Game device

Abstract

To improve user's convenience in using a game device.SOLUTION: When an option card that can be purchased without any additional charge in a card purchase mode processing is specified, control for printing and delivery of the specified option card are started, and then designation of transition to game execution mode processing and loading of a transition charge are conducted, a processing control unit 21 starts the game execution mode processing. Therefore, motion of the game execution mode is performed continuously from motion of the card purchase mode without pause of usage of the game device by designation by a user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, game devices that use cards (hereinafter also referred to as "play cards") that carry card attribute information such as character cards have become widespread. As a technology related to such game devices, a technology for a game device that controls game parameters based on attribute information read from the play card has been proposed (see Patent Document 1; hereinafter referred to as the "conventional example").

[0003] In this conventional technology, two operation modes are provided: a game operation mode and a card purchase mode. After an initial fee is inserted to use the game device, either the game operation mode or the card purchase mode can be selected. The operation in the game operation mode and the operation in the card purchase mode constitute a single unit operation in the conventional game device, and when the unit operation is completed, either the game operation mode or the card purchase mode can be selected after inserting the initial fee again. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-028321 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the above-mentioned conventional technology, the operation of the card purchase mode is a one-time operation in the conventional game device. Therefore, if you want to play a game after purchasing a card, you have to wait for the printing of the purchased card to be completed, see the purchase mode completion screen, wait for the screen to return to the initial screen, insert the initial fee again, select the game operation mode, and play the game. This is not only cumbersome but also time-consuming, and inconvenient for users.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide a game device that can improve convenience for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first method is a presentation unit that presents the progress of game processing and operation input guidance to a user; an operation input unit through which operation input is performed by the user; a fee input section into which a fee is input; a processing control unit that executes various processes in response to the insertion of the fee and the operation input to the operation input unit; a printing unit that prints new option cards under the control of the processing control unit, The processing control unit After the initial fee has been inserted, if the user selects execution of the card purchase mode from among a game execution mode and a card purchase mode for purchasing an option card, the operation of the card purchase mode is executed; an option card to be purchased is specified in the operation of the card purchase mode, and control of printing and dispensing of the specified option card is started; and then, when a transition to the game execution mode is specified and a transition fee is inserted, among a transition to the game execution mode and a non-transition to the game execution mode, an operation of the game execution mode is started. It is characterized by:

[0008] The second means is the first means, The transition fee is lower than the initial fee.

[0009] The third means is the first or second means, In the card purchase mode operation, the processing control unit: Identifying the option card selected by the user based on the initial fee inserted, and identifying a predetermined number of additional option cards selected by the user based on the amount of the additional purchase fee inserted; and causing the printing unit to print the specified option card, and then controlling the dispensing of the printed option card. It is characterized by:

[0010] The fourth means is the third means, In the card purchase mode operation, the processing control unit: when the additional option card is specified and the non-transition to the game execution mode is selected, executing a mini-game according to the period until the payout of the additional option card is completed; It is characterized by:

[0011] The fifth means is any one of the first to fourth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, before the expiration of an operating period of the actual game, which is a game that progresses in response to an arbitrary operation input by the user, identifies a non-selected option card, which is an option card selected without the user's selection designation, and causes the printing unit to print the non-selected option card; It is characterized by:

[0012] The sixth means is the fifth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, After the operation period of the actual game has elapsed, control is performed to pay out the non-selected option cards. It is characterized by:

[0013] The seventh means is the fifth or sixth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, causing the printing unit to print the non-selected option cards immediately after specifying the non-selected option cards or immediately after printing the option cards specified in the card purchasing mode, whichever is later; It is characterized by:

[0014] The eighth means is any one of the fifth to seventh means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, performing control to pay out the non-selected option cards during a game termination process executed after the operation period of the actual game has elapsed; It is characterized by:

[0015] The ninth means is any one of the fifth to eighth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, Identifying additional option cards selected by the user in a number corresponding to the amount of the card purchase fee inserted after the end of the operating period of the actual game. It is characterized by:

[0016] The tenth means is the ninth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, After the printing and dispensing of the non-selected option cards is completed, the printing unit is caused to print the option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode, and then the option cards are dispensed. It is characterized by:

[0017] The eleventh means is the tenth means, The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, The game is characterized in that the length of the final effect process is changed and executed according to the number of option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode.

[0018] The twelfth means is any one of the first to eleventh means, an attribute information acquisition unit that acquires attribute information of individual user cards and option cards; a storage device that stores a user table and an option card table; the attribute information acquisition unit acquires attribute information of the individual user card presented by the user and acquires attribute information of the specified option card before selecting either the game execution mode or the card purchase mode; The user table stores information on option cards that the user has acquired in association with the individual user card, The option card table stores print images and Purchase availability Individual attributes including And, the processing control unit accesses the storage device, Game execution mode and executes the card purchase mode operation.

[0019] The thirteenth means is the twelfth means, The processing control unit Card purchase mode The information of the option card purchased during operation of the device is updated and registered in the user table before being dispensed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the first means, the user can select to continue from the card purchase mode operation to the game execution mode operation without returning to the initial state, thereby improving user convenience.

[0021] According to the second means, the expenditure is lower than when using both the card purchase mode and the game execution mode in a conventional game device, which increases the motivation to use the game device while improving convenience for users.

[0022] According to the third means, in addition to the option cards that do not require an additional purchase fee, additional option cards can be continuously acquired by inserting an additional purchase fee, thereby improving the convenience of purchase.

