furthermore, the game system, information processing device, program, and information storage medium of the present invention are The rental control unit, Based on the aforementioned difference, the rented game medium may be enhanced.

[0037] According to the present invention, the rented game medium is enhanced, thereby improving satisfaction with the game and strengthening connections between players. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of the game system of this embodiment. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the functional blocks of the server device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the functional block of the terminal device of this embodiment. [Figure 4] An explanatory diagram regarding the deck construction of this embodiment. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of rental information in this embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of the parameters for each player in this embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the game medium parameters for each player in this embodiment. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing an example of the processing flow in this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] 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.

[0040] [1] Game System First, the overview and general configuration of the game system (also referred to as the information processing system or computer system) of this embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the game system of this embodiment.

[0041] The server device 10 is an information processing device that can provide a given service using a terminal device (game device) 20 that is connected to it via the Internet (an example of a network).

[0042] The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a terminal device, smartphone, mobile phone, PHS, computer, terminal device, PDA, portable game console, or image generation device, and is a device that can connect to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN.

[0043] [1.1] Game system configured as a client-server model As shown in Figure 1, the game system of this embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 and terminal devices 20 (for example, terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C) can connect to the Internet (an example of a network).

[0044] The player can play the game based on information transmitted from the server device 10 via the internet by accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20.

[0045] In this embodiment, each game 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 game to the terminal device 20.

[0046] Furthermore, the server device 10 may perform all the processing related to the present invention, or the terminal device 20 may perform all the processing related to the present invention.

[0047] [1.2] Terminal device The game system of this embodiment may be implemented by a single terminal device equipped with the functions of the server device 10, that is, a standalone device that operates independently without relying on other devices such as a server device.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the present invention may be implemented using only the terminal device 20 without connecting to the server device 10. For example, it may be a game system implemented using multiple terminal devices 20 via P2P (peer-to-peer) communication.

[0049] Furthermore, multiple such terminal devices may be connected via wired or wireless connections, with one terminal device functioning as a host (server device 10), and the system may be implemented using multiple terminal devices.

[0050] Furthermore, the terminal device may not only be a terminal device, but also a tablet-type information terminal device, a personal computer, or a terminal device (casing) installed in an amusement park.

[0051] [1.3] Cloud-based game systems Furthermore, the game system of this embodiment may also be a cloud-type game system. For example, in a cloud-type game system, the server device 10 (cloud device) alone performs basic processing (including game processing, rendering processing, etc.), and the terminal device 20 only controls the display of the processing results of the server device 10 (cloud device). Also, the terminal device 20 communicates with the server device 10. In response, it transmits information such as controller input information (operation information). In this case, the terminal device 20 may also transmit information other than input information.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, except for the input, the server device 10 may execute each function of the processing unit 200 of the terminal device 20 and the game program, and the terminal device 20 may realize the game by performing input and image display via streaming.

[0053] Furthermore, the game system may store information stored in the server device 10 and information stored in the terminal device 20 in a given memory area on the internet.

[0054] [1.4] Terminal device with multiple controllers Furthermore, in this embodiment, one terminal device 20 may be equipped with multiple controllers (input units 260). Note that when multiple players play the game using their respective controllers on one terminal device 20, it is assumed that the multiple players are realistically located close to each other.

[0055] [1.5] Examples of social games Furthermore, in this embodiment, it 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 between multiple players.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, when functioning as an SNS server, it can provide a game called a social game that is executed using the operating environment of the SNS provided (API (Application Programming Interface), platform, etc.).

[0057] Social games, unlike existing online games, include games that do not require dedicated client software and can be used with only a web browser and an SNS account. Furthermore, this embodiment has a configuration that allows for the provision of an online game that can connect to the terminal devices 20 of other players via a network and allow simultaneous online sharing of the same game progress.

[0058] [1.6] Example of a browser game In particular, in this embodiment, a game provided on the web browser of the terminal device 20 may be a browser game (a game that starts simply by opening the installation site in a web browser) created in various languages ​​such as HTML, FLASH®, CGI, PHP, Shockwave, Java® applet, and JavaScript®.

[0059] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 is equipped with a web browser capable of viewing web pages (HTML format data). Specifically, 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 (Web data, data created in HTML format, etc.), and sends player operation data to the server device 10, and performs various processes to provide the screen to the player, allowing the player to run the game. However, the terminal device 20 may also obtain game control information provided by the server device 10, execute predetermined game processing, and run the game based on the game processing.

[0060] Specifically, when terminal device 20 requests server device 10 to play a predetermined game, it connects to the game site of server device 10 and the game starts. The 20 may have 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 player information managed by the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, in order to execute the game.

[0061] [1.7] Others In this embodiment, the system may consist of one (device, processor) or multiple (devices, processors). Information stored in the storage area of ​​the server device 10 (storage unit 170 described later) (for example, player information, game information, etc.) may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or internet). The communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

[0062] [2] Server equipment Next, the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the functional blocks of the server device 10 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, some of the components (each part) in Figure 2 may be omitted.

[0063] In this embodiment, the system includes an input unit 160 for use by administrators and others, 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 the games provided, and a storage unit 170 that mainly stores various data used for games.

[0064] The input unit 160 is used by system administrators and others to input game-related settings and other necessary settings and data. For example, the input unit 160 in this embodiment is composed of a mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] The memory unit 170 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 170 may be managed by a database.

[0068] Furthermore, in addition to the main memory unit 171, the storage unit 170 of this embodiment includes an image buffer 172, a game data storage unit 174 that stores game information indicating information about the game, and a player information storage unit 175. Note that some of these components may be omitted.

[0069] In particular, the game data storage unit 174 stores information about the virtual space in which the game is played (game space, metaverse virtual space), information about the virtual camera, and settings used in the game.

[0070] Furthermore, the player information storage unit 175 stores player information (user information) for each player (each user), associated with a player ID (user ID). The player ID is identification information used to identify the player.

[0071] Furthermore, player information includes the player's input information (operation information). Additionally, player information may be a concept that includes not only information associated with the player (user), but also information about the player's game media (for example, game media such as characters, cards, and items owned by the player).

[0072] The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 171 within the storage unit 170 as the work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.) or by programs.

[0073] 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).

[0074] For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on the program stored in the information storage medium 180, and also performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between each unit. Furthermore, it performs processes to provide various services in response to requests from the terminal device 20.

