Game System, Information Processing Apparatus, and Program

Abstract

To suppress network delay and suppress costs when providing a cloud game to a player.SOLUTION: A game system 1A includes: a server device 10 that can communicate with a player terminal device 12; and game execution devices 14 installed at a plurality of bases. The server device 10 includes: measuring means 64 for measuring a communication speed between the game execution devices 14 at the plurality of bases and the player terminal device 12; and selection means 66 for selecting the game execution device 14 at one of the bases on the basis of a measurement result, and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device 12 to establish communication connection to the game execution device 14 at the selected base. The game execution device 14 progresses the game on the basis of operation information of a player received from the player terminal device 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a so-called cloud game is known in which a server device processes a game instead of a player terminal device and transmits the result of the progress processing to the player terminal device to provide the game to the player (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in a conventional cloud game, since the server device and the player terminal device are connected via a communication network, a problem of network delay occurs. Also, in a cloud game, installation costs of a high-performance server device capable of processing the cloud game and operation costs such as electricity costs and maintenance labor costs are incurred.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a game system, an information processing apparatus, and a program capable of suppressing network delay and suppressing costs when providing a cloud game to a player.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a game system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a server device capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, and game execution devices installed at a plurality of bases. The server device, when receiving a request from the player terminal device, includes a measuring means for measuring a communication speed between the game execution devices at the plurality of bases and the player terminal device, and based on the measurement result of the measuring means, selects a game execution device at one of the bases from among the game execution devices at the plurality of bases, and outputs an instruction to the player terminal device to communicate and connect to the selected game execution device at one of the bases. The game execution device at one of the bases that is communicatively connected to the player terminal device processes the game based on the operation information of the player received from the player terminal device, and transmits the result of the game progress process to the player terminal device.

[0007] Further, in the game system according to a second aspect of the present invention, the game execution device executes a first game when a value medium is paid, and executes a second game different from the first game when communicatively connected to the player terminal device.

[0008] Further, in the game system according to a third aspect of the present invention, the measuring means acquires the operating status of the game execution devices at the plurality of bases, and the selecting means selects a game execution device at one of the bases from among the game execution devices at the plurality of bases based on the measurement result and the operating status.

[0009] Further, in the game system according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the selecting means selects the game execution device at the base showing the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results.

[0010] Further, in the game system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the server device includes storage means for associating and storing a plurality of bases for each region, and the measuring means extracts one base from among the plurality of bases for each region, measures the communication speed between the game execution device of the extracted base and the player terminal device, and extracts the region associated with the base showing the fastest communication speed among the measurement results of the measurement, and measures the communication speed between the game execution devices of the plurality of bases associated with the extracted region and the player terminal device.

[0011] Further, in the game system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the game is a battle game in which one player battles against another player, and the selection means selects a game execution device of a base common to the one player and the other player based on the measurement result of the communication speed between the player terminal device of the one player and each game execution device and the measurement result of the communication speed between the player terminal device of the other player and each game execution device.

[0012] Further, in the game system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when the server device is a matching server device, the server device includes a delay means for executing a delay process of slowing down the communication speed of the faster one to be the same as the communication speed of the slower one when there is a difference between the measurement result of the communication speed between the player terminal device of the one player and the game execution device of the common base selected by the selection means and the measurement result of the communication speed between the player terminal device of the other player and the game execution device of the common base selected by the selection means.

[0013] Further, in the game system according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, when the server device is a matching server device, the server device includes a game server device that advances the game based on the operation information of the player received from the player terminal device and transmits the progress result of the game to the player terminal device, and the selection means selects either one of the game execution device of the one base and the game server device according to the current time zone as a target to be communicatively connected to the player terminal device.

[0014] Moreover, the information processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player. When receiving a request from the player terminal device, the information processing apparatus includes a game execution device installed at a plurality of bases, measuring means for measuring a communication speed between the game execution device and the player terminal device, and selection means for selecting a game execution device of one base from the game execution devices of the plurality of bases based on the measurement result of the measuring means and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device to communicatively connect to the selected game execution device of the one base.

[0015] In addition, a program according to the tenth aspect of the present invention causes a computer capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player to function as measuring means for measuring a communication speed between a game execution device installed at a plurality of bases and the player terminal device when receiving a request from the player terminal device, and selection means for selecting a game execution device of one base from the game execution devices of the plurality of bases based on the measurement result of the measuring means and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device to communicatively connect to the selected game execution device of the one base.