[0023] According to the fourth means, it is possible to prevent the user from wasting time during the period from when the non-transition to game execution mode is selected until the dispensing of additional option cards is completed.

[0024] According to the fifth means, non-selected option cards are identified and printed by the printing unit before the operating period of the actual game has elapsed, so that preparations for paying out non-option cards can be completed before the operating period of the actual game has elapsed.

[0025] According to the sixth means, the non-selected option cards are dispensed after the operating period of the actual game has elapsed, so that the user can immediately take out the dispensed non-selected option cards without impeding the progress of the actual game.

[0026] According to the seventh feature, the non-selected option cards are printed either immediately after the non-selected option cards are identified or immediately after the option cards identified in the card purchase mode are printed, whichever is later. Therefore, while using a simple printing unit that can only print one option card at a time, the option cards selected without the user's selection can be printed as quickly as possible.

[0027] According to the eighth means, the non-selected option cards are dispensed during the game termination process executed after the operation period of the actual game has elapsed, so that the user can immediately remove the dispensed non-selected option cards without impeding the progress of the actual game.

[0028] According to the ninth means, after playing the actual game, an optional card can be selected by inserting a card purchase fee after the end of the operating period of the actual game, so that the user can purchase the additional optional card selected by the user according to the impression received from playing the actual game while the impression is still fresh in his or her mind.

[0029] According to the tenth means, after printing and dispensing of non-selected option cards is completed, the additional option cards are printed and then dispensed, so that option cards can be printed and dispensed efficiently.

[0030] According to the eleventh means, the length of the final performance process is changed depending on the number of option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode, thereby preventing the user from wasting time until the payout of the acquired option cards is completed.

[0031] According to the twelfth means, the game execution process and the card purchase mode operation are executed using the information of the option card that the user has already purchased, so that the processing control unit can rationally perform each process in response to the insertion of the fee and the operation input to the operation input unit.

[0032] According to the thirteenth means, the processing control unit updates and registers information about an option card purchased during operation in the purchase mode in the user table before dispensing the option card. Therefore, the information about an option card purchased during operation in the purchase mode can be used in the game execution mode transitioned from the purchase mode before the option card itself is acquired. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a game system including a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a diagram for explaining card information stored in the storage device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining My Cards that can be used in the game device shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating option cards that can be used with the game device shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the appearance of the game device shown in FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a flowchart for explaining processing by the processing control unit of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 8 is a flowchart for explaining the card purchase mode process of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 8 is a flowchart for explaining the game execution mode process of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart for explaining the additional option card get time process of FIG. 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 10. In the following description and drawings, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0035] [composition] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a game system 100 including a game device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] 1, the game system 100 includes a plurality of game devices 10 and a server device 80. Each game device 10 is capable of communicating with the server device 80. The communication between each game device 10 and the server device 80 may be wireless or wired. The communication between each game device 10 and the server device 80 may also be via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0037] The game device 10 is a device used by a user to enjoy a game. Details of the game device 10 will be described later.

[0038] The server device 80 includes a storage device 90. The storage device 90 stores various information data, including card information used in processing in the game device 10.

[0039] In this embodiment, the game executed by the game device 10 is a game (hereinafter also referred to as a "rhythm game") in which the user dresses up an avatar according to his / her own My Card (individual user card) and then causes the avatar to move in sync with a selected piece of music. In this embodiment, the dressing up can be performed on the upper body outfit (hereinafter referred to as "tops"), the lower body outfit (hereinafter referred to as "bottoms"), shoes, and other accessories.

[0040] The above-mentioned storage device 90 stores card information, such as information about My Cards, information about option cards that can be used when changing clothes, and user information that indicates the relationship between My Cards and option cards owned by the user. The game device 10 executes various processes by referring to this card information. The card information will be described in detail later.

[0041] In this embodiment, a user can have a My Card by, for example, purchasing it at a predetermined sales outlet or receiving it at various events.

[0042] Hereinafter, when referring to My Card in general, we will write "My Card" or "My Card MYC", with a subscript added to "MYC" as appropriate depending on the individual My Card. When referring to Option Card in general, we will write "Option Card" or "Option Card OPC", with a subscript added to "OPC" as appropriate depending on the individual Option Card.

[0043] <Card information stored in the storage device 90> Here, a description will be given of the card information stored in the storage device 90 in this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the storage device 90 stores a my card table MCT, an optional card table OCT, and a user table UST as card information.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the My Card table MCT includes a My Card Identifier (ID) MCID. i (i=1, 2, ...) and associate it with the image data for display MDD i This display image data MDD is registered. i Based on this, the game device 10 receives the my card identifier MCID i The basic image of the avatar corresponding to the image data MDD is displayed according to the posture of the avatar. i It also includes images of the initial items for the four dress-up elements described below (hereinafter simply referred to as "initial items").

[0045] My Card Identifier MCID i is unique to each My Card and is called the My Card Identifier (MCID). i The same My Card is not available anywhere else. Also, the My Card identifier MCID i The initial items worn by the corresponding avatar (i.e., the four types of items: tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories) are identified by the My Card Identifier MCID. i The number of times the ...

[0046] The option card table OCT also contains the option identifier (ID) OCID j (j=1,2,...) and print image data OPD j , display image data ODD j , purchase availability flag BYE j and release date SDY j The image data for printing OPD is registered. j Based on this, the game device 10 receives the option identifier OCID j Optional card compatible with OCD j is printed.

