Program, terminal device and system

Abstract

To provide a program, a terminal device, and a system capable of causing a user to continuously play a game appropriately.SOLUTION: A program of the present invention causes a computer to function as: determination means 333 for determining whether a privilege condition is satisfied on the basis of communication composed by both a first message transmitted from a first user to a second user and a second message transmitted from the second user to the first user between the first user playing a game associated with the first user and the second user that can refer to a state of the game without playing the game played by the first user and support the first user; and imparting means 334 for executing processing to impart a privilege to the first user in the game when the privilege condition is satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a terminal device, and a system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, games aimed at activating the brain and preventing dementia have become popular. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a game that can improve cognitive functions such as planning ability and visual-spatial awareness in order to prevent dementia.

[0003] Specifically, the game disclosed in Patent Document 1 generates a path between a start point and a goal point by placing objects selected according to user operations, and determines whether the path is correct or incorrect based on whether it satisfies certain conditions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-168133 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, although games aimed at activating the brain and preventing dementia, such as the game disclosed in Patent Document 1, are widespread, further innovations are needed to encourage users to continue playing the games.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a program, a terminal device, and a system that allow a user to continue playing a game appropriately. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) A first aspect is a program that causes a computer to function as: a determination means for determining whether a reward condition is satisfied based on communication consisting of both a first message sent from a first user to a second user who plays a game associated with the first user and a second user who can refer to the game status of the game played by the first user without playing the game and who supports the first user; and an award means for processing to award a reward to the first user in the game when the reward condition is satisfied.

[0008] (2) In the above (1), the second user can be set by a third user who evaluates the illness or physical and mental abilities of the first user.

[0009] (3) In the above (1) or (2), the reward condition may include that the information about the game status of the game identified based on the first message satisfies a first condition.

[0010] (4) In any of (1) to (3) above, the reward condition may further include that, based on the first message, information regarding the first user's evaluation of the game situation satisfies a second condition.

[0011] (5) In any of (1) to (4) above, the reward conditions may include satisfying a third condition regarding the frequency with which the first message and the second message are transmitted.

[0012] (6) In any of (1) to (5) above, the benefit granted by the granting means may be applicable from the game session following the game session in which the determination means determines that the benefit conditions are met.

[0013] (7) In any of the above (1) to (6), the granting means can grant a benefit to the first user at the selection of the second user when a benefit condition is satisfied.

[0014] (8) In any of the above (1) to (7), a benefit selectable by the second user can be determined based on the game status of the game.

[0015] (9) In any of (1) to (8) above, the determination means can determine whether the bonus condition is met if the first message is sent within a predetermined period after the game status of the game satisfies the fourth condition.

[0016] (10) A second aspect is a terminal device including a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of (1) to (9) above, and a control unit that executes the program.

[0017] (11) A third aspect is a system including a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of (1) to (9) above, and a control unit that executes the program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a program, a terminal device, and a system that allow a user to continue playing a game appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an overview of a system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a game server device 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a management server device 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 4]2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a game device 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a support device 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions mainly related to information sharing and awarding of benefits between a patient (first user) and a guardian (second user) in the game device 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing an example of screen transitions mainly related to information sharing between a patient and a guardian in a situation after a privilege has been granted by the guardian in the game device 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing mainly related to information sharing between patients and guardians and granting of benefits, which is executed in the system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be specifically described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is merely a specific example for implementing the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, to facilitate understanding of the description, the same components in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals whenever possible, and duplicate descriptions may be omitted.

[0021] [One embodiment] Fig. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an overview of a system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, in the system 1, a game server device 2, an administration server device 3, and a plurality of game devices 4 are communicably connected to one another via a communication network 5. In the system 1, a plurality of support devices 6 are communicably connected to the administration server device 3 via the communication network 5.

[0022] <Game Description> In the system 1 shown in FIG. 1, a game server device 2 and a plurality of game devices 4 are connected to each other via a communication network 5 so that they can communicate with each other, and a game is executed on the game devices 4.

[0023] The games according to this embodiment are online games executed by the system 1, and include, for example, object hunting games, puzzle games, and brain training games. A user of a game device 4 can play the game alone, or can play against or cooperate with other users of game devices 4.

[0024] Such games are played using a game device 4, which is a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), or an electronic device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet. In the following, a case where the game device 4 is a smartphone will be exemplified.

[0025] <System 1 Overview> The system 1 is made up of a game server device 2, a management server device 3, a plurality of game devices 4, and a plurality of support devices 6.

[0026] The game server device 2 stores game programs and game data, and manages the game data (such as data necessary for game progress and game play data) of the game device 4 (for each account information described below) and the game execution status.

[0027] The management server device 3 stores evaluation information on the physical and mental state or ability of a user (first user) who plays a game using the game device 4, and manages, for example, information on the user's diagnosis results and treatment. The management server device 3 manages information on a user (second user) who can refer to the game status of the game played by the user without playing the game and who supports the user. The second user is set in correspondence with the first user and is, for example, like a guardian. The second user is preferably set in correspondence with the first user based on a designation by a doctor or the like (described later), but may also be set based on a designation by the first user, or may be designated by the second user himself and then set based on approval by the first user or a doctor or the like (described later).

[0028] Furthermore, the administration server device 3 provides a virtual space (such as a chat room) where communication is possible between the first user and the second user, and manages the settings and updates of the virtual space. The administration server device 3 may also provide and manage chat rooms for groups where users can communicate with each other (for example, a group made up of users with similar evaluation information or users playing the same game).

