Computer system, server system and program

Abstract

To provide a lottery that is attractive and has a new computer execution form.SOLUTION: A game system is a computer system for drawing a game object to be imparted to a user, the game system setting the number of game objects to be imparted to the user (impartment number) on the basis of user's operation input to determine the number of candidates larger than the impartment number. The game system then draws game object candidates by the number of candidates and, from the drawn candidates, determines game objects by the impartment number as impartment targets on the basis of the user's operation input. The game objects determined as the impartment targets are imparted to the user as a lottery result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a computer system or the like that draws a lottery for a game object to be awarded to a user. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Video games are known that provide a chance to draw a game object to be awarded to a user who is a player, and this is one of the important elements that make a game interesting.

[0003] There are various types of lotteries. For example, in a typical lottery machine known as "gacha" or a lottery format that imitates it, one winning item (a prize awarded to the user) is selected from a pool of prizes and awarded to the user. This is the same even in a format where multiple lotteries are held for one payment of consideration.

[0004] A variant of "gacha" is the so-called "select gacha." "Select gacha" is a format that allows users to choose (select) the prize that will ultimately be awarded to them. Specifically, from a pool of prizes, multiple candidates are initially selected by lottery and presented to the user. The user can then select the prize that they will ultimately win from the presented candidates. Select gacha is popular because it tends to result in higher user satisfaction than regular gacha, as users have more freedom to choose (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-047100 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The lottery associated with a game is an important element that makes the game appealing, and the market is constantly demanding more attractive lotteries.

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an attractive new lottery technology. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is a computer system for drawing a game object to be awarded to a user, a number-of-game objects setting means (e.g., the control board 1150 in FIG. 1, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the lottery management unit 220, the number-of-game objects setting unit 222, the lottery management data 750 in FIG. 13, the user-selected number of game objects 764, and steps S40 to S42 in FIG. 15) that sets the number of game objects to be awarded to the user (hereinafter referred to as the "number of game objects") based on an operational input from the user; A candidate number determination means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 1, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the lottery management unit 220, the candidate number determination unit 228, the candidate number 772 in FIG. 13, step S44 in FIG. 15) for determining a number of candidates greater than the number of awards; a candidate lottery means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 1, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the lottery management unit 220, the candidate lottery unit 234, the candidate list 776 in FIG. 13, and step S54 in FIG. 16) for drawing game object candidates by lottery; A grant game object determination means (e.g., the control board 1150 in FIG. 1, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the lottery management unit 220, the grant game object determination unit 238, the grant target item list 778 in FIG. 13, step S64 in FIG. 16) that determines the number of game objects to be granted from the candidates selected by the candidate selection means; granting control means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 1, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the lottery management unit 220, the granting control unit 240, step S74 in FIG. 16) that controls granting to the user the game object determined by the granting game object determination means; A computer system comprising:

[0009] The term "computer system" as used herein refers not only to a single computer but also to a system realized by linking multiple computers together.

[0010] According to the first invention, a new computer-implemented lottery can be provided in which, when playing a lottery in which game objects are prizes, the number of prizes that can ultimately be won (award number) can be set based on the user's own selection.

[0011] A second aspect of the present invention is the computer system of the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the granted game object determination means determines the number of game objects to be granted based on an operation input by the user (for example, step S64 in FIG. 16).

[0012] According to the second invention, a new select gacha can be provided in which the number of prizes that can ultimately be acquired (number of prizes awarded) can be set based on the user's own selection.

[0013] A third invention is a computer system of the first or second invention, further comprising a bonus number setting means (e.g., control board 1150 of Figure 1, server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, lottery management unit 220, bonus number setting unit 230, population initial setting data 520 of Figure 10, usage bonus definition data 540, performance bonus definition data 542, step S14 of Figure 15) for setting a given bonus number based on information about the user related to game play, and wherein the awarded game object determination means determines the awarded number of game objects and the bonus number of game objects from the candidates drawn by the candidate drawing means.

[0014] The "user information related to game play" here refers to, for example, information about game usage and game results. More specifically, it refers to information about the player level (or the player character's level), game progress, game results, number of items owned, cumulative number of plays, cumulative play time, type of character used as the player character, etc.

[0015] According to the third aspect of the present invention, the number of game objects ultimately awarded to a user can be increased based on the user's information regarding game play, thereby improving user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0016] The fourth invention is a computer system of the first or second invention, further comprising a first upper limit number of awards change means (e.g., control board 1150 of Figure 1, server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, lottery management unit 220, first upper limit number of awards change unit 224, first upper limit number of awards definition data 532 of Figure 10, step S16 of Figure 15) that changes the upper limit of the number of awards that can be set by the number of awards setting means based on information about the user related to game play.

[0017] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the upper limit of the number of points that can be awarded per lottery opportunity can be changed depending on the user's game play and game performance. For example, if the upper limit is set higher the more frequently the user plays the game or the better the game performance, the user can be encouraged to play the game more actively. In other words, the lottery opportunity can be used as an opportunity to increase the user's motivation to play the game.

[0018] The fifth invention is a computer system of any of the first to fourth inventions, further comprising a second upper limit grant number change means (e.g., control board 1150 of Figure 1, server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, lottery management unit 220, second upper limit grant number change unit 226, second upper limit grant number definition data 534 of Figure 10, step S16 of Figure 15) that changes the upper limit of the grant number that can be set by the grant number setting means based on the user's payment instruction operation to pay value points or consume value items.

[0019] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, if a user agrees to pay an additional fee, the upper limit of the number of awarded points can be changed. For example, if the amount of increase in the upper limit is set to be positively correlated with the amount of reward points, the user can be given the opportunity to increase the number of game objects that can be acquired in the lottery by paying a fee. This can further enhance the appeal of the lottery and improve user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0020] A sixth invention is a computer system of any of the first to fifth inventions, further comprising a candidate addition means (e.g., the control board 1150 of Figure 1, the server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, the lottery management unit 220, the candidate addition unit 236, the combination bonus definition data 560 of Figure 11, step S56 of Figure 16) that adds a game object corresponding to a given combination condition as a new candidate when the candidate selected by the candidate selection means satisfies the given combination condition.

[0021] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when a specific combination is achieved by the lottery candidates, the number of candidates can be increased, thereby further increasing the appeal of the lottery and improving user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0022] A seventh invention is a computer system of any of the first to fifth inventions, in which the award control means controls the awarding of a game object to the user according to a given combination condition when the candidate selected by the candidate selection means satisfies the given combination condition (for example, the control board 1150 of Figure 1, the server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, the lottery management unit 220, the candidate addition unit 236, the combination bonus definition data 560 of Figure 11, step S60 of Figure 16).

[0023] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when a specific combination is achieved from the lottery candidates, an additional game object can be awarded. Therefore, the number of game objects that the user ultimately receives will be greater than the number of awards set by the user, further increasing the appeal of the lottery and improving user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0024] The eighth invention is a computer system of any of the first to seventh inventions, further comprising a population setting means (e.g., the control board 1150 of Figure 1, the server processing unit 200s of Figure 8, the lottery management unit 220, the population setting unit 232, the applicable population item list 774 of Figure 13, step S12 of Figure 15, step S52 of Figure 16) that sets the population for the lottery by the candidate lottery means.

[0025] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, a population of game objects that the user can obtain can be set by lottery.

[0026] A ninth invention is a computer system of the eighth invention, in which the population setting means sets the population based on the number of awards (for example, the adjustment setting data 550 in Figure 10, the "number of awards range" of the adjustment application requirements 551).

[0027] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the population of game objects that a user can obtain by lottery can be set based on the number of awards. Therefore, the type of population can change depending on the number of awards selected or set by the user himself, diversifying the content of the lottery and increasing the interest in the lottery.

[0028] A tenth invention is a computer system of the eighth or ninth invention, in which the population setting means sets the population based on information about the user related to game play (for example, the adjustment setting data 550 in Figure 10 and the "Level range" of the adjustment application requirements 551).