Advantages of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, when providing a cloud game to a player, network delay can be suppressed and cost can be suppressed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the ease of understanding the description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components and steps in each drawing as much as possible, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0019] <First Embodiment> First, the game system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0020] ---Overall Configuration--- FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the game system 1A according to the first embodiment.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1A according to the first embodiment includes a server device 10, a player terminal device 12, and a plurality of business game devices 14. These devices are communicably connected to each other via a communication network NT such as the Internet or a telephone line.

[0022] When the player P plays a game on the player terminal device 12, the server device 10 matches the player terminal device 12 with the business game device 14. Specifically, the server device 10 selects one business game device 14 from among a plurality of business game devices 14 as the target for executing the game for the player P to play.

[0023] The player terminal device 12 is a terminal device operated by the player P. A program such as a browser for outputting the game content and processing results executed on the business game device 14 is installed on this player terminal device 12. Examples of such player terminal devices 12 include personal computers, mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and the like.

[0024] The business game device 14 is an example of a game execution device, and is, for example, a so-called arcade game machine installed in a plurality of bases in a plurality of regions in the prefectures of Japan, such as stores S (store A, store B, store C, etc.) such as game centers and department stores. One or more business game devices 14 are installed within one store S. This business game device 14 executes a first game (arcade game) in which the game is directly played on the business game device 14 (game execution device) triggered by the payment of a value medium such as a coin, point, cash, electronic money, or credit card. Also, in the first embodiment, the business game device 14 executes a second game (cloud game) in which the game on the business game device 14 (game execution device) is played remotely from the player terminal device 12, which is different from the first game, triggered by the establishment of a communication connection with the player terminal device 12. Note that the first game and the second game may have the same title or different titles. Hereinafter, the second game may be referred to as the "cloud game". Note that the case where the business game device 14 is an example of a game execution device has been described, but other game execution devices include game server devices and the like. For example, when the game execution device is a game server device, the base is a server center instead of a store.

[0025] ---Hardware Configuration--- FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2, the server device 10 includes a control device 20, a communication device 26, and a storage device 28. The control device 20 is mainly configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 22 and a memory 24.

[0027] In the control device 20, the CPU 22 functions as various functional means by executing a predetermined program stored in the memory 24 or the storage device 28 or the like. Details of this functional means will be described later.

[0028] The communication device 26 is composed of a communication interface or the like for communicating with an external device. The communication device 26 transmits and receives various information to and from, for example, the player terminal device 12.

[0029] The storage device 28 is composed of a hard disk or the like. This storage device 28 stores various programs, various information, and information on processing results necessary for the execution of processing in the control device 20.

[0030] Note that the server device 10 can be realized by using an information processing device such as a dedicated or general-purpose server computer. Further, the server device 10 may be composed of a single information processing device or may be composed of a plurality of information processing devices distributed on the communication network NT. Further, FIG. 2 only shows a part of the main hardware configuration of the server device 10, and the server device 10 can include other configurations generally provided in a server. Also, the hardware configuration of the plurality of player terminal devices 12 can have the same configuration as the server device 10, except that it includes, for example, operation means, a display device, and a sound output device.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the business game device 14 shown in FIG. 1.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 3, the commercial game device 14 includes a coin inserter 30, a CPU 32, a memory 34, a display device 36, a sound output device 38, an input device 40, and a communication device 42. The commercial game device 14 may include an electronic payment device capable of performing electronic payment together with or instead of the coin inserter 30.

[0033] The coin inserter 30 accepts payment of coins by the player P.

[0034] The CPU 32 executes the first game and the second game.

[0035] The memory 34 stores the game program of the first game and the game program of the second game. The game program of the second game may be stored in the memory 34 via a portable storage medium, a communication network NT, or the like.

[0036] The display device 36 displays the game screen of the first game.

[0037] The sound output device 38 outputs the game sound of the first game.

[0038] The input device 40 inputs operation information.

[0039] The communication device 42 is composed of a communication interface or the like for communicating with an external device. The communication device 26 transmits and receives various information to and from, for example, the player terminal device 12.

[0040] ---Functional Configuration--- FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 10 in the game system 1A according to the first embodiment.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the server device 10 includes, as a functional configuration, a storage unit 60, an authentication unit 62, a measurement unit 64, and a selection unit 66. These functional configurations are realized by the control device 20 executing a program.

[0042] The storage unit 60 has a function of storing, for example, a store table 60A, player information 60B, and play data 60C. In the store table 60A, a plurality of stores S and connection destination information such as an IP (Internet Protocol) address for communicating with the business game device 14 of each store S are registered in association with each prefecture, in other words, for each region. The player information 60B includes, for example, authentication information such as a user ID and a password, a user name, and a contact information. The play data 60C is save data in which the progress status of the cloud game is recorded.

