Information Processing Apparatus and Program

Abstract

To ease geographical restrictions set to an object game under predetermined conditions.SOLUTION: "A game information processor" (for example, a user management server 10) includes: first designation means (for example, a first designation part 351) for designating a first player for satisfying a play position condition as a challenger (for example, a host) for hosting a cooperative play (for example, multi-play) of an object game (for example, Quest) permitting single play (for example, a solo play) only if the play position condition is satisfied; and second designation means (for example, a second designation part 352) for designating a second player (for example, a player who does not satisfy the play position condition) at the moment who applies for recruitment of the first player as a challenger (for example, a guest) who participates in a cooperative play of an object game hosted by the first player.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] An electronic game is known that introduces a mechanism for a plurality of mobile terminals to jointly process events specified according to the positions of the mobile terminals (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Specifically, monsters corresponding to a specific geographical range are respectively displayed on the screens of a plurality of mobile terminals existing within the specific geographical range, and parameters for changing the display of the monsters are synchronized by short-range wireless communication between the mobile terminals existing in the vicinity, so as to produce an effect that the monsters are attacked by a plurality of players.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the game described in Patent Document 1, the mobile terminals of a plurality of players who attack the monster need to be respectively present within the geographical range corresponding to the monster. Therefore, quite a few players who have difficulty enjoying the events related to the monster due to geographical restrictions will occur.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to relax the geographical restrictions set for the target game under predetermined conditions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] 〔A〕To solve the above problems, a "game information processing apparatus" according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a first specifying means for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition as a challenger who hosts a cooperative play of a target game that can be played alone only when the play position condition is satisfied; and a second specifying means for specifying a second player who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player. 〔B〕To solve the above problems, a "control method" of an information processing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a first specifying step for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition as a challenger who hosts a cooperative play of a target game that can be played alone only when the play position condition is satisfied; and a second specifying step for specifying a second player who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player. 〔C〕To solve the above problems, a "control program" according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize: a first specifying function for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition as a challenger who hosts a cooperative play of a target game that can be played alone only when the play position condition is satisfied; and a second specifying function for specifying a second player who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player. 〔D〕To solve the above problems, a control program recorded on a "computer-readable recording medium" according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize: a first specifying function for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition as a challenger who hosts a cooperative play of a target game that can be played alone only when the play position condition is satisfied; and a second specifying function for specifying a second player who has applied for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player.

[0007] The following technical limitations may be imposed on the "game information processing apparatus" in [A] above. Similarly, the same technical limitations may also be imposed on the "control method" in [B] above, the "control program" in [C] above, and the control program recorded on the "recording medium" in [D] above. · The second specifying means specifies the second player who does not satisfy the play position condition at the current time. · The second specifying means specifies the second player who has a location record indicating that he / she was located in the vicinity of the current location of the first player in the past. · The apparatus further includes a registering means for storing, in response to a request from a player, the location of the player as the location record in a storage means, and the second specifying means specifies the second player who has a location record indicating that he / she registered his / her location in the vicinity of the current location of the first player in the past. · The apparatus further includes an invalidating means for invalidating the location record stored in the storage means on the occasion of a predetermined event, and the second specifying means specifies the second player who has a location record not invalidated by the invalidating means. · The second specifying means specifies the second player who is not currently located in the vicinity of the current location of the first player. · The second specifying means specifies the second player who is currently located in the vicinity of the current location of the first player. · The play position condition is to be located in the vicinity of a predetermined position, and the apparatus further includes a setting means for setting participation parameters used when the second player participates in cooperative play of the target game according to the positional relationship between the predetermined position and the current position of the second player. · The setting means sets the participation parameters such that the second player who does not satisfy the play position condition is disadvantaged relative to a player who satisfies the play position condition. · The setting means sets the participation parameters taking further into account the past positional relationship between the predetermined position and the second player. · When there is a location record indicating that the setting means was located in the vicinity of the predetermined position in the past, the participation parameter is set to be relatively advantageous, and when there is no such location record, it is set to be relatively disadvantageous.

[0008] In this specification, the following terms are used. · "Game" refers to an electronic game provided in at least a partially online game service. In a broad sense, it refers to the game service itself, and in a narrow sense, it refers to an individual stage that constitutes the game service. · "Player" refers to a user of the game service. · "Play" means that a player progresses and plays a specific game. · "Single play" means play by a single player. · "Cooperative play" means synchronous play by a plurality of players in a cooperative relationship. In cooperative play, a player (host) who hosts the cooperative play of a specific game and recruits partners and a player (guest) who responds to the recruitment and participates in the cooperative play of the specific game form a cooperative relationship, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the players. · "Challenger" means a player who challenges to play a specific game. · "Proximity" refers to, for example, a range within a predetermined first distance from the location of a certain player. Also, "vicinity" refers to, for example, a range within a predetermined second distance from a predetermined position. In these exemplary cases, the magnitude relationship between the first distance and the second distance can be arbitrarily set. · "Predetermined position" refers to, for example, when a virtual space is formed in association with the real space and a spot position is defined within the virtual space, the position within the real space corresponding to the spot position. · The "play location condition" refers to the condition related to the location during play among the conditions required for a challenger who challenges to play a specific game. For example, it means that the location of the challenger is around a predetermined location. Note that there may be differences between the conditions required for a single-player challenger and the conditions required for each challenger in cooperative play. Also, there may be differences between the conditions required for a challenger who hosts cooperative play and the conditions required for each challenger who participates in the cooperative play. · "Event" refers to the factor for adding a new location record or deleting an existing location record. The factor for addition includes player instructions. The factors for deletion include player instructions, execution of regular processing, expiration of the validity period, and passage of the expiration date. · "Parameter" refers to at least a part of the setting data used for playing a specific game. A parameter is a concept that includes in-game parameters that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game parameters that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. Note that even if the object of play is the same, there may be differences between the parameters for a single-player challenger and the parameters for each challenger in cooperative play. Also, there may be differences between the host parameters for a challenger who hosts cooperative play and the participation parameters for each challenger who participates in the cooperative play. Furthermore, when there are multiple challengers who participate in a specific cooperative play, there may be differences in the participation parameters among the challengers. · The "application condition" refers to the condition related to the location among the conditions for which a privilege applied to the play of a predetermined game is granted. For example, it means that the location of the player is around a predetermined location. · "Location privilege" refers to the geographical privilege granted to a player who currently meets the application conditions. A location privilege is a concept that includes in-game privileges that mainly act on the progress of the game and out-game privileges that mainly act on the reward calculation after the game ends. · The "hypothetical location privilege" refers to the geographical privilege granted to players who do not currently meet the application conditions but have met them in the past. The hypothetical location privilege is a concept that includes in-game privileges that mainly affect the progress of the game and out-of-game privileges that mainly affect the reward calculation after the game ends. The content of the privilege can be set to be inferior to the location privilege. · The "pseudo-location privilege" refers to the geographical privilege that can be granted to a player who has not met the application conditions from the past to the present when playing cooperatively with other players. For example, when the location privilege or the hypothetical location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by a certain player, the pseudo-location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by other players. The pseudo-location privilege is a concept that includes in-game privileges that mainly affect the progress of the game and out-of-game privileges that mainly affect the reward calculation after the game ends. The content of the privilege can be set to be inferior to the location privilege and the hypothetical location privilege.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] In the present invention, when the cooperative play of a target game that can be played alone only when the play position condition is satisfied is recruited by a first player who satisfies the play position condition, the cooperative play of the target game is permitted to a second player who applied for the recruitment regardless of whether the second player satisfies the play position condition. In this regard, according to the present invention, the geographical restrictions set for the target game are relaxed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] [1. Embodiment] [1-1. Embodiment 1] [1-1-1. Outline] Embodiment 1 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is configured to relax the geographical restrictions set for the target game under predetermined conditions.

