Management system, management method, management program

Abstract

To increase the motivation to frequently visit a specific area.SOLUTION: A first area A10 is an area selected by a user from among real areas that exist in the real world. A second area A20 is an area selected as an area which is to be associated with the first area A10, from among the real areas or virtual areas existing in a virtual space. A first action detection unit 310 detects a predetermined action of the user in the first area A10. A second action detection unit 320 detects a predetermined action of the user in the second area A20. A management unit 400 offers a reward to a user in accordance with at least one of the predetermined action in the first area A10 and the predetermined action in the second area A20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to management techniques. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a worship support device that supports worship visits to shrines, etc. This worship support device supports donations by card payment when worshipping. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-161278 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned worship, it is important to increase the motivation to visit a specific area such as a shrine (the desire to visit a specific area). However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose or suggest anything about how to increase the motivation to visit a specific area.

[0005] The purpose of the present disclosure is to increase motivation to visit a particular area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect is a first area setting unit that allows a user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas that exist in the real world and sets the area selected by the user as a first area; a second area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area or from virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as a second area; a first behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area; a second behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area; a management unit that grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, The second behavior detection unit includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area. It is a management system.

[0007] In the first aspect, The predetermined action in the first area may include at least one of the user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure and the user's operation of an information terminal to make a predetermined electronic payment.

[0008] In addition, in the first aspect, The predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, may be an action related to a predetermined action in the first area.

[0009] In addition, in the first aspect, The predetermined action in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area, may include at least one of a movement performed in a predetermined sequence by an object operated by the user in the virtual space, a predetermined electronic payment performed in the virtual space in response to the user's operation, and an action in which the position of the user or the object in the virtual space arrives at the second area.

[0010] In addition, in the first aspect, The reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, may include a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space, The reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second area, which is the virtual area, may include a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world.

[0011] In addition, in the first aspect, At least one of the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the first area and the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the second area may include a benefit that can be used in the first area or the second area. Management system.

[0012] In addition, in the first aspect, a lottery unit that performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user, The lottery for the virtual medium may include a lottery that can only be held in the second area.

[0013] In addition, in the first aspect, The management unit may perform a login process to accept a login by the user and grant a login bonus to the user in response to the login by the user. The login process may be executable in each of the first area and the second area, which is the real area; A part or all of the login process executable in the second area, which is the real area, may be the same as a part or all of the login process executable in the first area.

[0014] In addition, in the first aspect, The management unit may perform a selling process to sell a virtual medium used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user, The virtual medium sold in the virtual space may include a virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area.

[0015] In addition, in the first aspect, a game progression unit that progresses a game in which an object moves in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user, The game progression unit may progress the game so that the progress of the game within a predetermined range based on the second area, which is the virtual area in the virtual space, is different from the progress of the game when the second area is not set.

[0016] In addition, in the first aspect, a third area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the second area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the second area, or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space that are different from the second area, and sets the area selected by the user as a third area; a third behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area, the management unit may grant a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit, a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, and a predetermined behavior in the third area detected by the third behavior detection unit; The third behavior detection unit may include at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the third area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the third area, which is the virtual area.

[0017] The second aspect is a first area setting step of having a user select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world and setting the area selected by the user as a first area; a second area setting step of having the user select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area or from virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and setting the area selected by the user as a second area; a first behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area; a second behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area; a reward granting step of granting a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected in the first behavior detecting step and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected in the second behavior detecting step, The second behavior detection step includes at least one of a real behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area. It is a management method.

[0018] The third aspect is A management program that causes a computer to execute the above management method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to increase motivation to visit a particular area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an area terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (torii gate) included in a first area. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating specific points (shrines) included in a first area. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (large tree) included in a second area (real area). [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (shrine) included in a second area (virtual area). [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a range based on a second area (virtual area). [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a management system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a management system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart for explaining a lottery process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart for explaining a selling process according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0022] (Terminology explanation) First, the terms used in the following description will be explained. Terms such as virtual space, area, and game will be used below.

[0023] [Virtual Space] A virtual space is a virtual space constructed on a computer network. The virtual space is a three-dimensional space. However, the virtual space may be a two-dimensional space. For example, the virtual space is a virtual space in which objects that move in response to user operations are placed (for example, a metaverse space in which avatars are placed).

[0024] Examples of virtual spaces include virtual reality spaces where you can experience virtual reality (VR), augmented reality spaces where you can experience augmented reality (AR), which is a real world where additional information is displayed, mixed reality spaces where you can experience mixed reality (MR), which combines the real world and the virtual world, and game spaces where the games described below are played.

[0025] 〔area〕 An area is a region (for example, land) of a predetermined range. Areas are broadly divided into "real areas" that exist in the real world and "virtual areas" that exist in a virtual space.

[0026] An example of a real area is an area that includes a location where a specific object that exists in the real world is located. Examples of specific objects that exist in the real world include artificial objects that are fixed to the ground, such as buildings, and natural objects, such as rocks and trees. Examples of buildings include the main hall of a shrine or the main hall of a temple.

[0027] An example of a virtual area is an area in which specific objects that exist in a virtual space are placed. Examples of specific objects include objects that imitate artificial objects in the real world (e.g., buildings) and objects that imitate natural objects in the real world.

[0028] 〔game〕 The game is a game (video game) that progresses in a virtual space in response to user operations. For example, the game is a game in which a player character moves in the virtual space in response to user operations. Examples of such games include action games in which the player character defeats enemy characters in a virtual space, and life simulation games in which the player character lives in a virtual space.

[0029] (Embodiment 1) 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of a management system 1 according to the first embodiment. The management system 1 includes a management server 10, an area terminal 20, and a user terminal 30.

[0030] [Management Server] The management server 10 includes a network interface 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The network interface 11 and the storage unit 12 are electrically connected to the control unit 13 via a bus.

[0031] The network interface 11 is communicably connected to the communication network 5 in order to transmit and receive various types of information and data to and from other information terminals (for example, the area terminal 20 and the user terminal 30).

[0032] The storage unit 12 stores various types of information and data. The storage unit 12 is configured with an HDD, an SSD, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage unit 12 stores programs and data for executing various processes. The information and data stored in the storage unit 12 will be described in detail later.

[0033] The control unit 13 controls the operation of the management server 10. The control unit 13 transmits and receives various information and data, and processes various information and data. The control unit 13 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[0034] [Area terminal] The area terminal 20 is provided to manage a specific real area. The area terminal 20 may be provided inside the specific real area or outside the specific real area.

[0035] 2, the area terminal 20 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.

[0036] The network interface 21 is communicably connected to the communication network 5 in order to transmit and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (for example, the management server 10 and the user terminal 30).

[0037] The storage unit 22 stores various types of information and data. The storage unit 22 is configured with an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 22 stores programs and data for executing various types of processing.

[0038] The control unit 23 controls the operation of the area terminal 20. The control unit 23 transmits and receives various types of information and data, and processes the various types of information and data. The control unit 23 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[0039] [Devices connected to area terminals] In this example, a camera 41, a microphone 42, a sensor 43, an electronic payment terminal 44, a display 45, and a speaker 46 are connected to the area terminal 20. Note that multiple cameras 41 may be installed as needed. The same applies to the microphone 42, the sensor 43, the electronic payment terminal 44, the display 45, and the speaker 46.

[0040] The camera 41, microphone 42, and sensor 43 are provided to detect the user's behavior. Specifically, the camera 41, microphone 42, and sensor 43 are provided in a "place where the user intends to perform a predetermined behavior" in the first area A10, and acquire information for detecting the user's behavior in that place.

[0041] The camera 41 captures images (image data) by capturing images. The microphone 42 collects sound (audio data). The sensor 43 acquires various information derived from the user's actions (particularly physical behavior). Examples of the sensor 43 include a vibration sensor that detects vibrations associated with the user's actions, and an optical sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that detects the presence and movement of the user.

[0042] The electronic payment terminal 44 is an information terminal capable of making electronic payments. Specifically, the electronic payment terminal 44 is installed in the "location where the user wishes to make an electronic payment" in the first area A10, and accepts electronic payments from the user at that location. Examples of electronic payments include touch payments using a card such as a transportation IC card or a credit card, and payments using a payment app such as QR code (registered trademark) payments. Well-known electronic payment devices can be used as the electronic payment terminal 44.

[0043] The display 45 displays (outputs) images. The speaker 46 outputs sound. The display 45 and the speaker 46 are provided to provide images and sound to the user. Specifically, the display 45 and the speaker 46 are provided in a "place in the first area A10 where images and sound are to be provided to the user," and output images and sound to the user in that place.

[0044] [User terminal] The user terminal 30 is an example of an information terminal used by a user. In this example, the user terminal 30 is a portable information terminal that can be carried by the user. Examples of portable information terminals include a smartphone and a tablet. The location of the user terminal 30 carried by the user is considered to be the "user's location in the real world."

[0045] 3, the user terminal 30 has a network interface 31, an operation unit 32, a display 33, a speaker 34, a camera 35, a microphone 36, a sensor 37, a storage unit 38, and a control unit 39. The network interface 31, the operation unit 32, the display 33, the speaker 34, the camera 35, the microphone 36, the sensor 37, and the storage unit 38 are electrically connected to the control unit 39 via a bus.