[0043] When the authentication unit 62 receives a login request from the player terminal device 12, it has a function of executing an authentication process based on the information included in the login request and the authentication information of the player information 60B.

[0044] When the measurement unit 64 receives a request from the player terminal device 12, it has a function of measuring the communication speed between the player terminal device 12 and the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. The actual measurement may be performed by the player terminal device 12 or the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. In the first embodiment, the player terminal device 12 measures the communication speed. In this case, the measurement unit 64 outputs a measurement instruction for measuring the communication speed between the player terminal device 12 and the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S to the player terminal device 12. Further, for example, when the number of stores S is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the measuring means 64 extracts one store from among a plurality of stores S for each region, outputs an instruction to measure the communication speed between the business game device 14 of each extracted store and the player terminal device 12, and further extracts the region associated with the store that shows the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results of the measurement, and may output an instruction to measure the communication speed between the business game device 14 of a plurality of stores S associated with the extracted region and the player terminal device 12. Further, the measuring means 64 may instruct a plurality of stores S or the business game devices 14 of each store S to measure the operating status of the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S, and acquire the operating status. Examples of the operating status include information such as the presence or absence of operation, the operation rate, and the average operation rate.

[0045] When the selection means 66 receives the measurement result of the communication speed from the player terminal device 12 or the like, based on the measurement result, the selection means 66 selects (matches) the business game device 14 of one store from among the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S, and has a function of outputting an instruction to the player terminal device 12 to perform a communication connection to the selected business game device 14 of one store. Specifically, the selection means 66 selects the business game device 14 of the store S that shows the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results from among the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S. Note that the business game device 14 of one store S that is in communication connection with the player terminal device 12 processes the cloud game based on the operation information of the player P received from the player terminal device 12, and transmits the progress result of the game to the player terminal device 12. That is, the business game device 14 executes the first game when the value medium is paid, and executes a second game different from the first game when in communication connection with the player terminal device. Further, the selection means 66 may select the business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S based on the measurement result of the communication speed and the operating status of the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S.

[0046] ---Flow of processing--- FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the game system 1A according to the first embodiment. Note that the content and order of the following processing can be changed as appropriate.

[0047] (Step SP10) The player terminal device 12 transmits a login request including the user ID, password, IP address, etc. of the player P to the server device 10. Then, the processing proceeds to the processing of step SP12.

[0048] (Step SP12) The server device 10 receives the login request from the player terminal device 12. In response, the authentication means 62 of the server device 10 executes an authentication process based on the user ID and password included in the login request and the player information 60B. If this authentication process is successful, the processing proceeds to the processing of step SP14. Note that if the authentication process fails, an error is output to the player terminal device 12, and then the series of processes shown in FIG. 5 ends.

[0049] (Step SP14) The measurement means 64 of the server device 10 extracts one store from among a plurality of stores S for each region. When a store representing each region is registered in the store table 60A, the measurement means 64 extracts one representative store from among a plurality of stores S for each region based on the store table 60A. Then, the processing proceeds to the processing of step SP16.

[0050] (Step SP16) The measurement means 64 acquires the respective IP addresses as the connection destination information of the business game devices 14 of the extracted stores from the store table 60A. Subsequently, the measurement means 64 outputs (transmits) a measurement instruction to measure the communication speed between the business game device 14 of one store extracted for each region and the player terminal device 12 to the player terminal device 12. Note that this measurement instruction includes the IP addresses of the business game devices 14 of the respective stores acquired by the measurement means 64. Then, the processing proceeds to the processing of step SP18.

[0051] (Step SP18) The player terminal device 12 receives a measurement instruction from the server device 10. In response, the player terminal device 12 measures the communication speed between the player terminal device 12 and the business game device 14 of one store extracted for each region based on each IP address included in the measurement instruction. Subsequently, the player terminal device 12 transmits the measurement result of the communication speed to the server device 10. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP20.

[0052] (Step SP20) The server device 10 receives the measurement result from the player terminal device 12. In response, the measurement means 64 extracts one region associated with the store indicated by the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the received measurement results. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP22.

[0053] (Step SP22) The measurement means 64 acquires each IP address as the connection destination information of the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S associated with the extracted one region from the store table 60A. Subsequently, the measurement means 64 outputs (transmits) a measurement instruction for measuring the communication speed between the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S associated with one region and the player terminal device 12 to the player terminal device 12. Note that this measurement instruction includes each IP address acquired by the measurement means 64. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP24.