[0012] [1-1-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (for example, user management server 10) according to Embodiment 1 is a challenger (for example, host) who hosts a cooperative play (for example, multiplayer play) of a target game (for example, quest) that allows single play (for example, solo play) only when the play position condition is satisfied. A first specifying means (for example, first specifying unit 351) for specifying a first player who satisfies the play position condition, and a second player who applies for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger (for example, guest) who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player (for example, a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition). And a second specifying means (for example, second specifying unit 352) for specifying.

[0013] [1-2. Embodiment 2] [1-2-1. Outline] Embodiment 2 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 2 is configured to relax the geographical restrictions set for the target game under predetermined conditions.

[0014] [1-2-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (e.g., user management server 10) according to Embodiment 2 includes a registration means (e.g., registration unit 310) that stores the location of a player as a location record (e.g., a flag) in a storage means (e.g., storage unit 370) at the request of the player or regardless of the request, and a challenger (e.g., a player in solo play, a host in multiplayer) who challenges a target game (e.g., a quest) that can be played solo (e.g., solo play) only when a play position condition is satisfied. The first specifying means (e.g., first specifying unit 351) specifies a first player (e.g., a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition) who has a location record indicating that the play position condition has been satisfied in the past.

[0015] Further, the game information processing apparatus may be configured to further include a second specifying means (e.g., second specifying unit 352) that specifies the first player as a challenger who hosts a cooperative play of the target game by the first specifying means, and specifies a second player (e.g., a player who does not currently satisfy the play position condition) who applies for the recruitment of the first player as a challenger who participates in the cooperative play of the target game hosted by the first player.

[0016] [1-3. Embodiment 3] [1-3-1. Overview] Embodiment 3 relates to an electronic game that uses the geographical location of a terminal device or a player measured using GPS. The game information processing apparatus according to Embodiment 3 is configured to relax the criteria for imparting geographical effects under predetermined conditions.

[0017] [1-3-2. Game Information Processing Apparatus] The game information processing apparatus (for example, user management server 10) according to Embodiment 3 includes designation means (for example, designation unit 350) for designating a plurality of players including at least a first player and a second player whose application conditions for location privileges (for example, spot privileges) are not satisfied as challengers (for example, host or guest of multiplayer) for cooperative play (for example, multiplayer) of a predetermined game (for example, quest), and setting means (for example, setting unit 360) for applying a pseudo-location privilege inferior to the location privilege to the cooperative play by the second player when the location privilege is applied to the cooperative play by the first player.

[0018] When the application condition is to be located around a predetermined position at the current time, a fictitious location privilege that is inferior to the location privilege and superior to the pseudo-location privilege may be applied to the first player who does not satisfy the application condition at the current time but satisfied it in the past. At this time, the setting means may set the pseudo-location privilege applied to the cooperative play by the second player according to the content of the privilege applied to the cooperative play by the first player.

Example

[0019] [2. Example] [2-1. Overview] This example relates to a game service (service of the example) provided at least partially online. In the service of the example, an electronic game (broad sense of the game) is provided in which the player sequentially operates four monsters constituting a deck by a predetermined action and sequentially challenges a plurality of stages (narrow sense of the game) prepared in the game. Hereinafter, the stage is referred to as a "quest".

[0020] There are two play forms for playing the quest: solo play (single play) in which one player challenges alone and multiplayer (cooperative play) in which two to four players challenge cooperatively. In multiplayer, a cooperative relationship is formed between a host who hosts the multiplayer and recruits friends, and a guest who applies for the recruitment and participates in the multiplayer. The progress of the play is synchronized among the players.

[0021] There are two forms of recruitment by the host for guests: one is mainly targeted at unspecified players located in the vicinity, and the other is mainly targeted at specific players located at arbitrary positions. Hereinafter, the multiplayer that takes the former recruitment form is called short-distance multiplayer. Also, the multiplayer that takes the latter recruitment form is called SNS multiplayer.

[0022] [2-2. Features] [2-2-1. Spot Arrangement and Spot Bonuses] A virtual space is formed that is geographically associated with the real space, and the display (map display) of the virtual space on the screen is changed so as to be linked to the physical movement of the player in the real space. A large number of spots are arranged in the virtual space. And when a player is located around the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to a certain spot arrangement position, the spot bonuses (spot effects, play qualifications for spot-limited quests) set in association with the spot arrangement position are granted to the player.

[0023] [2-2-2. Flag Placement and Spot Bonuses] A player can register their own location in the real space as a location record. A flag is placed at the position in the virtual space corresponding to the recorded location. When there is a location record indicating that the player was located around the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to a certain spot arrangement position, an inferior bonus (simulated spot bonus) is granted to the player for the spot bonus set in association with the spot arrangement position. Note that the upper limit of the number of flags installed can be set arbitrarily. In the service of the example, the upper limit number is set to 1. The installed flags are invalidated by the player's deletion, installation of new flags, etc. Also, they are cleared periodically (for example, by daily batch processing).

[0024] [2-2-3. Types of Spot Bonuses] Spot bonuses include, for example, the following bonuses. (a) Obtain fragments of virtual currency items (objects that can be exchanged for a predetermined virtual currency item when a plurality of points are collected). (b) Obtain spot-limited monsters. (c) Obtain the play qualification for spot-limited quests. (d) Parameters mainly acting on the progress of quests (quest progress parameters, progress parameters) change in a favorable direction. (e) Parameters mainly acting on the calculation of clear rewards (reward calculation parameters, calculation parameters) change in a favorable direction.

[0025] The above (d) is, for example, the following bonus. These bonuses can be applied to the player's play when the player plays a predetermined quest after being given to the player. (d-1) The rank of the equipped emblems increases. (d-2) The hit points (HP), attack power, and speed of monsters of a predetermined attribute increase respectively. (d-3) The activation rate of lux kills (for example, shield, friendship combo critical, guide) increases.

[0026] The above (e) is, for example, the following bonus. These bonuses can be applied to the player's play when the player plays a predetermined quest after being given to the player. (e-1) When a quest is cleared, a part of the stamina is returned. (e-2) The experience value increases. (e-3) The obtained points increase. (e-4) The rack increases (i.e., the acquisition probability of the rack bonus increases). (e-5) The additional probability of treasure chests increases.

[0027] [2-2-4. Relaxation of play position conditions by multiplayer] There is a spot-limited quest that can be played solo only when located around the position corresponding to a specific spot (predetermined position) (i.e., when the play position condition is satisfied). In the service of the embodiment, a player with a record indicating that the play position condition has been satisfied in the past is permitted to challenge the play of the spot-limited quest. Therefore, a player who does not satisfy the play position condition at the current time may play the spot-limited quest alone or cooperatively.

[0028] Also, from the perspective of a guest participating in a multiplayer hosted by a host who satisfies the play position condition, regardless of whether the play position condition is satisfied or not, the guest is permitted to challenge the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest. At this time, the participation parameters (progress parameters, calculation parameters) for the guest are adjusted according to the positional relationship between the guest and the spot from the past to the present. Furthermore, from the perspective of a guest participating in a cooperative play hosted by a host who has a record indicating that the play position condition has been satisfied, regardless of whether the play position condition is satisfied or not, the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest is permitted. At this time, the participation parameters (progress parameters, calculation parameters) for the guest are adjusted according to the positional relationship between the host and the guest and the spot from the past to the present.