[0029] The game device 4 executes a predetermined game based on an operation by a user (first user). To do so, the game device 4 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the game server device 2 via the communication network 5. Each user is assigned account information, including identification information (user ID) and a password, in association with the game device 4. This account information is transmitted from the game device 4 to the game server device 2 at the time of login, and is used for user authentication in the game server device 2.

[0030] After user authentication, mutual communication becomes possible between the game server device 2 and the game device 4. After logging in, the game device 4 receives data necessary for the game to proceed from the game server device 2 and proceeds with the game based on user operations.

[0031] Based on the operation of the user (second user), the support device 6 uses account information including identification information (user ID) and a password managed by the management server device 3 to access a chat room provided by the management server device 3 via the communication network 5. The second user also uses the support device 6 to refer to the game status of the game played by the first user using the game device 4. Specifically, the second user connects to the management server device 3 from the support device 6 via the communication network 5 and refers to the game status (log) of the game played by the first user, which is stored in the management server device 3.

[0032] <System 1 Configuration> The hardware configurations and functions of the game server device 2, management server device 3, game device 4 and support device 6 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0033] <Configuration of Game Server Device 2> 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a game server device 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 2, the game server device 2 has a network interface 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The network interface 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a bus 29.

[0034] The network interface 21 is communicably connected to the management server device 3 and each game device 4 via a communication network 5 such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0035] The storage unit 22 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The storage unit 22 stores, for example, various programs including the game program according to this embodiment, game data, and various data related to users who play games using the game device 4.

[0036] The storage unit 22 includes a user DB (Data Base) 221, and the user DB 221 stores, for each user who plays a game using the game device 4, user account information, game data played by the user, game execution status, and other game-related information associated with the game. For example, the information stored includes information about the user, such as a user ID and password, play history information, such as the start and end of the game and play time, game completion information (level, progress, success / failure), and other information about the game.

[0037] The control unit 23 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and a semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the game server device 2. The control unit 23 functions as information processing means (game execution means) 231 and matching means 232 by executing various programs.

[0038] -Information processing means- The information processing means 231 transmits and receives various data to and from each game device 4, and executes a game on each game device 4 by communicating with each game device 4. The main data received by the information processing means 231 from each game device 4 includes game program download request information, user account information, game play data, etc. The main data transmitted by the information processing means 231 to each game device 4 includes information for confirming that each game device 4 has received the game program, the game program, and data necessary for game progress, etc.

[0039] Furthermore, the information processing means 231 transmits and receives various data to and from the management server device 3. The information processing means 231 mainly transmits information relating to the execution status of the game stored in the user DB 221 of the game server device 2 to the management server device 3. For example, the information includes play history information including the start, end and play time of the game executed by each user using the game device 4, game completion information (level, progress, success / failure), and other information relating to the game. Note that the exchange of various data between the game server device 2 and the management server device 3 may be direct communication or indirect communication via the game device 4.

[0040] -Method of verification- The verification means 232 uses the user account information received from each game device 4 to perform user authentication.

[0041] <Configuration of management server device 3> 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a management server device 3 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 3, the management server device 3 has a network interface 31, a storage unit 32, and a control unit 33. The network interface 31 and the storage unit 32 are electrically connected to the control unit 33 via a bus 39.

[0042] The network interface 31 is communicably connected to the game server device 2, each game device 4, and each support device 6 via a communication network 5 such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0043] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, RAM, ROM, SSD, etc. The storage unit 32 stores, for example, various data related to users (first users) who play games using each game device 4. The storage unit 32 also stores various data related to second users corresponding to the first users.

[0044] The storage unit 32 includes a user DB 321, and the user DB 321 stores, for each user (first user) who plays a game using the game device 4, user account information, user rating information, and the like, in association with each other. The account information includes a user ID, a password, and the like. For user authentication from the game device 4 to the management server device 3, the same account information as that used for user authentication from the game device 4 to the game server device 2 may be used, or different account information may be used. Using the same account information simplifies and facilitates management, while using different account information reduces the risk of information leakage, etc. The user DB 321 also stores account information of a second user corresponding to the first user, and this information is used for user authentication from the support device 6 to the management server device 3.

[0045] Here, the evaluation information stored and managed in the storage unit 32 of the management server device 3 is evaluation information related to the mental and physical state or ability of a user (first user) who plays a game using the game device 4. For example, the evaluation information may include the user's cognitive symptoms, mental illness, cognitive function level, stress level, physical disability level, occupational ability level, and intellectual ability level. This evaluation information is highly reliable information that has been diagnosed (evaluated) and certified by a doctor, a qualified specialist, a medical institution, a specialized institution, or the like, with the user (first user) as a patient.

[0046] The control unit 33 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the management server device 3. The control unit 33 executes various programs to function as a game identification means 331, an information sharing means 332, a determination means 333, an assignment means 334, a comparison means 335, and a communication means 336.

[0047] -Game Identification Method- The game identification means 331 identifies a game that each user plays using the game device 4, based on the evaluation information stored in the user DB 321. Specifically, the management server device 3 receives user account information from each game device 4, and the game identification means 331 refers to the user DB 321 and identifies an appropriate game according to the user's cognitive symptoms and cognitive function level based on the user's evaluation information. For example, a game that improves the user's cognitive symptoms or slows their progression (worsening) is identified.