[0075] Furthermore, the processing unit 100 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 and executes game processing for the game provided in this embodiment on each player based on player input received via the terminal device 20.

[0076] In this embodiment, the server device 10 may perform some or all of the processing of the processing unit 100, or the terminal device 20 may perform some of the processing of the processing unit 100.

[0077] The processing unit 100 includes a display control unit 111, a parameter control unit 112, a game control unit 113, a rental control unit 114, a reward granting unit 116, a reception unit 118, a communication control unit 120, a management unit 122, an image generation unit 130, and a sound processing unit 140.

[0078] The display control unit 111 controls the display of the screen (image) generated by the server device 10 on the display unit 290 of the terminal device 20. In other words, the display destination for the screen (image) generated by the server device 10 is set to the display unit 290 of the terminal device 20.

[0079] The parameter control unit 112 controls the parameters of each player. The parameter control unit 112 also controls the parameters of the game medium for each player.

[0080] A player's parameters consist of at least one parameter related to gameplay and one related to the connections between each player.

[0081] The parameters of a game medium are parameters relating to at least one of the game medium's performance and its experience points. The game medium can be a character, an item, etc.

[0082] The parameters of a game medium may be the parameters of one game medium among the player's game mediums that meets a predetermined condition.

[0083] The game control unit 113 executes game processing based on the player's input information (operation information). For example, the game control unit 113 receives input from the player's terminal device 20. The system may also receive force information (operation information) and then perform game processing.

[0084] In other words, the game control unit 113 advances the game based on the player's input. For example, the game control unit 113 causes the player's character to perform a predetermined action (e.g., an attack) to advance the game.

[0085] The rental control unit 114 controls a player to rent another player's game medium. The game medium to be rented may be a game medium related to the selection process of selecting items.

[0086] The rental control unit 114 controls the rental of game media for other players based on the difference between the player's parameters and the parameters of other players.

[0087] The rental control unit 114 controls the rental of the other player's game media based on the difference between the parameters of the player's game media and the parameters of the other player's game media that is to be rented.

[0088] The rental control unit 114 may control at least one of the following: information about other players' game media, information about rental conditions, rental period, number of rentals, information about other players, and information about the player.

[0089] The rental control unit 114 may be controlled in a manner that is advantageous to other players and / or to the player.

[0090] The rental control unit 114 may control the system in a way that is disadvantageous to other players and / or to the player.

[0091] The rental control unit 114 may change the degree to which the game media is set up for rental and the probability of renting the game media according to the differences (for example, the difference between the player's parameters and the parameters of other players, or the difference between the player's game media parameters and the parameters of the other player's game media that is being rented).

[0092] The rental control unit 114 may perform rental-related control according to the degree of relationship between the player and other players. The degree of relationship is at least one of the degree of follow relationship between the player and other players, and the degree of intimacy between the player and other players.

[0093] The rental control unit 114 may change the degree to which settings are made regarding the rental of game media and the probability of renting game media according to the degree of relationship.

[0094] The rental control unit 114 may enable players to rent game media from each other.

[0095] The rental control unit 114 may enhance the rented game media based on differences (for example, the difference between the player's parameters and the parameters of other players, or the difference between the player's game media parameters and the parameters of the other player's game media being rented).

[0096] The reward granting unit 116 performs the process of granting rewards to players. For example, the reward granting unit 116 grants rewards to other players who have lent the game medium to the player.

[0097] The reward granting unit 116 grants rewards to other players based on at least one of the number and type of items selected in the selection process.

[0098] The reward granting unit 116 may grant rewards to players and other players according to given conditions when players rent game media from each other.

[0099] The reception unit 118 receives information from the player. For example, the reception unit 118 receives and accepts information from the player's terminal device 20 via the network.

[0100] The communication control unit 120 establishes a connection (session or connection) with the terminal device 20 and performs processing to communicate (send and receive) data over the network.

[0101] For example, the communication control unit 120 transmits game-related information to the player's terminal device 20. The communication control unit 120 also receives player operation information received by the player's terminal device 20.

[0102] Furthermore, the communication control unit 120 receives information related to the game from the server device 10.

[0103] The management unit 122 manages game information and player information associated with player identification information for each player. The management unit 122 may also manage information such as in-game currency and items.

[0104] The image generation unit 130 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting it to the display unit 290 of the terminal device 20.

[0105] The image generation unit 130 is implemented by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or digital signal processor (DSP), a program such as a video signal IC or video codec, and a drawing frame IC memory such as a frame buffer.

[0106] The image generation unit 130 generates one game screen image (game screen) per frame (for example, 1 / 60th of a second) according to the game's progress. The image generation unit 130 outputs the generated image to the image buffer 172. The image generation unit 130 also transmits the generated image to the terminal device 20.

[0107] The image generation unit 130 generates an image (a so-called 3D image) that is visible from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) within a virtual space (object space, game space).

[0108] For example, the image generation unit 130 performs settings related to the virtual space (object space). For example, the image generation unit 130 performs the process of placing various objects (sprites, billboards, polygons, objects composed of primitive surfaces such as freeform surfaces or subdivision surfaces) that represent display items such as objects (player characters, moving objects), movement paths, buildings, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain) into the object space (hereinafter also referred to as "virtual space").

[0109] Specifically, the image generation unit 130 determines the position and rotation angle (synonymous with orientation or direction) of an object (model object), and places the object at that position (X, Y) or (X, Y, Z) with that rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y axes) or (rotation angle around the X, Y, Z axes).

[0110] The term "object space" includes both so-called virtual 2D space and virtual 3D space. A 2D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 2D coordinates (X,Y), while a 3D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 3D coordinates (X,Y,Z).

[0111] If the object space is a 3D space, then the objects are placed in the world coordinate system.

[0112] For example, when the image generation unit 130 generates a 3D game image, it first performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping, or perspective transformation. 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 the image buffer 172 (a buffer that can store image information on a pixel-by-pixel basis, such as a frame buffer or work buffer; VRAM). This generates an image that can be seen from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) within the object space.

[0113] Furthermore, when multiple players play a multiplayer online game where data is sent and received over a network, the system generates an image for each player that follows the movement of the object being manipulated by that player, as seen from a virtual camera. In other words, it performs independent rendering processing according to each player. The image generation unit 130 may also generate a two-dimensional image within the virtual space.