[0029] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the type of lottery that is drawn can change depending on how the user plays the game, diversifying the content of the lottery and increasing interest in the lottery.

[0030] An eleventh invention is a computer system of any of the first to tenth inventions, in which the candidate number determination means determines the number of candidates so that the number of awards and the number of candidates have a positive correlation (for example, the graph in Figure 4, the number of awards candidate number rate definition data 536 in Figure 10).

[0031] According to the 11th invention, as the number of awards increases, the options for selecting one game object (the number of candidates per award) also increase, so the more the number of awards increases, the more advantageous it is for the user, and the more interesting and satisfied the user becomes with the lottery.

[0032] A twelfth invention is a server system that is the computer system of any one of the first to eleventh inventions, which communicates with the user terminal of the user.

[0033] According to the twelfth aspect of the invention, it is possible to realize a server system that brings about the same effect as any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the invention.

[0034] The thirteenth invention is a program for causing a computer system to draw lots for game objects to be awarded to a user, the program causing the computer system to function as: a number-of-award setting means for setting the number of game objects to be awarded to the user (hereinafter referred to as the "number of game objects to be awarded") based on the user's operational input; a number-of-candidate determination means for determining a number of candidates greater than the number of game objects to be awarded; a candidate lottery means for drawing game object candidates equal to the number of candidates; an award game object determination means for determining the number of game objects to be awarded from the candidates drawn by the candidate lottery means; and an award control means for controlling the awarding of the game objects determined by the award game object determination means to the user.

[0035] According to the thirteenth aspect, the computer system can be made to exhibit the same functions as those of the first aspect. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a game system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a lottery preparation screen for setting up preparations for a lottery. [Figure 4] 10 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the number of granted points and the rate at which the number of candidates is determined based on the number of granted points. [Figure 5] 10 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between user information related to game play and the upper limit of the number of points that can be awarded. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an outline of a process related to the execution of a lottery. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a grant item selection screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of programs and data stored in a server storage unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of population initial setting data. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of combination bonus definition data. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of user management data. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of lottery management data. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] 5 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing of the server system in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] Flowchart continued from Figure 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of programs and data stored in a terminal storage unit according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] An example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described below, but it goes without saying that the forms to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the following embodiment.

[0038] [First embodiment] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a game system. Game system 1000 includes a server system 1100 and a user terminal 1500, which are connected to each other via a network 9 so that data communication is possible between them. Game system 1000 is a computer system that provides users 2 using user terminal 1500 with a game provision service that provides online games, a lottery provision service that provides lottery opportunities to win items related to the online games, and an online shopping service that allows users 2 to purchase items related to the online games. Of course, game system 1000 may also provide other services in addition to the above.

[0039] The network 9 refers to a communication path that allows data communication. That is, the network 9 includes a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection, a LAN (Local Area Network) using Ethernet (registered trademark), etc., as well as a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, or the Internet, and the communication method may be either wired or wireless.

[0040] The server system 1100 includes, for example, a keyboard 1106, a touch panel 1108, and a storage 1140, and the main unit is equipped with a control board 1150.

[0041] The control board 1150 is equipped with various microprocessors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1151, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various IC memories 1152 such as a VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a communication device 1153. Note that part or all of the control board 1150 may be realized by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or an SoC (System on a Chip).

[0042] The server system 1100 realizes the function of providing a game provision service, a lottery provision service, and an online shopping service by the control board 1150 performing calculations based on predetermined programs and data, including the provision of programs executable on the user terminal 1500 and various data required for the execution of the programs, which are related to the provision of these services.

[0043] Although only one user terminal 1500 is depicted in FIG. 1, in actual system operation, multiple user terminals 1500 can access the server system 1100 at the same time.

[0044] Furthermore, although the server system 1100 is depicted as if it were a single server device, it may be configured to be realized by multiple devices. For example, the server system 1100 may be configured to include multiple blade servers that share various functions and are connected to each other via an internal bus so that they can communicate data with each other. Furthermore, the location of the hardware that constitutes the server system 1100 does not matter. It may also be configured so that multiple independent servers installed in remote locations communicate data with each other via the network 9, and function as the server system 1100 as a whole.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the user terminal 1500. As shown in FIG. The user terminal 1500 is a computer system used by a user who has completed a registration procedure to use the game system 1000 of this embodiment, and is an electronic device (electronic equipment) that can access the server system 1100 via the network 9. Note that the user terminal 1500 of this embodiment is a device known as a smartphone, but it may also be a computer such as a wearable computer such as a smartwatch or smartglasses, a portable game device, a tablet computer, or a personal computer. When multiple electronic devices are organically linked to perform a single function, such as a combination of a smartphone and a smartwatch connected to the smartphone, these multiple electronic devices can be considered as a single user terminal 1500.

[0046] The user terminal 1500 includes a directional input key 1502, button switches 1504, a touch panel 1506 that functions as both an image display device and a contact position input device, an internal battery 1509, a speaker 1510, a microphone 1512, a camera 1520, a control board 1550, and a memory card reader 1542 that can read and write data from a memory card 1540 that is a computer-readable storage medium. Other components, not shown, include a power button, a volume control button, and the like. The user terminal 1500 may also include an IC card reader that can contactlessly read and write data from IC card-type credit cards or prepaid cards that can be used to pay for the use of the game system 1000.

[0047] The control board 1550 is equipped with (1) a CPU 1551 and various microprocessors such as a GPU and DSP, (2) various IC memories 1552 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, (3) a wireless communication module 1553 for wireless communication with mobile phone base stations and wireless LAN base stations connected to the network 9, and (4) an interface circuit 1557.

[0048] The interface circuit 1557 includes (1) a driver circuit for the touch panel 1506, a circuit for receiving signals from the directional input keys 1502 and the button switches 1504, (2) an output amplifier circuit for outputting audio signals to the speaker 1510, (3) an input signal generation circuit for generating a signal of the audio collected by the microphone 1512, and (4) a signal input / output circuit for the memory card reader 1542.

[0049] These elements mounted on the control board 1550 are electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and are connected so as to be able to read and write data and send and receive signals. Note that part or all of the control board 1550 may be configured using an ASIC, FPGA, or SoC. The control board 1550 stores programs and various data for realizing the functions of the user terminal in IC memory 1552.

[0050] In this embodiment, the user terminal 1500 is configured to download programs and various setting data from the server system 1100, but it may also be configured to read them from a storage medium such as a memory card 1540 obtained separately.

[0051] Next, the lottery providing service will be described. The lottery offered is in the form of what is known as "select gacha." There are lottery opportunities when a user is logged in but not playing the game, and when the user is playing the game. The former is provided as a lottery that can be executed at any time by the user. The latter is provided as an event during game play. For example, if the game available on the game provision service is an RPG, a lottery is executed once a day each time the player character visits the village amusement park, and a game object is awarded to the user. If the game is a racing game, the lottery is provided as a lottery to select a prize for winning a race. In addition, depending on the content of the game, lottery opportunities can be provided as appropriate to give the user an opportunity to acquire game objects that can be used in the game.

[0052] In the following, items that can be used and utilized in the game will be used as examples of game objects that are selected by lottery and awarded to users, but game objects other than items can also be used as prizes in the lottery as appropriate.

[0053] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a lottery preparation screen for setting up preparations for a lottery. When a lottery opportunity arrives, the lottery preparation screen W3 is displayed on the user terminal 1500. The lottery preparation screen W3 includes an award quantity selection unit 10, an additional payment instruction operation unit 14, an additional payment premium notification unit 16, a usage bonus notification unit 20, a performance bonus notification unit 22, an applied lottery setting notification unit 24, and a candidate lottery execution operation icon 26.

[0054] The grant number selection unit 10 accepts the user's selection and setting of the number of game objects (granted number) to be granted to the user in this lottery opportunity, in other words, the number of game objects that the user wishes to have in this lottery opportunity.

