Information processing system and program

Abstract

To provide a technology to contribute to the achievement of a society in which diversity is respected.SOLUTION: There is provided an information processing system including a control unit. The control unit is composed so as to execute an event control step, a specification step, and an imparting step. In the event control step, the progress of an event by a plurality of characters is controlled. The character includes a first character associated with a first user, and a second character associated with at least one second user other than the first user. The event is progressed on the basis of a parameter of the character. In the specification step, characteristics of at least one second character associated with the first character are specified. The characteristics are physical or psychological characteristics that do not affect the parameter. In the imparting step, a privilege is imparted to the first user or the second user on the basis of the combination of the characteristics of the first character and the characteristics of the second character.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] The SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) are international development goals that aim for a sustainable and better world. Patent Document 1 discloses technology for improving consideration measures for people known as social minorities. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-68400 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Here, further technological development is needed to achieve the SDGs.

[0005] In consideration of the above circumstances, this disclosure aims to provide technology that contributes to the realization of a society that respects diversity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing system is provided. The information processing system includes a control unit. The control unit is configured to execute an event control step, a specification step, and a granting step. In the event control step, progress of an event by a plurality of characters is controlled. The characters include a first character associated with a first user and a second character associated with at least one second user other than the first user. The event progresses based on the parameters of the characters. In the specification step, characteristics of at least one second character associated with the first character are specified. The characteristics are physical or psychological characteristics that do not affect the parameters. In the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user or the second user based on a combination of the characteristics of the first character and the characteristics of the second character.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide technology that contributes to realizing a society that respects diversity. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit 23 in the information processing device 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] This is an activity diagram mainly showing the flow of creating character C. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an activity diagram that mainly shows the flow of an event. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a preset character Ca. [Figure 6] 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a detailed setting screen for determining the form of character C. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a setting screen for characteristic 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of characteristic 5. [Figure 9]FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a screen for recruiting members to participate in a quest. [Figure 10] This is an image diagram showing characteristic 5 of character C who participates in the quest. [Figure 11] 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of an evaluation result 50 by the evaluation unit 233. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0010] Incidentally, the program for realizing the software appearing in this embodiment may be provided as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, or may be provided so as to be downloadable from an external server, or may be provided so that the program is started on an external computer and its functions are realized on a client terminal (so-called cloud computing).

[0011] In this embodiment, the term "unit" may include, for example, a combination of hardware resources implemented by a circuit in the broad sense and software information processing that can be specifically realized by these hardware resources. In addition, this embodiment handles various information, which may be represented by, for example, physical values ​​of signal values ​​representing voltage and current, high and low signal values ​​as a binary bit set consisting of 0 or 1, or quantum superposition (so-called quantum bits), and communication and calculation may be performed on a circuit in the broad sense.

[0012] In addition, a circuit in the broad sense is a circuit realized by at least appropriately combining a circuit, circuitry, a processor, and a memory, etc. In other words, it includes an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), etc.

[0013] 1. Game Description Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1, an information processing device 2 and a plurality of game devices 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the game devices 3.

[0014] The game according to this embodiment is an online game executed by the information processing system 1. In this game, a user of the game device 3 causes one or more player characters PC to act in a virtual game space, and causes the player characters PC to fight against enemy characters EC, which are non-player characters NPC. The character C is an example of an object.

[0015] The above-mentioned games are played using a game device 3, which is an electronic device such as a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), or a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal.

[0016] 2. Overview of Information Processing System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 is composed of an information processing device 2 and a plurality of game devices 3. The information processing device 2 stores game programs and game data, and manages the game data of the game devices 3 (for each account information described below). The information processing device 2 is composed of, for example, a server. Each of the plurality of game devices 3 has the same configuration. Note that in this embodiment, a system is composed of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, the information processing device 2 or game device 3 described below alone can be an example of the information processing system 1.

[0017] The game device 3 executes a predetermined game based on the user's operation. To this end, the game device 3 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the information processing device 2 via the communication network 11. Each user is assigned account information including identification information and a password in association with the game device 3. This account information is transmitted from the game device 3 to the information processing device 2 at the time of login, and is used for user authentication in the information processing device 2.

[0018] After user authentication, mutual communication between the information processing device 2 and the game device 3 becomes possible. After logging in, the game device 3 receives data required for game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the information processing device 2, and progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and the speaker 4b based on the user's operation.

[0019] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware component of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0020] <Information processing device 2> 1, the information processing device 2 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The communication unit 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a communication bus 20.

[0021] The communication unit 21 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to each game device 3 via a communication network 11 such as the Internet and a LAN. Main information that the information processing device 2 receives via the communication unit 21 includes download request information for a game program, a request for a gacha lottery in response to a user's operation, a request for executing a quest, a request for executing / ending autoplay, account information, game data, etc. Main information that the information processing device 2 transmits via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the game device 3 has received the game program, information on the game media obtained by the gacha, etc.

[0022] The storage unit 22 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs including a part of the game program according to the present embodiment, various data related to the game, etc.

[0023] Specifically, for example, the storage unit 22 stores a user DB, a lottery list, and the like. In the user DB, for each identification number of a user who plays a game, information such as a user name, a user rank, and a status related to a player character PC operated by the user, an amount of consumable media usable in a virtual game space, and information related to parameters P are stored in association with each other. The lottery list is used for a lottery process generally called gacha, and includes a plurality of pieces of information related to game media to be selected. In the lottery list, information related to the game media (such as name, ability parameters AP, rarity, and level) is associated with a selection ratio by lottery. In addition, the ability parameters AP include, for example, combat power, HP, attack power, defense power, intelligence, and speed when the game medium is a player character PC.

