Program and information processing system

Abstract

Improve user operability. [Solution] The program causes a computer to function as a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera placed in a virtual space based on operation by a user, and an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera, and the control means is switchable between a first mode in which the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows the movement of the user object, and a second mode in which the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object moves is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] A technique is known in which a user object is moved in a virtual space based on a user's operation input, and a virtual space image is generated based on a virtual camera that moves in accordance with the movement of the user object. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which the display of a user's face is detected, and the facial expression of an avatar in the virtual space is controlled in accordance with the detected display of the user's face. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-114036 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to improve user operability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A program according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: Computer, a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera arranged in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; the virtual camera functions as an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera; The control means a first mode in which movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows movement of the user object; When the user object moves, it is possible to switch between a first mode and a second mode that controls the movement of the user object and the virtual camera so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means is different from the virtual space image that is displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode.

[0006] An information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera arranged in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera; The control means a first mode in which movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows movement of the user object; an information processing system capable of switching between a first mode in which the user object and the virtual camera are controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object moves is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode; and a second mode in which the user object and the virtual camera are controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object moves is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve user operability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image displayed on the display unit shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation of moving the user object shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image showing a state in which the orientation of the virtual camera has been changed. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the operation of the program according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a virtual space image for explaining warp movement of a user object. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a virtual space image for explaining warp movement of a user object. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the position of the position specification object shown in FIG. 7 has been changed. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which another object is placed at the position of a position specification object. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a virtual space image for explaining a camera position control mode by the object control unit shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a virtual space image for explaining the camera position control mode by the object control unit shown in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image displayed on the terminal device of another user in a state in which the voice chat function is stopped by the chat processing unit shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the operation of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of this technical concept will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of these components are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] First Embodiment [Configuration of information processing system] The following describes an information processing system 1 that moves a user object in a virtual space based on a user's operation input and provides the user with a virtual space image generated based on a virtual camera placed in the virtual space.

[0011] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system 1 includes one or more terminal devices 10 and a server 20, which are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network 13. Fig. 1 shows terminal devices 10A and 10B used by multiple users, respectively.

[0012] The terminal device 10 connects to the network 13 by communicating with a wireless router 14 installed in a facility such as a house. The terminal device 10 may also be configured to connect to the network 13 via wired communication.

[0013] The terminal device 10 is a computer (information processing device) used by a user. The terminal device 10 is, for example, a head-mounted device (HMD) including virtual reality (VR) glasses, augmented reality (AR) glasses, or mixed reality (MR) glasses. The terminal device 10 may also be a contact-type device that can be worn on the eyes, like contact lenses.

[0014] The terminal device 10 executes an application program installed via a platform that distributes apps, for example. Instead of executing an application program, the terminal device 10 may execute a program acquired via software for browsing websites, i.e., a web browser. By executing the program, the terminal device 10 generates a virtual space image and displays the virtual space image. When generating the virtual space image, the terminal device 10 transmits and receives various data to and from the server 20 as necessary.

[0015] The virtual space is generated using XR technology such as VR, AR, MR, or SR (Substitutional Reality). The virtual space may be common to multiple users, or may be different for each user. That is, multiple user objects may exist in one virtual space, or one user object may exist in one virtual space.

[0016] The virtual space is not limited to one generated using XR technology. For example, it may be a virtual space generated on a so-called web browser. It may also be a virtual space in which XR technology is incorporated into part of the virtual space generated on the web browser. Furthermore, for example, it may be a virtual space that transitions from a virtual space reproduced on a web browser to a virtual space generated using XR technology.

[0017] For example, the server 20 receives information regarding a user's operation input from the terminal device 10, and in accordance with the received information, transmits virtual space information necessary for generating a virtual space to the terminal device 10. The virtual space information includes information for generating various virtual objects, such as a virtual camera and a user object, to be placed in the virtual space.

[0018] [Terminal device configuration] (Configuration overview) Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 21, a control unit 22, a storage unit 23, a memory 24, a display unit 25, and an operation detection unit 26.

[0019] The communication unit 21 functions as an interface for the terminal device 10 to communicate with an external device such as the server 20 (see FIG. 1). For example, when virtual space information is transmitted from the server 20 to the terminal device 10, the communication unit 21 receives the virtual space information and outputs it to the control unit 22.

[0020] The storage unit 23 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a flash memory. Specifically, the storage unit 23 stores a program 41, user information 42, and the like. The program 41 is a program for the terminal device 10 to execute various processes. The user information 42 includes information about users, such as identification information of the terminal device 10 and identification information of each user.

[0021] The memory 24 includes a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory 24 temporarily stores various data generated in accordance with the operation of the control unit 22, such as information about user objects operated by the user.

[0022] The display unit 25 is a monitor on which a virtual space image is displayed. For example, if the terminal device 10 is an HMD, the display unit 25 is provided at a position within the field of view of the user when the user wears the terminal device 10.

[0023] The operation detection unit 26 has a hand tracking function. More specifically, the operation detection unit 26 has, for example, an imaging unit, and periodically captures an image of the area in front of the terminal device 10. When the operation detection unit 26 detects the movement of the user's hand or arm in front of the terminal device 10 based on the captured image, the operation detection unit 26 outputs motion information indicating the detection result to the control unit 22.

[0024] Specifically, the operation detection unit 26 performs image analysis processing on the captured image to determine whether or not the user's hands are present in the captured image. If the captured image contains the user's hands, the operation detection unit 26 detects the coordinates of the tips of the user's index finger and thumb in the captured image and outputs operation information indicating these coordinates to the control unit 22.