[0046] The network interface 31 is communicably connected to the communication network 5 in order to transmit and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (for example, the management server 10 and the area terminal 20).

[0047] An operation by a user who is an operator is input to the operation unit 32. Then, the operation unit 32 transmits a signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 39. With this configuration, by inputting an operation to the operation unit 32, information corresponding to the operation can be input.

[0048] The display 33 displays (outputs) images to the user who is the operator. The speaker 34 outputs audio to the user who is the operator. The camera 35 captures images (image data). The microphone 36 collects audio (audio data).

[0049] The sensor 37 acquires various types of information related to the user terminal 30. The various types of information acquired by the sensor 37 are transmitted to the control unit 39. In this example, the sensor 37 includes a position sensor 371 and a behavior sensor 372.

[0050] The position sensor 371 detects the position (specifically, the latitude and longitude) of the user terminal 30. For example, the position sensor 371 receives GPS information from a global positioning system and detects the position of the user terminal 30 based on the GPS information.

[0051] The behavior sensor 372 acquires information for detecting the behavior (body movement) of the user carrying the user terminal 30. Specifically, the behavior sensor 372 detects changes in the state (for example, acceleration, angular velocity, attitude, etc.) of the user terminal 30 according to the user's behavior. Examples of the behavior sensor 372 include an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0052] The storage unit 38 stores various types of information and data. The storage unit 38 is configured with an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 38 stores programs and data for executing various processes, account information assigned to the user who owns the user terminal 30, etc.

[0053] The control unit 39 controls the operation of the user terminal 30. The control unit 39 transmits and receives various types of information and data, and processes the various types of information and data. The control unit 39 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[0054] [Software configuration of the control unit of the management server] 1, the control unit 13 of the management server 10 in the first embodiment includes a virtual space generation unit 110, a first area setting unit 210, a second area setting unit 220, a first behavior detection unit 310, a second behavior detection unit 320, and a management unit 400. In other words, the control unit 13 functions as the virtual space generation unit 110, the first area setting unit 210, the second area setting unit 220, the first behavior detection unit 310, the second behavior detection unit 320, and the management unit 400 by the CPU thereof executing various programs.

[0055] The virtual space generation unit 110 generates a virtual space by performing processing for constructing and updating the virtual space.

[0056] The first area setting unit 210 allows the user to select an arbitrary area from among the real areas, and sets the selected area as the "first area A10."

[0057] The second area setting unit 220 allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area A10 from among real areas or virtual areas that are different from the first area A10, and sets the selected area as the second area A20. The second area A20 is associated with the first area A10.

[0058] The second area A20 includes a second area A20 that is a real area and a second area A20 that is a virtual area. Hereinafter, the second area A20 that is a real area will be referred to as a "second real area A21," and the second area A20 that is a virtual area will be referred to as a "second virtual area A22."

[0059] The first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10, and the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20.

[0060] The second behavior detection unit 320 has at least one of a real behavior detection unit 321 and a virtual behavior detection unit 322 (in this example, both). The real behavior detection unit 321 detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second real area A21. The predetermined behavior in the real world is a predetermined behavior taken by the user himself in the real world. The virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second virtual area A22. The predetermined behavior in the virtual space is a predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to a user's operation.

[0061] The management unit 400 performs a reward granting process in which the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320.

[0062] In this example, the management unit 400 performs a login process. In the login process, the management unit 400 accepts a login by a user and grants a login bonus to the user in response to the user's login. The login bonus is an example of a reward.

[0063] [Information and data stored in the storage unit of the management server] In this example, the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 stores account information, first area information, second area information, and reward information for each user. For example, the storage unit 12 stores a database in which the account information, first area information, second area information, and reward information are registered as one record (information corresponding to one user).

[0064] <Account Information> The account information includes a user ID and a password assigned to the user. The user ID is user identification information for identifying the user.

[0065] <1st Area Information> The first area information is information about the first area A10 associated with the user. The first area information includes first area position information indicating the location range of the first area A10. The location range of the first area A10 is a range based on a reference point of the first area A10 (for example, a circular range centered on the central point of the first area A10). For example, the location range of the first area A10 is set based on an instruction from an area administrator (or user).

[0066] In addition to the first area location information, the first area information includes first area identification information for identifying the first area A10, first area description information that provides a description of the first area A10, etc. Examples of the first area identification information include a unique number and a name. Examples of the description of the first area A10 include history and legends. For example, the description of the first area A10 is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

[0067] <Location information within the first area> The storage unit 12 also stores first area location information. The first area location information is information about specific locations included in the first area A10 and is associated with the first area information. The first area location information includes specific location information indicating the location range of the specific location included in the first area A10 and an action pattern indicating a predetermined pattern of action to be taken at the specific location. Examples of specific locations included in the first area A10 include a shrine's torii gate, a chozuya (purification fountain), a main shrine building, a temple gate, an incense burner, and a main hall. For example, the first area location information is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

[0068] In addition to the specific point location information and the behavioral pattern, the first area point information also includes specific point identification information for identifying the specific point, specific point explanation information that provides an explanation of the specific point, etc. Examples of specific point identification information include a unique number and a name. Examples of explanations of the specific point include history and legends. For example, explanations of the specific point are created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

[0069] <Image of first identification item> The storage unit 12 also stores a first identification image. The first identification image is an image (image data) including an identification placed in the first area A10, and is associated with the first area information. Examples of identifications (first identifications) placed in the first area A10 include a shrine's torii gate, a chozuya (purification foyer), a main building, a temple gate, an incense burner, and a main hall. The first identification image is used in the third login process, which will be described later. For example, the first identification image is created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

[0070] <2nd Area Information> The second area information is information about the second area A20 associated with the user and the first area A10. The second area information includes second area position information indicating the location range of the second area. The location range of the second area A20 is a range based on a reference point of the second area A20 (for example, a circular range centered on the central point of the second area A20). For example, the location range of the second area A20 is set based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

[0071] In addition to the second area location information, the second area information also includes second area description information that provides a description of the second area A20. Examples of the description of the second area A20 include the name and history of the second area A20. For example, the description of the second area A20 is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

[0072] The second area information is broadly divided into second area information related to the second real area A21 and second area information related to the second virtual area A22. Hereinafter, the second area information related to the second real area A21 will be referred to as "second real area information," and the second area information related to the second virtual area A22 will be referred to as "second virtual area information."

[0073] <Location information within the second area> The storage unit 12 also stores second area location information. The second area location information is information relating to specific locations included in the second area A20, and is associated with the second area information. The second area location information includes specific location information indicating the location range of the specific location included in the second area A20, and an action pattern indicating a predetermined pattern of action to be taken at the specific location. For example, the second area location information is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

[0074] In addition to the specific point location information and the behavioral pattern, the second area point information also includes specific point identification information for identifying the specific point, specific point explanation information that provides an explanation of the specific point, etc. Examples of specific point identification information include a unique number and a name. Examples of explanations of specific points include history and legends. For example, explanations of specific points are created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

[0075] The second area point information is broadly divided into second area point information associated with the second real area information and second area point information associated with the second virtual area information. Hereinafter, the second area point information associated with the second real area information will be referred to as "second real area point information," and the second area point information associated with the second virtual area information will be referred to as "second virtual area point information."

[0076] The second real area point information is information about a specific point (a real-world point) included in the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. Examples of specific points included in the second real area A21 include a park entrance / exit gate, a hand-washing area, and a large tree. The behavior pattern included in the second area point information associated with the second real area information indicates a predetermined pattern of behavior to be taken by the user at the specific point (a real-world point).

[0077] The second virtual area point information is information about a specific point (a point in virtual space) included in the second virtual area A22 indicated in the second virtual area information. Examples of specific points included in the second virtual area A21 include the torii gate of a shrine in the virtual space, a chozuya (water purification fountain), a main shrine building, a gate of a temple in the virtual space, an incense burner, and a main hall. The behavior pattern included in the second area point information associated with the second virtual area information indicates a predetermined pattern of behavior to be taken by a user or an object (an object operated by a user) at the specific point (a point in virtual space).

[0078] <Image of second identification item> The storage unit 12 also stores a second identification object image. The second identification object image is an image (image data) including an identification object placed in the second real area A21 (the second area A20, which is a real area), and is associated with the second real area information. Examples of identification objects (second identification objects) placed in the second real area A21 include a park entrance / exit gate, a hand washing area, and a large tree. The second identification object image is used in the third login process, which will be described later, and the like.

[0079] <Reward Information> Reward information is information indicating a reward granted to a user. When a reward (data) granted to a user is registered in the reward information associated with that user, the reward is granted to the user. Rewards will be explained in detail later.

[0080] [Software configuration of the control unit of the area terminal] 2, the control unit 23 of the area terminal 20 has an information processing unit 25a. In other words, the control unit 23 functions as the information processing unit 25a by the CPU thereof executing various programs.

[0081] The information processing unit 25a processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 25a transmits and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 25a operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 25a transmits and receives various types of information and data to and from the user terminal 30. The information processing unit 25a transmits and receives data and information via the network interface 21.

[0082] [Software configuration of the control unit of the user terminal] 3, the control unit 39 of the user terminal 30 has a virtual space processing unit 39a and an information processing unit 39b. In other words, the control unit 39 functions as the virtual space processing unit 39a and the information processing unit 39b by the CPU executing various programs.