[0114] The sound processing unit 140 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates (plays) game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and transmits them to the terminal device 20.

[0115] [3] Terminal device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is an example of a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 20 in this embodiment. Furthermore, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each part) in Figure 3 are omitted.

[0116] The input unit 260 is for the player to input operation data, and its function can be realized by a touch panel or a touch panel display. Specifically, the input unit 260 includes a detection unit 262 capable of detecting two-dimensional instruction position coordinates (x,y) on a screen where an image is displayed. For example, the input unit 260 includes a detection unit 262 capable of detecting two-dimensional contact position coordinates (x,y) in a contact detection area (touch panel).

[0117] Furthermore, touch operations on the display screen (hereinafter referred to as "touch panel" unless otherwise specified) may be performed using fingertips or using input devices such as a stylus.

[0118] Furthermore, the input unit 260 may include buttons, levers, a keyboard, a steering wheel, a microphone, an acceleration sensor, etc., that can input input information (operation signals) other than the indicated position.

[0119] 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), etc. In this embodiment, the memory unit 270 includes a main memory unit 271 used as the work area, an image buffer 272 where the final display image, etc., is stored, and a game data storage unit where game information indicating information about the game is stored. 274, including the player information storage unit 275. Note that some of these components may be omitted, or the storage unit 170 of the server device 10 may constitute part of them.

[0120] The image buffer 272 may store image data generated by the image generation unit 230, or image data received from the server device 10.

[0121] The game data storage unit 274 stores information about the game space in which the game is played, information about each character, information about the virtual camera, and other settings used in the game. The terminal device 20 may also store information received from the server device 10 in the game data storage unit 274.

[0122] The player information storage unit 275 stores player information. The terminal device 20 may also receive player information corresponding to the player ID from the server device 10 and store it in the player information storage unit 275.

[0123] 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).

[0124] Furthermore, the information storage medium 280 can store programs for making the computer function as each part of this embodiment (programs for causing the computer to execute the processing of each part). The processing unit 200 performs various processing of this embodiment based on the programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 280, as will be described later.

[0125] The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, or HMD (head-mounted display), etc.

[0126] In particular, in this embodiment, the display unit 290 also functions as an input unit 260 for the player to perform game operations by using a touch panel display. Here, as the touch panel, for example, a resistive type (4-wire, 5-wire), a capacitive type, an electromagnetic induction type, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave type, or an infrared scanning type touch panel can be used.

[0127] The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and this function can be realized by a speaker or headphones, etc.

[0128] The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communicating with external devices (for example, the server device 10 or other terminal devices 20), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, or by programs.

[0129] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 may receive programs and data for making the computer function as each part of this embodiment, which are stored in the information storage medium 180 and storage unit 170 of the server device 10, via the network, and store the received programs and data in the information storage medium 280 and storage unit 270. The case in which the terminal device 20 functions by receiving programs and data in this manner can also be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0130] The processing unit 200 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, image generation processing, or sound generation processing in conjunction with the server device 10, based on input data and programs from the input unit 260.

[0131] In particular, in this embodiment, the game processing includes processes to start the game when the game start conditions are met, processes to advance the game, processes to place objects such as characters and enemy characters, processes to display objects, processes to calculate the game result, and processes to end the game when the game end conditions are met.

[0132] Furthermore, the processing unit 200 performs game processing (for example, processing for competitive games, etc.) based on the player input information input by the input unit 260. The processing unit 200 may also be executed in conjunction with the server device 10, or part or all of it may be formed in the server device 10.

[0133] Furthermore, the processing unit 200 performs various processes using the storage unit 270 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.) or by programs.

[0134] The processing unit 200 includes a display control unit 211, a parameter control unit 212, a game control unit 213, a rental control unit 214, a bonus granting unit 216, a reception unit 218, a communication control unit 220, an image generation unit 230, and a sound processing unit 240. Note that some of these units may be omitted.

[0135] The display control unit 211 performs the process of displaying the screen on the display unit 290. For example, the display control unit 211 may use a web browser for display. The display control unit 211 also displays information necessary during the game on the display unit 290 based on information transmitted from the server device 10. For example, the terminal device 20 displays the screen display information received from the server device 10.

[0136] Furthermore, the display control unit 211 may perform all or part of the same processing as the display control unit 110 of the server device 10.

[0137] The parameter control unit 212 controls the parameters of each player. The parameter control unit 212 also controls the parameters of each player's game medium. The parameter control unit 212 may perform all or part of the same processing as the parameter control unit 112 of the server device 10.

[0138] The game control unit 213 executes game processing based on the player's input information (operation information). The game control unit 213 may perform all or part of the same processing as the game control unit 113 of the server device 10.

[0139] The rental control unit 214 controls when a player rents a game medium from another player.

[0140] The rental control unit 214 may perform all or part of the same processing as the rental control unit 114 of the server device 10.

[0141] The reward granting unit 216 performs processing to grant rewards to the player. The reward granting unit 216 may perform processing that is the same as all or part of the processing performed by the reward granting unit 116 of the server device 10.

[0142] The receiving unit 218 processes input from the player. For example, the receiving unit 218 may transmit the input information received by the terminal device 20 to the server device 10, and the server device 10 may receive the input information. The receiving unit 218 transmits the input information to the server device 10. The receiving unit 118 for 0 may perform the same processing as all or part of the processing.

[0143] The communication control unit 220 performs data transmission and reception with each of the server devices 10. The communication control unit 220 also performs data storage in the storage unit 270, data analysis, and other control processing related to data transmission and reception.

[0144] Furthermore, the communication control unit 220 may store and manage destination information (network information such as IP addresses and port numbers) of other terminal devices 20 and server devices 10 in the storage unit 270 and information storage medium 280. The communication control unit 220 may also initiate communication with the server device 10 when it receives input information from the player to initiate communication.

[0145] In particular, the communication control unit 220 transmits player identification information and input information to the server device 10. The communication control unit 220 may also receive data (predetermined player parameters, player's web page, screen, etc.) from the server device 10.

[0146] The communication control unit 220 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 220 in this embodiment performs processing to receive given screen information (for example, screen information, etc.) from the server device 10.

[0147] The image generation unit 230 performs drawing processing based on various processes (e.g., game 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 211. The image generated by the image generation unit 230 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a so-called three-dimensional image. The image generation unit 230 may perform all or part of the same processing as the image generation unit 130 of the server device 10.