[0029] [2-2-5. Relaxation of privilege application conditions by multiplayer] In the service of the embodiment, when a spot effect (location privilege or fictional location privilege) is applied to a certain player who challenges multiplayer, a spot effect (fictional location privilege) inferior to these spot effects is applied to other players who challenge the multiplayer. At this time, according to the content of the spot effect applied to a certain player, the content of the spot effect applied to other players who do not meet the application conditions is adjusted. For example, when the spot effect is applied to a host who meets the application conditions of a certain spot effect, a spot effect inferior to the spot effect is applied to all guests who do not meet the application conditions. Also, when the spot effect is applied to a guest who meets the application conditions of a certain spot effect, a spot effect inferior to the spot effect is applied to the host and other guests who do not meet the application conditions.

[0030] [2-2-6. Summary] As described above, in the service of the embodiment, a large number of spots are arranged in a virtual space geographically associated with the real space, and privileges (for example, spot effects, play qualifications for spot-limited quests) are provided on the condition of being located around the position (predetermined position) in the real space corresponding to the spot arrangement position. On the other hand, the conditions (for example, time conditions, space conditions) under which the privilege is applied are relaxed in a predetermined case. In particular, when the privilege is applied to at least one player among a plurality of players, a privilege similar to the privilege is applied to other players who cooperate with the one player. With such a mechanism, the interest of the service of the embodiment is improved, and the challenge to quests by multiplayer is promoted.

[0031] [2-3. Configuration of the System of the Embodiment] [2-3-1. Network Configuration] [2-3-1-1. Overview] FIG. 1 illustrates the network configuration of the system of the embodiment. The system of the embodiment provides the service of the embodiment to users. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the system of the embodiment includes a user management server 10 that manages users of the services of the embodiment, a data management server 20 that manages data related to the services of the embodiment, and a plurality of user terminals 30 (30-1, 30-2,... 30-n) (n: natural number) used by a plurality of users respectively.

[0032] The user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 can exchange data through a communication network 40. The data management server 20 can access a built-in or externally connectable storage 21. The user management server 10 can access the data stored in the storage 21 via the data management server 20. The communication network 40 may include at least any one of existing networks such as the Internet, a mobile phone network, a wireless WAN (Wireless Wide Area Network), a wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), and Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0033] [2-3-1-2. User Management Server] The user management server 10 is a server device (computer) installed with a Web server program. The user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to obtain necessary data from the storage 21 in response to a request and provides (responds) it to the requester. Also, the user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to register necessary data in the storage 21 in response to a request. Note that a server system may be configured by linking a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the user management server 10 or to disperse the load on the user management server 10.

[0034] [2-3-1-3. Data Management Server] The data management server 20 is a server device (computer) on which a DB server program is installed, and together with the storage 21, constitutes a DBMS (DataBase Management System). The data management server 20 acquires necessary data from the storage 21 in response to a request and provides (responds) it to the requester. Also, the data management server 20 registers necessary data in the storage 21 in response to a request. The storage 21 is a storage device that stores data related to the services of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by linking a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the data management server 20 or distribute the load on the data management server 20. Also, a plurality of storage devices may be prepared and stored separately for each type of data stored in the storage 21, or the data stored in the storage 21 may be distributed and arranged in a plurality of storage devices.

[0035] [2-3-1-4. User Terminal] The user terminal 30 is a user device (computer) on which a predetermined game program is installed. In this embodiment, as the user device, a general-purpose portable device (for example, a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet terminal, tablet PC (personal computer), wearable device, etc.) or a general-purpose processing device (for example, a PC (personal computer), etc.) on which a program can be installed can be used.

[0036] [2-3-2. Hardware Functional Configuration] [2-3-2-1. Hardware Functional Configuration of Server Device] FIG. 2-1 illustrates the hardware functional configuration of the server device. The server device illustrated in FIG. 2-1 includes a control processing device 211 including an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) and a ROM (Read Only Memory), a main memory device 212 including a RAM (Random Access Memory), an auxiliary storage device 213 including an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an input device 214 including a mouse and a keyboard, an output device 215 including a display and a speaker, and a communication control device 216 including a network interface card (Network Interface Card).

[0037] The main memory device 212, the auxiliary storage device 213, the input device 214, the output device 215, and the communication control device 216 are each connected to the control processing device 211 via a bus line. The control processing device 211: (1) reads a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 213 onto the main memory device 212; (2) acquires data from at least one of the input device 214, the auxiliary storage device 213, and the communication control device 216 according to the instructions of the program; (3) calculates and processes the acquired data according to the procedures specified in the program; and then (4) provides the calculated and processed data to at least one of the auxiliary storage device 213, the output device 215, and the communication control device 216.

[0038] [2-3-2-2. Hardware Functional Configuration of User Device] FIG. 2-2 illustrates the hardware functional configuration of the user device. The user device illustrated in FIG. 2-2 includes an MPU 221 that constitutes a control processing unit, a RAM 231 that constitutes a main memory unit, a ROM 232 and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) 233 that constitute an auxiliary storage unit, a touch panel display 241 that constitutes an input unit and a display unit, a speaker 242 that constitutes an audio output unit, an NIC (Network Interface Controller) 251 and a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) chip 252 that constitute a communication control unit, and a GPS (Global Positioning It has at least the unit 261 of the System).

[0039] The RAM 231, the ROM 232, the EEPROM 233, the touch panel display 241, the speaker 242, the NIC 251, the wireless LAN chip 252, and the GPS unit 261 are connected to the MPU 221 via a bus line. The MPU 221 (1) reads the program stored in the ROM 232 or the EEPROM 233 onto the RAM 231, (2) acquires data from at least any one of the touch panel display 241, the EEPROM 233, the NIC 251, the wireless LAN chip 252, and the GPS unit 261 according to the instruction of the program, (3) calculates and processes the acquired data in the procedure specified by the program, and then (4) provides the calculated and processed data to at least any one of the EEPROM 233, the touch panel display 241, the speaker 242, the NIC 251, and the wireless LAN chip 252.

[0040] [2-3-3. Software Functional Configuration] FIG. 3 illustrates the software functional configuration of the system of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the user management server 10 includes a registration unit 310, a reception unit 320, a search unit 330, a provision unit 340, a designation unit 350, and a setting unit 360. The designation unit 350 includes a first designation unit 351 and a second designation unit 352. Further, the data management server 20 includes a storage unit 370.

[0041] The software functions of the user management server 10 and the data management server 20 are realized by installing an OS (Operating System) for server devices and a program operating on the OS in the server devices, respectively. The program to be installed in the server device may be distributed in a state recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto - Optical disk), flash memory, etc., and read from the recording medium into the server device, or may be supplied to the server device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via a communication network 40 or other communication network.

[0042] The software functions of the user terminal 30 are realized by installing an OS (Operating System) for the user device and a game program operating on the OS on the user device respectively. Note that instead of the game program, the software functions of the user terminal 30 can also be realized by installing a Web browser program operating on the above - mentioned OS for the user device and a game program (plugin) operating on the Web browser program on the user device respectively.

[0043] The OS for the user device is generally installed in the user device from the initial shipment. Other programs to be installed in the user device are generally supplied to the user device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via the communication network 40. Note that the above - mentioned other programs to be installed in the user device may be distributed in a state recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto - Optical disk), flash memory, etc., and read from the recording medium into the user device.

[0044] Upon an individual request by a player, the registration unit 310 registers the player's location or an approximate location thereof in the storage unit 370. A flag of the player is placed at a location in the virtual space corresponding to the location registered in the storage unit 370. Note that the configuration may be such that the location of the player or an approximate location thereof is registered in the storage unit 370 without depending on an individual request by the player. In addition, the registration unit 310 invalidates the flag stored in the storage unit 370 through a predetermined procedure or by a predetermined trigger. For example, it invalidates the flag through a procedure of erasing the flag by the player. For example, when a new flag is placed by the player and the number of placed flags reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1), the flag with an earlier placement time is invalidated. Also, for example, it invalidates the flag in the daily batch process.