[0083] The virtual space processing unit 39a, together with the virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10, performs processing for constructing and updating a virtual space.

[0084] The information processing unit 39b processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 39b transmits and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 39b operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The transmission and reception of data and information by the information processing unit 39b is performed via the network interface 31.

[0085] For example, the information processing unit 39b controls the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30 based on various information and data transmitted from the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 39b also generates various information in response to operations input to the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30, and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30.

[0086] [Processing between the management server and the user terminal] In the following explanation, the processing flow, "The control unit 13 of the management server 10 transmits information and data for outputting an image (or sound) to the user terminal 30. The control unit 39 (e.g., information processing unit 39b) of the user terminal 30 controls the display 33 (or speaker 34) of the user terminal 30 so that an image (or sound) is output based on the information and data transmitted from the management server 10," will simply be described as "The control unit 13 of the management server 10 controls the display 33 (or speaker 34) of the user terminal 30 so that an image (or sound) is output."

[0087] Furthermore, in the following explanation, the processing flow, "When a user operation is input into the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30, the control unit 39 (e.g., information processing unit 39b) of the user terminal 30 generates various information according to the information input into the operation unit 32 and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the user terminal 30," will simply be described as "When a user operation is input into the user terminal 30, the control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates in response to the operation."

[0088] [Processing performed in the management system] The processes (management processes) performed by the management system 1 include a virtual space construction process, a first area setting process, a second area setting process, a login process, a first behavior detection process, a second behavior detection process, a reward granting process, and the like.

[0089] The management process by the management system 1 is an example of a management method. Various processes in the management process are examples of various steps. For example, the first area setting process is an example of a first area setting step. A program for executing the management process (e.g., a program stored in the memory unit 12) is an example of a management program. A control unit included in the management system 1 (e.g., the control unit 13 of the management server 10) is an example of a computer that executes the management program.

[0090] [Virtual space construction processing] Next, the process (virtual space construction process) performed by the virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 and the virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 will be described.

[0091] The virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 transmits virtual space data, which is data for constructing a virtual space, to the user terminal 30. The virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 outputs images and sounds representing the virtual space to the display 33 and the speaker 34 based on the virtual space data transmitted from the management server 10. The user views the images and sounds output from the display 33 and the speaker 34 and operates the operation unit 32.

[0092] The virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 transmits operation information indicating the operation input to the operation unit 32 to the management server 10. The virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 generates virtual space data that reflects the operation information transmitted from the user terminal 30, and transmits the virtual space data to the user terminal 30.

[0093] By repeating the above process, the virtual space is constructed and updated.

[0094] [First area setting process] Next, a description will be given of the processing (first area setting processing) performed by the first area setting unit 210. For example, a user who intends to set the first area A10 inputs an operation (first setting operation) for starting the setting of the first area A10 into the user terminal 30. In response to the first setting operation, the first area setting unit 210 performs the following processing.

[0095] First, the first area setting unit 210 displays an image of a first area selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The first area selection screen is a screen for selecting a real area to be set as the first area A10.

[0096] For example, the first area selection screen may include a map of the real world, allowing the user to select any area from the map. Alternatively, the first area selection screen may include an input field where the user can enter information (e.g., an address) to specify the location range of the real area to be set as the first area A10.

[0097] The user refers to the image of the first area selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 and inputs an operation (first area selection operation) into the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30 to select the real area to be set as the first area A10.

[0098] For example, the first area selection operation is an operation of selecting a real area to be set as the first area A10 from a map included in the first area selection screen, an operation of inputting information for specifying the location range of the real area to be set as the first area A10, etc. Examples of the former operation include an operation of specifying an arbitrary position (e.g., a point) on the displayed map to display a pin indicating the specified position on the map and selecting an area including the specified position as the real area, and an operation of selecting a real area from an image displaying the scenery of a specified location (scenery in the real world) on the map. Examples of the latter operation include an operation of inputting the name of a facility, building, object, etc.

[0099] In response to the first area selection operation, the first area setting unit 210 sets the area selected by the user (real area) as the first area A10. Then, the first area setting unit 210 associates first area information indicating the position range of the set first area A10 with the user and stores it in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10.

[0100] Furthermore, the first area setting unit 210 acquires information about the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, and registers the information in the first area information stored in the storage unit 12. Examples of information about the area selected by the user include area identification information for identifying the area, and area description information that provides a description of the area. Note that this information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

[0101] Furthermore, the first area setting unit 210 acquires intra-area point information relating to a specific point included in the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, and stores the intra-area point information in the storage unit 12 in association with the first area information stored in the storage unit 12. As a result, the first intra-area point information associated with the first area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the intra-area point information is created based on, for example, an instruction from the area manager (or user).

[0102] Furthermore, the first area setting unit 210 acquires an identified object image including an identified object placed in the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, and stores the identified object image in the storage unit 12 in association with the first area information stored in the storage unit 12. As a result, the first identified object image associated with the first area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the identified object image is created based on, for example, an instruction from the area manager (or user).

[0103] [Second area setting process] Next, a description will be given of the processing (second area setting processing) performed by the second area setting unit 220. For example, a user who intends to set the second area A20 inputs an operation (second setting operation) for starting the setting of the second area A20 into the user terminal 30. In response to the second setting operation, the second area setting unit 220 performs the following processing.

[0104] First, the second area setting unit 220 detects first area information associated with the user from the storage unit 12, and identifies the first area A10 associated with the user based on the first area information. Then, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of a first area confirmation screen showing the first area A10 associated with the user on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

[0105] The user refers to the image of the first area confirmation screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (first area designation operation) into the user terminal 30 to designate the "first area A10 to which the new second area A20 is to be associated" from among the first areas A10 associated with the user.

[0106] Next, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of an area type selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The area type selection screen is a screen for selecting whether the area to be set as the second area A20 is a "real area" or a "virtual area." The user refers to the image of the area type selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (type selection operation) into the user terminal 30 to select either the "real area" or the "virtual area."

[0107] Next, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of the second area selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The second area selection screen is a screen on which an area to be set as the second area A20 can be selected. The second area selection screen is the same as the first area selection screen.

[0108] When "real area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen becomes a screen for selecting a real area to be set in the second area A20. When "virtual area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen becomes a screen for selecting a virtual area to be set in the second area A20.

[0109] For example, if "Virtual Area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen includes a map of the virtual space, and it is possible to select any area from the map. Alternatively, the second area selection screen may have an input field in which information (e.g., an address in the virtual space) can be entered to specify the location of the virtual area to be set as the second area A20.

[0110] The user refers to the image of the second area selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (second area selection operation) to the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30 to select an area (real area or virtual area) to be set as the second area A20. The second area selection operation is the same as the first area selection operation.

[0111] In response to the second area selection operation, the second area setting unit 220 sets the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20. Then, the second area setting unit 220 associates second area information indicating the location range of the set second area A20 with the "user" and the "first area A10 specified by the first area specifying operation," and stores the second area information in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. As a result, the second area information associated with the user and the first area A10 is stored in the storage unit 12.

[0112] Furthermore, the second area setting unit 220 acquires information about the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20, and registers the information in the second area information stored in the storage unit 12. Examples of information about the area selected by the user include area identification information for identifying the area, and area description information that provides a description of the area. Note that this information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

[0113] Furthermore, the second area setting unit 220 acquires intra-area point information relating to a specific point included in the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20, and stores the intra-area point information in the storage unit 12 in association with the second area information stored in the storage unit 12. As a result, the second intra-area point information associated with the second area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the intra-area point information is created based on instructions from, for example, an area administrator (or a user).

[0114] Furthermore, if the area selected as the second area A20 is a "real area," the second area setting unit 220 acquires an identified object image including an identified object placed in the area selected by the user as the second area A20 (real area), associates the identified object image with the second area information (second real area information related to the second area A20, which is a real area) stored in the storage unit 12, and stores the identified object image in the storage unit 12. As a result, the second identified object image associated with the second real area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the identified object image is created based on, for example, an instruction from the area manager (or user).

[0115] [Login process] Next, the login process performed by management unit 400 will be described. The login process is a process for permitting (accepting) a user's login. The login process can be performed in both first area A10 and second real area A21. Some or all of the login process that can be performed in second real area A21 is the same as some or all of the login process that can be performed in first area A10.

[0116] In the login process in each of the first area A10 and the second real area A21, the user is permitted to log in on the condition that the user's location (specifically, the location of the user terminal 30) is included in a specific real area (the first area A10 or the second real area A21) associated with the user. Examples of login processes include the following five login processes (first to fifth login processes).

[0117] <First login process> In the first login process, in response to a user operation, "account information assigned to the user" and "location information indicating the user's location" are sent from the user terminal 30 to the management server 10, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information and location information.

[0118] For example, a user who wishes to log in inputs an operation for starting the first login process (first login operation) into the user terminal 30. When the first login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

[0119] In response to the first login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 acquires account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38 of the user terminal 30. In addition, in response to the first login operation, the information processing unit 39b acquires the latest location information (location information indicating the user's location) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30. Then, the information processing unit 39b associates the account information with the location information and transmits them to the management server 10.