[0148] The sound processing unit 240 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200, generating (playing) game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and outputting them to the sound output unit 292. The sound processing unit 240 may perform all or part of the same processing as the sound processing unit 140 of the server device 10.

[0149] In this embodiment, if multiple terminal devices 20 play a game using P2P or the like, one terminal device 20 may take on the role of a host and execute processing. In such a case, the host terminal device 20 may perform processing for each processing unit (part or all of each processing unit) of the server device 10.

[0150] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may perform the same processing as the server device 10 and display an image on the display unit 290 of the terminal device 20.

[0151] [4] Overview In this embodiment, the game system rents out game media (e.g., characters, items, etc.).

[0152] The game system of this embodiment controls the parameters of each player, and allows players to rent game media from other players.

[0153] In this embodiment, control is performed regarding the rental of game media by other players based on the difference between the player's parameters and the parameters of other players. When a player rents items such as characters from another player, the rental process is controlled based on the difference in parameters between the player and the other player. Alternatively, the rental process for the other player's game medium may be controlled based on the difference between the player's game medium parameters and the parameters of the other player's game medium being rented.

[0154] In particular, in this embodiment, the system is controlled so that the rented game media is either advantageous or disadvantageous. This strengthens the connection between players and allows them to enjoy the game more.

[0155] For the sake of clarity, the following explanation will primarily describe an example where a server device 10, which constitutes the game system, performs processing, and a player PA rents game media (e.g., character CB1) from another player (e.g., player PB).

[0156] [5] Explanation regarding the rental of game media In this embodiment, one player rents a game medium from another player.

[0157] "Game media" refers to characters, items, cards (cards associated with characters or items), etc. "Items" can, in a broader sense, include characters.

[0158] Furthermore, the "game media" available for rental may also be game media related to selection processes (lottery processes) for selecting items.

[0159] The other players can be one or more. For example, player PA could rent a game medium from one of the following players: player PB, PC, PD, or PE.

[0160] "Rental" means to lend. For example, it means that Player PA borrows Player PB's game media (characters, items, etc.). In other words, it means that Player PB lends Player PA their game media. Rental can also be rephrased as providing, granting, or sharing.

[0161] Furthermore, when Player PA rents Player PB's character CB (an example of a game medium), it may mean (A) that Player PB's character CB remains usable (possible to own) and is also made usable by Player PA, or (B) that Player PB's character CB becomes unusable (unpossible to own) by Player PB, and is made usable by Player PA.

[0162] In this embodiment, for example, a deck DK is constructed in the player PA that comprises five characters (an example of a game medium).

[0163] Figure 4 shows an example of a player PA's deck DK. In this embodiment, player PA can set characters CA1, CA2, CA3, and CA4 owned by player PA in slots E1 to E4 of the deck DK. In addition, character CB1 rented from another player can be set in slot E5.

[0164] Figure 5 shows an example of rental information for each player managed by the server device 10.

[0165] In this embodiment, information about the rented game media and the rental period (in a broad sense, a predetermined period) are stored in association with the ID of each player. The start time of the rental period may be set based on the input information of player PA, or the rental period may be automatically started based on computer control. The end time of the rental period is set to the point after a predetermined period (for example, 24 hours) has elapsed from the start time of the rental period.

[0166] Rental information is stored in the game data storage unit 174. For example, the rental information of the game media rented by the player PA may be stored in the game data storage unit 274 of the player PA's terminal device 20A.

[0167] [6] Explanation of parameter control In this embodiment, the parameters of each player are controlled. For example, the server device 10 sets various parameters for each player, corresponding to the player ID. For example, the server device 10 stores the parameters of each player in the player information storage unit 175. Alternatively, the terminal device 20 may also store the parameters of each player in the player information storage unit 275.

[0168] Figure 6 shows an example of parameters for each player. For example, in this embodiment, parameters such as each player's level, number of followers, number of following, and performance score are managed. Although not shown in the figure, parameters such as game play time, amount spent, and age may also be managed.

[0169] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the parameters of the game medium for each player are controlled. For example, the server device 10 sets various parameters for each player, corresponding to the player ID. The server device 10 stores the parameters of the game medium for each player in the player information storage unit 175. Alternatively, the terminal device 20 may also store the parameters of the game medium for each player in the player information storage unit 275.

[0170] Figure 7 shows an example of the parameters for each player's character (an example of a game medium). For example, in this embodiment, parameters such as the game medium ID, level (level of the game medium), experience points, and attack power for each player are managed. Experience points may be reset to 0 each time the level increases, or they may be accumulated experience points. Although not shown in the figure, parameters such as defense power, stamina (HP), and skill value (ability value) may also be managed.

[0171] Furthermore, the game medium may also be an item. Items may include, for example, an item that increases attack power (for example, by 20%), an item that restores (increases) health points, an item that increases defense power, etc.

[0172] Additionally, items may have parameters that can be grown (enhanced). For example, an item that increases attack power may have a parameter that allows the increase rate to grow (be strengthened), for example, from 20% to 30%.

[0173] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game medium may not be limited to characters, but may also be a selection process (lottery process). For example, if the selection process is used as the game medium, when the player performs the selection process, characters or items are selected (distributed) with a predetermined probability and given to the player. In this embodiment, the probability of winning is set according to the rarity of each item that is the target of the selection process. For example, the higher the rarity, the lower the probability of winning the item. This probability of winning may also be considered as one of the parameters of the game medium.

[0174] Note that characters are characters that are not controlled by the player's actions, that is, computer-controlled characters. These may be characters controlled by the system (e.g., CPU characters, non-player characters, AI characters).

[0175] [7] Explanation of player parameter comparison In this embodiment, the player's parameters are compared with the parameters of other players, and the difference K1 is calculated.

[0176] When comparing player PA parameters and player PB parameters, compare similar parameters and calculate the difference.

[0177] A player's parameters consist of at least one parameter related to gameplay and one related to the connections between each player.

[0178] For example, a player's parameters include at least one of the following: parameters related to gameplay (e.g., performance, skill level, assertiveness, etc.) and parameters related to connections between players (e.g., number of followers, number of friends, etc.).

[0179] For example, compare the number of followers of player PA with the number of followers of player PB and calculate the difference.

[0180] Alternatively, for example, the performance values ​​of player PA (e.g., number of wins) and player PB (player player) can be compared, and the difference can be calculated.