[0055] Specifically, the grant number selection unit 10 includes different grant number options 12. One grant number option is presented to the user in association with the grant number, the number of candidates, and the corresponding price (standard price: 100P, 200P, ... in Fig. 3). The number of candidates is the number of candidates for the item that the user will ultimately select and acquire, and is a value greater than the grant number. For example, if the number of candidates is "2" and the grant number is In the case of "1", it means that after "two" items are selected as candidates for the award, the user can select "one" item from these two candidates and acquire it.

[0056] In the example of Fig. 3, the unit of payment for the lottery is payment points (for example, points awarded according to game performance, points that can be purchased through online shopping, or other electronic payment media), but real currency or items (game objects) used in the game may also be used as units. Of course, the payment can be "0", meaning the lottery is free.

[0057] The number of awards and a candidate number determined based on the number of awards are displayed in association with each other in each of the award number options 12. Each award number option 12 also serves as an operation icon for selecting the corresponding award number, and the user touches one of the award number options 12 to select the desired number of awards (the number of game objects desired in this lottery opportunity).

[0058] FIG. 4 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the grant number and the rate (grant number candidate rate) of the number of candidates determined based on the grant number. Each grant number option 12 is set so that the grant number and the number of candidates have a positive correlation overall. That is, for the grant number option 12 of "grant 1:candidate 2" in FIG. 3, the rate is "1:2." However, when the grant number increases by "1," the rate increases to "1:2.5" for the grant number option 12 of "grant 2:candidate 5." Furthermore, when the grant number increases by "1," the rate increases to "1:2.67" for the grant number option 12 of "grant 3:candidate 8." In other words, the more grant numbers are increased, the more candidates a user can select and acquire their desired item (game object).

[0059] The rate relationship is not limited to this example and can be set appropriately. For example, it may be a direct proportional relationship, a logarithmic function relationship, an exponential function relationship, or a stepwise relationship.

[0060] An upper limit (maximum number of points to be awarded) is set and limited to the number of points to be awarded presented in the number of points to be awarded option 12. The maximum number of points to be awarded is determined based on information about the user related to game play and the user's payment instruction operation.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between user information related to game play and the maximum number of points that can be awarded. Here, "user information related to game play" includes information related to playing results and information related to the degree of game use. Examples of the former include, for example, in an RPG, the player level (or the player's character level), the number of kills, the number of items owned, and the number of stages cleared. In a racing game, examples include the fastest lap times, in-game match results, and race rankings. Examples of the latter include, for example, play frequency, cumulative play time, the number of items purchased online, and lottery participation outside of game play. The maximum number of points to be awarded is set to have a positive correlation with "user information related to game play."

[0062] Returning to FIG. 3, the additional payment instruction operation unit 14 is an operation input icon that accepts an operation input to set an amount to be added to the standard amount associated with the grant amount option 12.

[0063] The initial state of the additional payment is "0", and it is set so that a predetermined amount (20 P in the example of FIG. 3) is additionally paid each time the additional payment instruction operation unit 14 is operated. In other words, the additional payment instruction operation unit 14 also serves as one of the operation icons for inputting a payment instruction operation to instruct the user to consume points or the like as a consideration.

[0064] The additional payment premium notification unit 16 indicates the content of the premium to be given to the user in response to an operation input to the additional payment instruction operation unit 14. Specifically, the additional payment premium notification unit 16 indicates an increment to be added to the number of candidates in the selected grant number option 12. The amount of addition to the number of candidates is determined in a given relationship so as to have a positive correlation with the additional payment, for example.

[0065] The usage bonus notification unit 20 displays the content of the bonus (usage bonus) added based on "user information related to game play," particularly information related to the degree of use of the game provision service (e.g., frequency of play, cumulative play time, number of items purchased through online shopping, lottery execution outside of game play, etc.).

[0066] 3, the usage bonus is an increase in the number of awarded bonuses, but it may be something other than this (for example, an increase in the number of candidates, etc.) The usage bonus is set to have a positive correlation, for example, so that the value of the usage bonus increases as the degree of use of the game providing service increases.

[0067] The performance bonus notification unit 22 displays the content of the bonus (performance bonus) that is added based on "user information related to game play," particularly information related to playing results (e.g., player level, number of kills, number of items owned, number of stages cleared, fastest lap times, in-game match results, race ranking, etc.).

[0068] In the example of Figure 3, the performance bonus is an increase in the number of candidates, but it may be something other than this (for example, an increase in the number of awards). The performance bonus is set to have a positive correlation, for example, so that the higher the game performance, the higher the value of the usage bonus. Note that the positive correlation here can be set in ways other than the examples of Figures 4 and 5.

[0069] The applicable lottery setting notification section 24 notifies the lottery setting to be applied to the current lottery opportunity as a result of taking into consideration all of the grant number option 12 selected in the grant number selection section 10, the premium notified in the additional payment premium notification section 16, the use bonus, and the performance bonus.

[0070] If the user agrees with the settings shown in the application lottery setting notification section 24, the user touches the candidate lottery execution operation icon 26 to execute the lottery. Since the execution of the lottery involves the payment of a fee, the candidate lottery execution operation icon 26 also serves as one of the operation icons for inputting a payment instruction operation to instruct the user to consume points or the like as a fee.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the process relating to the lottery execution. A plurality of different types of lottery populations 4 (4a, 4b, ...; collection of the contents of the lottery box) with different contents are prepared in advance. For example, an early game population 4a is prepared for use in the early stage of the game, a mid-game population 4b is prepared for use in the middle stage of the game, and an end-game population 4c is prepared for use in the end stage of the game. In addition, a non-game population 4d is prepared for use in lottery opportunities other than game play. Of course, the configuration of the populations 4 (4a, 4b, ...) can be set to other configurations as appropriate.

[0072] When the server system 1100 detects a touch operation on the candidate lottery execution operation icon 26, that is, a lottery execution operation input, it selects a population 4 that is suited to the situation at the time and adjusts its contents.

[0073] The population 4 to be used (the population 4a for the opening stage in the example of FIG. 6) is adjusted based on the selected adjustment setting data 550 that is suited to the situation at the time. The adjustment setting data 550 is data that indicates how the population 4 to be used is customized for the user.

[0074] The adjustment setting data 550 includes "exclusion requirements." The "exclusion requirements" are requirements for selecting items to be excluded from the list of items that make up the population 4. The requirements are defined, for example, using pre-set rarity, grantability requirements, usability requirements, etc. for each type of item (game object) that makes up the population.

[0075] "Grantability requirements" are the conditions that a user must meet in order to receive the item, and parameters corresponding to user information related to gameplay, such as "clearing five stages," can be used to describe the requirements. The "usability requirements" are the conditions that the user must meet when using the item, and parameters corresponding to user information related to gameplay, such as "player level is Lv5 or higher," can be used to describe the requirements.

[0076] Adjustments based on the exclusion requirements are made by excluding from the composition of population 4 items that do not meet the requirements.

[0077] Furthermore, the adjustment setting data 550 includes a "target probability distribution" and a "target rarity distribution." The "target probability distribution" specifies what type or category of items should have what lottery probability, or what proportion of types or categories make up the population 4.

[0078] The "target rarity distribution" specifies the lottery probability that an item of a certain rarity should have, focusing on the rarity of the item. Alternatively, it specifies the proportion of items of a certain rarity that make up the population 4.

[0079] The adjustment based on the target probability distribution and the target rarity distribution is performed after the adjustment based on the exclusion requirements, and is realized by selecting items from a pre-prepared group of adjustment items 6 and adding them to the population 4.

[0080] Instead of selecting and adding items from the group of items for adjustment 6, items remaining in the population 4 after adjustment based on the exclusion requirements may be duplicated and added. In addition, the exclusion requirements, target probability distribution, and target rarity distribution of the adjustment setting data 550 may not be set.