[0120] The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information associated with that user from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then acquires the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. Hereinafter, the first area A10 and the second real area A21 will be collectively referred to as a "specific real area," and the first area information and the second real area information will be collectively referred to as "specific real area information."

[0121] Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area associated with the user, based on the location information transmitted from the user terminal 30 and the location range of the specific real area indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area if the "user's location" indicated in the location information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is included in the "location range of the specific real area," and otherwise determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

[0122] If the user's location is included in a specific real area, the management unit 400 permits the user to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. For example, the management unit 400 causes the display 33 of the user terminal 30 to display an image indicating that the login has been permitted.

[0123] The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to users who are permitted to log in. Specifically, the management unit 400 associates the login bonus granted to a user with the user and stores it in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. For example, the management unit 400 registers the login bonus granted to the user in the reward information (reward information associated with the user) stored in the storage unit 12. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 indicating that the login bonus has been granted.

[0124] On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real area, the management unit 400 denies the user's login. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied. For example, the management unit 400 causes the display 33 of the user terminal 30 to display an image indicating that the login has been denied.

[0125] <Second login process> In the second login process, "account information assigned to the user" and "location information indicating the user's location" are periodically sent from the user terminal 30 to the management server 10, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information and location information.

[0126] For example, a user who wishes to log in inputs an operation (second login operation) to start the second login process into the user terminal 30. When the second login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed. Note that the second login operation may simply be an operation to launch a dedicated app (an app for performing the second login process).

[0127] In response to the second login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 performs an automatic transmission process. In the automatic transmission process, the information processing unit 39b periodically acquires the latest location information (location information indicating the user's location) obtained by the location sensor 371, and each time the location information is acquired, associates the location information with the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38 and transmits the associated location information to the management server 10.

[0128] The subsequent processing (determination of whether or not login is permitted based on the account information and location information in the management server 10) is the same as the first login processing.

[0129] <Third login process> In the third login process, in response to a user operation, an image (an image of the user's current location) is acquired by the camera 35 of the user terminal 30, and whether the user is allowed to log in is determined based on the account information assigned to the user and the image acquired by the camera 35.

[0130] For example, a user who wishes to log in inputs an operation for starting the third login process (third login operation) into the user terminal 30. When the third login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

[0131] In response to the third login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 activates the camera 35. Then, the information processing unit 39b instructs the user to take a picture of an identified object placed in a specific real area (the first area A10 or the second real area A21) with the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. For example, the information processing unit 39b displays, on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, an image instructing the user to take a picture of the identified object with the camera 35.

[0132] The user photographs an identification object placed in a specific real area with the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. This results in an image (image data) including the identification object. The information processing unit 39b then associates the image obtained by the camera 35 with the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38, and transmits the image to the management server 10.

[0133] The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with the user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. Then, the management unit 400 detects the first identified object image associated with the first area information and the second identified object image associated with the second real area information from the memory unit 12.

[0134] Hereinafter, the first identified object image and the second identified object image will be collectively referred to as “identified object image.” The identified object image is an image (image data) including an identified object placed in a specific real area.

[0135] Next, the management unit 400 compares the image transmitted from the user terminal 30 with the above-mentioned identification object image, and determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) associated with the user based on the comparison result. Specifically, if the similarity between the image transmitted from the user terminal 30 and the identification object image exceeds a threshold, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area, and if not, determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

[0136] If the user's location is included in a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 permits the user to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

[0137] On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real area, the management unit 400 denies the user's attempt to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied.

[0138] <Fourth login process> When the fourth login process is performed, an object 40 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) with an identification code CC is placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21). For example, the object 40 with the identification code CC is placed at an entrance to the specific real area, a specific location within the specific real area, etc. The identification code CC indicates unique identification information assigned to the specific real area. Examples of the identification code CC include a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) and a one-dimensional code such as a barcode.

[0139] In the fourth login process, an image including an identification code CC attached to an object 40 placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) is acquired by the camera 35 of the user terminal 30, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information assigned to the user and the information indicated in the identification code CC.

[0140] In the following, an example will be described in which the identification code CC is a "two-dimensional code" and the information indicated by the identification code CC is "position information indicating the position of the object 40 to which the identification code CC is attached."

[0141] For example, a user who wishes to log in inputs an operation for starting the fourth login process (fourth login operation) into the user terminal 30. When the fourth login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

[0142] In response to the fourth login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 activates the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. Then, the information processing unit 39b instructs the user to use the camera 35 of the user terminal 30 to capture an image of the identification code CC assigned to the object 40 placed in a specific real area (the first area A10 or the second real area A21). For example, the information processing unit 39b causes the display 33 of the user terminal 30 to display an image instructing the user to use the camera 35 to capture an image of the identification code CC assigned to the object 40.

[0143] The user photographs an identification code CC attached to an object 40 placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) with the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. This results in an image (image data) including the identification code CC.

[0144] Next, the information processing unit 39b obtains location information indicating the location of the object 40 to which the identification code CC is assigned by decoding the identification code CC included in the image obtained by the camera 35. Then, the information processing unit 39b associates the location information obtained by decoding the identification code CC with the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38, and transmits the information to the management server 10.

[0145] Since this identification code CC is installed in the real world, it is an identification code that can recognize the location information of the installation location. Another object 40 in a different location is assigned a different identification code CC, and different location information (location information indicating the location of the other object 40) can be recognized from the different identification code CC.

[0146] The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with the user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then acquires the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information.

[0147] Next, management unit 400 determines whether the user's position is included in the specific real area associated with the user based on the position information (position information indicating the position of object 40) transmitted from user terminal 30 and the position range of the specific real area (first area A10 and second real area A21) indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, management unit 400 determines that the user's position is included in the specific real area if the position of the object indicated in the position information is included in the position range of the specific real area, and determines that the user's position is not included in the specific real area if not.

[0148] If the user's location is included in a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 permits the user to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

[0149] On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real area, the management unit 400 denies the user's attempt to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied.

[0150] <5th login process> When the fifth login process is performed, the user carries a transmitter (not shown), and a searcher (not shown) is placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21). The transmitter stores account information assigned to the user. The searcher communicates with transmitters located within a communication range. The searcher can also communicate with the management server 10. For example, the transmitter is an AirTag (registered trademark), and communication between the transmitter and the searcher is Bluetooth communication. The location of the searcher communicating with the transmitter carried by the user is considered to be the user's location.

[0151] In the fifth login process, "account information assigned to the user" is transmitted from a transmitter discovered by a search device placed in a specific real-world area, and whether the user can log in is determined based on that account information and "location information indicating the location of the search device."

[0152] For example, when a user carrying a transmitter enters the communication range of a search device placed in a specific real area, the transmitter and the search device become able to communicate, and the following processing is carried out.

[0153] The transmitter transmits the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the transmitter to the searcher. The searcher associates the account information transmitted from the transmitter with location information indicating the location of the searcher (the location of the searcher considered to be the user's location) and transmits the information to the management server 10.

[0154] The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the search device is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then acquires the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information.

[0155] Next, management unit 400 determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area associated with the user based on the location information transmitted from the locator (location information indicating the location of the locator considered to be the user's location) and the location range of the specific real area (first area A10 and second real area A21) indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area if the location of the object indicated in the location information is included in the location range of the specific real area, and otherwise determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

[0156] If the user's location is included in a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 permits the user to log in. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

[0157] On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real area, the management unit 400 ends the process (processing for the fifth login process).

[0158] [First behavior detection process] Next, a description will be given of the processing (first behavior detection processing) performed by the first behavior detection unit 310. In the first behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 (a predetermined behavior in the real world) is detected.

[0159] Examples of the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 include user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure (behavior of moving not only the fingers but also the body), operation of the user terminal 30 (an example of an information terminal) by the user to make a predetermined electronic payment, etc. In other words, the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 includes at least one of these listed examples.

[0160] In this example, the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the first area A10. At least one of a camera 41, a microphone 42, and a sensor 43 is provided at the specific point included in the first area A10. The camera 41, the microphone 42, and the sensor 43 are examples of an information acquisition unit that acquires information for detecting the user's behavior.

[0161] In this example, the first behavior detection unit 310 performs a first behavior detection process together with the "area terminal 20 that manages the first area A10" and the "user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the first area A10." Specifically, when a user is permitted to log in to the first area A10 in the login process, the following process is performed.

[0162] The first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, first area location information associated with the user who owns the user terminal 30. Then, the first behavior detection unit 310 acquires the "location range of the specific location included in the first area A10" and the "behavior pattern (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific location)" indicated in the first area location information.

[0163] The management unit 400 of the management server 10 enables communication between the area terminal 20 that manages the first area A10 and the user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the first area A10. This enables the area terminal 20 to monitor the user terminal 30.

[0164] Next, the information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 monitors the location information of the logged-in user terminal 30, thereby monitoring the location of the user carrying that user terminal 30. When the user arrives within the location range of a specific point included in the first area A10, the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 determines whether or not a predetermined behavior has been performed at the specific point.

[0165] Specifically, the information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 associates the location information of a specific point included in the first area A10, information obtained by an information acquisition unit (in this example, at least one of a camera 41, a microphone 42, and a sensor 43) installed at that specific point, and identification information for identifying the user located at that specific point (for example, account information stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30), and transmits the information to the management server 10.