[0024] The control unit 23 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and a semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the information processing device 2, which is its own device. In particular, the control unit 23 realizes various functions related to the information processing device 2, which is its own device, by reading out a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 22. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, so that each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and may be implemented with multiple control units 23 for each function. Also, a combination of these may be used.

[0025] Examples of information processing executed by the control unit 23 include a charge settlement process, a user account authentication process, and a gacha lottery selection process. The charge settlement process is executed based on a request for a charge required to restore a predetermined amount of a parameter P during a game. The user account authentication process is executed using user identification information received from the game device 3, for example. The gacha lottery selection process is a process in which, in response to a gacha lottery request, one or more game media are selected by lottery from a lottery list based on the selection probability for each game medium. According to the gacha lottery selection process, information on the selected game media and identification information of the user who performed the operation that is the source of the lottery request are associated in the user DB, and the user is thereby granted the game media that he or she won as a result of drawing the gacha.

[0026] Here, to further supplement the above, the "game medium" is electronic data representing elements related to the game, and includes the name of the character C used as the player character PC, items (weapons, armor, tools) used by the player character PC in the virtual game space, etc. The user can obtain the game medium by a lottery method called gacha, in addition to direct purchase by charging or clearing a quest. The obtained game medium is stored and managed in the user DB in association with the identification information of the user who has come to own the game medium. Furthermore, "gacha" is a method in which an arbitrary game medium is selected by lottery from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection ratio in the information processing device 2. The arbitrary selected game medium is given to the game device 3 of the user. "Giving the game medium selected by gacha to the user / the user owns it" is synonymous with "associating / being associated with the game medium selected by the lottery process with the identification information indicating the user."

[0027] <Game device 3> A display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c are externally connected or built into the game device 3. The game device 3 also has a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, a graphics processing unit 34a, an audio processing unit 34b, and an operation unit 34c. The communication unit 31, the storage unit 32, the graphics processing unit 34a, the audio processing unit 34b, and the operation unit 34c are electrically connected to the control unit 33 via a communication bus 30.

[0028] The communication unit 31 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to the communication network 11 in order to transmit and receive various data between the game device 3 and the information processing device 2. Main information that the game device 3 receives via the communication unit 31 includes account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, a quest execution request, etc. Main information that the game device 3 transmits via the communication unit 31 includes new game data sent from the information processing device 2 in response to download request information, information on the game media selected by lottery processing, etc.

[0029] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 32 stores game data downloaded from the information processing device 2, various programs including a part of the game program, account information of the game device 3 which is the device itself, user information, etc. The user information is at least a part of the information in a user DB stored in the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2. The user DB manages a master of the user information, and at least a part of the information in the master is distributed from the information processing device 2 and stored in the storage unit 32 of the game device 3.

[0030] The control unit 33 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and a semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the game device 3, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit 33 realizes various functions related to the game device 3, which is the device itself, by reading out a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 32. That is, information processing by the software stored in the storage unit 32 is specifically realized by the control unit 33, which is an example of hardware, so that each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 33 is not limited to being single, and may be implemented with multiple control units 33 for each function. Also, a combination of these may be used.

[0031] In particular, the control unit 33 is configured to execute a game in accordance with the operation of the input device 4c by the user of the game device 3, which is the own device. Specifically, the control unit 33 reads data such as virtual game space objects and textures included in the game data from the storage unit 32, or generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information using data received from the information processing device 2. The game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 34a, and the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 4a. In other words, the control unit 33 is configured to perform display control of the display 4a and audio output control of the speaker 4b in accordance with the operation of the user of the game device 3, which is the own device, when executing a game.

[0032] The graphics processing unit 34a renders game images including the character C and various objects related to the virtual game space in a moving image format according to game image information output from the control unit 33. The graphics processing unit 34a is connected to the display 4a, which is, for example, a liquid crystal type, and the game images rendered in a moving image format are displayed on the display 4a as a game screen. The audio processing unit 34b is connected to the speaker 4b, and reproduces and synthesizes game sounds according to instructions from the control unit 33, and outputs the sounds from the speaker 4b. The operation unit 34c is connected to the input device 4c, and transmits and receives data related to operation inputs between the input device 4c and the input device 4c. The user inputs operation signals to the game apparatus 3 by operating the input device 4c. The input device 4c is a general term for a touch panel integrated with the display 4a, an external game pad, a mouse, a keyboard, and the like.

[0033] 2.2 Functional Configuration Next, a description will be given of each functional configuration of the control unit 23 of the information processing device 2. Here, the system according to the present embodiment is realized by the information processing system 1, and in particular, by the control unit 23.

[0034] 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the control unit 23 in the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment. The control unit 23 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22 to function as a reception unit 231, a specification unit 232, an evaluation unit 233, an assignment unit 234, an event control unit 235, a display control unit 236, and a management unit 237. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 23.

[0035] The reception unit 231 is configured to be able to execute a reception step. In the reception step, the reception unit 231 is configured to be able to receive information via the communication unit 21 or the storage unit 22 and read the information into a working memory. In particular, the reception unit 231 is configured to receive various information via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21. In this embodiment, the various information received by the reception unit 231 will be described as being stored in the storage unit 22.