[0081] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example of the lottery result of the candidates and the grant item selection screen W7 for selecting the item (grant target item) that the user will ultimately acquire. The grant item selection screen W7 is displayed on the user terminal 1500 when the lottery is executed. The grant item selection screen W7 includes an effect display section 40 in which the lottery device moves, a candidate display section 42, an information display section 44, a grant item display section 46, and a grant execution operation icon 48.

[0082] The candidate display unit 42 displays standard candidate display bodies 43a (in the example of FIG. 7, the lottery machine is likened to a gacha, so capsule-shaped display bodies are used) representing the selected candidates, the number of which is equal to the number of candidates. There is a one-to-one correspondence between the standard candidate display bodies 43a and the selected candidate items.

[0083] In addition, the candidate display section 42 may display a bonus candidate display body 43b. If the selected candidate satisfies a given combination condition, a "bonus candidate" according to the content of the combination is added to the candidates. The bonus candidate display body 43b has a different design from the standard candidate display body 43a, and is associated one-to-one with the bonus candidate.

[0084] The standard candidate display body 43a and the bonus candidate display body 43b function as icons for selecting an object for information display in the information display section 44. When the user touches either the standard candidate display body 43a or the bonus candidate display body 43b to perform a selection operation, information about the candidate or bonus candidate associated with that display body is displayed in the information display section 44.

[0085] The candidate display unit 42 may be a list display that combines images of the selected candidate items with information display. In this case, the standard candidate display element 43a, the bonus candidate display element 43b, and the information display unit 44 may be omitted.

[0086] The total number of granted items is displayed in the granted item display section 46. The total number of granted items is the sum of the number of granted items (user-selected number of granted items) associated with the option selected by the user from the grant number options 12 and the additional number of granted items granted as additional payment premiums, usage bonuses, and performance bonuses.

[0087] The initial state of each of the grant item display sections 46 is an empty frame with "no setting." This state is shown in FIG. 7. The user can determine the item they want from the candidate display section 42 using the information from the information display section 44, and then drag and drop the standard candidate display body 43a or bonus candidate display body 43b of that item onto the grant item display section 46, thereby associating the desired item with the grant item display section 46 and setting it as the item to be granted.

[0088] Then, an image of the item (game object) associated with the dragged-and-dropped display object is displayed in the granted item display unit 46. In other words, one item that the user will ultimately acquire (the item that will ultimately be granted) is set. Note that if a different display object is associated with the granted item display unit 46 displaying the image of the item, the setting can be switched.

[0089] Then, when the user touches the grant execution operation icon 48, the candidate item associated with the grant item display section 46 is granted to the user.

[0090] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server system 1100. The server system 1100 includes an operation input unit 100s, a server processing unit 200s, a sound output unit 390s, an image display unit 392s, a communication unit 394s, and a server storage unit 500s.

[0091] The operation input unit 100s is a means for inputting various operations for managing the server, and corresponds to the keyboard 1106 in FIG.

[0092] The server processing unit 200s is realized by electronic components such as a processor serving as an arithmetic circuit, such as a CPU, GPU, ASIC, or FPGA, as well as IC memory, and controls input and output of data between the server processing unit 200s and each functional unit including the operation input unit 100s and the server storage unit 500s. The server processing unit 200s performs various types of arithmetic processing based on predetermined programs and data, operation input signals from the operation input unit 100s, data received from the user terminal 1500, etc., and comprehensively controls the operation of the server system 1100.

[0093] The server processing unit 200s includes a user management unit 202, an online shopping management unit 204, a game management unit 210, a lottery management unit 220, a timing unit 280s, a sound generation unit 290s, an image generation unit 292s, and a communication control unit 294s. Of course, other functional units may also be included as appropriate.

[0094] The user management unit 202 performs processing related to user registration procedures and stores and manages various information linked to user accounts. Specifically, the user management unit 202 performs the following functions: (1) assigning unique user accounts to registered users, (2) registration information management for registering and managing personal information for each user account, (3) play history management for managing login and logout history, (4) management of owned items, (5) management of purchase history of items and the like through online shopping, (6) management of lottery usage history outside of game play, etc. Of course, the unit may also include a function for managing other data linked to accounts other than these, as appropriate.

[0095] The user management unit 202 also includes an electronic payment information management unit 203. The term "electronic payment information" as used herein refers to information used to electronically pay for services provided by the game system 1000. For example, in a configuration that employs electronic payment using a credit card, playpaid card, or membership card, this would include a card number, a personal identification number, etc. In a configuration that employs payment by consuming virtual currency, virtual items, or points that the user has registered in advance through a purchase procedure, this would include the balance of the virtual currency, virtual items, or points.

[0096] The online shopping management unit 204 is responsible for controlling online shopping. This can be realized by appropriately utilizing known online shopping technology. In this embodiment, players can purchase items (game objects) that can be used in the game through online shopping. Items for sale in online shopping can also be set to be other than the above as appropriate.

[0097] The game management unit 210 executes various controls related to the online game.

[0098] The lottery management unit 220 executes various controls related to the lottery process. Specifically, the lottery management unit 220 has a number-of-award-to-be-granted setting unit 222, a first upper limit number-of-award-to-be-granted changing unit 224, a second upper limit number-of-award-to-be-granted changing unit 226, a number-of-candidates determination unit 228, a number-of-bonus setting unit 230, a population setting unit 232, a candidate lottery unit 234, a candidate addition unit 236, a game object-to-be-granted determination unit 238, and a grant control unit 240.

[0099] The grant number setting unit 222 sets the number of game objects to be awarded to the user in the lottery (user-selected grant number) based on the user's operational input. Specifically, the grant number setting unit 222 sets the grant number associated with the grant number option 12 selected by the user from among the grant number options 12 displayed in the grant number selection unit 10 of the lottery preparation screen W3 (see FIG. 3) as the user-selected grant number.

[0100] The first upper limit of the number of awards change unit 224 changes the upper limit of the number of awards that can be set by the number of awards setting unit 222 based on information about the user involved in game play.

[0101] The second upper limit of the number of points to be awarded change unit 226 changes the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded that can be set by the number of points to be awarded setting unit 222 based on the user's payment instruction operation to instruct the payment of value points or the consumption of value items. Specifically, the second upper limit of the number of points to be awarded change unit 226 determines the final consumption amount based on the selection result of the number of points to be awarded option 12 and the operation result to the additional payment instruction operation unit 14, and changes the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded based on the consumption amount (see FIG. 3).

[0102] The candidate number determination unit 228 determines the number of candidates so that the number of candidates is greater than the number of awards, specifically, so that the ratio of the number of candidates to the number of awards has a positive correlation with the number of awards. More specifically, the candidate number determination unit 228 determines the number of candidates based on a predetermined rate determination function (or rate determination table) (see FIG. 4). That is, it uses the number of candidates associated with the award number option 12 selected by the user from among the award number options 12 displayed in the award number selection unit 10 of the lottery preparation screen W3 (see FIG. 3).

[0103] The bonus number setting unit 230 sets a given bonus number based on user information related to game play. Specifically, this applies to a usage bonus and a performance bonus (see FIG. 3).

[0104] The population setting unit 232 sets the population 4 for the lottery by the candidate lottery unit 234 based on the number of awards and the user's information related to game play.

[0105] The candidate selection unit 234 selects candidates for the game object to be awarded by lottery, the number of which corresponds to the number of candidates.

[0106] When a candidate selected by the candidate selection unit 234 satisfies a given combination condition, the candidate addition unit 236 adds a game object corresponding to the combination condition as a new candidate. The bonus candidate display body 43b (see FIG. 7) represents the added candidate.

[0107] The granted game object determination unit 238 determines the number of game objects to be granted from among the candidates selected by the candidate selection unit 234. Specifically, the granted game object determination unit 238 adopts the candidate item (game object) associated with the candidate display object set by the user in the granted item display unit 46 from among the candidate display objects displayed in the candidate display unit 42 of the granted item selection screen W7 (see FIG. 7).