[0025] The operation detection unit 26 is not limited to a configuration that detects the coordinates of the tips of the index finger and thumb, and may detect the coordinates of the tips of other fingers, etc. However, the tips of the index finger and thumb are suitable as detection targets because they are located close to each other and have a large difference in length.

[0026] The control unit 22 is a processor including, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. The control unit 22 operates in accordance with a program 41 to fulfill the functions of a space generation unit 31, a placement unit 32, an object control unit 33, an image processing unit 34, and a chat processing unit 35.

[0027] The space generation unit 31 generates a virtual space and virtual objects such as a virtual camera and user objects to be placed in the virtual space based on virtual space information transmitted from the server 20 (see FIG. 1). The virtual objects generated by the space generation unit 31 include other user objects operated by other users.

[0028] The placement unit 32 places various virtual objects such as a virtual camera, a user object, and other user objects in the virtual space. The image processing unit 34 generates a virtual space image, which is an image captured within the virtual space by the virtual camera, and displays the generated virtual space image on the display unit 25.

[0029] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image displayed on the display unit 25 shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 3, for example, a virtual camera is placed behind a user object 601 operated by a user, and the virtual space image, which is an image captured by the virtual camera, is displayed on the display unit 25.

[0030] (User object movement operation) 2 and 3, the placement unit 32 further places an operation panel 602 in the virtual space. For example, the operation panel 602 is placed in front of the field of view of the virtual camera and at a predetermined distance from the virtual camera. The operation panel 602 is provided with a menu button 603 for performing various settings, an operation object 604 used to move the user object 601, and the like. The operation object 604 is, for example, stick-shaped and can be tilted forward / backward and left / right.

[0031] Furthermore, when the placement unit 32 receives the motion information from the operation detection unit 26, it places a hand object 605, which is an object resembling a hand, in front of the field of view of the virtual camera in the virtual space.

[0032] The object control unit 33 moves the hand object 605 based on an operation by the user. More specifically, the object control unit 33 moves the index finger and thumb of the hand object 605 based on multiple pieces of operation information from the operation detection unit 26. As a result, the index finger and thumb of the hand object 605 move in accordance with the actual movements of the user's index finger and thumb.

[0033] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 validates an operation on the operation object 604 when a predetermined action is performed by the user.

[0034] More specifically, for example, when the object control unit 33 receives motion information from the operation detection unit 26, it determines, based on the motion information, whether or not a first motion has been performed by the user with the user's index finger and thumb included in a first region of the captured image. The first motion may be a motion of bringing the index finger and thumb closer together (hereinafter referred to as a "grabbing motion"). If the object control unit 33 determines that the user has performed this motion, it enables the operation of the operation object 604.

[0035] Furthermore, after enabling the operation on the operation object 604, if a predetermined action is performed by the user, the object control unit 33 disables the operation on the operation object 604.

[0036] More specifically, for example, when the object control unit 33 receives new motion information from the operation detection unit 26, it determines, based on the motion information, whether or not the user has performed a second motion while the user's index finger and thumb are included in the first area of the captured image. The second motion may be a motion of moving the index finger and thumb away from each other (hereinafter referred to as a "separating motion"). Then, when it determines that the user has performed this motion, the object control unit 33 switches the operation of the operation object 604 from enabled to disabled.

[0037] The first motion is not limited to a grasping motion using the thumb and index finger, but may be a pushing motion, a gripping motion, a motion of bending the wrist or elbow, etc. The second motion is not limited to a motion of separating the thumb and index finger, but may be a pulling motion, a motion of spreading the hand, a motion of straightening a bent wrist or elbow, etc.

[0038] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 in response to the operation by the user while the operation on the operation object 604 is valid.

[0039] 4 is a diagram illustrating a movement operation of the user object 601 shown in FIG. 3. For example, assume that the user moves his / her hand forward during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid. In this case, the object control unit 33 detects that the user has moved his / her hand forward based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26, and tilts the operation object 604 forward. Furthermore, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 forward in accordance with the operation of the operation object 604, and causes the virtual camera to follow the user object 601.

[0040] Also, for example, suppose that the user moves their hand backward during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid. In this case, the object control unit 33 detects that the user has moved their hand backward based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26, and tilts the operation object 604 backward. Furthermore, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 backward in accordance with the operation of the operation object 604, and causes the virtual camera to follow the user object 601.

[0041] The user object 601 can move not only forward and backward but also left and right. For example, if the user moves his / her hand forward or backward and then to the right during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid, the user object 601 moves to the right.

[0042] Also, for example, if the user moves his / her hand forward or backward and then to the left during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid, the user object 601 moves to the left. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the user object 601 is shown moving to the left.

[0043] (Change virtual camera orientation) The object control unit 33 can change the orientation of the virtual camera in response to a user's operation on the operation object 604. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image showing a state in which the orientation of the virtual camera has been changed.

[0044] For example, suppose that during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid, the user does not operate the operation object 604 in the first direction but operates it in the second direction. In this case, the object control unit 33 changes the orientation of the virtual camera without moving the user object 601. In this embodiment, an example of the first direction is the forward / backward direction, and an example of the second direction is the left / right direction.

[0045] Here, the operation in the first direction, i.e., the operation in the forward / backward direction, refers to at least one of the forward operation and the backward operation, and the operation in the second direction, i.e., the operation in the left / right direction, refers to at least one of the left operation and the right operation.

[0046] Specifically, suppose that the user moves their hand leftward without moving their hand forward or backward during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid. In this case, as shown in Fig. 5, the object control unit 33 changes the orientation of the virtual camera to the left by rotating the virtual camera leftward while keeping the position of the user object 601 fixed. Furthermore, when the orientation of the virtual camera is changed to the left, the object control unit 33 may control the orientation of the user object 601 to match the orientation of the virtual camera by rotating the user object 601 leftward.