[0047] In addition, the display image data ODD j Based on this, the game device 10 superimposes an optional identifier OCID on the basic image of the avatar. j The costume image corresponding to the item is displayed according to the avatar's posture. j As a result, the option card OCD in the game device 10 j The availability of purchase (withdrawal) is displayed. Also, the release date SDY j Optional card OCD j The release date of the product will be displayed.

[0048] In this embodiment, the optional card OCD j The release date and print images of the product will be published in media (pamphlets, website content, TV advertisements, etc.) to publicize the product before the release date.

[0049] The user table UST contains the My Card Identifier MCID i Associated with My Card Identifier MCID i Compatible with My Card MYC i Holders of My Card MYC i Option cards OPC that have been purchased and can be used for games on the game device 10 i,k Identifier OCID (k=1,2,…)i,k is registered. Here, the option card identifier OCID i,k is the option identifier OCID mentioned above j It is designed to match either

[0050] <About the printed image on My Card MYC> In this embodiment, My Card MYC has a full-body image of the avatar corresponding to the My Card MYC printed in an avatar image area AIR on the front side of the card, occupying a large portion of the area, as shown in Fig. 3. Also printed on the front side of My Card MYC is a two-dimensional code MEC, such as a QR code (registered trademark), in which attribute information including at least the My Card identifier is coded.

[0051] <About the print image on the OPC option card> In this embodiment, the option card OPC is printed with a large image of the corresponding dress-up item in the option image area OIR on the front side of the option card OPC, as shown in Fig. 4. Also printed on the front side of the option card OPC is a two-dimensional code OEC, such as a QR code, in which attribute information including at least the option card identifier is coded.

[0052] <Configuration of Game Device 10> Fig. 5 shows the appearance of a game device 10 according to one embodiment, and Fig. 6 shows the functional configuration of the game device 10 in the form of a block configuration.

[0053] As shown in Figures 5(A) and 6, the game device 10 includes a display unit 11, sound output units 12L and 12R (collectively referred to as "sound output units 12"), and a communication unit 13. The game device 10 also includes a card holder 14 and a card code reader 15. p(p=0 to 4), an operation input unit 16 including left and right buttons 16L and 16R, and a coin input unit 17. The game device 10 also includes a printing unit 18a, a payout unit 18b, and a housing 19.

[0054] Furthermore, the game device 10 includes a processing control unit 21 and a storage unit 22. The processing control unit 21, the storage unit 22, the communication unit 13, and the card code reader 15 p (p=0 to 4) and the printing unit 18a are assembled into a housing 19.

[0055] The display unit 11 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display panel. The display unit 11 receives display image data IMD sent from the processing control unit 21. Then, the display unit 11 displays an image according to the display image data IMD.

[0056] Each of the sound output units 12L and 12R includes a sound output device such as a speaker. The sound output units 12L and 12R receive the output sound data SDD (more specifically, the output sound data SDD for the sound output unit 12L) sent from the processing control unit 21. L and output sound data SDD for sound output unit 12R R ; neither of which is shown in the figure) and the sound output units 12L and 12R output sounds according to the output sound data SDD.

[0057] In this embodiment, stereo sound can be output using the sound output units 12L and 12R.

[0058] The communication unit 13 communicates with the server device 80 under the control of the processing control unit 21. The processing control unit 21 can access the storage device 90 through communication using the communication unit 13.

[0059] The card holder 14 is an individual card holder 14 as shown in FIG.p (p=0 to 4) Individual card holder 14 p The individual card holder 14 has a pair of guide portions disposed at the lower end of the display unit 11. p An internal space is formed in the housing 90 on the downward side thereof, capable of accommodating the printed portion of the two-dimensional code MEC or two-dimensional code OEC of a card inserted between the pair of guide portions.

[0060] A my card MYC is inserted into the individual card holder 140. An option card OCP related to tops can be inserted into the individual card holder 141, and an option card OCP related to bottoms can be inserted into the individual card holder 142. Furthermore, an option card OCP related to shoes can be inserted into the individual card holder 143, and an option card OCP related to accessories can be inserted into the individual card holder 144.

[0061] Card code reader 15 arranged corresponding to individual card holder 140 p detects the insertion of the my card MYC or the option card OPC into the internal space and reads the two-dimensional code MEC or two-dimensional code OEC printed on the my card MYC or the option card OPC whose insertion has been detected. p The result of the reading is sent to the processing control unit 21 as card read data CRD.

[0062] In this embodiment, the operation input unit 16 includes an optical touch sensor in addition to left and right buttons 16L and 16R. When the operation input unit 16 is operated, data corresponding to the operation is sent to the processing control unit 21 as input data IPD. In this embodiment, the operation of the operation input unit 16 performs operations such as moving the cursor up, down, left, and right, determining the avatar's action or action mode, returning the action state to the previous action state, or advancing the action state.

[0063] The coin input unit 17 is configured with a coin sensor. The coin sensor detects a coin inserted through a coin slot. When the coin sensor detects a coin, the coin input unit 17 sends a coin insertion signal CID to the processing control unit 21 to indicate that a coin has been inserted. The coin may be a coin of a predetermined denomination (for example, a 100 yen coin) or a coin of a predetermined denomination sold for the game device 10.

[0064] The printing unit 18a receives print data POD sent from the processing control unit 21. Then, the printing unit 18a prints a print image according to the print data POD received from the processing control unit 21 on an unprinted card.

[0065] The dispensing / discharging unit 18b receives a dispensing command OTC sent from the processing control unit 21. Then, every time the dispensing / discharging unit 18b receives a dispensing command OTC, it dispenses the card printed by the printing unit 18a and dispenses it to a card take-out section provided in the dispensing / discharging unit 18b.