[0108] That is, the awarded game object determination unit 238 determines the game object of the awarded number and the bonus number determined by the bonus number setting unit 230 from the candidates drawn by the candidate drawing unit 234 based on the user's operational input.

[0109] The granting control unit 240 controls granting to the user the game object determined by the grant game object determination unit 238. Furthermore, when the candidate selected by the candidate selection unit 234 satisfies a given combination condition, the granting control unit 240 controls granting to the user a game object according to the combination condition.

[0110] The timekeeping unit 280s uses a system clock to keep track of the current date and time, the time limit, and the like.

[0111] The sound generation unit 290s is realized by executing an IC or software that generates or decodes audio data, and generates or decodes audio data such as operation sounds, sound effects, and background music related to system management, games, etc. of the server system 1100. The audio signals related to system management are output to the sound output unit 390s.

[0112] 1, the sound output unit 390s corresponds to a speaker (not shown) provided in the main device or the touch panel 1108.

[0113] The image generation unit 292s generates images, combines images, and outputs image signals for displaying them on the image display unit 392s. In this embodiment, the image generation unit 292s is responsible for part of the function of generating images such as images related to system management of the server system 1100, game screens, a lottery preparation screen W3, and a grant item selection screen W7 (or data for displaying them on the user terminal 1500).

[0114] The image display unit 392s is realized by a device that displays images, such as a flat panel display, a head-mounted display, a projector, etc. In the example of FIG.

[0115] The communication control unit 294s executes data processing related to data communication, and realizes data exchange with external devices via the communication unit 394s.

[0116] The communication unit 394s connects to the network 9 and realizes communication. For example, it is realized by a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack for a wired communication cable, a control circuit, etc. In the example of FIG. 1, this corresponds to the communication device 1153.

[0117] The server storage unit 500s stores programs and various data for implementing various functions that allow the server processing unit 200s to comprehensively control the server system 1100. It is also used as a work area for the server processing unit 200s, and temporarily stores the results of calculations executed by the server processing unit 200s in accordance with the various programs. This function is realized by, for example, IC memory such as RAM or ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs, online storage, etc. In the example of FIG. 1, this corresponds to storage media such as IC memory 1152 and hard disks installed in the main unit, and storage 1140.

[0118] 9 is a diagram showing examples of programs and data stored in the server storage unit 500s in this embodiment. The server storage unit 500s in this embodiment stores a server program 501, a distribution client program 503, and game initial setting data 510. The server storage unit 500s also stores user management data 600, play data 700, lottery management data 750, and current date and time 800 as data that is sequentially generated and managed. The server storage unit 500s also stores other programs and data (for example, timers, counters, various flags, etc.) as appropriate.

[0119] The server program 501 is a program that is read and executed by the server processing unit 200s to realize the functions of the user management unit 202, the online shopping management unit 204, the game management unit 210, and the lottery management unit 220. The delivery client program 503 is the original client program provided to the user terminal 1500 .

[0120] The game initial setting data 510 includes various initial setting data necessary for controlling the execution of the game. The game initial setting data 510 includes, for example, game space initial setting data 511, character initial setting data 512, item initial setting data 513, population initial setting data 520, and combination bonus definition data 560. Of course, data other than these may also be included as appropriate.

[0121] The game space initial setting data 511 stores the initial settings of various game objects (for example, fields, buildings, backgrounds, vehicles, background characters used as a gallery, etc.) that constitute the virtual world of gameplay (game world).

[0122] Character initial setting data 512 is prepared for each game object classified as a character appearing in the game (for example, a character that the player can select as a player character, an enemy character, etc.), and stores various initial setting data related to the character.

[0123] Item initial setting data 513 is prepared for each game object that will be an item usable in the game, and stores various initial setting data related to that item. For example, one item initial setting data 513 includes information such as the item name, classification, rarity, ability parameter values ​​that represent the effect of the item in the game, grantability requirements, and usability requirements.

[0124] The population initial setting data 520 is a collection of game objects corresponding to lottery boxes used for lottery, and is prepared for each content and condition of use. As shown in FIG. 10 , one population initial setting data 520 includes a population type 521, which is identification information for the population, usage requirement definition data 523, an initial population item list 525, an initial upper limit of the number of awards 527, an award number option list 530, a standard compensation rate 531, a first upper limit of the number of awards definition data 532, a second upper limit of the number of awards definition data 534, additional payment premium definition data 535, a candidate number of award number rate definition data 536, a usage bonus definition data 540, a performance bonus definition data 542, an adjustment item list 544, and adjustment setting data 550. Of course, other data may also be included as appropriate.

[0125] The usage requirement definition data 523 defines the requirements for the population to be used in the lottery. For example, it can be set appropriately to "early game", "mid game", "late game", "non-game play", "for Xth stage (X is a natural number)", "for boss clear", etc.

[0126] The initial population item list 525 is a list of identification information for the items (game objects) that make up the population. Even if the same type of item is included in the population multiple times, each item is registered as a separate item.

[0127] The grant number option list 530 is a list of grant numbers that are first presented to the user, and determines the types of grant numbers that are presented in the grant number option 12 (see FIG. 3).

[0128] The standard consideration rate 531 is data prepared when the lottery is realized as a valuable lottery, and sets the standard consideration rate for the grant number associated with each grant number option 12.

[0129] The first upper limit of the number of points to be awarded definition data 532 is data that defines how the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded is changed based on user information related to game play (see FIG. 5). For example, the first upper limit of the number of points to be awarded definition data 532 is realized by a predetermined function or table data that uses as variables numerical values ​​representing user information related to game play up to now that is stored for the user (past playing results, current playing results, degree of use, etc.).

[0130] The second upper limit of the number of points to be awarded definition data 534 is data that defines how the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded is changed based on the user's payment instruction operation to instruct the payment of value points or the consumption of value items (see FIG. 5). For example, the second upper limit of the number of points to be awarded definition data 534 is realized by a predetermined function or table data that uses the total value to be paid in relation to the current lottery execution as a variable.

[0131] The additional payment premium definition data 535 is data that defines a premium that is granted to a user in accordance with an additional payment in addition to the standard payment. The premium is, for example, an increase in the number of options that is added to the number of options determined based on the number of options (user-selected number of options) selected from the number of options 12 for each additional payment range. Of course, the content of the premium is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an increase in the user-selected number of options or an increase in the upper limit of the number of options.

[0132] The grant number candidate number rate definition data 536 is data that defines a relationship for determining the candidate number based on the grant number (see FIG. 4).

[0133] The usage bonus definition data 540 defines the bonus to be awarded depending on the degree of the user's game use. For example, it defines the bonus award number to be added to the award number of the option selected from the award number options 12 (user-selected bonus number), the number of bonus candidates to be added to the number of candidates determined based on the award number candidate rate definition data 536, etc.

[0134] The performance bonus definition data 542 is data that defines a bonus to be awarded according to the user's playing performance (for example, in the case of a lottery opportunity during game play, the playing performance at that time). For example, it defines the number of bonuses to be added to the number of bonuses selected by the user, the number of potential bonuses to be added to the number of candidates determined based on the data 536 defining the rate of the number of potential bonuses, etc.

[0135] The adjustment setting data 550 is prepared for each pattern of how the initial population item list 525 is changed or adjusted prior to the lottery being held, and stores various data defining the pattern. One adjustment setting data 550 stores, for example, an adjustment application requirement 551 indicating the requirements for applying the data, an exclusion requirement 553 specifying items (game objects) to be excluded from the composition of the population 4, a target probability distribution 555, and a target rarity distribution 557. Of course, data other than these may also be stored as appropriate. The adjustment application requirement 551 can be described as a single or multiple combinations of, for example, a range of the number of grants, a range of player levels, a range of total consideration, etc.