[0181] Alternatively, for example, the level of player PA and the level of player PB could be compared, and the difference calculated.

[0182] In this embodiment, for example, the game play time of player PA may be compared with the game play time of player PB, and the difference may be calculated.

[0183] [8] Explanation of parameter comparison for game media In this embodiment, the parameters of the player's game medium are compared with the parameters of the game medium of another player being rented, and the difference K2 is calculated.

[0184] When comparing the parameters of the player PA's game medium with the parameters of the rented player PB's game medium, similar parameters are compared and the difference is calculated. For example, this could involve comparing the levels of characters or the attack power of items.

[0185] The player's game medium parameters (items, characters, etc.) are parameters relating to at least one of the game medium's performance (e.g., rarity, attack power, defense power, health value, skills, etc.) and the game medium's experience points (e.g., experience points, level).

[0186] In this embodiment, for example, the parameters of one game medium that satisfies predetermined conditions among the player PA's game media (e.g., game media included in deck DK, and / or all game media owned by player PA) may be used as the player PA's game media parameters.

[0187] For example, the parameters of a player's (Player Artifact) game medium are determined as follows: For example, among the game mediums included in the player's (Player Artifact) deck DK and all the game mediums they own, the one with the best overall parameters (e.g., rarity, level, attack power, health value, etc.) (e.g., the one with the highest total value of the parameters such as rarity, level, attack power, health value, etc.) (i) A game medium (for example, character CA1) is defined as a parameter of a game medium that satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0188] Furthermore, the parameters of the game medium used for comparison are determined by selecting the game medium (e.g., character CB1) that has the best overall parameters (e.g., rarity, level, attack power, health value, etc.) among all the game mediums included in player PB's deck or owned by player PB, and which has the highest total value of all parameters (e.g., rarity, level, attack power, health value, etc.). This single game medium parameter that satisfies the predetermined conditions is then used.

[0189] The game media to be compared may be set so that the best game media for player PA (e.g., character CA1) is swapped with the game media for player PB (e.g., character CB1).

[0190] Alternatively, the game media used for comparison by the player PA may be those excluded from the deck DK.

[0191] Alternatively, we may focus on only one parameter of Player PA's game medium (for example, rarity). The parameter of the game medium of the comparison player PB should also be of the same type. For example, if the parameter of Player PA's game medium is rarity, then the type of parameter of the comparison player PB's game medium should also be rarity.

[0192] Alternatively, multiple parameters of a player's PA (for example, rarity, level, attack power, health value, etc.) may be compared parameter by parameter, and the best parameter (for example, if health value is the best, then health value) may be used as the parameter for the player's PA's game medium. The parameters of the player's PB's game medium being compared should also be of the same type. For example, if the player's PA's game medium parameter is health value, then the type of parameter being compared for the player's PB item should be health value.

[0193] [9] Explanation of rental controls In this embodiment, the control of at least one of the following pieces of information is defined as rental control: information about another player PB's game medium (e.g., character CB1), information about rental conditions, rental period, number of rentals, information about another player PB (an example of a lending player), and information about player PA (an example of a borrowing player).

[0194] In this embodiment, the control may be set to be advantageous to other players PB on the lending side and / or to players PA on the borrowing side. Alternatively, the control may be set to be disadvantageous to other players PB and / or players PA.

[0195] (1) Information about the lender's other players' game media includes performance increases such as attack power and defense power, increases in the number of attacks, the probability of special moves being activated, the increase in the probability of special moves being activated, etc.

[0196] (2) Information regarding rental conditions includes information on whether or not an item is available for rental. Information regarding rental conditions may also include the increase in the number of items available for rental in a single rental. Information regarding rental conditions may also include the increase in the number of items available for rental within a specified period. Information regarding rental conditions may also include the consumption value (cost value) required to rent the game medium, and the reduction value of the consumption value.

[0197] (3) The rental period refers to the rental period (validity period) of the game media, and includes any extensions to the rental period of the game media.

[0198] (4) Rental count refers to the number of times a rented game medium can be used, or the increase in the number of times it can be used.

[0199] (5) Information about other players on the side lending the game medium refers to the increase in the benefits that those other players receive.

[0200] (6) Information regarding players who rent game media refers to the increase in the benefits that the player receives.

[0201]

[10] Explanation of rental-related controls based on differences In this embodiment, for example, the controls may be adjusted to be advantageous to the other lending player PB and / or borrowing player PA, depending on the difference.

[0202] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, the control may be made in a manner that is disadvantageous to other players PB and / or player PA, depending on the difference.

[0203] [10.1] Example of rental-related control based on the difference K1 of player parameters In this embodiment, control is performed regarding the rental of the game medium by player PB based on the difference K1 between player PA's parameter α1 (e.g., the number of followers of player PA) and the parameter β1 of another player PB (e.g., the number of followers of player PB).

[0204] For example, if player PA's parameter α1 (e.g., the number of followers of player PA) is less than or equal to another player PB's parameter β1 (e.g., the number of followers of player PB), i.e., α1 ≤ β1, then the smaller the difference K1, the more advantageous the control (buff control) will be for player PA.

[0205] To explain in more detail, for example, suppose the game specifications stipulate that when player PA rents player PB's character CB1, player PA must deduct the base rental cost value (for example, 10 points) from player PA's points.

[0206] Here, if parameter α1 = 10 (for example, player PA has 10 followers) and parameter β1 = 10000 (for example, player PB has 10000 followers), then the difference K1 is 9990, and since the difference K1 is large, we set it to the base rental cost value (for example, 10 points). In other words, player PA must consume the base rental cost value to rent game media from player PB.

[0207] On the other hand, if parameter α1 = 9000 (for example, player PA has 9000 followers) and parameter β1 = 10000 (for example, player PB has 10000 followers), then the difference K1 is 9000, and since this difference K1 is small (i.e., smaller than when player PA has 10 followers), player PA will be controlled to reduce (decrease) the rental cost value from its base value (e.g., 10 points). For example, the rental cost value will be reduced from 10 points to 5 points. In other words, the smaller the difference K1, the more advantageous (buffed) it is for player PA.

[0208] Furthermore, if a player PA has more followers than a player PB, and their performance and level are significantly better, the player PA should encourage the player PB to borrow game media in order to strengthen the connection between the players.