[0054] (Step SP24) The player terminal device 12 receives a measurement instruction from the server device 10. In response, the player terminal device 12 measures the communication speed between the player terminal device 12 and the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S associated with one region based on each IP address included in the measurement instruction. Subsequently, the player terminal device 12 transmits the measurement result of the communication speed to the server device 10. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP26.

[0055] (Step SP26) The server device 10 receives the measurement result of the communication speed from the player terminal device 12. In response to this, the selection means 66 of the server device 10 selects a business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S linked to one area based on the received measurement result. Specifically, the selection means 66 selects the business game device 14 of the store S that shows the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results. Here, when there are a plurality of business game devices 14 in one store S, the selection means 66 selects a business game device 14 that is not in the use state among the plurality of business game devices 14. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP28.

[0056] (Step SP28) The measurement means 64 acquires, for example, the operating rate of the business game device 14 of the store S selected by the selection means 66 in one day. Subsequently, the selection means 66 determines whether the acquired operating rate is equal to or higher than a threshold value such as 90% or 95%. When the determination is an affirmative determination, the process returns to the process of step SP26, and when the determination is a negative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP30. When returning to the process of step SP26, the selection means 66 selects a business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S linked to one area, excluding the business game device 14 of the store S that has been selected once.

[0057] (Step SP30) The selection means 66 transmits (outputs) a connection instruction to the player terminal device 12 so as to establish a communication connection with the selected business game device 14 of one store S. This connection instruction includes the IP address of the selected business game device 14 of one store S. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP32.

[0058] (Step SP32) The player terminal device 12 receives a connection instruction from the server device 10. In response, the player terminal device 12 establishes a communication connection with the business game device 14 of one store S selected by the selection means 66 based on the IP address included in the received connection instruction. Subsequently, the player terminal device 12 transmits a request to execute a cloud game to the business game device 14 with which the communication connection has been established. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP34.

[0059] (Step SP34) The business game device 14 receives an execution request from the player terminal device 12. In response, the business game device 14 starts executing the cloud game. Subsequently, the business game device 14 outputs the game data (game screen data and game sound data) of the executed cloud game to the player terminal device 12. At this time, if there is player P's play data 60C, the business game device 14 receives it from the server device 10 directly or via the player terminal device 12 and reflects it in the cloud game. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP36.

[0060] (Step SP36) The player terminal device 12 receives game data from the business game device 14. In response, the player terminal device 12 outputs game content (game screen and game sound) to a display device, a sound output device, etc. based on the received game data. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP38.

[0061] (Step SP38) When the player terminal device 12 receives an input of the operation information of player P, the player terminal device 12 transmits the operation information to the business game device 14. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP40.

[0062] (Step SP40) The business game device 14 receives operation information from the player terminal device 12. In response, the business game device 14 processes the cloud game based on the received operation information and transmits the progress processing result to the player terminal device 12. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP42.

[0063] (Step SP42) The player terminal device 12 receives the progress processing result from the business game device 14. In response, the business game device 14 outputs the received progress processing result to a display device, a sound output device, etc. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP44.

[0064] (Step SP44) The player terminal device 12 determines whether there is an instruction to end the cloud game based on the operation information of the player P, the progress processing result, etc. When the determination is an affirmative determination, the series of processes shown in FIG. 5 ends, and when the determination is a negative determination, the process returns to the process of step SP38.

[0065] ---Effect--- As described above, in the first embodiment, a game system 1A includes a server device 10 capable of communicating with a player terminal device 12 operated by a player P, and business game devices 14 installed in a plurality of stores S. The server device 10, when receiving a request from the player terminal device 12, has a measuring means 64 for measuring the communication speed between the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S and the player terminal device 12, and based on the measurement result of the measurement, selects a business game device of one store from the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S, and a selection means 66 for outputting an instruction to the player terminal device 12 to communicatively connect to the selected business game device of one store. The business game device 14 of one store S communicatively connected to the player terminal device 12 processes the cloud game based on the operation information of the player received from the player terminal device 12 and transmits the progress processing result of the cloud game to the player terminal device 12. According to this configuration, based on the measurement result of the communication speed, one business game device of a store for communication connection with the player terminal device 12 is selected from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. Therefore, for example, if a business game device with a faster communication speed than when the player terminal device 12 communicates with the server device 10 is selected, network delay can be suppressed when providing cloud games to the player P. In addition, since the server device 10 does not need to be as high-performance as to process cloud games, the installation cost can be suppressed. Further, since the progress processing of cloud games can be effectively utilized by causing the business game device 14 of the store S to perform it, the operation cost can be suppressed.