[0048] -Information sharing means- The information sharing means 332 sets up and manages a virtual space such as a chat room between a first user and a second user for each game identified by the game identification means 331. This chat room can be viewed and posted by a user (first user) who plays the game using the game device 4 and a user (second user) who can refer to the game status of the game without playing the game and who supports the first user. The second user is, for example, a guardian who monitors and supports the first user, and is set up by a doctor or medical institution (third user). In this way, the chat room set up and managed by the information sharing means 332 enables communication between the user playing the game (first user) and his guardian (second user).

[0049] Specifically, the information sharing means 332 posts in the chat room information related to the game played by the first user using the game device 4, and posts information such as comments and stamps posted by the first user (game device 4) and the second user (support device 6). Here, the game-related information includes the game status of the game, such as play history information including the start, end, and play time of the game, game completion information (level, progress, success / failure), and other information related to the game.

[0050] The information written by the first user includes, for example, image information (still images and videos) including text information, figures, stamps, etc. This information includes, for example, the status of the game (success / failure, score, etc.), impressions of playing the game ("It was fun," "It was difficult," "I'm sick of it," etc.), and replay videos and highlight videos of the game played.

[0051] The information written by the second user may include, for example, image information (still images and video) including text information, figures, stamps, etc. This information may include, for example, impressions about the game situation or messages of encouragement ("Amazing!", "Congratulations!", "That looks difficult!", "Let's try a little harder!", "How was it?", etc.), or other messages that will motivate the first user to continue playing the game.

[0052] -Judgment means- The determination means 333 determines whether the privilege conditions are met based on communication in the chat room consisting of both a first message sent from a first user to a second user and a second message sent from the second user to the first user.

[0053] For example, the first user is a patient who posts game-related information and impressions about a game played using game device 4 in a chat room (first message), and the second user is the patient's guardian who posts opinions and impressions supporting the first user in response to the first message posted by the first user in the chat room (second message). Based on this communication formed by both parties, the determination means 333 determines whether the benefit conditions are met.

[0054] Specifically, communication is not composed of only one of the first message and the second message, but is composed of both the first message and the second message. Furthermore, the reward condition is a condition for the second user to grant a reward to the first user, and typically, the second user can grant a reward to the first user depending on the degree of communication.

[0055] Specifically, the determination means 333 may determine that the bonus conditions are met if the communication consists of the first message and the second message, but may also determine whether the bonus conditions are met based on the quality and / or quantity of communication depending on the content, such as the frequency of sending the first message and the second message, the number of characters in each message, and whether the message includes impressions about the game.

[0056] Here, the conditions for the benefit may include whether there is a bias in communication towards sending either the first message or the second message, in particular whether the frequency of sending the first message from the first user is low, whether the number of characters in the first message is low, and whether the content of the first message includes the first user's own comments, such as their impressions of the game.

[0057] Furthermore, the determination means 333 may determine whether the privilege conditions are met by analyzing the quality and / or quantity of communication using, for example, AI.

[0058] -Means of granting- The granting means 334 performs processing to grant a reward to the first user in the game when the determining means 333 determines that the reward condition is satisfied. Here, rewards granted to the first user in the game include, for example, changing the difficulty level of the game, providing items or advice that are effective for clearing the game (quest), adding to the score or reward in the game, and displaying a special screen.

[0059] Specifically, when the determination means 333 determines that the reward condition is satisfied, the reward to be granted to the first user is selected by the second user using the support device 6. It is conceivable that the second user does not actually play the game played by the first user and does not know the characteristics appropriate for the game. In such a case, the granting means 334 may grant to the first user, for example, a reward appropriate for the game or the current situation of the game, as a recommended reward.

[0060] -Method of verification- The checking means 335 performs user authentication using the user's account information received from each game device 4. The checking means 335 also performs user authentication using the user's account information received from each support device 6.

[0061] -Means of communication- The communication means 336 transmits and receives various data to and from the game server device 2. The communication means 336 mainly receives information (log information) relating to the game execution status stored in the user DB 221 of the game server device 2 directly from the game server device 2 or indirectly via the game device 4.

[0062] Furthermore, the communication means 336 transmits and receives various data to and from each game device 4 and each support device 6. The main data received by the communication means 336 from each game device 4 and each support device 6 includes user account information, requests to view chat rooms, and posted data. The main data transmitted by the communication means 336 to each game device 4 and each support device 6 includes information relating to the game execution status received from the game server device 2, information indicating that the benefit conditions have been met, benefits that can be given to the first user, and data updating the comments posted by each user in the chat room.

[0063] <Configuration of Game Device 4> 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of a game apparatus 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4, the game apparatus 4 has a display 47, a speaker 48, and a touchpad 49, which are externally connected or built-in. The game apparatus 4 also has a network interface 41, a graphics processing unit 42, an audio processing unit 43, an operation unit 44, a storage unit 45, and a control unit 46. The network interface 41, the graphics processing unit 42, the audio processing unit 43, the operation unit 44, and the storage unit 45 are electrically connected to the control unit 46 via a bus 50.

[0064] The network interface 41 is communicably connected to the game server device 2 and the management server device 3 via a communication network 5 such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0065] The graphics processing unit 42 draws game images including characters and various objects related to the virtual game space in a moving image format in accordance with game image information output from the control unit 46. The graphics processing unit 42 also draws images forming, for example, a chat room in accordance with image information for information sharing and communication output from the control unit 46.