[0047] Also, for example, suppose that during a period in which an operation on the operation object 604 is valid, the user moves their hand to the right without moving their hand forward or backward. In this case, the object control unit 33 changes the orientation of the virtual camera to the right by rotating the virtual camera to the right while keeping the position of the user object 601 fixed. Furthermore, when the orientation of the virtual camera is changed to the right, the object control unit 33 may control the orientation of the user object 601 to match the orientation of the virtual camera by rotating the user object 601 to the right.

[0048] The object control unit 33 may change the amount of change in the orientation of the virtual camera depending on the amount of horizontal movement of the user's hand. For example, the object control unit 33 increases the amount of horizontal movement of the user's hand, the greater the amount of horizontal movement of the virtual camera.

[0049] [Operation flow] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation of a program according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that the order of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be random and may be executed in parallel as long as no contradictions or inconsistencies occur in the process content. Also, some of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be omitted.

[0050] 2 and 6, it is assumed that a virtual space image generated by image processing unit 34 is first displayed on display unit 25 (step S11). In this situation, if object control unit 33 has not received operation information from operation detection unit 26 ("NO" in step S12), it waits until it receives operation information.

[0051] On the other hand, when the object control unit 33 receives movement information from the operation detection unit 26 ("YES" in step S12), it places the hand object 605 in the virtual space and controls the hand object 605 to move based on the new movement information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S13).

[0052] Next, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a first action with the index finger and thumb of the user included in the first area of the captured image, based on the action information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S14). If the object control unit 33 determines that the user has not performed the first action ("NO" in step S14), it proceeds to step S12 and waits until new action information is received.

[0053] In step S12, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous operation information was received and the hand object 605 is placed in the virtual space, the object control unit 33 deletes the hand object 605 from the virtual space.

[0054] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S14 that the user has performed the above-mentioned operation ("YES" in step S14), the object control unit 33 validates the operation on the operation object 604 (step S17).

[0055] Next, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not a forward or backward operation has been performed on the operation object 604 based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S18). If a forward or backward operation has been performed on the operation object 604 ("YES" in step S18), the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 in accordance with the operation of the operation object 604 (step S19).

[0056] Next, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a second action while the index finger and thumb of the user are included in the first area of the captured image, based on the action information from the action detection unit 26 (step S20). If the object control unit 33 determines that the user has not performed the above action ("NO" in step S20), it performs the actions from step S18 onwards again.

[0057] On the other hand, if the object control unit 33 determines that the user has performed the above operation ("YES" in step S20), it invalidates the operation on the operation object 604 (step S21). Then, the object control unit 33 proceeds to step S12 and waits until new operation information is received.

[0058] Also, in step S18, it is assumed that an operation in the forward / backward direction has not been performed on the operation object 604 ("NO" in step S18). In this case, the object control unit 33 determines whether an operation in the left / right direction has been performed on the operation object 604 based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S22).

[0059] Then, when an operation in the left or right direction is performed on the operation object 604 ("YES" in step S22), the object control unit 33 changes the orientation of the virtual camera in accordance with the operation of the operation object 604 (step S23). Then, the object control unit 33 proceeds to step S12 and waits until new operation information is received.

[0060] Also, in step S22, if no operation in the left or right direction is performed on the operation object 604 ("NO" in step S22), the object control unit 33 does not operate either the user object 601 or the virtual camera, and proceeds to step S12, where it waits until new operation information is received.

[0061] As described above, in the first embodiment, the operation target for moving the user object 601 and the operation target for changing the orientation of the virtual camera are both the operation object 604. That is, the user can move the user object 601 or change the orientation of the virtual camera by operating the operation object 604. This improves user operability.

[0062] Furthermore, since the object to be operated is the operation object 604 arranged in the virtual space, there is no need to provide hardware such as a controller, and even inexperienced users can play casually and easily.

[0063] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the above-described first embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the orientation of the virtual camera is changed in accordance with a user's operation on the operation object 604. In contrast, in the second embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the user object 601 is moved in a specific manner faster than normal movement in accordance with the user's movement.

[0064] Here, "normal movement" refers to movement of the user object 601 accompanying tilting of the operation object 604. Hereinafter, movement of the user object 601 in a specific manner faster than the normal movement is referred to as "warp movement." The warp movement may be instantaneous movement of the user object 601, or movement at a speed at which the movement path of the user object 601 can be recognized.

[0065] [Warp movement of user objects] (Overview of warp travel) 7 and 8 are diagrams showing examples of virtual space images for explaining warp movement of a user object. As described in the first embodiment, the object control unit 33 (see FIG. 2) enables an operation on the operation object 604 when the user performs a first action with the user's index finger and thumb included in the first area of the captured image. Furthermore, the object control unit 33 disables an operation on the operation object 604 when the user performs a second action with the user's index finger and thumb included in the first area of the captured image.

[0066] This first region corresponds to the virtual region R1 in the virtual space image. That is, when the tips of the user's index finger and thumb are included in the first region of the captured image, the hand object 605 is displayed inside the virtual region R1 in the virtual space image, as shown in FIG.

[0067] Also, if the tips of the user's index finger and thumb are included in a second area outside the first area of the captured image, the hand object 605 is displayed outside the virtual area R1 in the virtual space image, as shown in Figure 7.

[0068] In the second embodiment, when the object control unit 33 receives operation information from the operation detection unit 26, it determines, based on the operation information, whether or not the user performed a first operation while the user's hand was included in the second area in the captured image.

[0069] The first action here is, for example, the same action as the first action described in the first embodiment, such as a grasping action by bringing the index finger and thumb close together. Hereinafter, an operation performed by the first action by the user when the user's hand is included in the second area in the captured image will be referred to as a "warp position display operation" (first operation).