[0166] Next, the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 recognizes the user's behavior taken at a specific point included in the first area A10 based on the information (location information, information acquired by the information acquisition unit, and identification information) transmitted from the area terminal 20. Then, the first behavior detection unit 310 compares the recognized user's behavior with a behavior pattern (a predetermined pattern of behavior to be taken at the specific point) associated with the specific point, and determines whether or not the predetermined behavior (specifically, user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure) has been taken at the specific point based on the result of the comparison.

[0167] For example, at a specific point included in the first area A10, the camera 41 is positioned so as to capture an image of a user located at the specific point. This allows an image (moving image) showing the behavior of the user located at the specific point included in the first area A10 to be obtained. This image (moving image) is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior.

[0168] Furthermore, at a specific point included in the first area A10, the microphone 42 is positioned so as to collect the voice of the user located at that specific point. As a result, audio including the voice of the user located at the specific point included in the first area A10 is obtained. This audio is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (especially behavior involving vocalization).

[0169] Furthermore, at a specific point included in the first area A10, the sensor 43 is disposed so as to be able to acquire various information (such as vibrations and user movement) derived from the behavior of the user located at that specific point. This information is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (particularly behavior accompanied by vibrations and user movement).

[0170] The first behavior detection unit 310 recognizes the behavior of a user located at a specific point included in the first area A10 by analyzing at least one of the image obtained by the camera 41, the sound obtained by the microphone 42, and the information obtained by the sensor 43. Then, the first behavior detection unit 310 determines that a predetermined behavior has been performed at the specific point when the similarity between the recognized user behavior and a behavior pattern associated with the specific point exceeds a threshold value.

[0171] Furthermore, the information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 monitors operations (operations by the user) input to the user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in the first area A10. When an operation to make a predetermined electronic payment is input to the user terminal 30, the information processing unit 25a associates the location information of the specific point included in the first area A10, operation information indicating that an operation to make a predetermined electronic payment has been input to the user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at the specific point, and transmits them to the management server 10.

[0172] When the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 receives information (location information, operation information, and identification information) transmitted from the area terminal 20, it determines that a predetermined behavior (specifically, operation of the information terminal by the user for a predetermined electronic payment) has been taken at a specific location included in the first area A10.

[0173] In this way, the first behavior detection unit 310 detects that a predetermined behavior has been taken in the first area A10. The first behavior detection unit 310 also detects details of the predetermined behavior taken in the first area A10 (what kind of predetermined behavior has been taken).

[0174] [Examples of prescribed actions in Area 1] Next, predetermined actions in the first area A10 will be described using an example in which the first area A10 is a "shrine area." Shrine areas include torii gates, chozuya (purification fountains), and shrine buildings. Locations where torii gates, chozuya (purification fountains), and shrine buildings are located are examples of specific locations included in the first area A10. The user will take the following actions in the shrine area, which is the first area A10.

[0175] First, the user arrives at the shrine area, which is the first area A10. When the user arrives at the first area A10, a login process (for example, any one of the first to fourth login processes) is performed.

[0176] Next, in the shrine area, which is the first area A10, the user passes through the torii gate, stops at the temizuya (purification fountain), and then arrives at the main shrine building. At the torii gate, temizuya, and main shrine building, the user takes the following actions.

[0177] 4, at the point where the torii gate is located, the user bows in front of the torii gate and then passes through the torii gate. The "predetermined behavior in the first area A10" detected at the point where the torii gate is located is the behavior of the user bowing in front of the torii gate and the behavior of the user passing through the torii gate.

[0178] At the location where the chozuya is located, the user performs chozu (the action of purifying the hands with water scooped up with a ladle) in a predetermined procedure. The "predetermined action in the first area A10" detected at the location where the chozuya is located is the user's behavior of performing chozu in a predetermined procedure.

[0179] As shown in Fig. 5, at the location where the shrine is located, the user makes an offering and bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing coins into an offering box located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, the user takes the action (behavior) of throwing coins into an offering box in front of the shrine, or operates the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering.

[0180] The "predetermined actions in the first area A10" detected at the location where the shrine is located are the actions (behavior) of a user throwing coins into the offering box located in front of the shrine, the actions (behavior) of a user inputting operations into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for offering money in front of the shrine, and the actions (behavior) of a user bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the shrine.

[0181] By making an offering via electronic payment as described above, users have the advantage of not having to carry coins for the offering, so their hands stay clean, and they can decide the amount of the offering in one yen increments. Furthermore, for the shrine area, there are advantages such as easy money management as there is no need to manage the offerings (for example, keep an account), and there is no need to exchange coins for the offerings.

[0182] Furthermore, by making offerings electronically as described above, neither shrine staff nor worshippers have to handle coins or paper money, which is an effective measure against infectious diseases. Furthermore, since there is no need to closely monitor the offering box (for example, by deploying surveillance cameras or security guards) to prevent theft of cash placed in the offering box, the burden on the shrine area (the burden required to monitor the offering box) can be reduced.

[0183] [Second behavior detection process] Next, the processing by the second behavior detection unit 320 (second behavior detection processing) will be described. In the second behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 is detected. The second behavior detection processing includes processing by the real behavior detection unit 321 (real behavior detection processing) and processing by the virtual behavior detection unit 322 (virtual behavior detection processing).

[0184] [Real Behavior Detection Processing] Next, a description will be given of the processing (real behavior detection processing) performed by the real behavior detection section 321. In the real behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second real area A21 (a predetermined behavior in the real world) is detected.

[0185] The predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 is a behavior related to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10. Specifically, examples of the predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 include a user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure (a behavior that involves moving not only the fingers but also the body) and a user's operation of the user terminal 30 (an example of an information terminal) to make a predetermined electronic payment. In other words, the predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 includes at least one of these listed examples.

[0186] In this example, the real behavior detection unit 321 detects a predetermined behavior at a specific location included in the second real area A21. Also in this example, the real behavior detection unit 321 performs real behavior detection processing together with the user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the second real area A21. Specifically, when login to the second real area A21 is permitted, the following processing is performed.

[0187] The real behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 detects, from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10, point information within the second real area associated with the user who owns the user terminal 30. Then, the real behavior detection unit 321 acquires the "location range of the specific point included in the second real area A21" and the "behavior pattern (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific point)" indicated in the point information within the second real area.

[0188] The information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 monitors the location information (location information indicating the location of the user terminal 30) obtained by the position sensor 371 of the user terminal 30, thereby monitoring the location of the user carrying the user terminal 30. When the user arrives within the location range of a specific point included in the second real area A21, the real behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 determines whether a predetermined behavior has been performed at the specific point.

[0189] Specifically, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 associates the location information of the user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in the second real area A21, information obtained by an information acquisition unit (in this example, at least one of the camera 35, microphone 36, and behavior sensor 372) provided in the user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at that specific point (for example, account information stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30), and transmits the information to the management server 10.

[0190] The real behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 recognizes the user's behavior taken at a specific point included in the second real area A21 based on the information (location information, information acquired by the information acquisition unit, and identification information) transmitted from the user terminal 30. The real behavior detection unit 321 then compares the recognized user's behavior with a behavior pattern (a predetermined pattern of behavior to be taken at the specific point) associated with the specific point, and determines, based on the result of the comparison, whether the predetermined behavior (specifically, the user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure) was taken at the specific point.

[0191] For example, at a specific location included in second real area A21, user terminal 30 is fixed with camera 35 turned on so that the camera 35 of user terminal 30 can capture an image of a user located at the specific location. This provides an image (moving image) showing the behavior of the user located at the specific location included in second real area A21. This image (moving image) is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior.

[0192] Furthermore, at a specific location included in second real area A21, user terminal 30 is fixed (or carried by the user) with microphone 36 activated so that the voice of a user located at the specific location can be collected by microphone 36 of user terminal 30. This allows audio including the voice of a user located at the specific location included in second real area A21 to be obtained. This audio is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (particularly behavior involving vocalization).

[0193] Furthermore, the user carries the user terminal 30 with the behavior sensor 372 activated so that the behavior sensor 372 can acquire information for detecting the behavior of the user located at a specific point included in the second real area A21. For example, the user terminal 30 is fixed to the user's arm. The information acquired by the behavior sensor 372 is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (particularly behavior involving vibrations or user movement).

[0194] The real behavior detection unit 321 recognizes the behavior of the user located at a specific point included in the second real area A21 by analyzing at least one of the images obtained by the camera 35, the audio obtained by the microphone 36, and the information obtained by the behavior sensor 372. Then, the real behavior detection unit 321 determines that a predetermined behavior has been performed at the specific point when the similarity between the recognized user behavior and a behavior pattern associated with the specific point exceeds a threshold value.

[0195] Furthermore, information processing unit 39b of user terminal 30 monitors operations (operations by the user) input to operation unit 32 of user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in second real area A21. When an operation to make a predetermined electronic payment is input to operation unit 32, information processing unit 39b associates the location information of the specific point included in second real area A21, operation information indicating that an operation to make a predetermined electronic payment has been input to user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at the specific point, and transmits the associated information to management server 10.