[0036] In particular, the reception unit 231 is configured to be able to receive operation instructions from a game user. The operation instructions are instructions for operating the character C, and instruct the character C to move, attack, defend, use an item, use magic, recover physical strength, and perform other actions.

[0037] The identification unit 232 is configured to be able to execute an identification step. In the identification step, the identification unit 232 identifies the character C participating in the multi-event. Details will be described later.

[0038] The evaluation unit 233 is configured to be able to execute an evaluation step. In the evaluation step, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates a combination of characteristics 5 of a character C who participates in the multi-event.

[0039] The granting unit 234 is configured to be able to execute a granting step. In the granting step, the granting unit 234 grants a benefit 51 to a user associated with the character C that is the evaluation target based on the evaluation by the evaluation unit 233.

[0040] The event control unit 235 is configured to be able to execute an event control step. In the event control step, the event control unit 235 controls the progress of the game. The event control unit 235 is configured to be able to control a character C to progress a game event. In particular, the event control unit 235 controls the progress of an event by a plurality of characters C.

[0041] The display control unit 236 is configured to be able to execute a display step. In the display step, the display control unit 236 displays various information stored in the storage unit 32 or a screen or the like including the information in a manner viewable by the game device 3. Specifically, the display control unit 236 controls visual information such as a screen, an image, an icon, a message, etc. to be displayed on the display 41a of the game device 3. The display control unit 236 may generate only rendering information for displaying the visual information on the game device 3.

[0042] The management unit 237 is configured to be able to execute an event control step. In the management step, the management unit 237 manages a plurality of pieces of information by storing the pieces of information in the storage unit 32 in association with each other.

[0043] 3. Explanation of various information and terms In this section, various information, terms, etc. handled by the information processing system 1 will be explained.

[0044] In this embodiment, a "quest" is a stage that is a constituent unit of a game, and has tasks and goals set for it. In particular, a quest in which multiple users simultaneously participate in and play the game is called a "multi-quest."

[0045] A quest has an end condition set. A clear reward is given to the user for clearing the quest. The end conditions of a quest include quest end conditions such as annihilation of all enemy characters EC, defeating a boss character, reaching a goal point, end conditions related to play time such as exceeding a time limit, and end conditions such as exceeding the number of turns in a turn-based game. At least one of these end conditions is set for a quest. When multiple end conditions are set for a quest, it is set in advance which end condition is to be prioritized. For example, when the time limit is prioritized over the achievement conditions, the quest ends when the boss character cannot be defeated and the achievement conditions are not satisfied and the time limit expires.

[0046] Furthermore, a quest may be played repeatedly by the same user. Repeatedly playing a quest is referred to as "quest looping." Specific examples of a user looping a quest include looping a quest until a reward is obtained in a quest that has a certain probability of being awarded upon completion, or looping a quest that has a high reward upon completion with the goal of obtaining as much of the reward as possible.

[0047] The game provided by the information processing system 1 includes an in-game, which is the main part played by the user, and an out-game, which is a part that involves preparation and waiting for playing the in-game. In the following, a battle game will be taken as an example of an in-game, and a game part other than the battle game will be taken as an example of an out-game. In the out-game, the user can generate a character C that he or she controls and can shop using in-game currency. Furthermore, the user controls the character C to battle an enemy character EC in the in-game, aiming to complete a quest.

[0048] Also, the game provided by the information processing system 1 will be described as a multi-quest in which four characters C cooperate to fight against an enemy character EC controlled by a computer. However, the form of the game is not limited to this. That is, three or less or five or more characters C may be allowed to cooperate to fight, and characters C operated by each user may be allowed to fight against each other.

[0049] Character C is associated with a skill that can be activated during an event. A "skill" refers to a special ability that each character C can use during a quest. For example, a specific command operation is performed by the user, and a skill is activated as a special ability of character C. Examples of skills include skills that are activated at the moment of an action and skills that are constantly activated for a certain period of time. Skills may also be ones that have a constant effect during an event, regardless of user operation. Skills may also be associated with not only character C but also weapons. When a skill is linked to a weapon, the skill is activated when character C uses the weapon to which the skill is associated.

[0050] 4. Operation of Information Processing System 1 This section describes the flow of operations of the above-mentioned information processing system 1. As an example of a preferred embodiment, a scene in which a user creates a character C for progressing through a game and then executes multiple quests with multiple characters C will be described. 4.1 Overview of Information Processing First, the flow of information processing executed by the information processing system 1 will be outlined, mainly dividing it into a flow of creating the character C and a flow of proceeding with an event (quest).

[0051] <Creating Character C> 3 is an activity diagram that mainly shows the flow of creating character C. Below, the flow of information processing will be outlined along this activity diagram.

[0052] The user uses the input device 4c to transmit an instruction to create a character C on a screen (not shown) displayed on the display 41a. When the reception unit 231 receives the instruction, the event control unit 235 starts a character creation event to create the character C (A101).

[0053] The display control unit 236 displays a creation screen for a character C (A102). On the creation screen for character C, the display control unit 236 displays a plurality of preset characters Ca as candidates on which the user can base the creation of the character C. The preset characters Ca are characters C in which each item required for the creation of the character C is set in advance.

[0054] Next, the event control unit 235 determines the preset character Ca selected by the user from among the multiple preset characters Ca as the base character Cb (A103). Next, the display control unit 236 displays a detailed setting screen on which the user can select multiple items i necessary for creating the character C based on the base character Cb. On this screen, the user can edit the detailed items to create the character C by changing the parts that configure the form of the base character Cb or adding new elements.