[0209] Therefore, if player PA's parameter α1 (for example, the number of followers player PA) is greater than another player PB's parameter β1 (for example, the number of followers player PB), i.e., α1 > β1, the larger the difference K1, the more advantageous it is for player PA. In this way, player PA can be given a strong incentive to rent from player PB.

[0210] Note that the difference K1 is not limited to the difference in the number of followers; it can also be the difference in levels between players PA and PB, the difference in performance values, the average values ​​of various parameters, etc.

[0211] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control may be adjusted according to the difference K1 to be advantageous to the lending player PB.

[0212] [10.2] Example of rental-related control based on the difference K2 of game media parameters In this embodiment, similar to rental-related control based on the difference K1 of player parameters, rental-related control is performed based on the difference K2 (difference in game medium parameters) between the player PA's game medium parameter α2 (e.g., the level of character CA1) and the other player PB's (e.g., the game medium to be rented) game medium parameter β2 (e.g., the level of character CB1).

[0213] For example, if α2 (e.g., the level of player PA's character CA1) is less than or equal to β2 (e.g., the level of player PB's character CB1), i.e., α2 ≤ β2, the smaller the level difference K2, the more advantageous the control (buff control) will be for player PA. In other words, player PA can gain an advantage in the game by renting stronger characters.

[0214] Furthermore, if α2 (for example, the level of character CA1) is greater than β2 (for example, the level of character CB1), i.e., α2 > β2, the larger the difference K2, the more advantageous it is for player PA. In this way, player PA can be given a strong incentive to rent from player PB.

[0215] Furthermore, if the difference K2 between α2 and β2 is greater than a predetermined value (for example, a level difference of 90 or more), a favorable control may be implemented to give the borrowing player PA a strong incentive to borrow, such as granting them a 100% chance of obtaining a special item (for example, one that restores 100% of their health). In this way, players with extreme level differences can still connect with each other.

[0216] The difference K2 is not limited to level differences; it can also be the difference in attack power, defense power, health value, or average values ​​of various parameters between players' PAs and PBs.

[0217] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control may be adjusted according to the difference K2 to be advantageous to the lending player PB.

[0218] [10.3] Examples of game media related to item selection processes Furthermore, if the game medium being rented is a game medium related to a selection process (lottery process) for selecting items, the content of the selection process (for example, the content of the items to be selected, the probability of winning an item, etc.) may be changed according to the difference K1 or K2 of the parameters.

[0219] Let me explain with a specific example. For instance, Player PA selects an item for Player PB's selection process. Let's explain the case where the target is a rental item. Assume that the probability of winning an item with a rarity of "5" in the selection process is 1%. Also, assume that one special item is included among the items to be selected.

[0220] In this embodiment, if the parameter α1 of player PA (for example, the number of followers of player PA) is less than or equal to the parameter β1 of another player PB (for example, the number of followers of player PB), that is, if α1 ≤ β1, the smaller the difference K1, the more advantageous the control (buff control) will be for player PA. In other words, if α1 ≤ β1, the smaller the difference K1, the higher the probability of winning. Alternatively, if α1 ≤ β1, the smaller the difference K1, the more the number of the special item will be increased.

[0221] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the parameter α1 of player PA (for example, the number of followers of player PA) is greater than the parameter β1 of another player PB (for example, the number of followers of player PB), i.e., α1 > β1, the larger the difference K1, the more advantageous the control (buff control) will be for player PA. If α1 > β1, the larger the difference K1, the higher the probability of winning. Alternatively, if α1 > β1, the larger the difference K1, the more the number of the special item will be increased.

[0222] Similarly, the content of the selection process (for example, the content of the items to be selected, the probability of winning the items that are dispensed, etc.) may be changed according to the difference K2 of the game medium's parameters.

[0223] [10.4] Examples of unfavorable control In this embodiment, control (debuff control) that is disadvantageous to the borrowing player PA may be performed.

[0224] For example, if player PA's parameter α1 (e.g., the number of followers player PA) is less than or equal to another player PB's parameter β1 (e.g., the number of followers player PB), i.e., α1 ≤ β1, then the larger the difference K1, the more unfavorable the control (debuff control) may be applied to player PA. For example, if α1 ≤ β1, the base value of the rental cost (e.g., 10 points) is increased. Then, the larger the difference K1, the larger the rental cost becomes.

[0225] Furthermore, if player PA's parameter α1 (e.g., the number of followers of player PA) is greater than another player PB's parameter β1 (e.g., the number of followers of player PB), i.e., α1 > β1, the smaller the difference K1, the more unfavorable the control may be for player PA. For example, if α1 > β1, the base value of the rental cost (e.g., 10 points) is increased. Then, the smaller the difference K1, the larger the rental cost value becomes.

[0226] Furthermore, if the parameter α2 of player PA character CA1 (for example, the level of character CA1) is less than or equal to the parameter β2 of another player PB character CB1 (for example, the level of character CB1), i.e., α2 ≤ β2, the larger the difference K2 (level difference), the more unfavorable the control (debuff control) may be applied to the player PA. For example, if α2 ≤ β2, the attack power of the rented character CB1 will be reduced. The larger the difference K2, the greater the reduction. For example, the minimum attack power of the rented character CB1 may be set to 20, the attack power of player PA character CA1.

[0227] To explain in more detail, character CA1's level is 10 (α2=10), character CB1's level is 50 (β2=50), and α2≦β2. In this case, the difference K2 = 40. Therefore, the attack power of the rental character CB1 will be set from its original 120 to 60. This will help maintain game balance.

[0228] On the other hand, if the parameter α2 of player PA character CA1 (for example, the level of character CA1) is greater than the parameter β2 of another player PB character CB1 (for example, the level of character CB1), i.e., α1 > β1, then the smaller the difference K2, the less impact it has on the game. Therefore, it is not necessary to implement any disadvantageous controls (debuff controls) such as reducing the attack power of character CB1 borrowed by the player PA.

[0229] For example, if you control the game in a way that is disadvantageous to the player PA, you may further balance it by making other game elements advantageous to the player PA. For instance, if you increase the rental cost of the player PA, or if you implement debuff controls such as reducing the attack power of character CB1, you may also control the game to increase the probability of the borrowed game item (e.g., character CB1) activating its special move, or extend the rental period by one day.

[0230] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game may be controlled in a way that is disadvantageous to the lending player PB. If the game is controlled in a way that is disadvantageous to the lending player PB, other game elements may be balanced in a way that is advantageous to player PB. In this way, the game can be balanced.