[0066] In this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 includes a central processing unit and its peripheral circuits. The processing control unit 21 executes various programs to realize the functions of the game device 10. Details of the processing executed by the processing control unit 21 will be described later.

[0067] The storage unit 22 includes a non-volatile storage device such as a fixed disk. The storage unit 22 stores various information data used by the game device 10. This information data includes program data executed by the processing control unit 21. The storage unit 22 is accessible by the processing control unit 21.

[0068] [Operation] Next, the operation of the game device 10 configured as described above will be described, focusing mainly on the processing executed by the processing control unit 21 when the user purchases an option card OPC. i The following description will be given assuming that:

[0069] The processing control unit 21 starts operating when the power to the game device 10 is turned on. When the operation starts in this way, as shown in FIG. 7, the processing control unit 21 first performs an initialization process in step S11. In this initialization process, the processing control unit 21 first initializes the hardware. Subsequently, the processing control unit 21 executes a self-diagnostic program to check the normality of the game device 10. Then, when the normality is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0070] In step S12, the processing control unit 21 performs an initial screen display process. In this initial screen display process, the processing control unit 21 displays an initial screen on the display unit 11. On this initial screen, the initial fee for using the game device 10 is inserted into the coin slot, and the user's My Card MYC is displayed. i A guide image prompting insertion of the card into the individual card holder 140 is displayed superimposed on the initial background image.

[0071] Next, in step S13, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not the initial fee has been inserted through the coin insertion slot into the coin input unit 17. In making this determination, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not the initial fee has been inserted based on a new coin insertion signal CID sent from the coin input unit 17. If the result of the determination in step S13 is negative (step S13: N), the processing of step S13 is repeated.

[0072] If the result of the determination in step S13 is affirmative (step S13: Y), the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the processing control unit 21 inserts the My Card MYC into the individual card holder 140. i In making this determination, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not a My Card MYC is inserted in the individual card holder 140 based on the two-dimensional code of the card read by the card code reader 160. i Determine whether or not a has been inserted.

[0073] If the result of the determination in step S14 is negative (step S14: N), the process of step S14 is repeated. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S14 is positive (step S14: Y), the process proceeds to step S15.

[0074] In step S15, the processing control unit 21 first checks the My Card MYC i 2D code MEC i Based on the above, the storage device of the server device 80 is accessed and My Card MYC i Basic image data MDD for displaying avatars corresponding to i , and My Card MYC i (More precisely, My Card Identifier MCID i ) Optional card OPC that can be used for games registered in association with i,k Option card identifier OPC corresponding to i,k Read.

[0075] Subsequently, the processing control unit 21 outputs the basic image data for display MDD. i Based on this, the My Card MYD is displayed on the upper side of the card holder 14 in the display unit 11. iThe processing control unit 21 then displays an image for selecting an operation mode on the display unit 11, superimposed on the full-body image of the avatar being displayed, and outputs a sound from the sound output unit 12 to prompt the user to make a selection. The image for selecting an operation mode includes a button image for selecting a game execution operation mode and a button image for selecting a card purchase mode.

[0076] When the above processing is completed in step S15, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation mode selection input using the operation input unit 16. If the result of the determination in step S15 is negative (step S15: N), the processing of step S15 is repeated. Note that if no operation is performed after a predetermined time has elapsed, the processing may proceed from step S15 to step S16, or from step S16 to step S18.

[0077] When the user inputs an operation mode selection and the result of the determination in step S15 is affirmative (step S15: Y), the process proceeds to step 16. In step S16, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not the game execution mode has been selected.

[0078] If the result of the determination in step S16 is negative (step S16: N), the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the processing control unit 21 performs card purchase mode processing. Note that, if a transition to the game operation mode is selected in the card purchase mode processing, as will be described later, the card purchase mode processing ends, and the process proceeds to step S18. On the other hand, if a non-transition to the game operation mode is selected in the card purchase mode processing (end of the card purchase mode), as will be described later, the process of step S17 ends, and the process returns to step S12.

[0079] The card purchase mode process executed in step S17 will be described in detail later.

[0080] If the result of the determination in step S16 is affirmative (step S16: Y), the process proceeds to step S18. In step S18, the processing control unit 21 executes a game execution mode process. Details of the game execution mode process executed in step S18 will be described later.

[0081] When the process of step S18 ends, the process returns to step S12, and thereafter steps S12 to S18 are executed.

[0082] <Card purchase mode processing in step S17> Next, the card purchase mode process executed in step S17 will be described.

[0083] In the card purchase mode processing, as shown in FIG. 8, first, in step S21, the processing control unit 21 determines whether the number of optional cards that can be purchased without additional charge (in this embodiment, one card) has been selected by the user.

[0084] Prior to this determination, the processing control unit 21 reads the option card identifier OPC previously from the storage device 90. i,k Among the option cards currently available for purchase that correspond to options other than those listed above, priority is given to option cards with later release dates, and print image data corresponding to the maximum number of option cards that can be purchased in one card purchase mode (for example, four) is read from the option card table OCT in the storage device 90. For example, the print image data in this case corresponds to option cards related to four types of items: tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories. Next, the processing control unit 21 displays the read print image data in a list on the display unit 11. Then, the processing control unit 21 causes the sound output unit 12 to output a sound prompting the user to select one of the option cards corresponding to the print image displayed on the display unit 11.

[0085] Thereafter, the processing control unit 21 determines whether the user has selected the option card to be purchased by determining whether the user has selected the option card to be purchased. If the result of the determination in step S21 is negative (step S21: N), the processing is repeated.