[0066] The graphics processing unit 42 is connected to a display 47, for example, a liquid crystal display, and game images drawn in a moving image format are displayed on the display 47 as a game screen, while chat room format images drawn in a still image format are displayed on the display 47 as an information sharing screen.

[0067] The audio processing unit 43 is connected to the speaker 48, and plays and synthesizes game sounds in accordance with instructions from the control unit 46, and outputs the game sounds from the speaker 48. Furthermore, in accordance with instructions from the control unit 46, the audio processing unit 43 may also output from the speaker 48 a sound notifying, for example, if there is new (updated) information in a chat room or a message.

[0068] The operation unit 44 is connected to the touchpad 49, and transmits and receives data related to operations and inputs to and from the touchpad 49. A user can input operation signals to the game device 4 by touching the touchpad 49. By operating the touchpad 49, the user can, for example, play a game or browse and post in a chat room.

[0069] The storage unit 45 is composed of an HDD, an SSD, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage unit 45 stores game programs downloaded from the game server device 2, data necessary for game progress, account information for the game device 4, and various other programs and data.

[0070] The control unit 46 is configured by a microcomputer having a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the game device 4.

[0071] The control unit 46 executes various programs to function as a communication unit 461, a game execution unit 462, an information sharing unit 463, and a notification control unit 464.

[0072] For example, the game device 4 may have a game application and a management application. The game application communicates with the game server device 2 and mainly causes the communication means 461, game execution means 462, and notification control means 464 to function in order for the user to play a game. The management application communicates with the management server device 3 and mainly causes the communication means 461, information sharing means 463, and notification control means 464 to function in order to identify the game the user is playing and to communicate with other users (for example, a second user (guardian)).

[0073] -Means of communication- The communication means 461 is a function for communicating with the game server device 2 and the management server device 3 via the network interface 41 .

[0074] The communication means 461 generates and transmits information that can be grasped by the game server device 2 in response to various operation signals received by the operation unit 44 from the touchpad 49. For example, the communication means 461 transmits download request information for a new game program (data), user account information, game play data, and the like to the game server device 2. In addition, the communication means 461 receives new game data and the like transmitted from the game server device 2 in response to the download request information.

[0075] The communication means 461 generates and transmits information that can be grasped by the administration server device 3 in response to various operation signals received by the operation unit 44 from the touchpad 49. For example, the communication means 461 transmits to the administration server device 3 account information of the user, as well as a request to view and post data for a chat room corresponding to a game played by the user. The communication means 461 receives information about the game played by the user identified by the game identification means 331 of the administration server device 3, and receives chat room data including new information transmitted from the administration server device 3 in response to a request to view or post in the chat room.

[0076] -Game execution means- The game execution means 462 reads data such as virtual game space objects and textures included in the game data from the storage unit 45 in accordance with the user's operation of the touchpad 49, or generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information while executing the game program using game data received from the game server device 2. As the game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 42, the processed game images are successively displayed on the display 47.

[0077] The game execution means 462 then moves (places) characters and puzzles on the game image in accordance with the user's operation, and controls the behavior of the characters and the movement (placement) of the puzzles in the virtual game space in accordance with the user's operation and the progress of the game. For example, the game execution means 462 plays the game and executes quests in accordance with the user's operation of the touchpad 49.

[0078] Furthermore, the game execution means 462 allows the game to be executed under conditions appropriate for the user. For example, game execution conditions corresponding to the user's cognitive symptoms and cognitive function level are linked to the game application via the management application.

[0079] The game execution means 462 executes a special game based on game execution conditions corresponding to the user's cognitive symptoms or cognitive function level, for example. Alternatively, the user may be allowed to download and install only games corresponding to the user's cognitive symptoms or cognitive function level (such as games identified by the game identification means 331), and the game execution means 462 may execute the downloaded and installed special game. Here, a special game is a predetermined game adjusted so that it can be executed based on a difficulty level corresponding to the user's cognitive symptoms or cognitive function level, or conditions that improve the user's cognitive function level.

[0080] -Information sharing means- The information sharing means 463 generates image information for the chat room using the chat room data received from the management server device 3 in accordance with the user's operation of the touchpad 49. The image information for the chat room is processed by the graphics processing unit 42, and the processed game images are successively displayed on the display 47.

[0081] - Notification control means - The notification control means 464 controls the display of the display 47 and the audio output of the speaker 48 when a game is being played and information is being shared in a chat room. For example, while a game is being played by the game playing means 462, the notification control means 464 displays game images on the display 47 via the graphics processing unit 42 and outputs game audio to the speaker 48 via the audio processing unit 43. Furthermore, while information is being shared in a chat room by the information sharing means 463, the notification control means 464 displays image information of the chat room on the display 47 via the graphics processing unit 42 and outputs audio in the chat room (such as new arrival sounds) to the speaker 48 via the audio processing unit 43.

[0082] <Configuration of the support device 6> 5 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration and functions of the support device 6 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, the support device 6 has a display 67, a speaker 68, and a touchpad 69, which are externally connected or built-in. The support device 6 also has a network interface 61, a graphics processing unit 62, an audio processing unit 63, an operation unit 64, a storage unit 65, and a control unit 66. The network interface 61, the graphics processing unit 62, the audio processing unit 63, the operation unit 64, and the storage unit 65 are electrically connected to the control unit 66 via a bus 70.