[0231] [10.5] Explanation of the degree of setting and probability regarding rentals Furthermore, in this embodiment, the degree to which settings related to the rental of game media are changed according to the difference (difference K1, difference K2, etc.).

[0232] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the probability x (probability of occurrence) related to renting the game medium may be changed according to the difference (difference K1, difference K2, etc.).

[0233] The degree to which a player (PA) is at an advantage or disadvantage when renting game media from other players indicates the degree to which a player (PA) is at an advantage or disadvantage.

[0234] The probability x (probability of occurrence) regarding the rental of game media refers to the probability x that a player (PA) will be able to rent game media from another player. In other words, if the probability x is 100%, the player (PA) will always be able to rent it, and if the probability x is 0%, the player (PA) will not be able to rent it. If the probability x is 30%, the player (PA) has a 30% chance of being able to rent game media.

[0235] For example, if player PA's parameter α1 (e.g., the number of followers player PA) is less than or equal to another player PB's parameter β1 (e.g., the number of followers player PB), that is, if α1 ≤ β1, then the smaller the difference K1, the higher the probability x that player PA rents a game medium from another player PB may be.

[0236] Furthermore, for example, if α1 > β1, the larger the difference K1, the higher the probability x related to renting. In this way, player PA can be given a strong incentive to rent from player PB.

[0237]

[11] Explanation of control based on the relationship between players In this embodiment, control regarding rentals may be performed according to the degree of relationship between player PA and other players PB.

[0238] The relationship between player PA and other players PB can be expressed as intimacy. For example, intimacy can be quantified, with higher numbers indicating a greater degree of intimacy.

[0239] Furthermore, the degree of relationship between player PA and other players PB may be expressed as a follow relationship degree. For example, the relationship degree may be information indicating whether player PA follows player PB, whether player PB follows player PA, or whether players PA and PB follow each other.

[0240] For example, in this embodiment, rental may be enabled when player PA and other player PB are in a mutual following relationship (mutual follower relationship), and disabled when they are not in a mutual following relationship (mutual follower relationship).

[0241] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the degree to which settings regarding the rental of game media are configured, and the probability (occurrence probability) regarding the rental of game media, may be changed according to the degree of relationship between player PA and other players PB.

[0242] For example, the stronger the relationship between a player PA and other players PB, the more advantageous the control system becomes for the player PA. Also, the stronger the relationship between a player PA and other players PB, the higher the probability that the player PA will rent game media from other players PB.

[0243] For example, the system could be controlled so that the higher the level of intimacy between Player PA and other Player PB, the more advantageous it is for Player PA.

[0244] Furthermore, if at least one of player PA and player PB follows the other, the system may be controlled in a way that is more advantageous than if player PA and player PB do not follow each other.

[0245] Furthermore, if an item is related to a selection process (lottery process) for selecting a game medium, the content of the selection process (for example, the content of the item to be selected, the probability of winning the item that appears (is dispensed), etc.) may be changed according to the relationship between the players.

[0246]

[12] Strengthening of rented game media In this embodiment, the borrowed game media may be controlled for enhancement (growth).

[0247] In particular, in this embodiment, a process may be performed to determine whether the rented game medium can be enhanced based on the difference (difference K1 of the player's parameters, difference K2 of the player's game medium parameters), and if it can be enhanced, a process to determine the value of the enhancement (for example, a process to determine the increase in attack power).

[0248] For example, if player PA rents player PB's character CB1, and α2 (for example, the level of player PA's character CA1) is less than or equal to β2 (for example, the level of player PB's character CB1), i.e., α2 ≤ β2, then if the level difference K2 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (for example, 10 or more), then strengthening character CB1 will be prohibited. For example, if the level difference is large, player PA will be prohibited from using their own points to strengthen the borrowed character CB1, in order to maintain game balance.

[0249] On the other hand, α2 (for example, the level of the player PA character CA1) is β2 (for example, P If the level of character CB1 of Leya PB is greater than that of α2, i.e., α2 > β2, then it becomes possible to strengthen character CB1.

[0250] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if a game medium is subjected to control that is disadvantageous to the player PA, it may be possible to enhance the game medium by consuming the player PA's points, etc.

[0251]

[13] Bonus Grant In this embodiment, when player PB acts as the lender and lends the game medium from player PB to player PA, player PB may be granted a benefit.

[0252] For example, if the item is related to a selection process (lottery process) for selecting a game medium, the player PB may be given a reward based on at least one of the number and type of game mediums selected in the selection process.

[0253] For example, in the selection process, the player PB is given a reward depending on the number and type (e.g., rarity) of items selected (appear, dispensed). The reward content may vary depending on the difference K1 in the player's parameters, the difference K2 in the game medium's parameters, or the relationship between players.

[0254] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if player PA and player PB lend each other a game medium, players PA and PB may be granted benefits according to given conditions.

[0255] For example, rewards can be given to both Player PA and Player PB based on their respective contributions through item usage and the degree of overlap in their rental periods (e.g., the period during which their rental periods overlap). Alternatively, the reward could be given to the player with the higher contribution.

[0256] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the borrowing player PA gives prior notice to player PB that they wish to borrow a specific game medium (e.g., character CB1), the rewards given to player PB may be changed (e.g., increasing the point value as a reward, or granting a higher rarity item) when player PA borrows the game medium.

[0257] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the lending player PB gives prior notice to player PA that they wish to lend a specific game medium (e.g., character CB1), the rewards given to player PA may be changed (e.g., increasing the point value as a reward, or granting a higher rarity item) when player PA borrows the game medium.

[0258]

[14] Flowchart Next, using Figure 8, we will explain the processing flow when player PA rents a game medium from player PB (an example of another player).

[0259] First, when the game starts (Step S1), it is determined whether or not the player PA has selected the game medium to be rented (the game medium that the player PA wishes to rent) (Step S2).

[0260] When the player PA selects the game medium to be rented (Y in step S2), the player PB's parameters are compared with the player PA's parameters (step S3).

[0261] Then, based on the difference between the player PA's parameters and the player PB's parameters, control is performed regarding the rental of the game medium (step S4). Rental control includes, for example, a process to determine whether or not to rent, a process to start the rental by consuming the rental cost, a process that is advantageous to the player PA, a process that is disadvantageous to the player PA, etc.