[0070] Furthermore, based on the motion information from the operation detection unit 26, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a second motion while the user's hand is included in a second area in the captured image.

[0071] The second action here is, for example, the same as the second action described in the first embodiment, such as moving the index finger and thumb apart. Hereinafter, an operation performed by the second action by the user when the user's hand is included in the second area in the captured image will be referred to as a "warp execution operation."

[0072] Note that the first operation in the second embodiment may be the same as the second operation described in the first embodiment, and the second operation in the second embodiment may be the same as the first operation described in the first embodiment.

[0073] When the object control unit 33 detects a warp position display operation by the user, it places a position specification object 701 that specifies the destination of the user object 601, as shown in Fig. 7. In addition, the object control unit 33 places a parabola 702 that connects the position specification object 701 and the hand object 605 in the virtual space.

[0074] When the object control unit 33 detects a warp execution operation by the user in this state, it moves the user object 601 by warp movement to the position of the position specification object 701, as shown in Fig. 8. At this time, the object control unit 33 causes the virtual camera to follow the user object 601.

[0075] Note that the first operation described in the first embodiment, i.e., the first operation when enabling an operation on the operation object 604, and the first operation in the second embodiment, i.e., the first operation performed when performing a warp position display operation, may be different operations.

[0076] Furthermore, the second operation described in the first embodiment, i.e., the second operation when disabling an operation on the operation object 604, and the second operation in the second embodiment, i.e., the second operation performed when performing a warp execution operation, may be different operations.

[0077] (Change destination) The user can change the position of the position specification object 701, i.e., the destination, by performing a predetermined operation (second operation) while continuing the warp position display operation. As described above, the warp position display operation is an operation based on the movement of fingers (first parts) such as the index finger and thumb, whereas the predetermined operation for changing the position of the position specification object 701 is an operation based on the movement of parts (second parts) such as the elbow and wrist.

[0078] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the position of the position specification object 701 shown in Fig. 7 has been changed. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, assume that the user moves the fingers of his / her hand closer to himself / herself by bending his / her elbow or wrist while continuing the warp position display operation. In this case, the object control unit 33 moves the position specification object 701 toward the user, i.e., in a direction approaching the virtual camera.

[0079] Furthermore, if the user moves the fingers of his / her hand away from himself / herself by extending his / her elbow or bending his / her wrist while continuing the warp position display operation, the object control unit 33 moves the position specification object 701 in the depth direction, i.e., in the direction away from the virtual camera.

[0080] In addition, the object control unit 33 may be configured to move the position specification object 701 in the depth direction when the user moves the fingers of the hand in a direction toward the user, and to move the position specification object 701 in the front direction when the user moves the fingers of the hand in a direction away from the user.

[0081] In addition, the object control unit 33 can move the position of the position specification object 701 in accordance with not only changes in the position of the user's fingers in the depth direction, but also changes in position in the left-right direction, changes in position in the height direction, and changes in orientation.

[0082] For example, if the user moves his / her finger upward while continuing the warp position display operation, the object control unit 33 moves the position specification object 701 in the depth direction. Also, if the user moves his / her finger downward while continuing the warp position display operation, the object control unit 33 moves the position specification object 701 in the front direction.

[0083] (Processing when a finger included in a captured image moves from the second area to the first area) Assume that the user moves his / her hand while continuing the warp position display operation, and thus the index finger and thumb included in the captured image move from the second area to the first area. In this case, the object control unit 33 determines that the user performed the first action while the user's hand was included in the first area in the captured image, and enables the operation of the operation object 604.

[0084] Then, the object control unit 33 erases the display of the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702, and performs the operation of moving the user object 601 or changing the direction of the virtual camera as described in the first embodiment.

[0085] Note that, when the user moves his / her hand while continuing the warp position display operation, and thus the index finger and thumb included in the captured image move from the second area to the first area, the display of the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 may continue. In this case, the position of the position specification object 701 changes in accordance with the movement of the user's hand.

[0086] (What to do if you cannot warp to a positioned object) (a) When another object is placed at the position of the position-specified object The object control unit 33 notifies the user that warp movement cannot be performed when another object, such as another user object or a building object, is located at the position of the position specification object 701. For example, the object control unit 33 displays at least one of the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 in a display mode different from that when warp movement is possible.

[0087] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which another object is placed at the position of the position specification object 701. For example, when warp movement is executable, the object control unit 33 displays a parabola 702 in green (a solid line in FIG. 9) as shown in FIG.

[0088] On the other hand, suppose that another object (a tree object in the example shown in FIG. 10) is placed at the position of the position specification object 701, and warp movement cannot be performed. In this case, the object control unit 33 displays the parabola 702 in red (a dashed line in FIG. 10) as shown in FIG. 10. Note that when warp movement cannot be performed, the display may be such that a cross mark is displayed on the position specification object 701, or the parabola 702 flashes.

[0089] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 may be configured to automatically change the position of the position specification object 701 when another object is placed at the position of the position specification object 701. In such a configuration, the object control unit 33 changes the position specification object 701 to, for example, in front of or to the left or right of the other object.

[0090] (b) When another object is placed between the current position of the user object and the position-specified object Assume that another object is placed between the current position of the user object 601 and the position specification object 701. In such a case, the object control unit 33 notifies the user that warp movement cannot be performed, for example, in the same way as when another object is placed at the position of the position specification object 701.

[0091] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 may be configured to be able to execute warp movement even when another object is located between the current position of the user object 601 and the position specification object 701. For example, the object control unit 33 can move the user object 601 during warp movement so that the user object 601 jumps over or passes through the other object.