[0086] When the user uses the operation input unit 16 to select an option card to be purchased and the result of the determination in step S21 is affirmative (step S21: Y), the process proceeds to step S22. In this step S22, the process control unit 21 identifies the selected option card as the option card to be purchased, and then starts the printing and dispensing control process for the identified option card. The printing and dispensing control process is a process that ranges from identifying the option card to completing printing and dispensing, and broadly includes processes such as creating a print list.

[0087] In the print / dispensing control process started in step S22, the process control unit 21 confirms that the printing unit 18a is ready to print, and then sends print image data corresponding to the option card to be printed to the printing unit 18a as print data POD. Here, confirmation that printing is possible means confirming that the printing unit 18a is out of blank cards, that printing is not in progress, etc. If it cannot be confirmed that the printing unit 18a is ready to print, the process control unit 21 waits to send the print data POD until printing is possible.

[0088] When the processing control unit 21 receives a report from the printing unit 18a that printing on the current card has been completed, it sends a dispensing command OTC to the dispensing unit 18b. As a result, the dispensing unit 18b dispenses the printed card to the card removal section. When the dispensing is completed, the printing and dispensing control process started in step S22 ends. The printing and dispensing control process is executed in parallel with the processes from step S23 onwards, which will be described later.

[0089] In step S22, the option card identifier corresponding to the identified option card is stored in the user table UST in the storage device 90 as an identifier of an option card that can be used in future games, and is stored as a my card identifier MCID. i The option card is associated with the card purchase mode and updated and registered as a purchased option card that can be used in future games. Therefore, the option card identified here can be used in the game execution mode that continues even before it is printed. Note that the update registration may not be performed at this stage, and the option card may be temporarily stored in the game device 10 as an option card that can be used in the current game. In this case, the update registration may be performed, for example, at the end of the card purchase mode or at the end of the game execution mode if the game execution mode is continued.

[0090] Next, in step S23, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not an additional option card has been selected.

[0091] Prior to the processing of step S23, the processing control unit 21 causes the display unit 11 to display buttons for selecting either purchasing an additional option card, transitioning to game execution mode, or not transitioning to game execution mode, and causes the sound output unit 12 to output a sound prompting the user to make the selection.

[0092] In step S23, the processing control unit 21 determines whether an additional purchase has been designated and whether the fee for the additional purchase has been deposited. If the result of the determination in step S23 is negative (step S23: N), the processing proceeds to step S24.

[0093] In step S24, the processing control unit 21 determines whether a transition to the game execution mode has been specified and whether a fee for transition to the game execution mode has been inserted. If the result of the determination in step S24 is negative (step S24: N), the processing proceeds to step S25.

[0094] In step S25, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not a non-transition to the game execution mode has been specified. If the result of the determination in step S25 is negative (step S25: N), the processing returns to step S23.

[0095] While the above processes of steps S23 to S25 are being repeated, if the result of the determination in step S23 becomes affirmative (step S23: Y), the process proceeds to step S26. In this step S26, it is determined whether or not an additional option card has been selected by the user.

[0096] Prior to this determination, the print image data of the three option cards that were not selected from the four option cards displayed in step S24 are displayed in a list form on the display unit 11. Then, the processing control unit 21 causes the sound output unit 12 to output a sound that prompts the player to select one of the option cards that corresponds to the print image displayed on the display unit 11. Each time step S26 is repeated, the print image data of the option card type that has already been selected is removed from the selection list and displayed.

[0097] Thereafter, the processing control unit 21 determines whether the user has selected the option card to be purchased by determining whether the user has selected the option card to be purchased. If the result of the determination in step S21 is negative (step S26: N), the processing is repeated.

[0098] When the user uses the operation input unit 16 to select an option card to be purchased and the result of the determination in step S26 is affirmative (step S26: Y), the process proceeds to step S27. In this step S27, the process control unit 21 identifies the selected option card in the same manner as in step S22 described above, and then starts the printing and dispensing control process for the identified option card. The process then proceeds to step S24 in FIG. 7.

[0099] In step S27, the processing control unit 21 also stores the option card identifier specified in response to the selection made in step S26 in the user table UST in the storage device 90 as the option card identifier corresponding to the option card that can be used in future games, in the "my card identifier MCID" field. i The option card specified here is updated and registered in association with the option card. Therefore, the option card specified here can be used in the game execution mode that is subsequently executed even before it is printed. Note that the update and registration may not be performed at this stage, and the option card may be temporarily stored in the game device 10 as an option card that can be used in the current game. In this case, the update and registration may be performed, for example, at the end of the card purchase mode or at the end of the game execution mode if the game execution mode is subsequently executed.

[0100] After the maximum number of cards has been purchased in this card purchase mode process, steps S24 and S25 are repeated. However, a time limit may be set for the transition designation in step S24, and if the time is exceeded, the process may proceed to step S28, assuming that a non-transition to the game execution mode designation has been made in step S25.

[0101] If the result of the determination in step S24 is affirmative (step S24: Y), the process of step S17 ends, and the process proceeds to step S18 in FIG.

[0102] In this embodiment, the fee for transitioning to the game execution mode is lower than the initial fee.

[0103] If the result of the determination in step S25 is affirmative (step S26: Y), the process proceeds to step S28. In this step S28, the process control unit 21 estimates the time until all option cards purchased in the current card purchase mode process are dispensed. The estimation is performed, for example, based on the number of option cards dispensed.