[0136] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the combination bonus definition data 560. One or more types of combination bonus definition data 560 are prepared. One combination bonus definition data 560 stores a candidate combination pattern 561 and a bonus content 563 to be awarded when the combination can be achieved with the configuration of the selected candidate, in association with each other. The bonus content 563 stores, for example, a bonus candidate 564 to be added to the selected candidate, and a bonus item 565 to be awarded in addition to the award target item selected by the user from the candidates. Note that combination bonus definition data 560 may be prepared in which either the bonus content 563 or the bonus item 565 is set to "not set."

[0137] 9, user management data 600 is prepared for each user who has completed a predetermined registration procedure and stores various data related to that user. As shown in FIG. 12, one piece of user management data 600 includes a unique user account 601, electronic payment information 603, billing history data 605, play history data 607, owned item management data 610, and game save data 612. Of course, data other than these may also be included as appropriate.

[0138] The billing history data 605 is created for each billing (payment of a fee) made by the user. One billing history data 605 stores information indicating, for example, the billing history, the billing amount, and the reason for billing (what the fee was paid for) in association with each other.

[0139] Play history data 607 is created each time a game is played. Each piece of play history data 607 stores, for example, the play date and time and the play results in association with each other.

[0140] The owned item management data 610 is prepared for each type of item that the user owns (has the right to use the item data). One owned item management data 610 stores, for example, the item type, item control parameter value (for example, a parameter value describing the latest status of the item), number, etc. in association with each other.

[0141] Returning to FIG. 9, the play data 700 is created for each game play, and stores various data describing the latest progress status and latest play results in the game play.

[0142] The lottery management data 750 is created for each lottery opportunity and stores various data for managing the lottery associated with that opportunity. As shown in FIG. 13, each lottery management data 750 stores a unique lottery ID 751, a lottery player account 752, a usage population type 754, an upper limit on the number of awards 756, an applied usage bonus 758, an applied performance bonus 760, award number option setting data 762, a user-selected award number 764, a user-selected standard consideration 766, an additional consideration 768, an additional payment premium 770, a total number of awards 771, a number of candidates 772, an applicable population item list 774, a candidate list 776, and an award target item list 778. Of course, other data may also be stored as appropriate.

[0143] The population type 754 to be used is information indicating the population 4 to be used in the lottery opportunity, and indicates one of the population types 521 in the population initial setting data 520.

[0144] The upper limit of the number of allotted points 756 is the upper limit of the number of allotted points presented as the number of allotted points option 12, and is the maximum number of allotted points that the user can select from the number of allotted points option 12. The initial value of the upper limit of the allotted points 756 is the initial upper limit of the allotted points 527 of the population 4 indicated by the used population type 754, and is changed based on the first upper limit of the allotted points definition data 532 and the second upper limit of the allotted points definition data 534 of the population 4 used.

[0145] The grant number option setting data 762 is prepared for each grant number option 12, and stores a unique option ID, a grant number (presented grant number) and a candidate number (presented candidate number) associated with the option. The presented grant number is a value set in the grant number option list 530 of the population 4 to be used. The presented candidate number is determined based on the grant number candidate number rate definition data 536 of the population 4 to be used.

[0146] The user-selected grant number 764 is initially set to a predetermined value (for example, "1"), and stores the grant number associated with the option selected by the user from the grant number options 12.

[0147] In the case of a value lottery, the user-selected standard consideration 766 stores a standard consideration that is associated with the grant quantity option 12. Examples of this include "100P", "200P", etc. in FIG.

[0148] The additional consideration 768 is initially set to "0", and when the user arbitrarily performs an operation to instruct payment of the additional consideration, the instructed consideration is stored. Specifically, the result of the operation input in the additional payment instruction operation unit 14 (see FIG. 3) is stored.

[0149] The additional payment premium 770 stores the content of the premium given to the user in accordance with the additional consideration 768 (specifically, the increment added to the candidate number determined by the rate of the candidate number of the given number).

[0150] The total number of grants 771 is the sum of the user-selected number of grants 764, the applied usage bonus 758, the applied performance bonus 760, and the increase in the number of grants set by the additional payment premium 770.

[0151] The number of candidates 772 indicates a set value for the number of candidates to be drawn. Specifically, the initial value of the number of candidates 772 is determined and set to a value corresponding to the initial value (e.g., "1") of the total number of grants 771 by referencing the grant number candidate rate definition data 536 (see FIGS. 10 and 4) in the population initial setting data 520 for the population 4 indicated by the used population type 754. Thereafter, when the user determines the user-selected grant number 764 by selecting the grant number option 12, the number of candidates 772 is changed to the number of candidates corresponding to the value indicated by the total number of grants 771 based on the grant number candidate rate definition data 536, and further, the increase in the number of candidates set by the applied use bonus 758, the applied performance bonus 760, and the additional payment premium 770 is added.

[0152] The applied population item list 774 describes the composition of the population 4 that is applied to the lottery. Specifically, the initial population item list 525 (see FIG. 10) of the population initial setting data 520 of the population 4 indicated by the used population type 754 is copied. Then, adjustments (removal or addition of constituent items) are made based on the contents of the adjustment setting data 550 that is applied at that time.

[0153] The candidate list 776 is a list of identification information of items (game objects) that are selected as candidates by lottery. Bonus candidates 564 based on the bonus combination definition data 560 (see FIG. 11) are also added to the candidate list 776.

[0154] The list of items to be awarded 778 stores the candidate selected by the user from among the candidates, i.e., the identification information of the item that the user will ultimately acquire. The bonus item 565 based on the bonus combination definition data 560 (see FIG. 11) is also added to the list of items to be awarded 778.

[0155] 14 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal 1500 according to this embodiment. The user terminal 1500 includes an operation input unit 100, a device processing unit 200, a sound output unit 390, an image display unit 392, a communication unit 394, and a device storage unit 500.

[0156] The operation input unit 100 outputs operation input signals corresponding to various operation inputs made by the user to the device processing unit 200. For example, this can be realized by a push switch, a joystick, a touchpad, a trackball, an acceleration sensor, a gyro, a CCD module, etc. Examples of this include the direction input key 1502, button switch 1504, and touch panel 1506 in FIG. 2.

[0157] The device processing unit 200 is realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, and an IC memory, and controls the input and output of data between the device and each functional unit including the operation input unit 100 and the device storage unit 500. The device processing unit 200 controls the operation of the user terminal 1500 by executing various arithmetic processes based on predetermined programs and data, operation input signals from the operation input unit 100, and various data received from the server system 1100. This corresponds to the control board 1550 in FIG. 2.

[0158] The terminal processing unit 200 in this embodiment includes a user terminal calculation unit 260 , a timing unit 280 , a sound generation unit 290 , and a communication control unit 294 .

[0159] User terminal calculation unit 260 controls user terminal 1500 to function as a client device that communicates with server system 1100. Specifically, user terminal calculation unit 260 includes an operation signal transmission control unit 261 and an image display control unit 262.

[0160] The operation signal transmission control unit 261 executes processing for transmitting various data and requests to the server system 1100 in response to operations performed on the operation input unit 100 .

[0161] The image display control unit 262 performs control to display game screens, various operation screens, etc. based on various data received from the server system 1100. Then, it generates and outputs image signals for displaying these images to the image display unit 392.

[0162] The image display unit 392 displays various images based on image signals input from the image display control unit 262. For example, this can be realized by an image display device such as a flat panel display, a projector, or a head-mounted display. In this embodiment, this corresponds to the touch panel 1506 in FIG. 2.

[0163] In this embodiment, images of game screens and screens related to various lotteries are generated by the server system 1100, but they can also be generated by the user terminal 1500. In this case, the image display control unit 262 executes various controls for generating the screens, such as controlling objects arranged in a virtual three-dimensional space for generating 3DCG.

[0164] The timekeeping unit 280 uses a system clock to keep track of the current date and time, time limit, and the like.

[0165] The sound generation unit 290 is realized by, for example, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processor such as a voice synthesis IC, or an audio codec capable of playing audio files, and generates sound signals for music, sound effects, and various operation sounds, and outputs them to the sound output unit 390.