[0066] Also, in the first embodiment, the business game device 14 executes the first game when a value medium is paid, and executes a second game different from the first game when communicatively connected to the player terminal device 12. According to this configuration, the business game device 14 can execute a second game dedicated to cloud games, and the range of cloud games can be expanded.

[0067] Also, in the first embodiment, the measuring means 64 acquires the operating status of the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S, and the selecting means 66 selects one business game device from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S based on the measurement result and the operating status. According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress the situation where the business game device 14 cannot execute the first game in order to execute the second game.

[0068] Also, in the first embodiment, the selecting means 66 selects the business game device 14 of the store S that shows the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results. According to this configuration, network delay can be further suppressed when providing cloud games to the player P.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the server device 10 includes a storage means 60 that stores a plurality of stores S associated with each region. The measurement means 64 extracts one store from among the plurality of stores S for each region, measures the communication speed between the business game device 14 of each extracted store and the player terminal device 12, and extracts the region associated with the store that shows the measurement result with the fastest communication speed among the measurement results of the measurement. Then, the communication speed between the business game device 14 of the plurality of stores S associated with the extracted region and the player terminal device 12 is measured. According to this configuration, the burden on the player terminal device 12 and the business game device 14 can be reduced when measuring the communication speed.

[0070] <Second Embodiment> Next, the game system according to the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the cloud game is a battle game in which a plurality of players P, for example, one player and another player battle against each other.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the game system 1B according to the second embodiment.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6, the game system 1B according to the second embodiment includes, as the terminal device 12, a first player terminal device 12A and a second player terminal device 12B.

[0073] The first player terminal device 12A is a device operated by one player P1. The second player terminal device 12B is a device operated by another player P2 who is an opponent of the one player P1 in the battle.

[0074] In the second embodiment, the server device 10 newly includes delay means as a functional configuration. When there is a difference between the measurement result of the communication speed between the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the first player terminal device 12A and the selection means 66 of one player P1 and the measurement result of the communication speed between the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the second player terminal device 12B and the selection means 66 of another player P2, the delay means executes a delay process to slow down the communication speed of the faster communication speed so that it becomes the same as the communication speed of the slower communication speed.

[0075] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the game system 1B according to the second embodiment. Note that the following processing starts after the authentication processing in step SP12 shown in FIG. 5. Also, the content and order of the following processing can be changed as appropriate.

[0076] (Step SP60) The server device 10 determines an opponent to play against one player P1 from among a plurality of players P. In the second embodiment, the server device 10 determines another player P2 from among a plurality of players P. Then, the process proceeds to the process in step SP62.

[0077] (Step SP62) The measurement means 64 of the server device 10 acquires the respective IP addresses as connection destination information of the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S from the store table 60A. Subsequently, the measurement means 64 outputs (transmits) a measurement instruction for measuring the communication speed between the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S and the first player terminal device 12A to the first player terminal device 12A. Also, the measurement means 64 outputs (transmits) a measurement instruction for measuring the communication speed between the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S and the second player terminal device 12B to the second player terminal device 12B. Note that this measurement instruction includes the IP address acquired by the measurement means 64. Then, the process proceeds to the process in step SP64.

[0078] (Step SP64) The first player terminal device 12A receives a measurement instruction from the server device 10. In response, the first player terminal device 12A measures the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A and the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S based on each IP address included in the measurement instruction. Subsequently, the first player terminal device 12A transmits the measurement result of the communication speed to the server device 10. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP68.

[0079] (Step SP66) The second player terminal device 12B receives a measurement instruction from the server device 10. In response, the second player terminal device 12B measures the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B and the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S based on each IP address included in the measurement instruction. Subsequently, the second player terminal device 12B transmits the measurement result of the communication speed to the server device 10. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP68.

[0080] (Step SP68) The selection means 66 calculates the difference between the measurement result of the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A of one player P1 and each business game device 14 and the measurement result of the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B of another player P2 and each business game device 14 for each store. Note that the selection means 66 may calculate the delay time of the network delay from the measurement result of the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A of one player P1 and each business game device 14, calculate the delay time of the network delay from the measurement result of the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B of another player P2 and each business game device 14, and calculate the difference between these delay times for each store. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP70.

[0081] (Step SP70) The selection means 66 calculates the delay time of network delay from the measurement results of the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A of one player P1 and each business game device 14. Further, the selection means 66 calculates the delay time of network delay from the measurement results of the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B of another player P2 and each business game device 14. Subsequently, the selection means 66 calculates the total delay time by summing up the delay times between one player P1 and another player P2 for each store. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP72.