[0045] In addition, upon an individual request by a player, the registration unit 310 registers, in association with the player, in the storage unit 370 a record with a spot effect associated with a specific spot. The spot effect registered in the storage unit 370 can be applied when the player later plays a quest. In addition, the registration unit 310 invalidates the spot effect stored in the storage unit 370 through a predetermined procedure or by a predetermined trigger. For example, when a new spot effect is acquired by the player and the number of acquired spot effects reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1), the spot effect with an earlier acquisition time is invalidated. Also, for example, it invalidates the spot effect in the daily batch process.

[0046] The reception unit 320 receives challenges for solo play and multiplayer play of quests from the user terminal 30 of a player having a challenge qualification. In particular, the reception unit 320 receives a multiplayer recruitment from the user terminal 30 of a player having a challenge qualification and receives an application for the recruitment from the user terminal 30 of a player who satisfies the participation conditions of the recruitment. In response to a request from the user terminal 30, the search unit 330 searches for those among the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage unit 370 that the player who is the request source satisfies the participation conditions, and returns the search result to the request source.

[0047] The providing unit 340 provides display data to the user terminal 30. Further, the providing unit 340 provides parameters for quest progress (progress parameters) and result display data to the user terminal 30 of the quest challenger. The specifying unit 350 includes a first specifying unit 351 that specifies a challenger for solo play and a challenger who hosts multiplayer, and a second specifying unit 352 that specifies a challenger who participates in multiplayer.

[0048] The first specifying unit 351 specifies, as a challenger who challenges the solo play of the spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. Note that for the latter, they do not necessarily need to satisfy the play position condition at the current time. · Players who satisfy the play position condition at the current time · Players who have set a flag at a position that satisfies the play position condition (that is, players who have satisfied the play position condition in the past)

[0049] Further, the first specifying unit 351 specifies, as a challenger (host) who hosts the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. Note that for the latter, they do not necessarily need to satisfy the play position condition at the current time. · Players who satisfy the play position condition at the current time · Players who have set a flag at a position that satisfies the play position condition (that is, players who have satisfied the play position condition in the past)

[0050] The second specifying unit 352 specifies, as a challenger (guest) who participates in the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest, for example, the following players. · Players who have applied for the recruitment by the host who satisfies the play position condition at the current time · Players who have applied for the recruitment by the host who has satisfied the play position condition in the past In this case, the guest does not necessarily need to satisfy the play position condition at the current time as long as the following conditions are satisfied. · Is currently located near the current location of the host. · It was located in the vicinity of the current location of the host in the past (i.e., a flag was set). · It is currently located in the vicinity of the past location of the host (i.e., the flag setting location). · It was located in the vicinity of the past location of the host (i.e., the flag setting location) in the past (i.e., a flag was set). · It has accessed a virtual waiting room specified by a URL obtained from an SNS or the like outside the system of the embodiment from the host.

[0051] The setting unit 360 sets parameters related to the quest (for example, progress parameters, calculation parameters) as follows, for example. · Set the parameters for a challenger who challenges a solo play, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challenger. · Set the parameters for a challenger (host) who hosts a multiplayer game, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challenger and the challengers (guests) participating in the multiplayer game respectively. In particular, when a specific spot effect is applied to a guest, an effect equal to or less than this is also applied to the host. · Set the parameters for a challenger (guest) participating in a multiplayer game, taking into account the spot effects applied to the challenger, the challenger (host) who hosts the multiplayer game, and the other challengers (guests) participating in the multiplayer game respectively. In particular, when a specific spot effect is applied to the host or another guest, an effect equal to or less than this is also applied to the guest.

[0052] Also, the setting unit 360 sets parameters related to the spot-limited quest (for example, progress parameters, calculation parameters) as follows, for example. · Set the parameters for challengers who challenge the solo play of the spot-limited quest so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the challenger and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the challenger is currently around a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the challenger was around a predetermined position in the past but is not around the predetermined position at the current time, the parameters for the challenger are set to be relatively disadvantageous. · Set the parameters for the challenger (host) who hosts the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the challenger and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the host is currently around a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the host was around a predetermined position in the past but is not around the predetermined position at the current time, the parameters for the host are set to be relatively disadvantageous. · Set the parameters for the challengers (guests) who participate in the multiplayer of the spot-limited quest so that differences occur depending on the positional relationship between the host of the multiplayer and the spot from the past to the present and the positional relationship between the guest and the spot from the past to the present. In particular, when the host is currently around a predetermined position, it becomes relatively advantageous, and when the host was around a predetermined position in the past but is not around the predetermined position at the current time, the parameters for the guest are set to be relatively disadvantageous. Also, when the guest is currently around a predetermined position, when the host was around a predetermined position in the past but is not around the predetermined position at the current time, and when the host has never been around a predetermined position from the past to the present, the parameters for the guest are set so that the degrees of advantage are reflected in this order.

[0053] [2-3-4. Database Configuration] Figure 4 illustrates the database configuration in the system of the embodiment. Player management information (Figure 4(a)) is added at the initial setting by each player and updated before or after the start or end of the quest play. Spot definition information (Figure 4(b)), s The pot type definition information (Figure 4(c)), the spot effect setting information (Figure 4(d)), and the flag status definition information (Figure 4(f)) are added or deleted by the service operator of the example at any time. The flag management information (Figure 4(e)) and the spot effect management information (Figure 4(g)) are added through a predetermined procedure by each player and cleared periodically. The virtual waiting room information (Figure 4(h)) and the virtual waiting management information (Figure 4(i)) are generated when accepting a multiplayer recruitment.

[0054] (1) Player management information The storage unit 370 stores player management information that manages various parameters related to each player for each player. As illustrated in Figure 4(a), the player management information associates at least an "experience value" and a "player rank" with a "player ID" unique to the player.

[0055] (2) Spot definition information The storage unit 370 stores spot definition information that defines various parameters related to each spot for each spot. As illustrated in Figure 4(b), the spot definition information associates at least a "spot ID", a "spot type ID", a "spot position", and an "effect type ID" with the "spot ID". The "spot position" indicates the spot placement position in the virtual space. In this example, since the virtual space is geographically associated with the real space, the "spot position" is specified by data representing the geographical position of the real space (for example, latitude, longitude).

[0056] (3) Spot type definition information The storage unit 370 stores spot type definition information that defines various parameters related to each spot type for each spot type. As illustrated in Figure 4(c), the spot type definition information associates at least a "spot icon path" with the "spot type ID". The "Spot Icon Compass" is information that contributes to the identification of spot icons (images) that are displayed at the spot placement positions and represent the types of spots.

[0057] (4) Spot effect setting information The storage unit 370 stores spot effect setting information for setting spot effects for each effect type. As illustrated in FIG. 4(d), the spot effect setting information associates "effect type ID" with "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",.... "Value 1", "value 2", "value 3",... are respectively the values after the change of specific parameters (progress parameters or calculation parameters) used in the services of the embodiments or the values used for the change process of the parameters. Note that "value 1", "value 2", "value 3" may also be used as the values for parameter settings when spot effects, fictitious spot effects, and pseudo-spot effects are respectively applied.

[0058] (5) Flag management information The storage unit 370 stores flag management information for managing various parameters related to the flags installed by each player for each player. As illustrated in FIG. 4(e), the flag management information associates at least "player ID" with "flag state ID", "flag position", and "invalid flag". "Flag position" indicates the flag installation position in the virtual space. In this embodiment, since the virtual space is geographically associated with the real space, the "flag position" is specified by data representing the geographical position of the real space (for example, latitude, longitude). "Invalid flag" indicates that the flag is invalid when it is significant. Note that when a flag is to be installed for a specific spot, "spot position" may be configured to be set in "flag position", or "spot ID" may be configured to be stored instead of "flag position". In the latter configuration, the installation position of the flag is specified by the placement position of the spot identified by the "spot ID".