[0092] [Operation flow] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Contents common to the first embodiment, i.e., the movement of the user object 601 and the change in the orientation of the virtual camera, will not be described again. It is also assumed here that the acquisition of operation information from the operation detection unit 26 and the control of the hand object 605 are continuously performed.

[0093] 2 and 11, first, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a warp position display operation (step S31) based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26. Then, if the object control unit 33 determines that the user has not performed a warp position display operation ("NO" in step S31), it repeats the operation of step S31 every time operation information is acquired.

[0094] On the other hand, when the object control unit 33 determines that the user has performed a warp position display operation (YES in step S31), it places the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 in the virtual space (step S32).

[0095] Next, the object control unit 33 changes the position of the position specification object 701 in accordance with, for example, a change in at least one of the depth position, left / right position, height position, and orientation of the user's hand (step S33). Note that if the position or orientation of the user's hand does not change, the position of the position specification object 701 is not changed.

[0096] Next, the object control unit 33 determines whether warp movement is executable (step S34). Then, it is assumed that the object control unit 33 determines that another object is placed at the position of the position specification object 701 and that warp movement of the user object 601 cannot be executed ("NO" in step S34).

[0097] In this case, the object control unit 33 changes the display mode of at least one of the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 to a display mode different from that when warp movement is executable (step S35).Then, the object control unit 33 proceeds to step S33.

[0098] On the other hand, it is assumed that the object control unit 33 determines in step S34 that warp movement of the user object 601 is executable ("YES" in step S34). In this case, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a warp execution operation based on new operation information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S36). Then, if the user has not performed a warp execution operation ("NO" in step S36), the object control unit 33 performs the operations from step S33 onwards again.

[0099] On the other hand, if the user has performed a warp execution operation ("YES" in step S36), the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 by warp movement to the position of the position specification object 701. At this time, the object control unit 33 also moves the virtual camera so that the virtual camera follows the user object 601 (step S37). Then, the object control unit 33 performs the operations from step S31 onwards again.

[0100] As described above, in the second embodiment, the user object 601 can be moved to the destination in a short time by the user's operation, thereby improving the operability for the user.

[0101] Furthermore, by changing the area in which the user performs the action, the user can distinguish between normal movement and warp movement of the user object 601. This eliminates the need for hardware such as a controller, and even inexperienced users can play casually and easily. Furthermore, since the movement time of the user object 601 is shortened, it is possible to reduce the user's nausea caused by the virtual camera following the user object 601.

[0102] When the user object 601 warps to the position specification object 701, as described above, the virtual camera moves to the vicinity of the destination of the user object 601. When the virtual camera moves instantaneously, the viewpoint position of the virtual space image changes significantly in a short period of time, making it difficult for the user to grasp where the user object 601 has moved to.

[0103] Therefore, when the user object 601 warps to the position specification object 701, the virtual camera may be configured to move to the periphery of the user object 601 at a speed that allows the movement path of the user object 601 to be recognized.

[0104] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 is not limited to a configuration in which, when the user performs a warp position display operation, both the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 are placed in the virtual space. For example, the object control unit 33 may be configured to place the position specification object 701 but not the parabola 702. However, when the parabola 702 is placed, the movement path of the user object 601 becomes clear. For this reason, a configuration in which both the position specification object 701 and the parabola 702 are placed is more preferable.

[0105] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the above-described second embodiment, a configuration in which warp movement of the user object 601 is performed in response to an operation by the user has been described. In contrast, in the third embodiment, a configuration in which movement of the virtual camera is controlled in response to an operation by the user so that a virtual space image different from that in normal times is displayed will be described.

[0106] [Switch Mode] 2 again, as described above, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user. At this time, the object control unit 33 controls the movement of the user object 601 and the virtual camera so that the virtual camera follows the user object 601. Hereinafter, this operation mode will be referred to as a "normal mode" (first mode).

[0107] The object control unit 33 according to the third embodiment can control the movement of the user object 601 and the virtual camera so that the virtual camera does not follow the user object 601 when the user object 601 is moved. Hereinafter, this operation mode is referred to as a "camera position control mode" (second mode). The object control unit 33 can switch between the normal mode and the camera position control mode in response to an operation by the user.

[0108] 12 and 13 are diagrams showing examples of virtual space images for explaining the camera position control mode by the object control unit 33 shown in Fig. 2. For example, the operation panel 602 is provided with a switching button 606 for switching between the normal mode and the camera position control mode. For example, when both hands of the user are included in the first area of the captured image, the operation detection unit 26 identifies the coordinates of the tips of the index fingers and the tips of the thumbs of the right and left hands, and outputs operation information indicating these coordinates to the control unit 22.

[0109] Upon receiving the movement information output from the operation detection unit 26, the object control unit 33 in the control unit 22 places a hand object 605A that resembles a right hand and a hand object 605B that resembles a left hand in the virtual area R1, for example, as shown in Fig. 12. Then, based on the movement information from the operation detection unit 26, the object control unit 33 causes the hand object 605A to move in the same way as the user's right hand, and causes the hand object 605B to move in the same way as the user's left hand.

[0110] Furthermore, the object control unit 33 detects a switching operation by the user based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26. The switching operation is performed, for example, by the user moving both hands so that one hand object 605 is positioned around the switching button 606 and the other hand object 605 grasps the operation object 604. When the object control unit 33 detects a switching operation by the user, it switches between the normal mode and the camera position control mode.

[0111] In the camera position control mode, the object control unit 33, for example, fixes the position and orientation of the virtual camera and moves the user object 601 in accordance with the movement of the operation object 604. As a result, the user object 601 gradually moves away from the virtual camera, and therefore, as shown in Fig. 12, for example, the user object 601 is displayed gradually smaller in the virtual space image.