[0104] Next, in step S29, the processing control unit 21 determines whether or not a mini-game (for example, a predetermined shooting game) is to be executed by determining whether or not the payout number is two or more in step S28. If the result of the determination in step S29 is negative (step S29: N), the processing of step S17 ends. Then, the processing returns to step S12 in FIG. 7.

[0105] If the result of the determination in step S29 is affirmative (step S29: Y), the process proceeds to step S30. In step S30, the processing control unit 21 performs a mini-game execution process. The processing control unit 21 continues the mini-game execution process until it issues a payout command OTC for all of the option cards purchased during the current card purchase mode process. In this case, it is preferable in terms of the availability of the game machine 10 that the executed mini-game be played for a length corresponding to the estimated time. To achieve this, for example, multiple mini-games with different time lengths are prepared, and a mini-game with a length corresponding to the estimated time or the number of prints is executed, or the play time for one mini-game is varied.

[0106] When the process of step S30 ends, the process of step S17 ends, and the process returns to step S12 in FIG.

[0107] <Game Execution Mode Processing in Step S18> Next, the game execution mode process executed in step S18 will be described.

[0108] 9, in step S31, the processing control unit 21 first identifies non-selected option cards that will be dispensed without any additional charge and without any selection by the user. In this identification, the processing control unit 21 refers to the card information in the storage device 90 and identifies the non-selected option cards. i Option card identifier OPC registered in association with i,kThe processing control unit 21 randomly identifies a non-selected option card from among the option cards that are compatible with the option card other than the selected option card and that are currently available for purchase. The processing control unit 21 then reads the print image data registered in association with the option card identifier corresponding to the identified option card from the option card table OCT in the storage device 90.

[0109] In this embodiment, the number of specified non-selected option cards is the same as the number of option cards selected in step S21 described above.

[0110] Subsequently, in step S32, the processing control unit 21 starts printing processing based on the print image data read in step S31. The printing processing is processing from identifying non-selected option cards to completing printing, and broadly includes processing such as creating a print list. This printing processing is processing for the printing unit 18a in the processing in step S22 described above. This printing processing is executed in parallel with the processing from step S33 onwards. Specifically, if the game execution mode is entered via the card purchase mode, printing of non-selected option cards is performed after printing of the option cards identified in the card purchase mode.

[0111] Next, in step S33, the processing control unit 21 performs a dress-up process. In this dress-up process, the processing control unit 21 sets the dress-up item selected by the user as an attachment item in the actual game. The attachment item selected by the user is stored in the individual card holder 14. p This can be done using a separate card holder 14 p It is also possible to do this without using the

[0112] Individual card holder 14 p In selecting a wearable item using the card holder 14, the processing control unit 21 p Card code reader 15 from the option card inserted inp The processing control unit 21 determines that an option card corresponding to the option card identifier included in the two-dimensional code read by the processing control unit 21 has been selected. Next, the processing control unit 21 reads a display image registered in association with the option card identifier included in the two-dimensional code from the option card table OCT in the storage device 90. Then, based on the read display image, the processing control unit 21 displays a large full-body image of the avatar wearing the dress-up item corresponding to the option card on the upper side of the card holder 14 on the display unit 11.

[0113] On the other hand, individual card holder 14 p In selecting a wearable item that does not utilize the individual card holder 14, the processing control unit 21 may p It corresponds to the optional card that can be inserted into the i Optional card identifier OCID associated with and registered in the user table UST i,k 14 clear individual card holders for displaying images p The display image of the selected option card is displayed in the individual card holder 14 in the above-mentioned area and other areas in sequence, so that the user can select the desired option card. p Furthermore, the processing control unit 21 displays a large full-body image of the avatar wearing the dress-up item corresponding to the specified option card on the upper side of the card holder 14 on the display unit 11.

[0114] When the dress-up process in step S33 is thus completed, the process control unit 21 executes real game processing in step S34. In this real game processing, the process control unit 21 first executes music selection processing for music to be used in the real game processing thereafter.

[0115] During the song selection process, the processing control unit 21 displays a list of song selection button images including the names of songs that can be selected in the actual game process. The processing control unit 21 then causes the sound output unit 12 to output a sound that prompts the player to select one of the song selection buttons displayed on the display unit 11.

[0116] Thereafter, when the user designates a song selection, the processing control unit 21 terminates the display of the song selection buttons and causes the music sounds of the selected song to be output from the sound output unit 12. Then, when the user operates the operation input unit 16 in time with the rhythm of the music sounds, the evaluation result of the rhythm suitability is displayed on the display unit 11 each time.

[0117] The processing control unit 21 is configured to score the actual game in question from the viewpoint of the items worn by the avatar during the actual game processing and the above evaluation results.

[0118] When a predetermined real game operation time has elapsed since the start of the real game processing, the processing of step S34 ends, and the processing then proceeds to step S35.

[0119] In step S35, the processing control unit 21 performs additional option card get time processing. In this additional option card get time processing, the processing control unit 21, for example, references the user table UST and displays a predetermined number of option cards that the user has not previously purchased, allowing the user to select a desired option card from among these. If the user uses the operation input unit 16 to select an option card to be purchased and the result of the determination in step S46 is affirmative (step S46: Y in FIG. 10), processing proceeds to step S48. In this step S48, after the selected option card is identified, the printing and dispensing control process for the identified option card is initiated, and the processing in step S46 is repeated unless the predetermined number of cards has been selected or the time has expired (step S47: N). On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S46 is negative (step S46: N), the processing in step S46 is repeated unless the time has expired (step S47: N).