[0059] (6) Flag status definition information The storage unit 370 stores flag status definition information that defines various parameters related to each flag status for each flag status. As illustrated in FIG. 4(f), the flag status definition information associates at least a "flag icon path" with a "flag status ID". The "flag icon path" is information that helps identify a flag icon (image) that is displayed at the flag installation position and represents the status of the flag.

[0060] (7) Spot effect management information The storage unit 370 stores spot effect management information that manages various parameters related to spot effects granted through an acquisition procedure by each player for each player. As illustrated in FIG. 4(g), the spot effect management information associates at least a "status" and a "disable flag" with a "player ID" and a "spot ID". The "status" indicates the application status of the spot effect (e.g., acquired / applied). If there is an upper limit on the number of applications, the remaining number of applications may also be indicated. The "disable flag" indicates that the spot effect is invalid when it is significant. Note that the "disable flag" becomes significant, for example, when the number of applications reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1) or when a new spot effect is acquired and the number of acquisitions reaches the upper limit number (in the service of the embodiment, 1).

[0061] (8) Virtual waiting room information The storage unit 370 stores virtual waiting room information that records various parameters related to the virtual waiting room corresponding to each multi-play recruitment for each multi-play recruitment. As illustrated in FIG. 4(h), the virtual waiting room information associates at least a "recruiter" (player ID), a "multi-play classification", "participation conditions", and a "status" with a "virtual waiting room ID". The "multiplayer category" indicates, for example, near-field multi or SNS multi. The "participation conditions" are, for example, time conditions, spatial conditions (geographical conditions), passwords, etc. The "status" indicates the recruitment status of multiplayer (for example, recruiting / recruitment ended).

[0062] (9) Virtual waiting management information The storage unit 370 stores virtual waiting management information for managing applicants for recruitment for each virtual waiting room. As illustrated in FIG. 4(i), the virtual waiting management information associates at least a single or a plurality of "applicants" (player IDs) with the "virtual waiting room ID".

[0063] [2-4. In-game actions before quest execution] [2-4-1. Screen display update procedure] FIG. 5 illustrates a screen display update procedure by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 5 shows a procedure in which player A holds the user terminal 30a and moves in the real space, and the map display on the screen of the user terminal 30a is updated at any time. [S505] The user terminal 30a receives a map display instruction operation by player A. The map display instruction operation is, for example, a tap operation on a "map display" menu displayed by a tap operation on a certain tab arranged on the home screen. [S510] The user terminal 30a identifies the current position (current location). The current position is identified using the GPS unit 261. [S515] The user terminal 30a requests the user management server 10 to provide display data. The request includes position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30a. [S520] The user management server 10 provides display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data includes at least one or more map image data (or their URLs) representing a map of a predetermined range in a virtual space corresponding to a certain range including the current position of the user terminal 30a, and icon data (or their URLs) of objects (in the service of the embodiment, spots arranged in a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m centered on the current position and the flag of the player installed in the substantially circular area) to be displayed in the predetermined range on the map and other parameters. [S525] The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. A map of a predetermined range is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a, and icons of objects (such as spots and flags) are arranged at the corresponding positions on the map. [S530] When a predetermined time has elapsed, return to the above [S510]. Thereafter, as long as "map display" is selected on the user terminal 30a, the procedures of [S510] to [S525] are repeated every predetermined time.

[0064] [2-4-2. Flag Installation Procedure] FIG. 6 illustrates the flag installation procedure by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the procedure in which player A holds the user terminal 30a and moves in the real space while installing a flag at a position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location. [S605] The user terminal 30a receives a flag installation instruction operation by player A. The flag installation instruction operation is, for example, a tap operation on a flag installation command. [S610] The user terminal 30a identifies the current position (the current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. [S615] The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to install a new flag. The instruction includes position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30a. 〔S620〕The user management server 10 updates the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, new flag management information is added in association with the player ID of player A, and the position indicated by the position data is set as the "flag position". In addition, if there is flag management information of a valid flag associated with the player A, the "invalidated flag" is updated (validated) and invalidated. 〔S625〕The user management server 10 provides display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data is the same as that provided in [S520] (Fig. 5). 〔S630〕The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. A map of a predetermined range is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a, and an icon of a newly installed flag is arranged at the corresponding position on the map.

[0065] Note that, only when a spot is displayed on the map (when located in the vicinity of the position corresponding to the spot placement position), a configuration may be adopted in which a flag is installed for the spot. In this case, the user terminal 30a may receive an operation instruction for installing a flag on the spot by player A through a tap operation on the flag installation command displayed by a tap operation on the icon of the spot displayed on the map. The user management server 10 may set the "spot position" of the spot arranged in the vicinity of the position indicated by the position data as the "flag position".

[0066] [2-4-3. Flag deletion procedure] Fig. 7 illustrates a flag deletion procedure according to the system of the embodiment. Fig. 7 shows a procedure in which player A operates the user terminal 30a to delete an installed flag. 〔S705〕The user terminal 30a receives an operation instruction for deleting a flag by player A . The operation instruction for deleting a flag is, for example, a tap operation on the flag deletion command displayed by a tap operation on the installed flag menu. 〔S710〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to erase a flag. The instruction includes data for specifying the target flag. If the upper limit of the number of flags set is 1, then since it is only necessary to erase the currently valid flag, data capable of specifying the target flag is not essential. 〔S715〕The user management server 10 updates the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, it updates (validates) the "invalidated flag" of the flag management information of the flag to be erased associated with the player A (for example, the target flag, the latest flag) and invalidates it. 〔S720〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the update result. 〔S725〕The user terminal 30a displays the update result.

[0067] [2-4-4. Spot effect acquisition procedure] Fig. 8 illustrates the spot effect acquisition procedure by the system of the embodiment. Fig. 8 shows the procedure for the player A to operate the user terminal 30a to acquire the spot effect of the spots arranged around the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location. 〔S805〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by the player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on the icon of the spot arranged on the map. 〔S810〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot effect acquisition operation by the player A. The spot effect acquisition operation is, for example, a tap operation on the spot effect acquisition command displayed by the spot designation operation. 〔S815〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to acquire the spot effect. The instruction includes data capable of specifying the target spot. 〔S820〕The user management server 10 updates the spot effect management information (Fig. 4(g)) stored in the storage 21. Specifically, new spot effect management information is added in association with the player ID of player A. In addition, if there is valid spot effect management information associated with the player A, the "invalidated flag" is updated (made significant) and invalidated. 〔S825〕The user management server 10 provides display data to the user terminal 30a. The display data is the same as that provided in [S520] (Fig. 5). 〔S830〕The user terminal 30a updates the screen display. The icon of the target spot arranged at the corresponding position on the map displayed on the screen of the user terminal 30a changes.

[0068] [2-5. Procedures related to quest execution] [2-5-1. Solo play execution procedure] Fig. 9 illustrates the execution procedure of solo play by the system of the embodiment. Fig. 9 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by the user terminal 30a of player A. 〔S905〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of solo play by player A. 〔S910〕The user terminal 30a arranges a deck according to the operation of player A. 〔S915〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to challenge the quest by solo play according to the operation of player A. 〔S920〕The user management server 10 designates a challenger for the quest. Here, player A is designated as the challenger to challenge the solo play.