[0083] The network interface 61 is communicably connected to the management server device 3 via a communication network 5 such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0084] The graphics processing unit 62 draws an image forming, for example, a chat room in accordance with image information output from the control unit 66 for information sharing and communication.

[0085] The graphics processing unit 62 is connected to a display 67, for example, a liquid crystal display, and the chat room format image drawn in a still image format is displayed on the display 67 as an information sharing screen.

[0086] The audio processing unit 63 is connected to a speaker 68, and in accordance with instructions from the control unit 66, may output a sound from the speaker 68 to notify, for example, if there is new (updated) information in a chat room or message.

[0087] The operation unit 64 is connected to the touchpad 69, and transmits and receives data related to operations and inputs to and from the touchpad 69. By operating the touchpad 69, the user can, for example, perform a process to grant a benefit to a user (first user) playing a game using the game device 4, or view and post in a chat room.

[0088] The storage unit 65 is configured with an HDD, an SSD, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage unit 65 stores account information for the support device 6, various other programs and data, etc.

[0089] The control unit 66 is configured by a microcomputer having a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the support device 6.

[0090] The control unit 66 executes various programs to function as a communication unit 661, an information sharing unit 662, a selection unit 663, and a notification control unit 664.

[0091] For example, the support device 6 may have a management application included in the game device 4. The management application communicates with the management server device 3 to identify a first user associated with a user (second user) operating the support device 6 and a game played by the first user, and mainly causes the communication means 661, the information sharing means 662, the selection means 663, and the notification control means 664 to function in order to communicate with the first user (e.g., a patient).

[0092] -Means of communication- The communication unit 661 is a function for communicating with the management server device 3 via the network interface 61 .

[0093] The communication means 661 generates and transmits information that can be grasped by the administration server device 3 in response to various operation signals received by the operation unit 64 from the touchpad 69. For example, the communication means 661 transmits to the administration server device 3 user account information, as well as a request to view and post data for a chat room corresponding to a game played by the user. The communication means 661 receives information about a game played by a first user identified by the game identification means 331 of the administration server device 3, and receives chat room data including new information transmitted from the administration server device 3 in response to a request to view or post in the chat room.

[0094] -Information sharing means- The information sharing means 662 generates image information for the chat room using the chat room data received from the management server device 3 in accordance with the user's operation of the touchpad 69. The image information for the chat room is processed by the graphics processing unit 62, and the processed game images are successively displayed on the display 67.

[0095] -Selection method- The selection means 663 selects a benefit that can be given to the first user, which is displayed on the display 67 by the information sharing means 662, in accordance with the user's (second user's) operation of the touchpad 69. Information related to the benefit selected by the selection means 663 is sent to the management server device 3 by the communication means 661.

[0096] - Notification control means - When information is shared in a chat room, the notification control means 664 controls the display on the display 67 and the audio output from the speaker 68. For example, while information is being shared in a chat room by the information sharing means 662, the notification control means 664 displays image information of the chat room on the display 67 via the graphics processing unit 62, and outputs audio in the chat room (such as new arrival sounds) to the speaker 68 via the audio processing unit 63.

[0097] <Regarding information sharing between patients and guardians and the granting of benefits> 6 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions mainly related to information sharing and reward provision between a patient (first user) and a guardian (second user) in the game device 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, a detailed description will be given of an example in which a patient with dementia plays a puzzle game using the game device 4, and a guardian uses the support device 6 to communicate with the patient and provide support by providing a reward.

[0098] First, the patient starts the management application on the game device 4, and the menu screen scr10 is displayed. At this time, the game device 4 transmits the account information of the patient to the management server device 3, and a game appropriate for the patient is identified based on the evaluation information of the patient stored in the user DB 321. Alternatively, a game appropriate for the patient may be identified in advance (before the previous time), and the game may be set on the game device 4.

[0099] When a patient selects btn11 "Community" on screen src10, the screen transitions to screen scr20, where a chat menu is displayed, displaying "Chat with guardian" and "Group chat." "Chat with guardian" allows messages to be exchanged in a chat room between the patient and the guardian corresponding to that patient.

[0100] The "group chat" is, for example, an exchange of messages in a chat room in a group made up of other patients (first users) who have similar evaluation information to the patient and play the same game.

[0101] The guardian or group corresponding to the patient may be set based on the user DB 321 of the management server device 3, or may be set in advance (before the previous time) in the game device 4.

[0102] For example, when a patient selects btn21 "chat with guardian" on the screen scr20, the screen transitions to the screen scr60, where messages can be exchanged between the patient and guardian in a chat room.

[0103] On the other hand, when the patient selects btn12 "Game Play" on screen src10, a game application linked to the management application is launched, transitioning to screen scr30, where the patient can play a game that is set as appropriate for the patient. The game application launched here is a special game (medical mode) that corresponds to the patient's cognitive function level, and in this case, the patient indicates that he or she wants to play a "puzzle game."

[0104] For example, the patient may have failed the "puzzle game" quest, and the screen scr40 may indicate that the patient has failed the quest.

[0105] On screen scr40, the patient can select btn41 "Retry" to transition to screen scr30 and play the "Puzzle Game" again, or by selecting btn42 "Share with Community" to transition to screen scr50, where the patient can share information about the status of the game they played with other users.

[0106] On screen scr50, patients can select who to share information about the status of the game they played with ("Parents" or "Group"), select what information to share ("Game Name," "Quest Name," "Score / Reward," and "Replay Video"), and can also freely write their impressions.