[0120] Next, in step S36, processing control unit 21 performs the first half of the end effect. In this embodiment, in the first half of the end effect, processing control unit 21 uses display unit 11 and sound output unit 12 to present to the user, for a predetermined period of time, an avatar wearing the dress-up items during the actual game processing, walking down a so-called runway under the gaze of an audience in a show format similar to a fashion show.

[0121] Next, in step S37, the processing control unit 21 performs the above-mentioned dispensing control process for the non-selected option cards. That is, the processing control unit 21 sends a dispensing command OTC to the dispensing unit 18b. As a result, the dispensing discharge unit 18b dispenses the printed non-selected option cards to the card take-out section.

[0122] Subsequently, in step S38, the process control unit 21 performs a process of announcing the scoring results of the current actual game using the display unit 11 and the sound output unit 12.

[0123] In step S38, the processing control unit 21 stores the option card identifier corresponding to the option card purchased during the current game execution mode processing in the user table UST in the storage device 90 as the identifier of the option card that can be used in future games. i Associate with and update registration.

[0124] In addition, in this embodiment, if an additional option card has been purchased in the additional option card get time process, the printing and dispensing control process for the additional option card is performed in step S39 during or after the processing of step S38, in the same manner as in step S22 described above.

[0125] Next, in step S40, the process control unit 21 estimates the time required to complete the payment of all option cards purchased in the current game execution mode process. The estimation is performed, for example, based on the number of option cards paid out.

[0126] Subsequently, in step S41, the processing control unit 21 extends the second half of the end effect processing according to the time (number of option cards paid out) estimated in step S40. This second half of the end effect processing is a processing to present to the user the state of the avatar returning home using the display unit 11 and the sound output unit 12, while introducing the option cards purchased in the current game execution mode processing.

[0127] When the process of step S41 ends, the process of step S18 ends, and the process returns to step S12 in FIG.

[0128] As explained above, in this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 specifies an option card that can be purchased without an additional charge in the card purchase mode processing, starts controlling the printing and dispensing of the specified option card, and then starts the game execution mode processing when a transition to the game execution mode processing is specified and a transition fee is inserted. Therefore, at the user's request, the game execution mode processing can be continued from the card purchase mode operation without returning to the initial state, improving user convenience.

[0129] In this embodiment, the transition fee is lower than the initial fee, so when a user selects to continue from the card purchase mode to the game execution mode, the cost is lower than when using both the card purchase mode and the game execution mode in a conventional game device, which increases the user's motivation to use the game device and improves user convenience.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user can successively obtain an option card selected by the user based on the initial fee and a predetermined number of additional option cards selected by the user based on the amount of additional purchase fees inserted, thereby improving the convenience of purchases. If the user selects to continue from the card purchase mode processing to the game execution mode processing, the processing control unit 21 will print and dispense the option card selected during the card purchase mode operation in parallel with the game execution mode operation.

[0131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the processing control unit 21 identifies an additional option card in the card purchase mode processing and a non-transition to the game execution mode is selected, a mini-game execution process is performed according to the period until the payout of the additional option card is completed, thereby preventing the user from wasting time until the payout of the additional option card is completed.

[0132] Furthermore, in this embodiment, before the start of the actual game processing in which the game progresses in response to any operation input by the user, the processing control unit 21 identifies and prints the non-selected option cards that were selected without the user's selection designation, so that preparations for the payout of the non-selected option cards can be completed before the operating period of the actual game has elapsed.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, non-selected option cards are dispensed after the completion of the actual game process, in which the game progresses in response to any operation input by the user, so the user can immediately remove the dispensed non-selected option cards without interfering with the progress of the actual game.

[0134] In this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 causes the printing unit 18a to print the unselected option cards either immediately after identifying the unselected option cards or immediately after printing the option cards identified in the card purchase mode, whichever is later. This allows the printing of the user's unselected option cards as quickly as possible while employing a simple printing unit that can only print one option card at a time.

[0135] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 controls the payment of non-selected option cards during the game termination process that is executed after the actual game process is completed, so that the user can immediately remove the paid-out non-selected option cards without impeding the progress of the actual game.

[0136] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 identifies the number of additional option cards selected by the user according to the amount of the card purchase fee inserted after the actual game processing is completed, so that the user can purchase the additional option cards selected by the user according to the impression received from the execution of the actual game while the impression is still fresh in their mind.

[0137] In addition, in this embodiment, after printing and dispensing of non-selected option cards is completed, printing and dispensing of additional option cards that have been purchased during the additional option card get time is carried out, so purchased option cards are efficiently dispensed in the order in which they were purchased by the user.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the length of the final presentation process is changed depending on the number of option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode, so that the user can enjoy the latter half of the final presentation while preventing the user from wasting time until the option cards purchased during the additional option card get time are paid out.

[0139] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 executes the game execution mode processing and the card purchase mode processing while accessing the storage device 90 which stores a user table UST in which information on option cards that have been purchased by the user who owns the individual My Card and that can be used in the actual game in the future is registered, in association with the identifier of each individual My Card, and an option card table OCT in which individual attributes including print images and purchase possibilities are registered in association with each option identifier of the prepared option cards, so that the processing control unit 21 can rationally perform each processing in accordance with the insertion of fees and operation input to the operation input unit.

[0140] In this embodiment, the storage device 90 is provided in, for example, a server device 80 that can communicate with each of the multiple game devices of the present invention. Therefore, the game device 10 can be realized with a simple configuration that does not include a large-capacity storage device.

[0141] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processing control unit 21 updates and registers information about option cards purchased during the card purchase mode process in the user table UST before dispensing them. Therefore, information about option cards purchased during operation in the card purchase mode can be used in the game execution mode process transitioned from the card purchase mode process before the option cards themselves are acquired.