[0112] Furthermore, when the object control unit 33 detects a switching operation by the user during the camera position control mode, it ends the camera position control mode and switches to the normal mode. That is, the object control unit 33 moves the virtual camera to the periphery of the user object 601 after movement in the camera position control mode, as shown in Fig. 13. Then, the object control unit 33 controls the position of the virtual camera so that the virtual camera follows the user object 601 in accordance with the movement of the user object 601.

[0113] [Details on moving user objects in camera position control mode] The movable range of the user object 601 in the camera position control mode is limited to, for example, the range included in the virtual space image.

[0114] Furthermore, similar to the warp movement of the user object 601 in the second embodiment, movement of the user object 601 to a location where other objects such as other user objects or building objects are located is restricted. For example, when another object is located on the movement path or destination of the user object 601, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 to just in front of the other object.

[0115] In addition, the object control unit 33 may control the user object 601 so that, during movement in the camera position control mode, the user object 601 jumps over other objects placed on the movement path, avoids the other objects, or passes through the other objects.

[0116] Furthermore, on the terminal device 10 of the user operating the user object 601, the user object 601 may be displayed as if it is moving through other objects, while on the terminal device 10 of another user, the user object 601 may be displayed as if it is moving while jumping over or avoiding other objects.

[0117] [Voice chat function] 2, the chat processing unit 35 in the control unit 22 provides a voice chat function to each user of a plurality of user objects located in the virtual space. In addition, the chat processing unit 35 can stop the voice chat function when the user object 601 is being moved in the camera position control mode.

[0118] 14 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space image displayed on the terminal device 10 of another user in a state in which the voice chat function is stopped by the chat processing unit 35 shown in FIG. 2. Here, it is assumed that a user object 601A and a user object 601B are near each other in the virtual space, and the user object 601A is moving in the camera position control mode. In this case, the chat processing unit 35 stops the voice chat function in the terminal device 10A, which is the terminal device 10 of the user operating the user object 601A.

[0119] Furthermore, the chat processing unit 35 in the terminal device 10A transmits movement information indicating that the user object 601A is moving in the camera position control mode to the server 20 via the network 13. In this case, the virtual space information transmitted from the server 20 to the terminal device 10B includes the movement information.

[0120] The movement information transmitted from the server 20 to the terminal device 10B includes, for example, identification information of the terminal device 10A, identification information of the user object 601A, and position information indicating the position of the user object 601A before movement in the camera position control mode.

[0121] In the virtual space image displayed on the display unit 25 of the terminal device 10B, the user object 601A is displayed at the position before the user object 601A moved in the camera position control mode, as shown in Fig. 14. In addition, in the virtual space image, for example, a message indicating that the voice chat function is stopped because the user object 601A is moving in the camera position control mode is displayed.

[0122] In the virtual space image displayed on the display unit 25 of the terminal device 10B, the user object 601A moving in the camera position control mode may be displayed semi-transparently, or in a manner different from that in the normal mode.

[0123] Furthermore, not only on the terminal device 10B but also on the terminal device 10A, a semi-transparent user object 601A may be displayed at the position before the start of the camera position control mode, to indicate that the voice chat function is stopped.

[0124] Furthermore, when the user object 601A is displayed on the display unit 25 of the terminal device 10B at the same position as before the start of the camera position control mode, the voice chat function may be continuously provided before and after the movement of the user object 601A.

[0125] In the first and second embodiments described above, the chat processing unit 35 can also provide a voice chat function. For example, in the second embodiment, if the user object 601 and the virtual camera are separated by more than a predetermined distance during warp movement of the user object 601, the voice chat function may be stopped.

[0126] [Operation flow] 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Contents common to the first or second embodiment, i.e., movement of the user object 601, change in the orientation of the virtual camera, and warp movement of the user object 601, will not be described repeatedly. Also, here, it is assumed that, similar to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, acquisition of operation information from the operation detection unit 26 and control of the hand object 605 are continuously performed.

[0127] 2 and 15, first, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not a switching operation has been performed by the user based on the operation information from the operation detection unit 26 (step S41). If the object control unit 33 determines that a switching operation has not been performed by the user ("NO" in step S41), the object control unit 33 repeats the operation of step S41 every time operation information is acquired.

[0128] On the other hand, when the object control unit 33 determines that a switching operation has been performed by the user ("YES" in step S41), it switches from the normal mode to the camera position control mode (step S42).

[0129] Next, the object control unit 33 detects an operation on the operation object 604 based on the motion information from the operation detection unit 26. Then, the object control unit 33 moves the user object 601 in accordance with the operation on the operation object 604, for example, while fixing the position and orientation of the virtual camera (step S43).

[0130] Furthermore, the chat processing unit 35, for example, stops the voice chat function and transmits movement information indicating that the user object 601 is being moved in the camera position control mode to the server 20 (step S44).

[0131] Next, the object control unit 33 determines whether or not the user has performed a switching operation again (step S45) based on new operation information from the operation detection unit 26. If the user has not performed a switching operation ("NO" in step S45), the object control unit 33 continues the movement of the user object in the camera position control mode (step S43).

[0132] On the other hand, if the user performs a switching operation ("YES" in step S45), the object control unit 33 switches from the camera position control mode to the normal mode (step S46). Then, the object control unit 33 moves the virtual camera to the periphery of the user object 601 after the movement in the camera position control mode (step S47). In addition, the chat processing unit 35 resumes the voice chat function. Then, the object control unit 33 repeatedly performs the operations from step S41 onwards every time it acquires operation information.