[0107] For example, a patient can select btn51 "Guardian" to move to screen scr60, where they can share information about the status of the game they played with their guardian in a chat room with their guardian. In this case, for example, the patient selects chk52 "Quest Name," chk53 "Score / Reward," chk54 "Replay Video," and writes their impressions of the game as a comment, which are then reflected in the chat room on screen scr60.

[0108] Screen scr60 displays a chat room between the patient and guardian. The patient's input on screen scr50 regarding the game status of the game he or she played is displayed as a message (first message) sent from the patient to the guardian. Specifically, msg61 displays game-related information regarding the game status, such as the patient's failure in quest 3-1, links to log data such as the score, and links to replay videos. Furthermore, msg62 displays the patient's impressions of the game, freely entered in the message field on screen scr50, for example.

[0109] Here, the game situation shared by the patient through selection on screen scr50 and the patient's freely written impressions in their own words are displayed as separate messages (msg61 and msg62). The latter can be evaluated as the patient's more proactive attempt to build communication. The content contained in these messages can be displayed as separate messages or as a single message.

[0110] Next, a message (second message) sent by the guardian to the patient is displayed. Specifically, in msg63, the guardian can view the message sent by the patient and input a message to motivate the patient to continue playing the game.

[0111] Furthermore, in msg64, patients can send messages in response to messages sent by their guardians.

[0112] The game situation and impressions are reflected in the chat room on screen scr60, based on the information selected and entered on screen scr50. However, instead of entering information on screen scr50, patients can also move to screen scr60 and enter information directly into the chat room.

[0113] In this way, communication is generated between the patient and the guardian that is made up of not just one of the first message and the second message, but both the first message and the second message.

[0114] Then, the benefit condition is satisfied based on the communication, and msg65 displays that the guardian can grant a benefit to the patient. For example, the determination means 333 in the management server device 3 determines that the benefit condition is satisfied if a communication consisting of both a first message sent from the patient to the guardian and a second message sent from the guardian to the patient is generated and if these messages are sent a predetermined number of times or have a predetermined number of characters. As a result, the determination means 333 displays that the guardian can grant a benefit to the patient.

[0115] When the guardian selects btn61 "Award bonus" in msg65 on screen src60, the screen transitions to screen scr70, which displays the bonus awarding process. This screen displays the status of the game played by the patient and the fact that bonuses can be awarded, as well as a "list of bonuses that can be awarded" and "recommended bonuses."

[0116] The "List of Grantable Benefits" is a list of benefits that the guardian can grant to the patient, and is displayed when the guardian selects btn71 "List of Grantable Benefits." For example, the list of grantable benefits is displayed, including changes to the game difficulty level, items and advice useful for clearing the game (quest), game scores and rewards, and the display of special screens. The selection means 663 in the support device 6 may be operated by the guardian to select a benefit to grant to the patient from the list of grantable benefits.

[0117] A "recommended benefit" is a benefit that is automatically set among benefits that a guardian can grant to a patient, and that is appropriate for the game or the current situation of the game. In this example, the recommended benefit is a reduction in the difficulty of the game based on the patient's failure of Quest 3-1 of Game A three times in a row. The guardian is a user set to support the patient and is not necessarily familiar with the game. In this case, the selection means 663 in the support device 6 can easily and effectively grant an appropriate benefit by selecting a recommended benefit based on the guardian's operation.

[0118] On screen scr70, the guardian can select btn72 "Recommended Benefit" to give the patient a recommended benefit, and the content of the recommendation is reflected as msg66 in the chat room on screen scr60.

[0119] Then, the granting means 334 in the management server device 3 grants a benefit to the game played by the patient on the game device 4. The granted benefit does not have to be applied to past or current game sessions, but may be applied to the next game session or later.

[0120] 7 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions in the game device 4 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, mainly related to information sharing between a patient and a guardian after a privilege has been granted by the guardian. As shown in FIG. 7, when the patient selects btn12 "Play Game" on screen src10, the patient plays a "Puzzle Game" with a lowered difficulty level on screen src30. This reflects the result of the guardian granting the patient a privilege, in this case a lowered difficulty level of the "Puzzle Game."

[0121] For example, the patient may have succeeded in the "puzzle game" quest, and the screen scr40 may indicate that the patient has succeeded in the quest.

[0122] On screen scr40, the patient can select btn43 "Go to next stage" to transition to screen scr30 and play the "puzzle game" again, or by selecting btn42 "Share with community" to transition to screen scr50, where the patient can share information about the status of the game they played with other users.

[0123] On screen scr50, the patient can select btn51 "Guardian" to view the status of the game in which the quest has been cleared, and the information selected and comments entered there will be reflected in the chat room on screen scr60, allowing the patient to share the information with their guardian.

[0124] Screen scr60 displays a chat room between the patient and their guardian. msg61 displays game-related information about the patient's game progress, including the fact that the patient completed quest 3-1, links to log data such as the score, and links to highlight replay videos. msg62 also displays the patient's comments, such as comments freely entered in the message field on screen scr50.

[0125] Furthermore, msg67 displays messages posted by patients to their guardians in the chat room, such as thank you messages for receiving special benefits.

[0126] Next, a message sent by the guardian to the patient (second message) is displayed. Specifically, in msg68, a congratulatory message sent by the guardian to the patient is displayed after viewing the message sent by the patient. It is a good idea to enter a message that will motivate the patient to continue playing the game.