[0142] [Modification of the embodiment] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0143] For example, in the above embodiment, a user can own a My Card by purchasing it at a designated sales outlet or receiving it at various events. Alternatively, a user may own a My Card by having it printed and dispensed by the game device. In this case, the game device may transition to My Card purchase mode before selecting the purchase mode (i.e., when the My Card is read), and when the My Card purchase mode is entered, the My Card may be printed, and play may end there, returning to the initial screen.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the option card identifiers corresponding to the non-selected option cards are registered in the user table UST after the actual game processing is completed. However, the option card identifiers corresponding to the non-selected option cards may be registered in the user table UST before the dress-up processing. In this case, the user can enjoy the actual game by equipping the dress-up items corresponding to the non-selected option cards to the avatar.

[0145] Furthermore, the operation input unit of the above embodiment may be configured to further include a transparent touch sensor disposed on the display screen of the display unit, instead of the optical touch sensor.

[0146] Furthermore, instead of the ending effect exemplified in the above embodiment, other effects may be used.

[0147] In the above embodiment, a game (hereinafter also referred to as a "rhythm game") in which a user dresses up an avatar according to their own My Cards and then causes the avatar to perform movements in time with a selected piece of music has been exemplified as a game executed by a game device. However, the present invention may also be applied to other games (for example, soccer games, etc.). Furthermore, card information may be used to enhance weapons or character parameters rather than as a dress-up item.

[0148] The card purchase mode and the game execution mode may also be executed without the need for a My Card. In this case, the My Card is not linked to the option card, and in the game execution mode, a target avatar appears instead of the player's own avatar, and the player plays with that avatar. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 10... Game device 11... Display unit (part of the display unit) 12 (12L, 12R) ... Sound output unit (part of the presentation unit) 13...Communication unit 14... Card holder 150~154... Card code reader 16 (16L, 16R) ... Operation input unit 17... Coin input unit 18a ... Printing unit 18b … Payout unit 19... Chassis 21 ... Processing control unit (processing control section) 22...Memory Unit 80 ... Server device 90…Storage device 100... Game System MYC: My Card (individual user card) OPC: Option card MCT... My Card Table OCT...Optional card table UST...User table

Claims

1. a presentation unit that presents the progress of game processing and operation input guidance to a user; an operation input unit through which operation input is performed by the user; a fee input section into which a fee is input; a processing control unit that executes various processes in response to the insertion of the fee and the operation input to the operation input unit; a printing unit that prints new option cards under the control of the processing control unit, The processing control unit After the initial fee has been inserted, if the user selects execution of the card purchase mode from among a game execution mode and a card purchase mode for purchasing an option card, the operation of the card purchase mode is executed; an option card to be purchased is specified in the operation of the card purchase mode, and control of printing and dispensing of the specified option card is started; and then, when a transition to the game execution mode is specified and a transition fee is inserted, among a transition to the game execution mode and a non-transition to the game execution mode, an operation of the game execution mode is started. A game device characterized by:

2. 2. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the transition fee is lower than the initial fee.

3. In the card purchase mode operation, the processing control unit: Identifying the option card selected by the user based on the initial fee inserted, and identifying a predetermined number of additional option cards selected by the user based on the amount of the additional purchase fee inserted; and causing the printing unit to print the specified option card, and then controlling the dispensing of the printed option card.

3. The game device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. In the card purchase mode operation, the processing control unit: when the additional option card is specified and the non-transition to the game execution mode is selected, executing a mini-game according to the period until the payout of the additional option card is completed; 4. The game device according to claim 3.

5. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, before the expiration of an operating period of the actual game, which is a game that progresses in response to an arbitrary operation input by the user, identifies a non-selected option card, which is an option card selected without the user's selection designation, and causes the printing unit to print the non-selected option card; 5. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second game devices are connected to each other.

6. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, After the operation period of the actual game has elapsed, control is performed to pay out the non-selected option cards.

6. The game device according to claim 5.

7. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, causing the printing unit to print the non-selected option cards immediately after specifying the non-selected option cards or immediately after printing the option cards specified in the card purchasing mode, whichever is later; 7. The game device according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, performing control to pay out the non-selected option cards during a game termination process executed after the operation period of the actual game has elapsed; The game device according to any one of claims 5 to 7.

9. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, Identifying a predetermined number of additional option cards selected by the user based on the amount of the additional purchase fee inserted; The game device according to any one of claims 5 to 8.

10. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, After the printing and dispensing of the non-selected option cards is completed, the printing unit is caused to print the option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode, and then the option cards are dispensed.

10. The game device according to claim 9.

11. The processing control unit, in the game execution mode operation, 11. The game device according to claim 10, wherein the length of the final effect process is changed depending on the number of option cards selected by the user in the game execution mode.

12. an attribute information acquisition unit that acquires attribute information of individual user cards and option cards; a storage device that stores a user table and an option card table; the attribute information acquisition unit acquires attribute information of the individual user card presented by the user and attribute information of a specified option card before selecting either the game execution mode or the card purchase mode; The user table stores information on option cards that the user has acquired in association with the individual user card, The option card table stores individual attributes including a print image and whether or not the option card can be purchased, in association with each of the prepared option cards.

12. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the processing control unit executes operations in the game execution mode and the card purchase mode while accessing the storage device.

13. 13. The game device according to claim 12, wherein said processing control unit updates and registers information on an option card purchased during operation in said card purchase mode in said user table before dispensing said option card.

Images