[0055] The reception unit 231 receives the designation of the above-mentioned item i from the user (A104). At this time, the user can arbitrarily select a characteristic 5 to be associated with the character C itself or the form of the character C from among the multiple characteristics 5 presented. The characteristic 5 is a physical or psychological characteristic 5 that does not affect the parameter P associated with the character C, which is referred to when proceeding with an event such as a quest. In addition, the characteristic 5 has multiple types. For example, the characteristic 5 indicates at least one of the classification of the character C (race, type, race, etc.), the identity of the character C himself (ethnic identity, gender identity, etc.), a physical handicap, a disease suffered by the character C, and an ecology (area of ​​activity, main time period of activity, etc.). A physical handicap mainly refers to a state in which the form of the character C is congenitally or acquiredly limited in all or part of the functions, and includes a case in which at least one of the multiple parts constituting the form is not present. In addition, a disease refers to a state in which the character C's mind or body is in a bad condition, inconvenience, etc. The user can then select and specify a preferred characteristic 5 from among these characteristics 5.

[0056] The user can change the characteristic 5 after creating the character C. At this time, the parameter P of the character C is not changed. In this case, the display control unit 236 displays a screen on which the characteristic 5 of the character C can be changed after the character C is created.

[0057] When the user selects characteristic 5, the reception unit 231 receives information related to the selection (A105). Then, the management unit 237 associates the selection result of characteristic 5 with the character C and stores it in the storage unit 22. In this way, characteristic 5 is determined based on the user's selection and is associated with the character C corresponding to the user.

[0058] Thereafter, when the reception unit 231 receives a selection indicating that the designation of all items has been completed based on the user's operation, the event control unit 235 ends the creation and editing of the character C (A106). Then, the management unit 237 manages the completed character C in association with the user.

[0059] <Event progress> Figure 4 is an activity diagram that mainly shows the flow of events. Below, we will further outline the flow of information processing based on this activity diagram.

[0060] In the following description, the main user who is the host user of the multi-quest is referred to as the first user, and the other users are referred to as the second user. The player character PC operated by the first user is referred to as the first character C1. The player character PC or the non-player character NPC operated by the second user is referred to as the second character C2. In other words, the character C includes the first character C1 associated with the first user and the second character C2 associated with at least one second user other than the first user.

[0061] First, the display control unit 236 displays a list of quests ordered by the first user. The user can select which quest to accept from among a plurality of quests via the input device 4c. When the user selects a quest to accept, the acceptance unit 231 accepts the selection result of the quest to accept (A201).

[0062] Next, when the reception unit 231 receives a request from the first user to recruit quest participants, the display control unit 236 displays a recruitment screen for other users (second users) who will accompany the quest (A202). On the recruitment screen, information on multiple second characters C2 is displayed as participants of the quest accepted by the first user. When the reception unit 231 receives a request to determine the second user via the input device 4c, the management unit 237 determines the second user (second character C2) as a participating member of the quest, and manages the second user (second character C2) in association with the quest and the first user (first character C1) (A203).

[0063] Next, the identification unit 232 identifies the characteristic 5 of at least one second character C2 associated with the first character C1 (A204). Specifically, the identification unit 232 identifies the characteristic 5 of each of the participating members.

[0064] The evaluation unit 233 refers to the combination of the characteristics 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristics 5 of the second character C2 (A205). Then, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the degree of overlap in the combination of characteristics 5 and the degree of overlap (A206). The evaluation unit 233 refers to the combination of characteristics 5 between the second characters C2 who are participating members, and similarly evaluates the degree of overlap and the similarity. Specifically, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the combination of characteristics 5 between the characters C who are participating members of the quest, by type. For example, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the presence or absence of overlap and the similarity for each of the classification, identity, and disease between the characters C.

[0065] Here, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the degree of overlap between the characters C participating in the quest according to the number of overlapping characteristics 5. For example, the evaluation unit 233 performs evaluation according to the number of characters C with overlapping characteristics 5, so that the evaluation is most favorable when there is no overlap, and is least favorable when the characteristics 5 of all characters C are identical. Also, the evaluation unit 233 performs evaluation more favorably the more dissimilar the characteristics 5 are.

[0066] Next, the granting unit 234 determines a benefit 51 to be granted to the first user or the second user based on the evaluation result 50 by the evaluation unit 233 (A207). The display control unit 236 displays the determined benefit 51. Then, based on an operation instruction from the user via the input device 4c, the event control unit 235 starts a multi-quest (event) by multiple characters C (A208).

[0067] The event control unit 235 advances the multi-quest (event) based on the parameter P of the character C (A209a). Here, the parameter P indicates the ability parameter AP of the character C, etc., referred to in the event. For example, the event control unit 235 calculates the amount of damage inflicted when the character C attacks the enemy character EC based on the attack power of the character C. Then, when the amount of damage received by the enemy character EC reaches a threshold, the event control unit 235 ends the quest by regarding the enemy character EC as having completed and having satisfied the end condition of the event. Also, for example, when the vitality of the character C becomes 0, the event control unit 235 ends the event by regarding the quest as having failed. In this way, the event control unit 235 advances the event based on the parameter P of the character C.