[0133] As described above, the normal mode and the camera position control mode can be switched in response to a user operation. When operating in the camera position control mode, it is possible to reduce the user's nausea caused by the virtual camera following the user object, thereby improving the user's operability.

[0134] [Modification of virtual camera movement in camera position control mode] The object control unit 33 is not limited to a configuration that fixes the position and orientation of the virtual camera in the camera position control mode. For example, the object control unit 33 may control the virtual camera to move in accordance with the movement of the user object 601 in the camera position control mode.

[0135] At this time, the object control unit 33 makes the moving speed of the virtual camera slower than the moving speed of the user object 601. This allows the user to check the moving path of the user object 601, while reducing changes in the virtual space image caused by the movement of the virtual camera, thereby reducing sickness in the user.

[0136] The elements included in each of the first to third embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined with one another, and the combined result also constitutes part of the embodiments shown in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the present invention allows for free combination of each component, modification of any component, substitution of any component, omission of any component, or addition of other components, within the scope of the invention.

[0137] Furthermore, the process flow described in this specification is merely an example, and the order and configuration of each process may be different. Furthermore, some processes described in this specification may not exist. In other words, the process flow, specific determination processes, etc. may be different from those exemplified in this specification.

[0138] [Additional Notes] The contents according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are listed as follows. [assignment] The purpose is to increase interest.

[0139] [Solution] (Item 1-1) Computer, a control means for moving an operation object and a user object placed in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; a virtual space image that is an image of the virtual space based on a virtual camera arranged in the virtual space; The control means When an operation in a first direction is performed on the operation object, or when an operation in a second direction is performed after the operation in the first direction, the user object is moved in accordance with the movement of the operation object; When the control object is not operated in the first direction but is operated in the second direction, the program does not move the user object and changes the direction of the virtual camera according to the movement of the control object.

[0140] This configuration improves user operability because the same control object is used to move the user object and change the orientation of the virtual camera. Furthermore, because the control object is an object located in the virtual space, no hardware such as a controller is required. This allows even inexperienced users to play casually and easily. This is particularly effective for virtual space images provided without the use of dedicated hardware.

[0141] (Item 1-2) The program according to item 1-1, wherein the control means enables an operation on the operation object when a first action of the user is detected. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the operation object from being unintentionally operated.

[0142] (Item 1-3) Item 1-2. The program according to item 1-2, wherein the first action is a grasping action or a pushing action. With this configuration, it is possible to enable operation of the operation object by a simple action using one hand.

[0143] (Items 1-4) the operation object is a stick-like object, The program described in any one of items 1-1 to 1-3, wherein the control means detects tilting of the control object in the first direction or the second direction as a movement of the control object in the first direction or the second direction, respectively. With this configuration, for example, the moving speed of the user object or the amount of change in the direction of the virtual camera can be changed according to the tilt of the operation object, thereby further improving the operability for the user.

[0144] (Item 2-1) Computer, a control means for moving an operation object and a user object placed in a virtual space based on an operation by a user in a predetermined area; a virtual space image that is an image of the virtual space based on a virtual camera arranged in the virtual space; When the control means detects a first operation of the user outside the specified area, the control means places a position designation object in the virtual space that designates a destination of the user object, and moves the user object to the destination in a specific manner that is faster than normal movement.

[0145] This configuration allows the user object to move to its destination in a short time, thereby improving user operability. Furthermore, by changing the area in which the user performs the action, the user can separately perform normal movement operations of the user object and movement operations in a specific mode. Therefore, no hardware such as a controller is required, and even inexperienced users can play casually and easily. Furthermore, because the movement time of the user object is shortened, it is possible to reduce the user's nausea caused by the virtual camera following the user object.

[0146] (Item 2-2) The program according to item 2-1, wherein the control means instantaneously moves the user object to the destination as the specific movement. With this configuration, it is possible to more effectively reduce the user's nausea caused by changes in the virtual space image when the user object moves.

[0147] (Item 2-3) The program according to item 2-1 or 2-2, wherein the control means is capable of changing the destination when detecting that the user has performed a second operation while continuing the first operation. With this configuration, the user can change the destination to any location of his / her choice.

[0148] (Item 2-4) the first operation is an operation based on a first motion of the user, The program according to item 2-3, wherein the second operation is an operation based on a predetermined action of the user that is different from the first action. In this way, it is possible to distinguish between the placement of a position specification object and a change in the position of the position specification object in accordance with changes in the user's actions, thereby increasing the user's interest.

[0149] (Item 2-5) the first motion is a motion of a first part of the user, The program according to item 2-4, wherein the predetermined action is an action of a second part of the user that is different from the first part. With this configuration, for example, if the first part is a finger and the second part is an elbow or wrist, the user can both place a position-specified object and change the position of the position-specified object by moving one hand.

[0150] (Item 3-1) Computer, a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera arranged in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; the virtual camera functions as an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera; The control means a first mode in which movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows movement of the user object; a first mode in which the user object and the virtual camera are controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object moves is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode; and a second mode in which the user object and the virtual camera are controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object moves is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode.

[0151] With this configuration, the second mode control is performed, which reduces the user's nausea caused by the virtual camera following the user object, and improves user operability.

[0152] (Item 3-2) The program described in item 3-1, wherein the control means, when terminating the second mode after controlling the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode, moves the virtual camera to the periphery of the user object after the movement. With this configuration, the user can check the status of the moved user object and its surroundings through a virtual space image.

[0153] (Item 3-3) The program according to item 3-1 or 3-2, wherein the control means, in the second mode, makes the moving speed of the virtual camera slower than the moving speed of the user object. This configuration allows the user to check the movement path of the user object while minimizing changes in the virtual space image caused by the movement of the virtual camera, thereby reducing sickness felt by the user.