[0166] The sound output unit 390 is realized by a device that outputs (emits) sound based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 290. This corresponds to the speaker 1510 in FIG.

[0167] The communication control unit 294 executes data processing related to data communication, and realizes data exchange with external devices via the communication unit 394.

[0168] The communication unit 394 establishes communication by connecting to the network 9. For example, it is realized by a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack for a wired communication cable, a control circuit, etc., and corresponds to the wireless communication module 1553 in FIG.

[0169] The device storage unit 500 stores programs for causing the device processing unit 200 to realize given functions, various data, etc. It is also used as a work area for the device processing unit 200, and temporarily stores the results of calculations executed by the device processing unit 200 in accordance with various programs, input data input from the operation input unit 100, etc. These functions are realized by, for example, IC memory such as RAM or ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs, etc. This corresponds to the IC memory 1552 and memory card 1540 mounted on the control board 1550 in Figure 2. A configuration using online storage is also possible.

[0170] Specifically, the terminal storage unit 500 records a client program 502 for causing the terminal processing unit 200 to function as the user terminal calculation unit 260, operation input data 690, and a current date and time 800. Of course, data other than these can also be stored as appropriate.

[0171] Next, the operation of the game system 1000 of this embodiment will be described using an example in which a lottery opportunity occurs during game play. 15 and 16 are flowcharts for explaining the processing flow of the server system 1100 in the first embodiment. The processing flow described here is realized by a user terminal 1500, on which a client program 502 is running, connecting for communication to the server system 1100, on which a server program 501 is running. When a user 2 operates the user terminal 1500, the operation input is sent to the server system 1100. It is assumed that the login process has already been completed.

[0172] 15, the server system 1100 first prepares for game play (step S6). The server system 1100 references the user management data 600 of the user 2 who will be the player, as well as the game save data 612 and the owned item management data 610, to construct a game space in a virtual three-dimensional space and place game objects such as the player character and items. Of course, the server system 1100 also performs other initial settings.

[0173] Next, the server system 1100 starts the game (step S8), and repeatedly executes steps S10 to S74 (see FIG. 16) as a process related to lottery management for each lottery opportunity until the game ends.

[0174] Specifically, the server system 1100 determines whether a lottery opportunity has arrived (step S10). For example, in an RPG, lottery opportunities can be set when the player character discovers a treasure chest, when the player character receives a reward for defeating a boss character, when the player character gambles or draws lots in a town that the player character has visited, etc.

[0175] Then, when it is determined that the lottery opportunity has arrived (YES in step S10), the server system 1100 prepares the lottery management data 750 and selects the population 4 to be used (step S12).

[0176] Next, the server system 1100 determines the applied use bonus 758 and the applied performance bonus 760 based on the use bonus definition data 540 and the performance bonus definition data 542 of the universe 4 to be used (step S14).

[0177] The server system 1100 also determines the applicable upper limit of the number of points to be awarded 756 (see FIG. 13) (step S16). Specifically, the server system 1100 references the user management data 600 of the user who is the player and the first upper limit of the number of points to be awarded definition data 532 of the universe 4 to be used, and increases the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded 756 from the initial value based on the information of the user involved in the game play.

[0178] Next, the server system 1100 sets the grant number options 12 (step S18). Specifically, the server system 1100 creates grant number option setting data 762 (see FIG. 13) for each grant number equal to or less than the current upper grant number limit 756 from the grant number option list 530 (see FIG. 10) of the population 4 to be used. At this time, the server system 1100 determines the number of candidates (number of presented candidates) to be associated with each grant number option 12 based on the grant number candidate rate definition data 536 (see FIGS. 10 and 4) of the population 4 to be used.

[0179] Next, the server system 1100 displays the lottery preparation screen W3 (see FIG. 3) on the user terminal 1500 (step S20). While the lottery preparation screen W3 is displayed, the server system 1100 successively updates the applied lottery setting notification unit 24 to the latest state based on the lottery management data 750.

[0180] Then, when an operation input to the additional payment instruction operation unit 14 is detected on the lottery preparation screen W3 (YES in step S30), the server system 1100 changes the upper limit of the number of awards 756 based on the second upper limit of the number of awards definition data 534 (step S32), and determines the additional payment premium 770 based on the additional payment premium definition data 535 (step S34).The server system 1100 then resets the number of awards option setting data 762 (step S36), returns to step S20, and updates the number of awards option 12 to match the changed upper limit of the number of awards 756.

[0181] If an operation to select one of the award number options 12 is detected on the lottery preparation screen W3 (YES in step S40), the server system 1100 sets the value associated with the selected award number option 12 to the user-selected award number 764 and updates the total award number 771 (step S42).

[0182] Then, the server system 1100 determines the number of candidates 772 (step S44). Specifically, the server system 1100 changes the number of candidates 772 to the number of candidates corresponding to the value indicated by the total number of awards 771 based on the award number candidate number rate definition data 536, and further adds the increase in the number of candidates set by the applied use bonus 758, the applied performance bonus 760, and the additional payment premium 770.

[0183] The server system 1100 repeats steps S20 to S44 until a lottery execution operation is detected (NO in step S50).

[0184] When a lottery execution operation is detected (YES in step S50), the process moves to FIG. 16, and the server system 1100 adjusts the population 4 to be used (step S52: see FIG. 6). Specifically, the server system 1100 selects any setting data that satisfies the adjustment application requirement 551 from the adjusted setting data 550 (see FIG. 10) of the population initial setting data 520 of the population 4 to be used. Then, items that satisfy the exclusion requirement 553 are excluded from the applicable population item list 774 (which, before adjustment, is a copy of the initial population item list 525 of the population 4 to be used), and items are added from the adjustment item list 544 to the applicable population item list 774 so as to realize the target probability distribution 555 and the target rarity distribution 557.

[0185] Next, the server system 1100 executes a lottery for the number of candidates 772 using the adjusted applicable population item list 774 (step S54). The lottery result is stored in the candidate list 776.

[0186] Next, the server system 1100 compares the selected candidates with the bonus combination definition data 560 (see FIG. 11), and adds the bonus candidates 564 corresponding to the combinations realized by the candidates to the selected candidates (step S56). That is, the bonus candidates 564 are added to the candidate list 776.

[0187] Next, the server system 1100 adds the bonus items 565 (see FIG. 11) of the combinations formed by the selected candidates to the list of items to be awarded 778 (step S60).

[0188] Next, the server system 1100 displays the grant item selection screen W7 on the user terminal 1500 (step S62) and accepts a selection operation of an item (game object) to be granted (step S64; see FIG. 7). The result of the selection operation is stored in the grant item list 778.

[0189] If the granting operation is input (YES in step S70), the server system 1100 collects the total amount (=user selection item 766 + additional amount 768) from the user (step S72) and executes the process of granting the grant target item to the user (step S74). This completes the process related to the lottery management for the arrival of 11 lottery opportunities.

[0190] When the game is over (YES in step S80), the server system 1100 executes a data save process (step S82) and ends the series of processes.

[0191] If the lottery opportunity is held outside of game play, steps S12 to S74 may be executed.

[0192] As described above, according to this embodiment, a new computer-implemented lottery can be provided in which, when playing a lottery in which items (game objects) are prizes, the number of prizes that can ultimately be won (awarded number) can be set based on the user's own selection.

[0193] Furthermore, the number of items ultimately awarded to the user can be increased based on the user's gameplay information, thereby improving user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0194] In addition, the upper limit of the number of points that a user can receive per lottery can be changed depending on the user's game usage and game performance. The higher the frequency of game play or the better the game performance, the higher the upper limit becomes, which encourages users to play games more aggressively. In other words, the lottery can be used as a chance to increase the user's motivation to play games.