[0068] Here, when the quest progresses, the granting unit 234 grants the benefit 51 to the first user or the second user based on the evaluation result 50 by the evaluation unit 233 (A209b). Specifically, the granting unit 234 grants the benefit 51 to the first user (first character C1) or the second user (second character C2) based on a combination of the characteristic 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristic 5 of the second character C2. For example, the granting unit 234 grants an effect that does not affect the parameter P of the first character C1 or the parameter P of the second character C2 in a multi-quest (event) by the first character C1 and the second character C2 based on the combination. The benefit 51 in this case is an effect of changing the appearance of the character C participating in the quest or an effect of changing the display mode of the virtual space in which the character C is placed. In this way, the granting unit 234 grants the benefit 51 in an event by the first character C1 and the second character C2 based on a combination of the characteristics 5 associated with the character C participating in the event.

[0069] Here, the granting unit 234 grants the first user (first character C1) or the second user (second character C2) a benefit 51 that is more beneficial the smaller the degree of overlap in the combination of characteristics 5, based on the degree of overlap in the combination of characteristics 5. For example, the granting unit 234 grants an effect that can change the appearance to a rarer appearance the smaller the degree of overlap in characteristics 5. Also, for example, the granting unit 234 changes the appearance of character C, a participating member, into a matching outfit the smaller the degree of overlap in characteristics 5. On the other hand, the granting unit 234 changes the appearance of character C, a participating member, into an outfit that has no uniformity the greater the degree of overlap.

[0070] In this way, the granting unit 234 grants a beneficial benefit 51 to the first user (first character C1) or the second user (second character C2) based on the similarity between the characteristic 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristic 5 of the second character C2. An example of a beneficial benefit 51 granted by the granting unit 234 is an effect of improving the ability of the character C participating in a quest. In this way, the granting unit grants a more advantageous benefit to the first user or the second user as the combinations of characteristics 5 associated with the characters C participating in the event become more diverse.

[0071] When the end condition of the multi-quest is satisfied, the event control unit 235 ends the quest (A210). At this time, the granting unit 234 grants rewards to the first user (first character C1) and the second user (second character C2) according to the result of the quest.

[0072] <Summary> In summary, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes the following components. The event control unit 235 controls the progress of an event by a plurality of characters C. The characters C include a first character C1 associated with a first user and a second character C2 associated with at least one second user other than the first user. The event progresses based on the parameters P of the characters C. The identification unit 232 identifies the characteristics 5 of at least one second character C2 associated with the first character C1. The characteristics 5 are physical or psychological characteristics 5 that do not affect the parameters P. The granting unit 234 grants a benefit 51 to the first user or the second user based on a combination of the characteristics 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristics 5 of the second character C2.

[0073] According to another aspect, the program according to the present embodiment causes a computer to execute the following steps. In the event control step, the progress of an event by a plurality of characters C is controlled. The characters C include a first character C1 associated with a first user and a second character C2 associated with at least one second user other than the first user. The event progresses based on a parameter P of the characters C. In the identification step, a characteristic 5 of at least one second character C2 associated with the first character C1 is identified. The characteristic 5 is a physical or psychological characteristic 5 that does not affect the parameter P. In the granting step, a benefit 51 is granted to the first user or the second user based on a combination of the characteristic 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristic 5 of the second character C2.

[0074] Furthermore, according to another aspect, the information processing method executed by the information processing device 2 according to the present embodiment includes the following steps. In the event control step, the progress of an event by a plurality of characters C is controlled. The characters C include a first character C1 associated with a first user and a second character C2 associated with at least one second user other than the first user. The event progresses based on a parameter P of the characters C. In the identification step, a characteristic 5 of at least one second character C2 linked to the first character C1 is identified. The characteristic 5 is a physical or psychological characteristic 5 that does not affect the parameter P. In the granting step, a benefit 51 is granted to the first user or the second user based on a combination of the characteristic 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristic 5 of the second character C2.

[0075] According to this embodiment, the more diverse the characteristics 5 of the character C used in the event, the more advantageous the benefit 51 is given to the user by the granting unit 234, and as a result, a user who performs a multi-quest is encouraged to select a character C with diverse characteristics 5. This makes it possible to provide a technology that contributes to the realization of a society that respects diversity. In particular, by contributing to the respect of diversity such as race and gender identity, it is possible to contribute to the achievement of Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is "achieve gender equality."

[0076] In particular, the display control unit 236 displays the characteristics 5 of each of the participating members who will participate in the multi-quest. The display control unit 236 also displays to the user in a manner that allows the user to visually confirm what kind of benefit 51 will be granted depending on the combination of the participating members' characteristics 5. These aspects allow the user to proceed through the quest while being more conscious of the characteristics 5 of their companions, which is expected to improve the user's understanding of diversity.

[0077] 4.2 Details of data processing The details of the information processing outlined above will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0078] FIG. 5 is an image diagram showing an example of a selection screen for a preset character Ca. The display control unit 236 displays a plurality of preset characters Ca each having a different appearance. Specifically, for example, the preset characters Ca may be 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, or 50 kinds, and may be within a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here. In the example of FIG. 5, the display control unit 236 displays eight kinds of preset characters Ca (preset character Ca1, preset character Ca2, preset character Ca3, preset character Ca4, preset character Ca5, preset character Ca6, preset character Ca7, and preset character Ca8) each having a different appearance.