[0069] 〔S925〕The user management server 10 sets quest progress parameters for the challenger. Here, the spot effects applied to the challenger are taken into account. Specifically, when the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) corresponding to the current position of the challenger is stored, the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applied spot effect Specify (「Value 1」,「Value 2」,「Value 3」,…). Also, when flag management information (Figure 4(e)) is stored in association with the challenger, specify spot definition information (Figure 4(b)) by the 「flag position」, specify spot effect setting information (Figure 4(d)) by the 「effect type ID」, and specify the applied spot effect (「Value 1」,「Value 2」,「Value 3」,…). Also, when spot effect management information (Figure 4(g)) is stored in association with the challenger, specify spot definition information (Figure 4(b)) by the 「spot ID」, specify spot effect setting information (Figure 4(d)) by the 「effect type ID」, and specify the applied spot effect (「Value 1」,「Value 2」,「Value 3」,…). Then, if there is a target parameter among the default progress parameters, update this using at least any one of 「Value 1」,「Value 2」,「Value 3」,…. As a result, the target progress parameter increases. In the case of a spot-limited quest, further consider the positional relationship between the spot and the challenger and adjust the increase amount or increase rate of the progress parameter.

[0070] 〔S930〕The user management server 10 provides the quest progress parameter to the user terminal 30a. 〔S935〕The user terminal 30a progresses the quest. The quest progress parameter is used for the progress of the quest. 〔S940〕After the quest ends, the user terminal 30a notifies the user management server 10 of the end of the quest.

[0071] 〔S945〕The user management server 10 sets parameters for calculating rewards for challengers. Here, the spot effects applied to the challengers are taken into account. Specifically, similar to [S925], the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are identified. Then, if there are target parameters among the default calculation parameters, these are updated using at least one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",.... As a result, the target calculation parameter increases. In the case of a spot-limited quest, the increase amount or increase rate of the calculation parameter is adjusted by further taking into account the positional relationship between the spot and the challenger. Note that the setting process of [S945] may be configured to be executed together with [S925] before the start of the quest progress.

[0072] 〔S950〕The user management server 10 updates the player data stored in the storage 21. For example, the "experience value" and "player rank" in the player information (Figure 4(a)) corresponding to the challenger are increased according to the reward calculation parameters. 〔S955〕The user management server 10 provides the result display data to the user terminal 30a. 〔S960〕The user terminal 30a displays the result including the obtained rewards. For example, the state in which the data before the update changes to the data after the update by a predetermined visual effect is shown.

[0073] [2-5-1-1. When the challenger is currently located near the spot] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in solo play. In the example shown in Figure 10, the challenger 1020 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1010 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the challenger is given spot privileges (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests) derived from the current location.

[0074] (1) Application of spot effects to the play of normal quests When a solo play of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 10, a spot effect may be applied to the challenger. FIG. 11 illustrates a play start procedure of a normal quest by the system of the embodiment. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9). 〔S1105〕The user terminal 30a receives an instruction operation for displaying a quest selection screen by player A. The instruction for displaying the quest selection screen is, for example, a tap operation on a "Quest" button arranged on the home screen. 〔S1110〕The user terminal 30a receives a quest selection operation by player A. The quest selection operation is a series of operations for selecting any one quest from a list of quests or a classification of quests classified from a predetermined viewpoint. Note that only quests that player A satisfies the play conditions are displayed as selectable in the list or classification of quests. The play conditions are, for example, at least any one of time conditions, spatial conditions (geographical conditions), proficiency conditions, etc.

[0075] In [S925] (FIG. 9), the user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for the challenger, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to the challenger. Also, in [S945] (FIG. 9), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the challenger, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to the challenger.

[0076] (2) Play of a spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIG. 10, a solo play of a spot-limited quest is possible. FIG. 12 illustrates a play start procedure of a spot-limited quest by the system of the embodiment. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9). 〔S1205〕The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on an icon of a surrounding spot arranged on a map. In the service of the embodiment, the icon of the spot is arranged on the map displayed on the user terminal 30a only when the spot is arranged within a predetermined range centered on the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current position. 〔S1210〕The user terminal 30a receives a quest selection operation by player A. The quest selection operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot-limited quest execution command displayed by the spot designation operation.

[0077] [2-5-1-2. When the challenger was present near the spot in the past] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in solo play. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the challenger was present in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1310 (for example, inside a substantially circular region with a radius of 50 m). That is, a challenger flag 1320 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of a spot effect, eligibility to play a spot-limited quest) derived from the past location is given to the challenger.

[0078] (1) Application of the fictitious spot effect to the play of a normal quest When solo play of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 13, the fictitious spot effect may be applied to the challenger. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (FIG. 9).

[0079] The user management server 10 sets, in [S925] (FIG. 9), the quest progress parameters for the challenger in consideration of at least the spot effect (fictitious spot effect) applied to the challenger. Also, in [S945] (Fig. 9), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effect (simulated spot effect) applied to the challengers.

[0080] (2) Playing a spot-limited quest In the positional relationship shown in Fig. 13, solo play of the spot-limited quest is possible. Fig. 14 illustrates the play start procedure for a spot-limited quest by the system of the embodiment. After a spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure in Fig. 14, the process proceeds to the solo play execution procedure (Fig. 9). [S1405] The user terminal 30a receives a flag designation operation by player A. The flag designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a flag menu arranged on the screen. Note that the flag menu becomes active only when a flag is installed. [S1410] The user terminal 30a receives a spot designation operation by player A. The spot designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot designation command displayed by the flag designation operation. [S1415] The user terminal 30a receives a quest designation operation by player A. The quest designation operation is, for example, a tap operation on a spot-limited quest execution command displayed by the spot designation operation. Note that the spot-limited quest execution command is displayed only when a spot-limited quest is prepared in association with the designated spot.

[0081] [2-5-2. Multiplayer execution procedure] Fig. 15 illustrates the execution procedure for multiplayer by the system of the embodiment. Fig. 15 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by player A, the recruitment for multiplayer by player A is started, and player B applies for the recruitment. [S1505] The user terminal 30a arranges a deck according to the operation of player A. [S1510] The user terminal 30a receives a challenge instruction operation by player A. [[S1515]] The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to challenge the quest through multiplayer according to the operation of player A. [[S1520]] The user management server 10 designates challengers for the quest. Here, players A and B are designated as challengers (host, guest) who challenge through multiplayer respectively.

[0082] [[S1525]] The user management server 10 sets quest progress parameters for the host and the guest respectively. Here, the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers are taken into account. Specifically, when the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) corresponding to the current position of a certain challenger is stored, the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Also, when the flag management information (Fig. 4(e)) is stored in association with a certain challenger, the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) is specified by the "flag position", the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Also, when the spot effect management information (Fig. 4(g)) is stored in association with a certain challenger, the spot definition information (Fig. 4(b)) is specified by the "spot ID", the spot effect setting information (Fig. 4(d)) is specified by the "effect type ID", and the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are specified. Then, if there is a target parameter among the default progress parameters, this is updated using at least any one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",.... As a result, the target progress parameter increases. These processes are performed for each of all the challengers. In the case of a spot-limited quest, the increase amount or increase rate of the progress parameter is adjusted by further taking into account the positional relationship between the spot and the host from the past to the present and the positional relationship between the spot and the guest from the past to the present.

[0083] 〔S1530〕The user management server 10 provides the quest progress parameters to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b, respectively. 〔S1535a~c〕The user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b each progress a quest. Quest progress parameters are used for quest progress. The user management server 10 connects to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b respectively, relays the exchange of data including operation information, and synchronizes the progress of the quest.

[0084] 〔S1540〕After the quest ends, the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest. Here, the spot effects applied to at least some of the challengers are taken into account. Specifically, similar to [S1525], the applied spot effects ("value 1", "value 2", "value 3",...) are identified respectively, and if there are target parameters among the default calculation parameters, at least one of "value 1", "value 2", "value 3",... is used to update this, and the process of increasing the target calculation parameter is performed for each of all the challengers. In the case of a spot-limited quest, the past-to-present positional relationship between the spot and the host and the past-to-present positional relationship between the spot and the guest are further taken into account respectively to adjust the increase amount or increase rate of the calculation parameter. Note that the setting process of [S1540] may be configured to be executed before the start of the quest progress in combination with [S1525].