[0262] Then, it is determined whether or not the rental has ended (step S5). Note that if the non-rental-permitted control is performed in step S4, the process ends without performing the rental.

[0263] If the rental has not ended (N in step S5), the process returns to step S4. On the other hand, if the rental has ended (Y in step S5), it is determined whether or not the game has ended (step S6). If the game has ended (Y in step S6), the process ends.

[0264] If the game has not ended (N in step S6), the process returns to step S2. The processing is thus completed.

[0265]

[15] Description of Server Apparatus The server apparatus 10 (an example of an information processing apparatus) of the present embodiment, upon receiving rental request information from the rental-source terminal device 20A, transmits an instruction to enable the game content specified by the terminal device 20A to the rental-destination terminal device 20B.

[0266] Then, the server apparatus 10 enables the use of the game content in the terminal device 20B based on the instruction. Then, the server apparatus 10 determines the difference between the player information or game content information corresponding to the terminal device 20A and the player information or game content information corresponding to the terminal device 20B, and performs a process corresponding to the difference (for example, control related to rental).

[0267] The server apparatus 10 updates the information of the terminal device 20A, the information of the terminal device 20B, the player information corresponding to the terminal device 20A, the player information corresponding to the terminal device 20B, and the like, based on the processing result corresponding to the difference (for example, the result of the control related to rental).

[0268]

[16] Description of Terminal Device For example, in the case where player PA rents a game medium from player PB, we will provide further explanation regarding the terminal device 20A (an example of an information processing device) of player PA and the terminal device 20B (an example of an information processing device) of player PB in this embodiment.

[0269] When terminal device 20A or terminal device 20B transmits rental request information from player PA (for example, when terminal device 20A, the rental source, transmits rental request information, or when terminal device 20B, the rental recipient player PB, transmits rental request information), the rental of the game medium will take place between terminal devices 20A and 20B.

[0270] In such a case, either terminal device 20A or 20B may analyze the difference in player information or game media information between both terminal devices 20A and 20B, and if it determines that it should perform processing corresponding to the difference (for example, control related to rental), it may notify both terminal devices 20A and 20B of the processing result corresponding to the difference.

[0271]

[17] Others In this embodiment, we have described an example where the player has one game medium available for rental, but it is also possible to have two or more game mediums available for rental.

[0272] 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.

[0273] 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.

[0274] 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]

[0275] 10 Server devices, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C Terminal devices, 100 Processing unit, 111 Display control unit, 112 Parameter control unit, 113 Game control unit, 114 Rental control unit, 116 Bonus granting unit, 118 Reception unit, 120 Communication control unit, 122 Management unit, 130 Image generation unit, 140 Sound processing unit, 160 Input unit, 170 Storage unit, 171 Main memory unit, 172 Image buffer, 174 Game data storage unit, 175 Player information storage unit, 180 Information storage media, 196 Communications Department, 200 Processing unit, 211 Display control unit, 212 Parameter control unit, 213 Game control unit, 214 Rental control unit, 216 Bonus granting unit, 218 Reception unit, 220 Communication control unit, 230 Image generation unit, 240 Sound processing unit, 260 Input unit, 262 Detection unit, 270 Storage unit, 271 Main memory, 272 Image buffer, 274 Game data storage unit, 275 Player information storage unit, 280 information storage medium, 290 display section, 292 Audio output section, 296 Communication section

Claims

1. In a game system that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by controlling the rental of the game medium by the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the aforementioned player and the parameters of the other player.

2. In a game system that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of the game medium for each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by performing control over the rental of the game medium of the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the player's game medium and the parameters of the other player's game medium that is to be rented.

3. In claim 1, The parameters of the aforementioned player are: A game system characterized by having at least one parameter relating to gameplay and at least one parameter relating to the connections between each player.

4. In claim 2, The parameters of the aforementioned game medium are: A game system characterized by a parameter relating to at least one of the performance of the game medium and the experience points of the game medium.

5. In claim 2 or 4, The parameters of the aforementioned game medium are: A game system characterized by being a parameter of one of the game media of the player that satisfies predetermined conditions.

6. In claim 1 or 2, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by controlling at least one of the following: information about the other player's game medium, information about rental conditions, rental period, number of rentals, information about the other player, and information about the player.

7. In claim 1 or 2, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by changing the degree of setting regarding the rental of the game medium and the probability regarding the rental of the game medium according to the aforementioned difference.

8. In claim 1 or 2, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by performing control over the rental in accordance with the degree of relationship between the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other players.

9. In claim 8, The aforementioned relationship is, A game system characterized by the degree of follow relationship between the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player, and the degree of intimacy between the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player, at least one of the two.

10. In claim 8, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by changing the degree of setting for renting the game medium and the probability of renting the game medium according to the aforementioned relationship.

11. In claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned game media available for rental are: A game system characterized by being a game medium related to the selection process of selecting items.

12. In claim 11, A game system further comprising a reward granting unit that grants rewards to other players based on at least one of the number and type of items selected in the selection process.

13. In claim 1 or 2, The system further includes a bonus granting unit that grants bonuses to the aforementioned other players, The rental control unit, The aforementioned player and the other player can rent game media from each other. The aforementioned benefit granting unit is: A game system characterized in that when the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player rent game media from each other, the system grants benefits to the aforementioned player and the aforementioned other player according to given conditions.

14. In claim 1 or 2, The rental control unit, A game system characterized by enhancing the rented game medium based on the aforementioned difference.

15. In an information processing device that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, An information processing device characterized by performing control regarding the rental of the game medium by the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the aforementioned player and the parameters of the other player.

16. In an information processing device that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of the game medium for each player, Includes a rental control unit that allows a player to rent another player's game media from that other player, The rental control unit, Based on the difference between the parameters of the player's game medium and the parameters of the other player's game medium to be rented, the rental of the other player's game medium is determined. An information processing device characterized by performing control related to [something].

17. In a program that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of each player, The computer functions as a rental control unit, where one player rents another player's game media. The rental control unit, A program characterized by performing control over the rental of the game medium by the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the aforementioned player and the parameters of the other player.

18. In a program that rents out game media, A parameter control unit that controls the parameters of the game medium for each player, The computer functions as a rental control unit, where one player rents another player's game media. The rental control unit, A program characterized by performing control over the rental of the game medium of the other player based on the difference between the parameters of the player's game medium and the parameters of the other player's game medium that is to be rented.

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