[0196] When the real-world behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 receives information (location information, operation information, and identification information) transmitted from the user terminal 30, it determines that a predetermined behavior (specifically, operation of the information terminal by the user for a predetermined electronic payment) has been performed at a specific location included in the second real-world area A21.

[0197] In this way, the real behavior detection unit 321 detects that a predetermined behavior has been performed in the second real area A21. The real behavior detection unit 321 also detects details of the predetermined behavior performed in the second real area A21 (what kind of predetermined behavior has been performed).

[0198] [Examples of prescribed actions in the second area (real area)] Next, a predetermined action in second reality area A21 will be described using an example in which second reality area A21 is a "park area." The park area includes an entrance / exit gate, a hand-washing area, a large tree, and the like. The location where the entrance / exit gate, hand-washing area, large tree, and the like are located is an example of a specific location included in second reality area A21.

[0199] The park area is an example of a real area that can be likened to a shrine area. The entrance gate is an example of an object that can be likened to a torii gate, the hand washing area is an example of an object that can be likened to a chozuya, and the large tree is an example of an object that can be likened to a shrine building. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "main shrine," then the park area set in the second real area A21 is the "branch shrine."

[0200] The user behaves as follows in the park area, which is second reality area A21.

[0201] First, the user arrives at a park area, which is second reality area A21. When the user arrives at second reality area A21, a login process (for example, any one of the first to fourth login processes) is performed.

[0202] Next, in the park area, which is second reality area A21, the user passes through the entrance gate, stops at the washroom, and then arrives at the large tree. At the entrance gate, the washroom, and the large tree, the user takes the following actions.

[0203] At a location where an entrance / exit gate is located, the user bows in front of the gate and then passes through the gate. The "predetermined behavior in second reality area A21" detected at the location where the gate is located is the behavior (behavior) of the user bowing in front of the gate and the behavior (behavior) of the user passing through the gate.

[0204] At a location where a hand-washing station is provided, the user washes their hands, etc., in a predetermined manner. The "predetermined action in second reality area A21" detected at the location where the hand-washing station is provided is the user's action (behavior) of washing their hands, etc., in a predetermined manner.

[0205] As shown in Figure 6, at the location where the large tree is placed, the user makes an offering, bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering is made electronically in front of the large tree. In other words, the user operates the user terminal 30 in front of the large tree to make an electronic payment for the offering.

[0206] The "predetermined actions in the second real area A21" detected at the location where the large tree is placed are the actions (behavior) of the user inputting an operation into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for offering money in front of the large tree, and the actions (behavior) of the user bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the large tree.

[0207] [Virtual behavior detection processing] Next, a description will be given of the processing (virtual behavior detection processing) performed by the virtual behavior detection unit 322. In the virtual behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22 (a predetermined behavior in the virtual space) is detected.

[0208] The predetermined action in the second virtual area A22 is an action related to the predetermined action in the first area A10. Specifically, examples of the predetermined action performed in the second virtual area A22 include a movement performed in a predetermined sequence by an object operated by a user in the virtual space, a predetermined electronic payment performed in the virtual space in response to a user operation, and an action in which the position of a user or an object in the virtual space arrives at the second virtual area A22. In other words, the predetermined action performed in the second virtual area A22 includes at least one of these listed examples.

[0209] In this example, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects a predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22. Specifically, the following process is performed.

[0210] First, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 identifies a user who operates an object placed in a virtual space. For example, when an object that operates in response to a user's operation is placed in the virtual space (participates in the virtual space), the virtual behavior detection unit 322 acquires account information (account information associated with the user) stored in the storage unit 38 of the user terminal 30 operated by the user, and identifies the "user who operates the object placed in the virtual space" based on the account information.

[0211] Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects the second virtual area location information associated with the user from the storage unit 12. Then, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 acquires the "location range of the specific location included in the second virtual area A22" and the "behavior pattern (a pattern of a predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific location)" indicated in the second virtual area location information.

[0212] Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the position of the object in the virtual space. When the object arrives within the position range of the second virtual area A22, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines that a predetermined behavior has been performed in the second virtual area A22 (the behavior of arriving at the second virtual area A22).

[0213] Next, when the object arrives within the positional range of a specific point included in the second virtual area A22, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines whether or not a predetermined behavior has been performed at that specific point.

[0214] Specifically, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the behavior (movement) of an object located at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22, compares the object's behavior with a behavior pattern associated with the specific point (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific point), and determines whether the predetermined behavior (specifically, the object's movement performed in a predetermined sequence) has been taken at the specific point based on the results of the comparison. For example, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines that the predetermined behavior has been taken at the specific point when the similarity between the object's behavior and the behavior pattern associated with the specific point exceeds a threshold.

[0215] In addition, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors operations (user operations) input into the user terminal 30 to move an object located at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22, and when an operation to make a specified electronic payment is input into the user terminal 30, it determines that a specified behavior (specifically, a specified electronic payment made in the virtual space in response to the user operation) has been taken at that specific point.

[0216] Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects that a predetermined behavior has been performed in the second virtual area A22 based on the result of the above determination. Also, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects details of the predetermined behavior (what kind of predetermined behavior has been performed) in the second virtual area A22 based on the result of the above determination.

[0217] [Examples of prescribed actions in the second area (virtual area)] Next, a predetermined action in the second virtual area A22 will be explained using an example in which the second virtual area A22 is a "virtual shrine area that imitates a shrine area in the real world." In the virtual shrine area, objects that imitate a torii gate, a chozuya (purification fountain), a shrine building, etc. are placed. Note that, below, an object that imitates a torii gate will be referred to simply as a "torii gate." The same applies to the chozuya (purification fountain) and the shrine building.

[0218] The virtual shrine area is an example of a virtual area that can be likened to a shrine area. Objects that resemble a torii gate, a chozuya (purification pavilion), and a shrine building are examples of objects that can be likened to a torii gate, a chozuya (purification pavilion), and a shrine building, respectively. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "main shrine," then the virtual shrine area set in the second virtual area A22 is the "branch shrine."

[0219] In the following description, an "avatar" is used as an example of an object that moves in the virtual space in response to a user's operation. The avatar behaves as follows in the second virtual area A22, which is a virtual shrine area.

[0220] First, the avatar arrives at the virtual shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. Here, the action of the avatar's position in the virtual space arriving at the virtual shrine area (one of the predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22) is detected.

[0221] Next, in the virtual shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22, the avatar passes through the torii gate, stops at the temizuya (purification fountain), and then arrives at the main shrine building. At the torii gate, temizuya, and main shrine building, the avatar performs the following actions.

[0222] At the point where the torii gate is located, the avatar bows in front of the torii gate and then passes through the gate. The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the point where the torii gate is located are the action (behavior) of the avatar bowing in front of the torii gate and the action (behavior) of the avatar passing through the torii gate.

[0223] At the location where the chozuya is located, the avatar performs chozu (the action of purifying the hands with water scooped up with a ladle) in a predetermined procedure. The "predetermined action in the second virtual area A22" detected at the location where the chozuya is located is the avatar's behavior of performing chozu in a predetermined procedure.

[0224] As shown in Figure 7, at the location where the shrine is located, the avatar makes an offering and bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing coins into an offering box located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, an operation of the avatar to perform the action (movement) of throwing coins into the offering box in front of the shrine, or an operation to make electronic payment for the offering, is input into user terminal 30.

[0225] The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the location where the shrine is located are the action (movement) of an avatar throwing coins into the offering box located in front of the shrine, the action of a user inputting an operation into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering in front of the shrine, and the action (movement) of an avatar bowing twice, clapping twice and bowing once in front of the shrine.

[0226] [Reward Granting Process] Next, the reward granting process performed by the management unit 400 will be described.

[0227] When the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the reward has been granted. Specifically, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that the reward has been granted on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

[0228] Furthermore, when the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a "predetermined behavior in the second area A20 taken by the user," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the reward has been granted.

[0229] Specifically, when the real behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a "predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second real area A21 (a predetermined behavior taken by the user himself in the real world)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior. Also, when the virtual behavior detection unit 322 of the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a "predetermined behavior in the virtual world taken in the second virtual area A22 (a predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to the user's operation)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior.

[0230] Specifically, the management unit 400 registers the reward granted to the user in the reward information (reward information associated with the user) stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. This means that the reward has been granted to the user.

[0231] The rewards include benefits that can be used in the real world, benefits that can be used in a virtual space, etc. Benefits that can be used in a virtual space include benefits that can be used in a predetermined game.

[0232] Examples of benefits that can be used in the real world include points, discount coupons (electronic coupons), virtual currency, digital content, and rights. Points can be used along with (or instead of) cash when purchasing goods and other items. Virtual currency can be used for electronic payments, etc. Virtual currency is a form of property value (cryptocurrency) that can be exchanged over the Internet and is managed using blockchain technology. Digital content is digital data that represents works such as images and music. Digital content may also be an NFT (Non-Fungible Token). Rights are the right to enjoy certain benefits.

[0233] Points and discount coupons that can be used in the real world can be used in stores that exist in the real world. Virtual currency that can be used in the real world can be used for electronic payments in stores that exist in the real world. Digital content that can be used in the real world is delivered to a user terminal 30 used by a user and viewed using the user terminal 30. Rights that can be used in the real world are rights that allow a user to enjoy certain benefits in the real world.