[0127] In this way, even when the quest is completed, communication is generated between the patient and guardian consisting of both the first message and the second message, rather than just one of the first and second messages.

[0128] When such a communication is generated, the conditions for the benefit are met based on the communication, and msg65 displays that the guardian can now grant the benefit to the patient. The subsequent processing is the same as that described in Figure 6, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0129] <System 1 operation flow> Next, the processing flow for the example of screen transition explained using FIG. 6 will be explained.

[0130] 8 is a flowchart showing a process flow mainly related to information sharing between a patient and a guardian and granting of benefits, which is executed in the system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, the process includes steps st10 to st60, and each step is mainly executed by the CPUs of the management server device 3, the game device 4, and the support device 6.

[0131] In step st10, the information sharing means 332 in the management server device 3 provides a virtual space (chat room) and receives viewing and posting from the patients using the game devices 4 and the guardians using the support devices 6.

[0132] In step st20, the determining means 333 in the management server device 3 acquires information including the message posted in the chat room.

[0133] In step st30, the determination means 333 in the management server device 3 determines whether the benefit condition is met based on the communication made up of both the first message and the second message included in the information acquired in step st20.

[0134] If the conditions for the benefit are not met, the process returns to step st20 ("No" in step st30).

[0135] If the benefit conditions are met, the process proceeds to step st40 ("Yes" in step st30), and in step st40, the information sharing means 332 in the management server device 3 presents benefits that can be granted by the guardian to the patient. Note that here, a list of grantable benefits may be presented to the guardian to select one, or recommended benefits may be presented from among the grantable benefits.

[0136] In step ST50, the selection means 663 in the support device 6 selects either one of the benefits from the list of benefits presented in step ST40 or one of the recommended benefits, according to an operation by the guardian.

[0137] In step st60, the granting means 334 in the management server device 3 grants the benefit selected in step st50 to the patient. As a specific example, the granting means 334 in the management server device 3 grants a benefit appropriate for the patient for the game played using the game device 4 (for example, changing the difficulty level, providing items or advice, adding score or reward, displaying a special screen, etc.).

[0138] To summarize the above, system 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure functions as a determination means 333 that determines whether a reward condition is met based on communication consisting of both a first message sent from the patient to the guardian and a second message sent from the guardian to the patient, between a patient (first user) who plays a game associated with the patient and a guardian (second user) who can refer to the game status of the game played by the patient without playing the game and supports the patient, and as an award means 334 that processes to award a reward to the patient in the game when the reward condition is met.

[0139] <Effects of one embodiment> According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system 1 transmits messages in a chat room provided by an information sharing unit 332 in a management server device 3 between a patient (first user) playing a game associated with the patient and a guardian (second user) who can view the game status of the game without playing the game and who supports the patient. A determination unit 333 in the management server device 3 determines whether a reward condition is met based on communication consisting of a first message sent from the patient to the guardian and a second message sent from the guardian to the patient. If the reward condition is met, a selection unit 663 in the support device 6 selects a reward to be granted through an operation by the guardian, and an granting unit 334 in the management server device 3 processes to grant the selected reward to the patient in the game. This encourages, praises, and sparks interest in the patient, thereby maintaining motivation, and the granting of the reward further increases the patient's desire to play the game, thereby appropriately encouraging the patient to continue playing the game.

[0140] The guardian is selected by a doctor or medical institution (third user) who evaluates the patient's illness or physical and mental abilities, and the guardian can understand the patient's characteristics and send appropriate messages and provide rewards. This helps maintain the patient's motivation and encourages the patient to continue playing the game.

[0141] The reward conditions are determined based on communication consisting of both a first message sent by the patient to the guardian and a second message sent by the guardian to the patient. For example, the reward conditions may include whether information about the game status of the game identified based on the first message satisfies a predetermined condition (first condition). Specifically, the patient strengthens communication with the guardian by voluntarily explaining the game progress to the guardian. Whether the first condition is met may be determined using language analysis or by whether the first message contains information about the game progress, or whether the first message contains more than a predetermined number of times, more than a predetermined number of characters, and specific content.

[0142] The reward conditions may also include whether information regarding the patient's evaluation of the game situation based on the first message satisfies a predetermined condition (second condition). Specifically, whether the second condition is met may be determined by whether the first message contains not only objective information about the game situation, but also input into a comment field (the "word" field on screen scr50 in Figures 6 and 7) in which the patient can freely write their impressions of playing the game, such as "It was fun," "It was difficult," or "I'm tired of it," or by including comments equivalent to those, or by including more than a predetermined number of comments, a predetermined number of characters, and specific content. This strengthens communication with the guardian by transmitting the first message in the patient's own words rather than mechanically.

[0143] The reward conditions may also include satisfying a predetermined condition (third condition) regarding the frequency of transmission of the first message and the second message. Specifically, whether the third condition is satisfied may be determined based on whether the number of transmissions of the first message and the second message is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, whether there is a balanced number of transmissions (the difference in the number of transmissions is equal to or less than a predetermined number), and the timing of the transmissions (whether there is a good exchange of messages, whether responses are made in a short time). This allows for more appropriate strengthening of communication consisting of both the first message and the second message.

[0144] The conditions for the reward are not limited to the examples of the first and second messages, but may include other general everyday events or small talk. Other conditions may also be used as long as they strengthen communication between the patient and their guardian and ultimately lead to the patient appropriately continuing to play the game.