[0085] 〔S1545〕The user management server 10 updates the player data stored in the storage 21. For example, the "experience value" and "player rank" in the player information (Figure 4(a)) corresponding to the host and the guest respectively are increased according to the reward calculation parameters. 〔S1550〕The user management server 10 provides the result display data to the user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b, respectively. 〔S1555a,b〕The user terminal 30a and the user terminal 30b each display the result including the obtained reward. For example, the state in which the data before the update changes to the data after the update by a predetermined visual and auditory effect is shown.

[0086] [2-5-2-1. Near-distance Multi Execution Procedure] FIG. 16 illustrates the recruitment procedure for near-distance multi by the system of the embodiment. Further, FIG. 17 illustrates the application procedure for near-distance multi by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 16 shows the procedure after a quest is selected by Player A. FIG. 17 shows the procedure following FIG. 16. 〔S1605〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of multiplayer play by Player A. 〔S1610〕The user terminal 30a receives the selection of near-distance multi by Player A. 〔S1615〕The user terminal 30a arranges a temporary deck according to the operation of Player A. 〔S1620〕The user terminal 30a receives the recruitment instruction operation for near-distance multi by Player A. In the service of the embodiment, Player A can set a password (a three-digit number sequence) when recruiting for multiplayer play. When the password is set, the setting is also received. 〔S1625〕The user terminal 30a identifies the current position (the current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. 〔S1630〕The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to recruit for near-distance multi. The instruction may include the set password and position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30a. 〔S1635〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the recruitment for near-distance multi. 〔S1640〕The user management server 10 registers new virtual waiting room information (FIG. 4(h)) and virtual waiting management information (FIG. 4(i)) in the storage 21 and creates a virtual waiting room. At this time, the "multiplayer play classification" is near-distance multi, the "participation condition" is to be located in the vicinity of the position indicated by the position data included in the recruitment instruction, and the "status" is recruiting is. Also, when the recruitment instruction includes a password, the password also constitutes the "participation condition".

[0087] [S1705] The user terminal 30b receives a search instruction operation for short-range multi by player B. When player B designates a password (a three-digit number sequence) during the recruitment search, the designation is also received accordingly. [S1710] The user terminal 30b identifies the current position (the current location). To identify the current position, the GPS unit 261 is used. [S1715] The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to search for recruitments that meet the participation conditions. The instruction may include the designated password and position data indicating the current position of the user terminal 30b. [S1720] The user management server 10 identifies information regarding recruitments for short-range multi that player B meets the participation conditions and play conditions from the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage 21. The play conditions are the conditions set for the quest (for example, the player rank, play location, play time, etc. meet the predetermined conditions). [S1725] The user management server 10 provides the search results to the user terminal 30b. [S1730] The user terminal 30b selects and notifies one of the short-range multi recruitments according to the operation by player B to the user management server 10. [S1735] The user management server 10 permits the user terminal 30b to apply for the selected recruitment. [S1740] The user terminal 30b composes a temporary deck according to the operation by player B. [S1745] The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to apply for the selected recruitment according to the application instruction operation by player B. [S1750] The user management server 10 adds the player ID of player B to the virtual waiting management information (Fig. 4(i)) stored in the storage 21 and accepts the application from player B for the selected recruitment. [S1755] The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the application.

[0088] [2-5-2-1-1. When the host is currently located near the spot] FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi-play. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the host 1820 is currently located in the vicinity of a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1810 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given spot privileges derived from the current location (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests).

[0089] Also, guests 1830a and 1830b are currently located near the current location of the host 1820. Guest 1830a is currently located in the vicinity of the predetermined position. On the other hand, guest 1830b is not currently located in the vicinity of the predetermined position. In this case, guest 1830a is given spot privileges derived from the current location (the same privileges as those given to the host 1820). On the other hand, guest 1830b is given pseudo-spot privileges equivalent to the spot privileges given to the host 1820 (privileges inferior to the spot privileges).

[0090] FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi-play. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the host 1920 is currently located in the vicinity of a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 1910 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given spot privileges derived from the current location (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests).

[0091] Also, a guest was located near the current location of the host 1920 in the past. That is, That is, guest flags 1930a and 1930b are respectively installed in the vicinity of the position in the virtual space corresponding to the current location of host 1920. The guest with flag 1930a was located in the vicinity of a predetermined position in the past but is not currently located there. On the other hand, the guest with flag 1930b has not been located in the vicinity of the predetermined position from the past to the present. In this case, a fictitious privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) derived from the past location is granted to the former. On the other hand, a pseudo-privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) similar to the spot privilege granted to host 1920 is granted to the latter. Note that it is preferable that the fictitious privilege granted to the former is a superior privilege to the pseudo-privilege granted to the latter.

[0092] (1) Application of Fictitious Spot Effect to Normal Quest Play When the short-distance multi of the normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIGS. 18 and 19, the spot effect can be applied to the host. Also, any one of the spot effect, fictitious spot effect, and pseudo-spot effect can be applied to the guest respectively. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after the recruitment and application of the short-distance multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the execution procedure of the multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0093] The user management server 10 sets the quest progress parameters for challengers in [S1525] (FIG. 15), taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers. Also, the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest in [S1540] (FIG. 15), taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0094] (2) Play of Spot-Limited Quest In the positional relationship shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, short-range multi in the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, through the recruitment and application of short-range multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the execution procedure of multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0095] [2-5-2-1-2. When the host has been located near the spot in the past] FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-range multi. In the example shown in FIG. 20, the host 2030 has been located in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2010 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the flag 2020 of the host 2030 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host 2030 is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effect, play qualification for spot-limited quest) derived from the past location.

[0096] Also, near the current location of the host 2030, the guest 2040 is currently located. The guest 2040 is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, the guest 2040 is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) according to the fictitious spot privilege given to the host 2030.

[0097] FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-range multi. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the host has been located in the past near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2110 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the flag 2120 of the host is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effect, play qualification for spot-limited quest) derived from the past location.

[0098] Also, near the past location of the host, guests 2130a, 2130b are currently located It is happening. Guest 2130a is currently located around a predetermined position. On the other hand, Guest 2130b is not currently located around the predetermined position. In this case, the former is given a spot privilege (a privilege superior to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host) derived from the current location. On the other hand, Guest 2130b is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host.

[0099] Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in short-distance multi. In the example shown in Figure 22, the host was previously located around a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of Spot 2210 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, the host flag 2220 is installed around the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests) derived from the past location.

[0100] Also, guests were previously located near the past location of the host. That is, guest flags 2230a and 2230b are installed near the installation position of the host flag 2220, respectively. The guest with flag 2230a was previously located around the predetermined position but is not currently located there. On the other hand, the guest with flag 2230b has not been located around the predetermined position from the past to the present. In this case, the former is given a fictitious spot privilege (a privilege equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host) derived from the past location. On the other hand, the latter is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) equivalent to the fictitious spot privilege granted to the host.

[0101] (1) Application of spot effects in normal quests When short-distance multi of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, a fictitious spot effect can be applied to the host. Also, any one of a spot effect, a fictitious spot effect, and a pseudo-spot effect can be applied to the guest, respectively. After the normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after the recruitment and application for short-distance multi-play according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the procedure for executing multi-play (FIG. 15) is advanced to.

[0102] (2) Play of spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of FIGS. 20 to 22, short-distance multi-play of the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 14, after the recruitment and application for short-distance multi-play according to the procedures of FIGS. 16 and 17, the procedure for executing multi-play (FIG. 15) is advanced to.