[0082] (Step SP72) The selection means 66 extracts one store with the smallest difference in the calculated communication speed among the plurality of stores S. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP74.

[0083] (Step SP74) The selection means 66 determines whether the difference in the extracted one store is equal to or greater than the first threshold value and whether the total delay time between one player P1 and another player P2 in the extracted one store is equal to or less than the second threshold value. If the determination is an affirmative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP75, and if the determination is a negative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP76.

[0084] (Step SP75) The selection means 66 selects the business game device 14 of the extracted one store as the business game device 14 of the common store to which one player P1 and another player P2 are connected. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP78.

[0085] (Step SP76) The selection means 66 selects the business game device 14 of the store with the shortest total delay time between one player P1 and another player P2 among the plurality of stores S as the business game device 14 of the common store. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP78.

[0086] (Step SP78) The selection means 66 determines whether or not the operation rate of the business game device 14 in a common store is equal to or higher than a third threshold value. When the determination is an affirmative determination, the process returns to the process of step SP72, and when the determination is a negative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP80. When returning to the process of step SP72, the selection means 66 selects a business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S, excluding the business game device 14 of the store S that has been selected once. Further, instead of determining whether or not the operation rate is equal to or higher than a threshold value, the selection means 66 may determine whether or not the business game device 14 is in a used state.

[0087] (Step SP80) The selection means 66 determines whether or not the difference in a common store is equal to or higher than a fourth threshold value. Note that the first threshold value and the fourth threshold value may be the same or different. From the viewpoint of maintaining equality, it is preferable that the fourth threshold value is less than the first threshold value. When the determination is an affirmative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP82, and when the determination is a negative determination, the process proceeds to the process of step SP84.

[0088] (Step SP82) The delay means of the server device 10 executes a delay process to slow down the communication speed of the faster one so that it becomes the same as the communication speed of the slower one between the first player terminal device 12A and the business game device 14 of the common store S, and between the first player terminal device 12A and the business game device 14 of the common store. Specifically, the delay means is provided with buffers in the server device 10, the business game device 14, etc., and controls the buffer for buffering. For example, if one player communicates and connects to the business game device 14 of the store S in Shizuoka from Tokyo, and another player communicates and connects to the business game device 14 of the above store S in Shizuoka from Osaka, and the network delay between Tokyo and Shizuoka is 15 msec, and the network delay between Osaka and Shizuoka is 30 msec, then the delay process is executed to slow down the communication speed between Tokyo and Shizuoka, which is the faster one, so that it becomes the same as the communication speed between Osaka and Shizuoka, which is the one with the longer network delay, that is, the slower one. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP84.

[0089] (Step SP84) The selection means 66 transmits (outputs) a connection instruction to the first player terminal device 12A and the second player terminal device 12B so as to communicate and connect to the business game device 14 of the common store S. This connection instruction includes the IP address of the business game device 14 of the common store S. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP86.

[0090] (Step SP86) The first player terminal device 12A receives a connection instruction from the server device 10. In response, the first player terminal device 12A establishes a communication connection with the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the selection means 66 based on the IP address included in the received connection instruction. Subsequently, the first player terminal device 12A transmits a game execution request to the business game device 14 with which the communication connection has been established. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP34.

[0091] (Step SP88) The second player terminal device 12B receives a connection instruction from the server device 10. In response, the second player terminal device 12B establishes a communication connection with the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the selection means 66 based on the IP address included in the received connection instruction. Subsequently, the second player terminal device 12B transmits a game execution request to the business game device 14 with which the communication connection has been established. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP34.

[0092] As described above, in the second embodiment, the game is a battle game in which one player P1 and another player P2 battle against each other, and the selection means 66 is based on the measurement result of the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A of one player P1 and each business game device 14, and the measurement result of the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B of the other player P2 and each business game device 14. Select the business game device 14 of the store common to the one player P1 and the other player P2. According to this configuration, it is possible to select the business game device 14 of the common store so that the communication speed, in other words, the delay time of the network delay is the same, and the play environment between players in the play of the battle game can be made substantially equal.

[0093] Also, in the second embodiment, when there is a difference between the measurement result of the communication speed between the first player terminal device 12A of one player P1 and the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the selection means 66, and the measurement result of the communication speed between the second player terminal device 12B of the other player P2 and the business game device 14 of the common store S selected by the selection means 66, the server device 10 has a delay means for executing a delay process of slowing down the communication speed of the faster communication speed so that it becomes the same as the communication speed of the slower communication speed. According to this configuration, even if there is a difference in the delay time of the network delay, the difference can be shortened by executing the delay process, and the unfairness between players in the play of the battle game can be suppressed.