[0079] At this time, it is assumed that the user has selected a preset character Ca4 (preset character Ca41). In this case, the display control unit 236 displays a preset character Ca42 that is an enlarged version of the preset character Ca4. When the user presses the button B1 while the preset character Ca4 is selected, the display control unit 236 transitions the screen to display the screen shown in FIG. 6. In this way, the user can select a preset character Ca that is closest to the image of the character C that the user is to create from among the displayed preset characters Ca.

[0080] FIG. 6 is an image diagram showing an example of a detailed setting screen for determining the form of character C. As shown in FIG. 6, the display control unit 236 displays a plurality of items i constituting the form of character C in a user-selectable manner together with the base character Cb selected by the user. The items i are, for example, items that represent the physical characteristics of character C. In the example of FIG. 6, examples of the items i that represent the physical characteristics are head i1, skin i2, face i3, eyebrows i4, eyes i5, nose i6, mouth i7, beard i8, makeup i9, hands i10, feet i11, and tail i12. Other examples of the items i include height (total length), weight, sex, physique (skeleton), shoulder width, muscle mass, fat mass, hands, feet, teeth, nails, hair, gills, fins, scales, skin, tail, wings, and other parts of the body, such as shape, color, size, and texture.

[0081] 6, the display control unit 236 changes the display mode of the base character Cb in response to an editing operation by the user. This allows the user to edit item i while checking the current appearance of the character C. When the reception unit 231 receives a press of the button B2 by the user, the display control unit 236 transitions the screen to display the screen shown in FIG. 7, regarding the selection of item i as being completed.

[0082] FIG. 7 is an image diagram showing an example of a setting screen for the characteristic 5. As shown in FIG. 7, the display control unit 236 displays the characteristic 5 associated with the character C in a selectable manner. The user can select the characteristic 5 such as the species 5a, identity 5b, habits, activity tendency, disease, etc. of the character C as well as the form of the character C. FIG. 8 is an image diagram showing an example of the characteristic 5. In the example of FIG. 8, the display control unit 236 displays at least one of, for example, 2 to 50 types for the species 5a and identity 5b, which are types of the characteristic 5, in a selectable manner by the user. Specifically, for example, the types are 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, and 50 types, and may be within a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0083] When the reception unit 231 receives a user pressing the button B3, the display control unit 236 transitions the screen assuming that the creation of the character C is completed. On the other hand, when the reception unit 231 receives a user pressing the button B4 to reselect the form, the display control unit 236 transitions the screen to display the screen shown in FIG. 7 again.

[0084] The reception unit 231 receives a request from the first user to recruit quest participants. Here, the first user can set participation conditions, such as a level limit, for the second character C2 who will be a participant who accompanies the accepted quest. Specifically, when the reception unit 231 receives the designation of the participation conditions, the management unit 237 associates the quest with the participation conditions and stores them. Then, the display control unit 236 displays information including the content of the quest for which participants are recruited and the participation conditions for each second user in an identifiable manner. When the reception unit 231 receives a participation request from the second user, the display control unit 236 displays the second character C2 related to the second user who requested the participation request so that the first user can see it.

[0085] 9 is an image diagram showing an example of a recruiting screen for members to participate in a quest. The display control unit 236 displays a first character C1 operated by a first user who is the host, and second characters C2a, C2b, and C2c who are candidates for participating members.

[0086] Here, when deciding on a quest companion (second character C2), the first user can check the characteristic 5 of the second character C2 who is a candidate for participation. FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing the characteristic 5 of the character C who will participate in the quest. When the reception unit 231 receives a user's pressing of button B5, the display control unit 236 displays the screen shown in FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the display control unit 236 displays the characteristic 5 of each of the first character C1 and the second character C2 who is a candidate for participation. According to this embodiment, the first user can decide on participants in the quest after taking into consideration the type of characteristic 5 of each of the quest participation candidates.

[0087] When the user wishes to replace a participant of the quest with another second character C2, the user can replace the second character C2 by pressing a button B6. Specifically, when the reception unit 231 receives the pressing of the button B6, the display control unit 236 displays the second character C2, who is a new participant candidate (not shown). On the other hand, when the user wishes to execute the quest with the current candidate, the user can proceed to the next screen by pressing a button B7. In other words, when the reception unit 231 receives the pressing of the button B7 by the user, the display control unit 236 displays the screen shown in FIG. 11.

[0088] FIG. 11 is an image diagram showing an example of an evaluation result 50 by the evaluation unit 233. As shown in FIG. 11, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the diversity of each of the characteristics 5 associated with the first character C1 and the second character C2 (hereinafter, when there is no distinction between them, they may be referred to as participating members) who are quest participants, based on the combination of the characteristics 5 of the first character C1 and the characteristics 5 of the second character C2. Specifically, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates the overlap and similarity of each of the species 5a and the identity 5b of the quest participants by quantifying them. An example of an evaluation method when the quest participants are four members is shown in Table 1. [Table 1] When determining whether or not there is an overlap in "species 5a" as an example of the characteristic 5, the evaluation unit 233 extracts two characters C to be compared from among the participating members of the quest and determines whether or not there is an overlap. Then, the evaluation unit 233 checks whether or not there is an overlap for all combinations of participating members. The first character C1 and the second character C2a, who are participating members, are both "human race" (FIG. 10). In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, the evaluation unit 233 adds two points since there is one overlap in "species 5a" (Table 1). In this way, the evaluation unit 233 performs evaluation based on the number of users with overlap in the characteristic 5. Also, the evaluation unit 233 adds points and evaluates higher as the degree of overlap is smaller.