[0234] For example, benefits available in the real world include benefits associated with shrine areas. Examples of benefits associated with shrine areas include points and discount coupons that can be used within and near shrine areas, digital content and rights associated with shrine areas, etc. Examples of digital content associated with shrine areas include digital data (image data) representing the gods enshrined in the shrine, goshuin (temple seals), and omamori (charms). Examples of rights associated with shrine areas include the right to display one's name on specific objects (donation boards, stone fences, lanterns, etc.) placed within the shrine area, and the right to receive prayers. Note that benefits may be set for each shrine area so that the benefits (benefits granted in response to specific actions in that shrine area) differ for each shrine area.

[0235] Examples of benefits that can be used in the virtual space include points, discount coupons (virtual media used as discount coupons), virtual currency, land in the virtual space, etc. Points and discount coupons that can be used in the virtual space can be used in stores that exist in the virtual space. Virtual currency that can be used in the virtual space can be used for electronic payments in stores that exist in the virtual space.

[0236] Examples of benefits available within a specific game include benefits received within the game, game media used within the game, lottery tickets (so-called gacha tickets) used to draw for game media, and rights related to the game.

[0237] Examples of benefits enjoyed within a game include the effect of improving game parameters (e.g., parameters of a character owned by a user) to gain an advantage in the game, the effect of raising a character's level, the effect of imparting skills to a character, the effect of restoring a character's stamina, and the effect of reviving a character. Examples of game media include characters, items, and in-game currency. In-game currency is currency used only within the game and can be granted free of charge or purchased for a fee. An example of a game-related right is the right to convert game media (such as characters or items) owned by a user into an NFT (Non-Fungible Token).

[0238] In this example, the reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the real world in the second reality area A21 includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space, such as a special benefit available in the virtual space.

[0239] Furthermore, the rewards given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second virtual area A22 include benefits to be enjoyed in the real world, such as special benefits that can be used in the real world.

[0240] In addition, at least one of the rewards granted to the user in response to a specified action in the first area A10 and the rewards granted to the user in response to a specified action in the second area A20 includes a benefit that can be used in the first area A10 or the second area A20.

[0241] In other words, the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 includes at least one of the benefits available in the first area A10 and the benefits available in the second area A20. The reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the second area A20 includes at least one of the benefits available in the first area A10 and the benefits available in the second area A20.

[0242] Examples of benefits available in the first area A10 include points and discount tickets (electronic coupons) available in the first area A10. Note that the benefits available in the first area A10 may be benefits available only in the first area A10.

[0243] Examples of benefits available in the second area A20 include points and discount coupons available in the second area A20. Note that the benefits available in the second area A20 may be benefits available only in the second area A20.

[0244] Specifically, the benefits available in the second area A20 are broadly divided into benefits available in the second real area A21 and benefits available in the second virtual area A22. Examples of benefits available in the second real area A21 include points and discount coupons (electronic coupons) available in the second real area A21 (real world). Examples of benefits available in the second virtual area A22 include points and discount coupons (virtual media used as discount coupons) available in the second virtual area A22 (virtual space).

[0245] Note that the perks available in the first area A10 may be perks available in the first region (e.g., the entire town) that includes the first area A10. The first region includes one or more areas in addition to the first area A10. The perks available in the first region can be used not only in the first area A10, but also in "another area other than the first area A10" that is included in the first region. For example, the perks available in the first region are perks such as regional recovery tickets. The same applies to perks available in the second area A20.

[0246] [Summary of Embodiment 1] To summarize the above, the management system 1 of the first embodiment includes a first area setting unit 210, a second area setting unit 220, a first behavior detection unit 310, a second behavior detection unit 320, and a management unit 400. The first area setting unit 210 allows the user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world, and sets the area selected by the user as the first area A10. The second area setting unit 220 allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area A10 from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10, or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area A20. The first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10. The second behavior detection unit 320 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20. The management unit 400 grants a reward to the user according to at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320. The second behavior detection unit 320 includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit 321 that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area A20, which is a real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit 322 that detects a predetermined behavior in a virtual space taken in the second area A20, which is a virtual area.

[0247] The management method of the first embodiment includes a first area setting step, a second area setting step, a first behavior detection step, a second behavior detection step, and a reward granting step. The first area setting step allows a user to select an area from among real areas existing in the real world, and sets the area selected by the user as the first area A10. The second area setting step allows a user to select an area to be associated with the first area A10 from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10 or from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area A20. The first behavior detection step detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10. The second behavior detection step detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20. The reward granting step grants a reward to the user depending on at least one of the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected in the first behavior detection step and the predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected in the second behavior detection step. The second behavior detection step includes at least one of a real behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area A20, which is a real area, and a virtual behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in a virtual space taken in the second area A20, which is a virtual area.

[0248] The management program of the first embodiment causes a computer (control unit 13) to execute the above management method.

[0249] [Effects of the First Embodiment] As described above, in the first embodiment, when a user performs a predetermined action in the first area A10, a reward can be given to the user, thereby increasing the user's motivation to visit the first area A10 (the desire to visit the first area A10).

[0250] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when a user performs a predetermined action in the second area A20, a reward can be given to the user, thereby increasing the user's motivation to visit the second area A20 (the user's desire to visit the second area A20).

[0251] If the user is unable to visit the first area A10 for some reason, the user will not be able to take a predetermined action in the first area A10, and will therefore not be able to receive a reward for that predetermined action, which may result in the user losing motivation to visit the first area A10.

[0252] In the first embodiment, by visiting the second area A20 associated with the first area A10, it is possible to virtually reproduce (achieve) visiting the first area A10. Therefore, by increasing the motivation to visit the second area A20, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the motivation to visit the first area A10 even when the user cannot visit the first area A10.

[0253] Furthermore, even if restrictions on going out or traveling far are imposed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and it is difficult to actually go to the first area A10, the existence of the second area A20, separate from the first area A10, where a predetermined action can be taken (for example, visiting a shrine), can alleviate user dissatisfaction (dissatisfaction caused by not being able to take a predetermined action such as visiting a shrine due to restrictions on going out or traveling far). By taking the predetermined action in the second area A20, the user's satisfaction can be improved.

[0254] In the first embodiment, the predetermined action in the real world taken in the second real area A21 (the second area A20, which is a real area) is an action related to the predetermined action taken in the first area A10.

[0255] In the first embodiment, a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 can be simulated (achieved) in the second real area A21, thereby suppressing a decrease in motivation to visit the first area A10.

[0256] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the real world in the second real area A21 (the second area A20, which is a real area) includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space.

[0257] In the first embodiment, by providing the user with a reward that includes a benefit that can be enjoyed in the virtual space, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the virtual space.

[0258] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second virtual area A22 (the second area A20, which is a virtual area) includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world.

[0259] In the first embodiment, by providing the user with a reward that includes a benefit that can be enjoyed in the real world, the user's interest in the real world can be increased.

[0260] In addition, in embodiment 1, at least one of the rewards granted to a user in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 and the rewards granted to a user in response to a predetermined action in the second area A20 includes a benefit that can be used in the first area A10 or the second area A20.

[0261] In the first embodiment, by providing the user with a reward including a benefit that can be used in the first area A10, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the first area A10, thereby increasing the user's motivation to visit the first area A10.

[0262] Similarly, by providing users with rewards including benefits that can be used in the second area A20, it is possible to increase users' interest in the second area A20, thereby increasing their motivation to visit the second area A20.

[0263] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, part or all of the login process executable in the second real area A21 (the second area A20, which is a real area) is the same as part or all of the login process executable in the first area A10.

[0264] In the first embodiment, the burden (annoyance) on the user regarding the login process can be reduced compared to when the login process executable in the second reality area A21 is completely different from the login process executable in the first area A10.

[0265] In the above explanation, an example was given in which the "predetermined action in the first area A10" taken by the user is detected based on information obtained by an "information acquisition unit (such as a camera 41) connected to an area terminal 20 installed in the first area A10," but this is not limited to this.

[0266] For example, the first behavior detection unit 310 may detect a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10 based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as a camera 35) included in the user terminal 30 located in the first area A10. The information acquisition unit that acquires information for detecting the user's behavior in the first area A10 may be an information acquisition unit connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the first area A10, or may be an information acquisition unit included in the user terminal 30 located in the first area A10.

[0267] Furthermore, in the above explanation, an example was given in which the "predetermined action in the second real area A21" taken by the user is detected based on information obtained by an "information acquisition unit (such as a camera 35) included in the user terminal 30 located in the second real area A21," but this is not limited to this.

[0268] For example, an area terminal 20 and an information acquisition unit (such as camera 41) connected to the area terminal 20 may be provided in the second real area A21. Then, the real behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320 may detect a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second real area A21 based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the second real area A21. The information acquisition unit that acquires information for detecting the user's behavior in the second real area A21 may be an information acquisition unit included in the user terminal 30 located in the second real area A21, or may be an information acquisition unit connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the second real area A21.

[0269] (Modification of the first embodiment) The management system 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment differs from the management system 1 of the first embodiment in the processing performed by the management system 1. The other configurations and processing of the management system 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment are the same as those of the management system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0270] The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment includes, in addition to the processing by the management system 1 of the first embodiment, a first action prompting processing, a first performance processing, a second action prompting processing, and a second performance processing.