[0094] <Third Embodiment> Finally, a game system according to the third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, it is different from the first embodiment in that it includes a game server device for executing a game, and one of the business game devices 14 of a store S and the game server device is selected according to the current time zone as a target for communication connection with the player terminal device 12.

[0095] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the game system 1C according to the third embodiment.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 8, the game system 1C according to the third embodiment includes, as the server device 10, a matching server device 10A and a game server device 10B. Note that the function of the game server device 10B may be provided in the matching server device 10A.

[0097] The matching server device 10A selects a business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S based on the measurement result of the measurement means 64, and outputs an instruction to the player terminal device 12 to communicate and connect to the selected business game device 14 of one store S.

[0098] The game server device 10B, similar to the business game device 14, processes the progress of the second game based on the operation information of the player received from the player terminal device 12, and transmits the progress processing result of the second game to the player terminal device 12.

[0099] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the game system 1C according to the third embodiment. Note that the content and order of the following processing can be changed as appropriate.

[0100] (Step SP100) After the process of step SP12, the selection means 66 of the matching server device 10A determines whether the current time is, for example, outside the earliest business hours among the business hours of the plurality of stores S. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to the process of step SP102, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to the process of step SP104.

[0101] (Step SP102) Based on the measurement results of the communication speed between the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S and the player terminal device 12, the selection means 66 selects a business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP108.

[0102] (Step SP104) The selection means 66 determines whether the average operating rate of the business game devices 14 of the plurality of stores S is equal to or greater than a threshold value. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to the process of step SP106, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to the process of step SP102.

[0103] (Step SP106) The selection means 66 selects the game server device 10B. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP108.

[0104] (Step SP108) The selection means 66 transmits (outputs) a connection instruction to the player terminal device 12 to communicatively connect to the selected device, that is, the business game device 14 or the game server device 10B. Note that this connection instruction includes the IP address of the business game device 14 or the game server device 10B. Then, the process proceeds to the process of step SP110.

[0105] (Step SP110) The player terminal device 12 receives a connection instruction from the server device 10. In response, the player terminal device 12 establishes a communication connection with the business game device 14 or the game server device 10B selected by the selection means 66 based on the IP address included in the received connection instruction. Then, the process proceeds to the same process as in step SP34.

[0106] As described above, in the third embodiment, there is provided a game server device 10B that advances the second game based on the player operation information received from the player terminal device 12 and transmits the progress result of the second game to the player terminal device 12. The selection means 66 selects, as a target for communication connection with the player terminal device 12, one of the business game device 14 and the game server device 10B of a store S according to the current time zone. According to this configuration, the first game and the second game can be smoothly provided to the player.

[0107] <Modification> Note that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. That is, those obtained by appropriately making design changes by those skilled in the art to the above embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. In addition, each element included in the above embodiments and the modification examples described later can be combined as long as it is technically possible, and those obtained by combining them are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

[0108] For example, in the first embodiment described above, the measurement means 64 first outputs a measurement instruction for the communication speed between the business game device 14 of a store S and the player terminal device 12 for each region in Japan. However, a measurement instruction for the communication speed between the business game device 14 of a store S and the player terminal device 12 may be output for each country. In this case, the measurement means 64 extracts the country with the fastest communication speed, and then outputs a measurement instruction for the communication speed between the business game device 14 of a store S and the player terminal device 12 for each region in the extracted country.

[0109] In the above first embodiment, the selection means 66 has been described as selecting the business game device of one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. However, the measurement results may be made viewable by the player, and the player may be able to select the business game device 14 by operating the input device of the player terminal device 12 based on the measurement results and the like.

[0110] In the above first embodiment, the business game device 14 communicatively connected to the player terminal device 12 has been described as performing the process of advancing the cloud game. However, a play video showing the play of the first game or the second game (cloud game) of another player being executed on the business game device 14 may be transmitted to the player terminal device 12. In this case, the player can view the play video of another player in real time on the player terminal device 12.

[0111] In the above first embodiment, the selection means 66 has been described as selecting one business game device in one store from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. However, two or more business game devices of one store may be selected from among the business game devices 14 of a plurality of stores S. In this case, the two or more business game devices distribute and process the process of advancing the cloud game. Further, instead of selecting the business game device 14, the selection means 66 may select an information processing device (excluding the business game device 14) installed in a plurality of stores S and connected to the business game device 14 and installed in one store and connected to the business game device 14.