[0089] The evaluation unit 233 also evaluates the similarity between the participating members. An example of the evaluation method when the number of participating members in a quest is four is shown in Table 2. [Table 2] In this case, the evaluation unit 233 takes out two characters C from among the members participating in the quest, and judges whether they are similar to each other, in the same way as in the method of judging the degree of overlap. In particular, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates whether the characteristics 5 are similar for all combinations of the participating members. Here, the second character C2b and the second character C2c are different species but share a common activity area (FIG. 10). In this case, the evaluation unit 233 judges that the characteristics 5 of the second character C2b and the second character C2c are similar. Then, as shown in FIG. 11, the evaluation unit 233 adds two points (Table 2) since there is one pair of members who are similar in the "species" of the characteristics 5. Also, as shown in FIG. 11, the evaluation unit 233 scores the degree of overlap and the similarity for other characteristics 5 such as "identity 5b" in the same way. Then, the evaluation unit 233 calculates the sum of the scores for each characteristic 5, and sets this as the final evaluation result 50 of the group (party) participating in the quest. In the example of FIG. 11, the final evaluation result 50 of characteristic 5 is 9 points.

[0090] It is preferable that the display control unit 236 displays the contents of the benefit 51 determined according to the evaluation of the characteristic 5 together with the evaluation result 50 of the characteristic 5. The contents of the benefit 51 shown in FIG. 11 are "Matching costumes (level 3)". When the user wants to start a quest with the party, the user presses the button B8. When the reception unit 231 receives the user's pressing of the button B8, the display control unit 236 displays a quest start screen. On the other hand, when the user wants to reorganize the party or check the characteristics 5 of the participating members again, the user can return to the previous screen by pressing the button B9. Specifically, when the reception unit 231 receives the user's pressing of the button B9, the display control unit 236 transitions to the screen shown in FIG. 9. [others] The information processing system 1 according to the above embodiment may be configured as follows.

[0091] The characteristic 5 may be determined based on information associated with at least one of the parts constituting the form of the character C, and may be associated with the character C. In this case, the user can arbitrarily select the characteristic 5 to be associated with each part constituting the form of the character C from among the multiple characteristics 5. In addition, the handicap may occur temporarily due to some condition. For example, the user can set an arbitrary handicap to be associated with the lower body of the character C, which is a fish, so that a physical handicap that causes difficulty in walking when moving on land is manifested.

[0092] In addition, diseases include not only chronic diseases but also diseases that appear temporarily when a preset condition is satisfied. The preset conditions are, for example, seasonal conditions and environmental conditions, and include a predetermined action being performed by the character C himself or another character C. The seasonal conditions are, for example, conditions that depend on the season such as spring, summer, autumn, and winter, and conditions that the disease is occurring during a predetermined event such as Halloween. The environmental conditions are, for example, conditions that satisfy environmental factors such as being under the sun, being on a new moon or full moon night, being underwater, etc. For example, the user can set a disease for the character C, a nocturnal demon, that will manifest a predetermined symptom when the character C is placed in an environment exposed to sunlight.

[0093] In the above embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the display control unit 236 transitions the screen after the form of the character C is selected to display a screen on which the characteristic 5 can be selected, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control unit 236 can display the characteristic 5 of the character C selectable at the same time as the form of the character C is selected.

[0094] The evaluation methods of characteristic 5 shown in Tables 1 and 2 are merely examples and are not limited thereto. For example, in the case where similar characteristics 5 are arranged next to each other in data or are expressed in two-dimensional data, the evaluation unit 233 may evaluate the degree of overlap or similarity based on the distance between the characteristics 5 to be evaluated. Based on the positional relationship of the characteristics 5 to be compared, the greater the distance between the characteristics 5, the smaller the degree of overlap and the more dissimilar the characteristics 5 are evaluated to be.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the granting unit 234 grants the benefit 51 during the execution of the event, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the granting unit 234 may give preferential treatment to the rewards in the event by the first character C1 and the second character C2 according to the combination of the characteristics 5 of the character C who participated in the multi-quest at the end of the event or after the end of the event. For example, the granting unit 234 increases the amount of in-game currency acquired by the event participant at the end of the event by a certain percentage. Also, for example, the granting unit 234 increases the experience points acquired by the character C who participated in the quest by a certain percentage.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the granting unit 234 grants the benefit 51 that does not affect the parameter P of the character C, but the granting unit 234 may improve the parameter P of the skill activated by the character C according to the evaluation result 50 by the evaluation unit 233. However, even in this case, it is preferable that the benefit 51 granted to the character C has a smaller effect than the activation effect of the skill associated with the character C. In addition, it is preferable that the benefit 51 does not affect the ability parameter AP of the character C, and temporarily changes the parameter P indicating the attack power, defense power, activation time of the skill, etc. of the skill activated by the character C during the progress of the event. In this manner, even if the quest can be advantageously advanced based on the evaluation by the evaluation unit 233, the influence on the progress of the quest is small. As a result, the user is not forced to excessively emphasize diversity in the characteristic 5 of the character C participating in the quest, and the information processing system 1 can provide a game in which the user's own values ​​are respected.