[0195] Furthermore, if a user agrees to pay an additional fee for the lottery, the upper limit can be changed. For example, since the increase in the upper limit is set to have a positive correlation with the reward points, the user can be given a special chance to increase the number of items that can be won in the lottery by paying an additional fee. This can improve user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0196] Furthermore, if a specific combination is achieved from the lottery candidates, the number of candidates can be increased. Furthermore, if a specific combination is achieved from the lottery candidates, a game object can be awarded separately. This can improve user satisfaction with the lottery.

[0197] In addition, the composition of population 4 can be set based on user information related to the number of points awarded and game play. Therefore, the type of lottery that will be drawn can change depending on the number of points selected or set by the user themselves and how they played, which diversifies the content of the lottery and increases the interest in the lottery.

[0198] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. Comparing the second embodiment with the first embodiment, the first embodiment realizes the functions of user management, game management, and lottery management in the server system 1100, whereas the second embodiment differs in that these functions are realized in the user terminal 1500. Note that hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and components similar to those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0199] 17 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal 1500B in this embodiment. The user terminal 1500B in this embodiment has a user management unit 202, a game management unit 210, a lottery management unit 220, and an image generation unit 292 instead of the user terminal calculation unit 260 in the first embodiment.

[0200] The image generation unit 292 generates images, combines images, and outputs image signals that cause the image display unit 392 to display them.

[0201] Also, as shown in FIG. 18, the terminal memory unit 500 of this embodiment stores a game program 504 for realizing the functions of the user management unit 202, game management unit 210, and lottery management unit 220, game initial setting data 510, user management data 600, play data 700, and lottery management data 750, and the client program 502 and operation input data 690 of the first embodiment are omitted.

[0202] The game initial setting data 510 may be referenced each time the user terminal 1500B accesses the server system 1100, or may be downloaded from the server system 1100 at a given time and a copy thereof may be stored in the terminal memory unit 500 for reference.

[0203] The processing flow of the user terminal 1500B in this embodiment is the same as the flowcharts shown in Figures 15 and 16. That is, in the flowcharts of Figures 15 and 16, the entity that executes various processes and controls may be replaced by the user terminal 1500 from the server system 1100. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same effects as in the first embodiment.

[0204] [Modification] Although the embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described above, the forms to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above-described forms, and constituent elements can be added, omitted, or modified as appropriate.

[0205] (Variation 1) For example, in the first embodiment, an example was given in which the game system 1000 was realized in a client-server computer system, but the server system 1100 may be omitted and the game system may be realized in a computer system in which multiple user terminals 1500 are connected in a peer-to-peer manner. In this case, one of the user terminals 1500 is made to perform the functions of the server system 1100 of the first embodiment. Alternatively, the functions of the game management unit 210 and the lottery management unit 220 may be shared among multiple user terminals 1500.

[0206] Similarly, from the perspective of sharing the functions of the game management unit 210 and the lottery management unit 220, it is also possible to configure the user terminal 1500 to realize and share some or all of the functions of the game management unit 210 and the lottery management unit 220, based on the first embodiment.

[0207] (Variation 2) Furthermore, in the above embodiment, items are used as examples of game objects that can be used as prizes in a lottery, but other game objects, such as those defined by the game space initial setting data 511 or the character initial setting data 512, can also be used as prizes in a lottery as appropriate.

[0208] (Variation 3) In the above embodiment, the user selects the item to be awarded from the candidates, but automatic selection is also possible. In this case, in step S62 (see FIG. 16), the selection operation of the item to be awarded is not accepted, and step S70 is omitted. Instead, an automatic lottery step can be added in which an item to be awarded is randomly selected from the candidates up to the total number of awards 771.

[0209] (Variation 4) Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the candidate number determination unit 228 determines the number of candidates so that the number of assigned numbers and the number of candidates have a positive correlation (for example, the graph in Figure 4), but they may also be determined so that they have a negative correlation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0210] 2...User 4. Population 12...Number of grant options 20... Usage bonus notification section 22...Academic Bonus Notification Section 26... Execution operation icon 42...Candidate display area 46...Given item display section 48...Grant execution operation icon 200s...Server processing section 220...Lottery Management Department 222...Grant number setting section 224…First upper limit grant number change section 226...Second upper limit grant number change section 228...Candidate number determination section 230…Bonus number setting section 232...Population setting section 234... Candidate Lottery Section 236…Addition of candidates 238...Given game object determination unit 240...Giving control unit 500s...Server storage section 501...Server program 504...Game program 520...Population Initialization Data 525…Initial population item list 530...Grant number option list 532...First upper limit grant number definition data 534...Second upper limit grant number definition data 536...Number of grant candidates rate definition data 540...Use bonus definition data 542...Performance bonus definition data 550...Adjustment setting data 560…Combination bonus definition data 750...Lottery management data 754...Type of population used 756…Maximum number of grants 758...Applicable use bonus 760...Applicable performance bonus 762...Grant number option setting data 764...Number of user-selected grants 768...Additional consideration 770…Additional payment premium 771...total number of grants 772…Number of candidates 774…Applicable population item list 776... Candidate list 778...List of items eligible for grant 1000...Game System 1100...Server system 1150...Control board 1500, 1500B...User terminal W3...Lottery preparation screen W7...Granted item selection screen

Claims

1. A computer system that draws a lottery for a game object to be granted to a user, a grant number setting means for setting the number of game objects to be granted to the user (hereinafter referred to as the "grant number") based on an operation input by the user; a candidate number determination means for determining a number of candidates greater than the given number; a candidate selection means for selecting candidates for the number of game objects by lottery; an award game object determination means for determining the number of game objects to be awarded by automatically selecting the game objects from the candidates selected by the candidate selection means through a predetermined automatic selection process; an assignment control means for controlling the assignment of the game object determined by the assignment game object determination means to the user; Equipped with the granting game object determination means, as the automatic selection process, performs a selection process based on an automatic lottery from among the candidates selected by the candidate selection means to determine the number of game objects to be granted; Computer system.

2. a bonus number setting means for setting a given bonus number based on the user's information regarding game play; Further provided with the awarding game object determination means determines the award number game object and the bonus number game object from among the candidates selected by the candidate selection means; 10. The computer system of claim 1.

3. a first upper limit change means for changing the upper limit of the number of points to be awarded that can be set by the number setting means based on information of the user relating to game play; 10. The computer system of claim 1 further comprising:

4. a second upper limit grant number changing means for changing the upper limit of the grant number that can be set by the grant number setting means based on a payment instruction operation by the user instructing payment of value points or consumption of value items; The computer system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

5. a candidate addition means for adding, when the candidate selected by the candidate selection means satisfies a given combination condition, a game object corresponding to the combination condition as a new candidate; The computer system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising:

6. the granting control means performs control to grant to the user a game object according to a given combination condition when the candidate selected by the candidate selection means satisfies the given combination condition; The computer system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. a population setting means for setting a population of candidates to be selected by the candidate selection means; The computer system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:

8. The population setting means sets the population based on the number of allocations.

8. The computer system of claim 7.

9. the population setting means sets the population based on information of the user relating to game play; 9. A computer system according to claim 7 or 8.

10. the candidate number determination means determines the number of candidates so that the assigned number and the number of candidates have a positive correlation. A computer system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. 11. A server system that is a computer system according to claim 1, which communicates with the user terminal of the user.

12. A program for causing a computer system to draw a game object to be given to a user, a grant number setting means for setting the number of game objects to be granted to the user (hereinafter referred to as the "grant number") based on an operation input by the user; a candidate number determination means for determining a number of candidates greater than the number of assigned candidates; a candidate selection means for selecting candidates for the number of game objects by lottery; an award game object determination means for determining the number of game objects to be awarded by automatically selecting, through a predetermined automatic selection process, from the candidates drawn by the candidate drawing means; an assignment control means for controlling the assignment of the game object determined by the assignment game object determination means to the user; causing the computer system to function as the granting game object determination means, as the automatic selection process, performs a selection process based on an automatic lottery from among the candidates selected by the candidate selection means to determine the number of game objects to be granted; program.

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