[0145] Furthermore, the determination means 333 in the management server device 3 determines whether the reward conditions are met, and the timing of this determination may be at predetermined time intervals or may be set according to the game status of the game played by the patient. For example, the determination means 333 determines whether the reward conditions are met when the patient sends a first message to his / her guardian within a predetermined period of time after failing a quest in the game played by the patient. If the first message is sent at a time when the patient's mood is likely to change, quickly granting a reward that can be granted in response to that message can maintain the patient's motivation and encourage them to continue playing the game.

[0146] Furthermore, the benefit given to the patient by the guardian is for the game in question, but is not limited to this. For example, the guardian may suggest to the patient that they play another game to change their mood, and the benefit may be for the game suggested.

[0147] <Modification> In one embodiment of the present invention, the chat room between the patient and guardian has been mainly described using Figures 6 and 7, but for example, by selecting btn22 "Group Chat" on screen scr20 shown in Figure 6, the patient can also communicate with group members in a group chat room.

[0148] For example, chat rooms may be set for each group according to the patient's cognitive symptoms or cognitive function level. In this case, the game specifying means 331 may specify a specific game to play, or may specify a group according to the patient's cognitive symptoms or cognitive function level, and allow the patient to select a game that suits that group.

[0149] Users (patients) belonging to the same group send a first message to other members, and the other members send a second message in response to the first message, i.e., one-to-one or multiple communication.

[0150] The reward condition may be determined based on the first message and the second messages from the plurality of users as a whole, or may be determined based on the first message and the second messages from each of the plurality of users.

[0151] Furthermore, if the reward conditions are met, all members of the group chat may be able to grant the reward to the patient (sender of the first message), or any one of the members (for example, the person who sent the most second messages, the person who sent the last second message, or a pre-set user) may be able to grant the reward to the patient (sender of the first message).

[0152] <Effects of the modified version> According to this modification, the patient can receive appropriate second messages about the game not only from the guardian but also from other players who are playing the same game, and can share a sense of camaraderie that allows them to understand each other, which helps to maintain motivation and encourages the patient to continue playing the game appropriately.

[0153] The various control means and processing procedures described in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. The various control means and processing procedures can be appropriately modified in design within the scope that does not change the gist of the present invention.

[0154] In the above embodiment, the game device 4 is a smartphone, but the game device 4 may be an amusement machine provided in a game center or the like.

[0155] In the above embodiment, the game is a puzzle game, but the present invention is not limited to this example, and the game may be applied to various types of games such as hidden object games, casual games, simulation games, shooting games, role-playing games, board games, and card games.

[0156] In the above embodiment, the case where the game server device 2, the management server device 3, the game devices 4, and the support device 6 function as a single unit to make the program work has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. All or part of the means of the program may be made to function in a communication terminal separate from the game server device 2, the management server device 3, the game devices 4, and the support device 6, or may be made to function in two of these devices that can be combined. Furthermore, when the game server device 2, the management server device 3, the game devices 4, and the support device 6 (or parts of these) function as a single unit, it is also possible to appropriately change which means are made to function in which device.

[0157] The effects of this embodiment can be achieved even when these other embodiments are adopted. Furthermore, this embodiment can be combined with other embodiments, and other embodiments can be combined with each other as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0158] 1. System 2. Game server equipment 3...Administrative server device 4...Game device 5. Communication Network 6…Support device 21, 31, 41, 61...Network Interface 22,32,45,65…Storage section 23, 33, 46, 66...Control section 29, 39, 50, 70... Bus 42, 62...Graphics processing unit 43,63...Audio processing section 44,64...Operation unit 47,67…Display 48,68...Speakers 49,69...Touchpad 221,321...User DB 231...Information processing means (game execution means) 232,335…Matching method 331...Game Identification Method 332,463,662…Information sharing means 333...judgment means 334...Means of granting 336,461,661…Means of communication 462...Game execution means 464,664...Notification control means 663...Selection method

Claims

1. On the computer, Between a first user who plays a game associated with the first user and a second user who can refer to the game status of the game played by the first user without playing the game and who supports the first user, a determination means for determining whether a benefit condition is satisfied based on communication consisting of both a first message sent from the first user to the second user and a second message sent from the second user to the first user; and when the reward condition is satisfied, the function of the device functions as a rewarding means for processing to reward the first user in the game; The second user is set by a third user who evaluates the illness or mental and physical ability of the first user, or is set by being approved by the third user. program.

2. the benefit condition includes that information about a game status of the game identified based on the first message satisfies a first condition; The program according to claim 1.

3. The reward condition further includes that information regarding an evaluation by the first user of the game situation based on the first message satisfies a second condition. The program according to claim 2.

4. the reward conditions include satisfying a third condition regarding the frequency with which the first message and the second message are transmitted; The program according to claim 1.

5. The benefit granted by the granting means is applicable to a game session following the game session when the determination means determines that the benefit condition is satisfied, and thereafter. The program according to claim 1.

6. The granting means grants the benefit to the first user at the selection of the second user when the benefit condition is satisfied. The program according to claim 1.

7. The benefit selectable by the second user is determined based on the game status of the game. The program according to claim 6.

8. the determination means determines whether the benefit condition is satisfied when the first message is transmitted within a predetermined period after the game status of the game satisfies a fourth condition. The program according to claim 1.

9. a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of claims 1 to 8; A control unit that executes the program. Terminal device.

10. a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of claims 1 to 8; A control unit that executes the program. system.

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