[0097] In the example of FIG. 11, the granting unit 234 grants a reward 51 of a level according to the points obtained by adding up the evaluation result 50 of the species 5a and the evaluation result 50 of the identity 5b. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the granting unit 234 may grant a reward 51 according to the evaluation result 50 for each type of the characteristic 5 to be evaluated. In FIG. 11, the evaluation result 50 of the species 5a is 4 points, and the evaluation result 50 of the characteristic 5 related to the identity 5b is 5 points. In response to this, the granting unit 234 may grant different rewards 51 for each of the species 5a and the identity 5b according to their respective points. In addition, the granting unit 234 may grant different rewards 51 when the evaluation of the overlap degree of the characteristic 5 is good and when the evaluation of the similarity degree is good.

[0098] Furthermore, the virtual space provided by the information processing system 1 does not need to include game elements such as quests, and may be a so-called metaverse in which a user-driven event is held through the characters C operated by multiple users. In this case, the event is, for example, a virtual event such as a seminar, a live performance, or an online meeting. The evaluation unit 233 evaluates the combination of characteristics 5 for the characters C who are audience members participating in the event. When there are multiple organizers of the event, the evaluation unit 233 may evaluate the combination of characteristics 5 between the characters C who are the organizers.

[0099] In this embodiment, the reception unit 231, the identification unit 232, the granting unit 234, the event control unit 235 and the display control unit 236 are described as functional units realized by the control unit 23 of the information processing device 2, but at least a part of these may be implemented as functional units realized by the control unit 33 of the game device 3.

[0100] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects: In the information processing system, the characteristics indicate at least one of the character's race, gender identity, a physical handicap, and an illness suffered by the character. In the information processing system, in the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user or the second user based on a degree of overlap in the combination. In the information processing system, in the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user or the second user based on the similarity between the characteristics of the first character and the characteristics of the second character. In the information processing system, in the granting step, the more diverse the combinations are, the more advantageous the benefit is granted to the first user or the second user. In the information processing system, the characteristics are determined based on a user's selection and are associated with a character corresponding to that user. In the information processing system, the characteristics are determined based on information associated with at least one of the parts that make up the character's form and are associated with the character. In the information processing system, in the granting step, a benefit is granted in an event involving the first character and the second character based on the combination. In the information processing system, in the granting step, an effect that does not affect either the parameters of the first character or the parameters of the second character is granted in an event involving the first character and the second character based on the combination. In the information processing system, in the granting step, a reward in an event by the first character and the second character is given preferential treatment according to the combination. In the information processing system, the benefit has an effect smaller than the effect of activating a skill associated with the character. A program causing a computer to execute each of the steps. Of course, this is not the case.

[0101] Finally, various embodiments according to the present disclosure have been described, but these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the disclosure. The embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the disclosure, and are included in the disclosure and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Networks 2: Information processing equipment 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 231: Reception 232: Specific part 233: Evaluation section 234: Granting section 235: Event control section 236: Display control unit 237: Management Department 3: Game device 30: Communication bus 31: Communications Department 32: Storage section 33: Control section 34a: Graphics processing unit 34b: Audio processing section 34c: Operation section 4a: Display 4b: Speaker 4c: Input device 41a: Display 5:Characteristics 5a :seed 5b: Identity 50: Evaluation results 51: Special Offer B1: Button B2: Button B3: Button B4: Button B5: Button B6: Button B7: Button C: Character C1: First character C2: Second character C2a : Second character C2b : Second character C2c : Second character Ca : Preset character Ca1: Preset character Ca2: Preset character Ca3: Preset Character Ca4: Preset character Ca41: Preset character Ca42: Preset Character Ca5: Preset Character Ca6: Preset Character Ca7: Preset Character Ca8: Preset Character Cb : Base character P: Parameter AP: Ability Parameter PC: Player character EC: Enemy character

Claims

1. An information processing system, A control unit is provided, The control unit is configured to execute an event control step, a specifying step, and an assigning step; In the event control step, a progress of an event by a plurality of characters is controlled; The characters include a first character associated with a first user and a second character associated with at least one second user other than the first user; The event proceeds based on a parameter of the character; In the identification step, a characteristic of at least one of the second characters associated with the first character is identified; The characteristic is a physical or psychological characteristic that does not affect the parameter, In the imparting step, granting a benefit to the first user or the second user based on a combination of the characteristics of the first character and the characteristics of the second character; The more diverse the combinations are, the more advantageous the benefit is given to the first user or the second user. Information processing system.

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, the characteristics indicate at least one of the character's race, gender identity, a physical handicap, and an illness suffered by the character; Information processing system.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, In the granting step, a privilege is granted to the first user or the second user based on a degree of overlap in the combination. Information processing system.

4. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user or the second user based on a similarity between the characteristic of the first character and the characteristic of the second character. Information processing system.

5. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The characteristics are determined based on a user's selection and are associated with a character corresponding to the user. Information processing system.

6. In the information processing system according to claim 5, The characteristic is determined based on information associated with at least one of the parts constituting the form of the character, and is associated with the character. Information processing system.

7. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, In the providing step, a benefit is provided in an event by the first character and the second character based on the combination. Information processing system.

8. In the information processing system according to claim 7, In the imparting step, an effect that does not affect a parameter of the first character or a parameter of the second character is imparted in an event by the first character and the second character based on the combination. Information processing system.

9. In the information processing system according to claim 7, In the providing step, a reward in an event by the first character and the second character is given preferentially in accordance with the combination. Information processing system.

10. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The benefit does not affect the ability parameters of the character, and temporarily changes parameters related to skills activated by the character during the progress of the event. Information processing system.

11. A program, A method for making a computer execute each step according to any one of claims 1 to 10. program.

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