[0154] (Item 3-4) The program according to item 3-1 or 3-2, wherein the control means does not change the position and orientation of the virtual camera in the second mode. With this configuration, changes in the virtual space image when the user object moves can be further reduced, making it possible to more effectively reduce the user's nausea.

[0155] (Item 3-5) The program causes a computer to: functioning as a chat processing means for providing a voice chat function to each user of a plurality of user objects located in the virtual space; The program according to any one of items 3-1 to 3-4, wherein the chat processing means stops the voice chat function when control of the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is being performed in the second mode.

[0156] Here, suppose that a first user object and a second user object are placed in the same virtual space. When the first user object moves in the second mode, the first user object and the virtual camera are far apart, which may result in a large difference between the range visible from the position of the first user object and the range captured by the virtual camera, i.e., the range visible to the first user operating the first user object.

[0157] In this case, for example, even if the virtual space image displayed on the terminal device of the second user who operates the second user object includes the first user object and the second user object, the virtual space image displayed on the terminal device of the first user does not include the first user object and the second user object. In this situation, when the first user and the second user engage in a voice chat, the second user's assumed visible range of the first user is different from the first user's actual visible range, which may cause a sense of incongruity.

[0158] In contrast to this, as described above, by using a configuration in which the voice chat function is stopped when a user object is being moved in the second mode, it is possible to prevent the above-mentioned sense of discomfort from occurring.

[0159] (Item 3-6) The program described in item 3-5, wherein the chat processing means, when stopping the provision of the voice chat function, transmits information to another device indicating that the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is being controlled in the second mode. With this configuration, for example, based on the information transmitted from the computer of the first user (the user moving the user object in the second mode), it is possible to display on the computer of the second user that the user object is moving in the second mode, thereby enabling the second user to understand the reason why the voice chat function between them and the first user has been suspended.

[0160] (Item 3-7) The program described in any one of items 3-1 to 3-6, wherein the control means transmits information indicating the position of the user object before movement to another device while controlling the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode.

[0161] With this configuration, for example, based on the above information transmitted from the computer of the first user (the user moving the user object in the second mode), the computer of the second user can be made to display the user object moving in the second mode at the position before the movement.

[0162] This position before movement is, for example, the periphery of the first user's virtual camera, i.e., the periphery of the first user's viewpoint. Therefore, the second user can easily estimate the range visible to the first user by checking the position of the first user's user object displayed on the computer.

[0163] (Item 3-8) The program causes a computer to: functioning as a chat processing means for providing a voice chat function to each user of a plurality of user objects located in the virtual space; The program according to item 3-7, wherein the chat processing means continues to provide the voice chat function before and after control of the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode.

[0164] With this configuration, even if the user object of the first user starts moving in the second mode, the voice chat between the first user and the second user can be continued.

[0165] The solution constituted by the above program may be appropriately applied to the fields of devices, systems, methods, and media.

[0166] Furthermore, the operations of the control unit 22 (see FIG. 2) in the server 20 in each of the above embodiments may be executed by one processor or multiple processors. For example, some or all of the operations of the control unit 22 may be executed by the terminal device 10 shown in FIG.

[0167] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention can be modified, improved, or partially deleted from the configuration of the embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the present invention also includes equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1: Information processing system, 10, 10A, 10B: Terminal device, 13: Network, 14: Wireless router, 20: Server, 21: Communication unit, 22: Control unit, 23: Storage unit, 24: Memory, 25: Display unit, 26: Operation detection unit, 31: Space generation unit, 32: Placement unit, 33: Object control unit, 34: Image processing unit, 35: Chat processing unit, 41: Program, 42: User information, 601, 601A, 601B: User object, 602: Operation panel, 604: Operation object, 603: Menu button, 605, 605A, 605B: Hand object, 606: Switch button, 701: Position specification object, 702: Parabola

Claims

1. Computer, a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera arranged in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; functioning as an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera; The control means a first mode in which movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows movement of the user object; a first mode in which the user object and the virtual camera are controlled in a manner that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object is moved differs from the virtual space image that is displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode, in response to a predetermined operation by the user that is different from the operation of moving the user object;

2. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the control means, when terminating the second mode after controlling the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode, moves the virtual camera to a periphery of the user object after the movement.

3. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the control means, in the second mode, makes the moving speed of the virtual camera slower than the moving speed of the user object.

4. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the control means does not change the position and orientation of the virtual camera in the second mode.

5. The program causes a computer to: functioning as a chat processing means for providing a voice chat function to each user of a plurality of user objects located in the virtual space; 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the chat processing means stops the voice chat function when the movements of the user object and the virtual camera are being controlled in the second mode.

6. The program according to claim 5, wherein the chat processing means, when stopping provision of the voice chat function, transmits information to another device indicating that control of the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is being performed in the second mode.

7. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the control means transmits information indicating a position of the user object before the movement to another device while controlling the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode.

8. The program causes a computer to: functioning as a chat processing means for providing a voice chat function to each user of a plurality of user objects located in the virtual space; 8. The program according to claim 7, wherein the chat processing means continues to provide the voice chat function before and after control of the movements of the user object and the virtual camera in the second mode.

9. An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, a control means for operating an operation object, a user object, and a virtual camera arranged in a virtual space based on an operation by a user; an image processing means for displaying a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space based on the virtual camera; The control means a first mode in which movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows movement of the user object; an information processing system capable of switching between a first mode and a second mode in which the movement of the user object and the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual space image displayed by the image processing means when the user object is moved is different from the virtual space image displayed when the virtual camera is controlled in the first mode, in response to a predetermined operation by the user that is different from the operation of moving the user object.

Images