[0112] In the above first embodiment, the case where the store table 60A is stored in the storage means 60 has been described. However, a group table in which stores S with the same network delay are grouped may be stored for each municipality in the store table 60A or separately from the store table 60A. In this case, the measurement means 64 may extract one representative store from among a plurality of stores S for each municipality based on the store table 60A and the group table.

[0113] Also, in the above-described third embodiment, the selection means 66 selects one of the business game device 14 and the game server device 10B according to the current time zone as the target to be communicatively connected to the player terminal device 12. However, according to the game situation, the connection destination may be switched between the business game device 14 and the game server device 10B. For example, the selection means 66 switches to the game server device 10B as the connection destination in a game situation where network delay is less likely to be a problem, and switches to the business game device 14 as the connection destination in a game situation where a large amount of video or the like is used and network delay is more likely to be a problem. Also, the player may be able to select one of the business game device 14 and the game server device 10B by operating the input device.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0114] 1A: Game system, 1B: Game system, 1C: Game system, 10: Server device, 10A: Matching server device (server device), 64: Measuring means, 66: Selection means

Claims

1. A game system including a server device capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, and game execution devices installed at a plurality of bases, The server device includes: a measuring means for, when receiving a request from the player terminal device, outputting a measurement instruction to the game execution device for measuring a communication speed between the game execution device of each of the plurality of bases and the player terminal device, and receiving a measurement result of the communication speed; a selection means for selecting a game execution device at one base from among the game execution devices at the plurality of bases based on the measurement result, and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device to connect to the selected game execution device at the one base; Equipped with a game execution device at one base that is connected for communication with said player terminal device performs a game progress process based on the player operation information received from said player terminal device, and transmits a result of the game progress process to said player terminal device; Game system.

2. A game system including a server device capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, and game execution devices installed at a plurality of bases, The server device includes: a measurement means for measuring a communication speed between the game execution devices at the plurality of bases and the player terminal device when a request is received from the player terminal device, and outputting a measurement instruction to the player terminal device to display a measurement result of the communication speed; Equipped with The player terminal device a selection means for accepting an operation of selecting a game execution device at one of the plurality of game execution devices at the bases from a player who has viewed the measurement result of the communication speed, and for connecting for communication to the game execution device at the one base selected by the player; Equipped with a game execution device at one base that is connected for communication with said player terminal device performs a game progress process based on the player operation information received from said player terminal device, and transmits a result of the game progress process to said player terminal device; Game system.

3. A game system including a server device capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, and game execution devices installed at a plurality of bases, The server device includes: a measurement means for measuring a communication speed between the game execution devices at the plurality of bases and the player terminal device when a request is received from the player terminal device, and outputting a measurement instruction to the game execution device for displaying a measurement result of the communication speed on the player terminal device; Equipped with The player terminal device a selection means for accepting an operation of selecting a game execution device at one of the plurality of game execution devices at the bases from a player who has viewed the measurement result of the communication speed, and for connecting for communication to the game execution device at the one base selected by the player; Equipped with a game execution device at one base that is connected for communication with said player terminal device performs a game progress process based on the player operation information received from said player terminal device, and transmits a result of the game progress process to said player terminal device; Game system.

4. An information processing device capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, a measuring means for, when receiving a request from the player terminal device, outputting a measurement instruction to the game execution device for measuring a communication speed between the game execution device and the player terminal device, the measurement instruction being sent to the game execution device, and receiving a measurement result of the communication speed; a selection means for selecting a game execution device at one base from among the game execution devices at the plurality of bases based on the measurement result, and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device to connect to the selected game execution device at the one base; An information processing device comprising:

5. A computer capable of communicating with a player terminal device operated by a player, a measuring means for, when receiving a request from the player terminal device, outputting a measurement instruction to the game execution device for measuring a communication speed between the game execution device and the player terminal device, the measurement instruction being sent to the game execution device, and receiving a measurement result of the communication speed; a selection means for selecting a game execution device at one base from among the game execution devices at the plurality of bases based on the measurement result, and outputting an instruction to the player terminal device to connect to the selected game execution device at the one base; A program to function as a

6. A computer capable of communicating with a server device and with game execution devices installed at a plurality of locations, the computer being operated by a player, a measurement means for measuring a communication speed between the game execution devices installed at the plurality of bases and the computer when a measurement instruction for measuring the communication speed and displaying a measurement result of the communication speed is received from the server device; a selection means for accepting an operation of selecting a game execution device at one of the plurality of game execution devices at the bases from a player who has viewed the measurement result of the communication speed, and for connecting for communication to the game execution device at the one base selected by the player; A program to function as a

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