[0103] [2-5-2-2. SNS multi-play execution procedure] FIG. 23 illustrates the recruitment procedure for SNS multi-play by the system of the embodiment. Further, FIG. 24 illustrates the application procedure for SNS multi-play by the system of the embodiment. FIG. 23 is the procedure after the quest is selected. FIG. 24 is the procedure following FIG. 23. [S2305] The user terminal 30a receives the selection of multi-play by player A. [S2310] The user terminal 30a receives the selection of SNS multi-play by player A. [S2315] The user terminal 30a composes a temporary deck according to the operation of player A. [S2320] The user terminal 30a instructs the user management server 10 to recruit for SNS multi-play. [S2325] The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the recruitment for SNS multi-play. The notification may include a URL to which a start command of the SNS program and data capable of specifying the recruitment are added. [S2330] The user terminal 30a directly sends a message including the above URL to the user terminal 30b outside the system of the embodiment, either directly or indirectly. [S2335] The user terminal 30a instructs the start of the recruitment for the above SNS multi-play by accessing and specifying the above URL to the user management server 10. 〔S2340〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the start of the SNS multi-recruitment. 〔S2345〕The user management server 10 registers new virtual waiting room information (Fig. 4(h)) and virtual waiting management information (Fig. 4(i)) in the storage 21 and creates a virtual waiting room. At this time, the "multiplayer classification" is SNS multi, the "participation condition" is application by access specifying the above URL, and the "status" is recruitment in progress.

[0104] 〔S2405〕The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to search for a virtual waiting room that meets the participation conditions by accessing and specifying the above URL. 〔S2410〕The user management server 10 identifies information regarding the SNS multi-recruitment for which player B meets the participation conditions and play conditions from among the virtual waiting room information stored in the storage 21. The play conditions are the conditions set for the quest (for example, the player rank, play position, play time, etc. meet the predetermined conditions). Here, the recruitment specified by the above URL is identified. 〔S2415〕The user management server 10 provides the search results to the user terminal 30b. 〔S2420〕The user terminal 30b selects the identified SNS multi-recruitment in response to an operation by player B to the user management server 10. 〔S2425〕The user management server 10 permits the user terminal 30b to apply for the selected recruitment. 〔S2430〕The user terminal 30b composes a temporary deck in response to an operation by player B. 〔S2435〕The user terminal 30b instructs the user management server 10 to apply for the selected recruitment in response to an application instruction operation by player B. 〔S2440〕The user management server 10 adds the player ID of player B to the virtual waiting management information (Fig. 4(i)) stored in the storage 21 and accepts the application from player B for the selected SNS multi. 〔S2445〕The user management server 10 notifies the user terminal 30a of the acceptance of the application.

[0105] [When the host is currently located near the spot] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in SNS multi. In the example shown in FIG. 25, the host 2520 is currently located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of the spot 2510 (for example, inside a substantially circular region with a radius of 50 m). In this case, the host is given spot privileges derived from the current location (for example, application of spot effects, eligibility to play spot-limited quests).

[0106] On the other hand, the guest 2530 is not currently located near the current location of the host 2520. Also, the guest 2530 is not currently located near the predetermined position. In this case, the guest 2530 is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the spot privilege) corresponding to the spot privilege given to the host 2520.

[0107] (1) Application of spot effects in normal quests When an SNS multi of a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship of FIG. 25, the spot effect can be applied to the host. Also, a pseudo-spot effect can be applied to the guest. After a normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, through the recruitment and application of SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, the procedure for executing multi-play (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0108] The user management server 10 sets, in [S1525] (FIG. 15), the quest progress parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers. flavor and set. Also, the user management server 10 sets, in [S1540] (FIG. 15), the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0109] (2) Playing of spot-limited quests In the positional relationship shown in FIG. 25, SNS multi for a spot-limited quest is possible. After a spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of FIG. 12, after recruiting and applying for SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, the procedure for executing multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0110] [2-5-2-2-2. When the host was previously located near the spot] FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship in SNS multi. In the example shown in FIG. 26, the host was previously located near a predetermined position in the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of spot 2610 (for example, inside a substantially circular area with a radius of 50 m). That is, a host flag 2620 is installed near the spot arrangement position. In this case, the host is given a fictitious spot privilege derived from the previous location (for example, application of a spot effect, eligibility to play a spot-limited quest).

[0111] On the other hand, a guest 2630 has not been located from the past to the present near the previous location of the host. Also, the guest 2630 has not been located from the past to the present near the predetermined position. In this case, the guest 2630 is given a pseudo-spot privilege (a privilege inferior to the fictitious spot privilege) according to the fictitious spot privilege given to the host.

[0112] (1) Application of spot effect in a normal quest When SNS multi for a normal quest is performed in the positional relationship shown in FIG. 26, a fictitious spot effect may be applied to the host. Also, a pseudo-spot effect may be applied to the guest. After a normal quest is started according to the procedure of FIG. 11, after recruiting and applying for SNS multi according to the procedures of FIGS. 23 and 24, the procedure for executing multiplayer (FIG. 15) is advanced.

[0113] The user management server 10 sets, in [S1525] (FIG. 15), quest progress parameters for challengers, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers. Also, in [S1540] (Fig. 15), the user management server 10 sets the reward calculation parameters for the host and the guest, taking into account at least the spot effect applied to at least some of the challengers.

[0114] (2) Playing a spot-limited quest In the positional relationship of Fig. 26, SNS multi for the spot-limited quest is possible. After the spot-limited quest is selected according to the procedure of Fig. 14, through the recruitment and application of SNS multi according to the procedures of Figs. 23 and 24, it proceeds to the execution procedure of multiplayer (Fig. 15).

Explanation of symbols

[0115] 10 User management server (an example of a game information processing device) 20 Data management server 21 Storage 30 User terminal 40 Communication network 310 Registration section 320 Reception section 330 Search section 340 Provision section 350 Designation section 351 First designation section 352 Second designation section 360 Setting section 370 Memory section

Claims

1. Comprising a processor, the processor At a first time point, when the user terminal is located within a predetermined range of the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of a spot provided in the virtual space of the game, based on the operation of the user, a flag is set based on the position of the user terminal, When the position of the user terminal is within the predetermined range corresponding to the spot at a second time point after the first time point, in the game played by the user terminal, an effect associated with the spot is applied, When the flag is set, even when the position of the user terminal is not within the predetermined range at the second time point, an effect associated with the spot is applied in the game played by the user terminal, An information processing apparatus.

2. When the processor is at a first time point and the user terminal is located within a predetermined range of the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of a spot provided in the virtual space of the game, based on the operation of the user, a flag is set based on the position of the user terminal, When the position of the user terminal is within the predetermined range corresponding to the spot at a second time point after the first time point, in the game played by the user terminal, an effect associated with the spot is applied, When the flag is set, even when the position of the user terminal is not within the predetermined range at the second time point, an effect associated with the spot is applied in the game played by the user terminal, An information processing method.

3. At a first time point, when the user terminal is located within a predetermined range of the real space corresponding to the arrangement position of a spot provided in the virtual space of the game, based on the operation of the user, a flag is set based on the position of the user terminal, When the position of the user terminal is within the predetermined range corresponding to the spot at a second time point after the first time point, in the game played by the user terminal, an effect associated with the spot is applied, When the flag is set, even when the position of the user terminal is not within the predetermined range at the second time point, an effect associated with the spot is applied in the game played by the user terminal, A program for causing a processor to execute the processing.

4. Comprising a server and a user terminal, The server When the user terminal is located within a predetermined range of the real space corresponding to the placement position of the spot provided in the virtual space of the game at the first time point, a flag is set based on the position of the user terminal according to the operation of the user. When the position of the user terminal is within the predetermined range corresponding to the spot at the second time point after the first time point, in the game played by the user terminal, an effect associated with the spot is applied. When the flag is set, even when the position of the user terminal is not within the predetermined range at the second time point, an effect associated with the spot is applied in the game played by the user terminal. System.

Images