[0271] [First action promotion process] The first action prompting process is performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 performs the first action prompting process when the user's position in the real world is included in the first area A10 (the first area A10 associated with the user).

[0272] In the first action promotion process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action in the first area A10. Specifically, the management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker that output images and sounds to the user to prompt the user to take the predetermined action in the first area A10. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 45 and the speaker 46 connected to the area terminal 20, and the display 33 and the speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

[0273] In this example, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action at a specific point included in the first area A10. For example, when the user's position in the real world is included in a specific point included in the first area A10, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action at the specific point.

[0274] [Specific example of first action promotion process] For example, if a specific location included in the first area A10 is a "shrine building included in the shrine area," the management unit 400 displays an offering promotion image on a display 45 installed at the location where the shrine building is located, encouraging people to take a predetermined action to offer offerings.

[0275] The management unit 400 may also display an offering amount image showing information about the amount of offering money on the display 45 installed at the location where the shrine is located, along with the offering promotion image (or after the offering promotion image is displayed). Examples of information about the amount of offering money include auspicious amounts, unlucky amounts, etc.

[0276] The management unit 400 may also display an image of an offering amount designation screen for designating the amount of offerings on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. When an operation for designating the amount of offerings (amount designation operation) and an operation for instructing to make an offering (offering instruction operation) are input into the user terminal 30, the management unit 400 controls the electronic payment for the offering in response to the offering instruction operation so that the amount designated by the amount designation operation is offered. An auspicious amount may be displayed in advance (default display) on the offering amount designation screen. In this case, the amount displayed in advance may be able to be designated on the offering amount designation screen.

[0277] [First production process] The first performance processing is performed by the management unit 400. For example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a predetermined behavior in the first area A10," the management unit 400 performs the first performance processing.

[0278] In the first effect processing, the management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker that output images and sounds to the user to produce effect images and sounds corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the first area A10" detected by the first behavior detection unit 310. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 45 and the speaker 46 connected to the area terminal 20, and the display 33 and the speaker 34 of the user terminal 30. Examples of the effect images and sounds include images and sounds that express gratitude for the predetermined behavior.

[0279] In this example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a specified behavior at a specific location included in the first area A10," the management unit 400 causes the display and speaker to output a visual effect and a sound effect corresponding to the specified behavior at the specific location.

[0280] [Specific example of first effect processing] For example, if the specific point included in the first area A10 is a "shrine building included in the shrine area," when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a "predetermined behavior related to offering money (the behavior of throwing in coins or electronic payment)," as shown in Fig. 5, the management unit 400 causes a displayed image and sound corresponding to the offering to be output from a display 45 and a speaker 46 provided at the point where the shrine building is located. In the example of Fig. 5, the displayed image and sound are an image and sound showing a scene in which the god enshrined at the shrine gives thanks for the offering.

[0281] Note that multiple effect images (image data) and effect sounds (audio data) may be prepared according to the amount of offerings. In this case, the management unit 400 may randomly select "the effect image and effect sound to be output from the display 45 and the speaker 46" from the multiple effect images and effect sounds.

[0282] [Second action promotion process] The second action prompting process is performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 performs the second action prompting process when the user's position in the real world or virtual space is included in the second area A20 (the second area A20 associated with the user).

[0283] In the second action prompting process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action in the second area A20. Specifically, the management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker that output images and sounds to the user to prompt the user to take the predetermined action in the second area A20. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 33 and the speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

[0284] The second behavior prompting process includes at least one of a real behavior prompting process and a virtual behavior prompting process (both in this example).

[0285] [Real Behavior Promotion Processing] In the real-world behavior promotion process, management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior in second real area A21. For example, management unit 400 performs the real-world behavior promotion process when the user's location in the real world is included in second real area A21 (second real area A21 associated with the user). In this example, management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior at a specific location included in second real area A21.

[0286] [Virtual behavior promotion processing] In the virtual behavior prompting process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22. For example, the management unit 400 performs the virtual behavior prompting process when the user's position in the virtual space is included in the second virtual area A22 (the second virtual area A22 associated with the user). In this example, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22.

[0287] [Second production process] The second performance processing is performed by the management unit 400. For example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a predetermined behavior in the second area A20," the management unit 400 performs the second performance processing.

[0288] In the second effect processing, the management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker that output images and sounds to the user in accordance with the "predetermined behavior in the second area A20" detected by the second behavior detection unit 320. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 33 and the speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

[0289] The second rendering process includes at least one of a real rendering process and a virtual rendering process (in this example, both).

[0290] [Reality rendering processing] In the reality representation processing, management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker to output a representation image and a representation sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in second reality area A21" detected by real behavior detection unit 321. In this example, management unit 400 causes a display and a speaker to output a representation image and a representation sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior at a specific point included in second reality area A21" detected by real behavior detection unit 321.

[0291] [Virtual performance processing] In the virtual performance processing, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output a performance image and a performance sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual behavior detection unit 322. In this example, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output a performance image and a performance sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual behavior detection unit 322.

[0292] (Embodiment 2) 8 illustrates the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 2. The management system 1 of embodiment 2 includes a game device 50 in addition to the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 1. Furthermore, the management system 1 of embodiment 2 differs from the management system 1 of embodiment 1 in the software configuration of the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The other configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 2 are the same as the configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 1.

[0293] [Game device] The game device 50 is operated by a user to execute a game. The game device 50 is an example of an information terminal used by a user.

[0294] Examples of the game device 50 include home game consoles such as PlayStation (registered trademark), XBox (registered trademark), and Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), portable game consoles such as PlayStation Vita (registered trademark), and personal computers. In the case of a cloud-based game, the game device 50 is, for example, a device such as a game server. In this case, a game screen is displayed on a display connected via the communication network 5.

[0295] In the following, an example will be given in which the game device 50 is a home game machine. The game device 50 is connected to a display 61, a speaker 62, and a controller 63 (operation unit).

[0296] The management server 10 and the game devices 50 communicate with each other via a communication network 5. For example, the management server 10 transmits a game program and game data for executing a game. The game devices 50 receive (download) and install the game program and game data from the management server 10 via the communication network 5. The game progresses as the management server 10 and the game devices 50 operate. The progress of the game is controlled by the management server 10.

[0297] [Hardware configuration of game device] 9, game device 50 has a network interface 51, a graphics processing unit 52, an audio processing unit 53, an operation processing unit 54, a storage unit 55, and a control unit 56. Network interface 51, graphics processing unit 52, audio processing unit 53, operation processing unit 54, and storage unit 55 are electrically connected to control unit 56 via a bus.

[0298] The network interface 51 is communicably connected to the communication network 5 in order to transmit and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (such as the management server 10).

[0299] A display 61 is connected to the graphics processing unit 52. The graphics processing unit 52 renders game images including various objects related to the virtual space in a moving image format in accordance with game image information output from the control unit 56. The game images rendered in a moving image format are displayed on the display 61 as a game screen.

[0300] A speaker 62 is connected to the audio processing unit 53. The audio processing unit 53 plays and synthesizes game sounds in accordance with instructions from the control unit 56. The game sounds played and synthesized by the audio processing unit 53 are output from the speaker 62. Specifically, the audio processing unit 53 converts the audio data output by the control unit 56 into an analog signal and outputs it to the speaker 62.

[0301] The operation processing unit 54 is connected to the controller 63. The operation processing unit 54 transmits and receives data relating to operation inputs to and from the controller 63. The operation processing unit 54 then transmits operation information indicating the operations input to the controller 63 to the control unit 56.

[0302] For example, the user operates the controller 63 to input an operation signal to the game device 50. That is, when the user operates the controller 63, the controller 63 transmits an operation signal corresponding to the user's operation to the operation processing unit 54. The operation processing unit 54 generates operation information based on the operation signal and transmits the operation information to the control unit 56.

[0303] Storage unit 55 stores various types of information and data. Storage unit 55 is configured with an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. Storage unit 55 stores programs and data for executing various processes, account information assigned to the user who owns game device 50, etc.

[0304] The control unit 56 controls the operation of the game device 50. The control unit 56 transmits and receives various information and data, and processes various information and data. For example, the control unit 56 controls the display 61 and speaker 62 by controlling the graphics processing unit 52 and the audio processing unit 53. The control unit 56 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[0305] [Software configuration of the control unit of the management server] As shown in Fig. 8, the control unit 13 of the management server 10 has a game progression unit 120 instead of the virtual space generation unit 110 shown in Fig. 1. The game progression unit 120 progresses the game (a game in which objects move in a virtual space in response to user operations) by performing processing for progressing the game.

[0306] [Software configuration of the control unit of the game device] 9, the control unit 56 of the game device 50 has a game processing unit 56a and an information processing unit 56b. In other words, the control unit 56 functions as the game processing unit 56a and the information processing unit 56b by the CPU executing various programs.

[0307] The game processing unit 56a, together with the game progression unit 120 of the management server 10, performs processing to progress the game.

[0308] The information processing unit 56b processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 56b transmits and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 56b operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 56b transmits and receives data and information via the network interface 31.

[0309] For example, the information processing unit 56b controls the display 61 and the speaker 62 connected to the game device 50 based on various information and data transmitted from the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 56b also generates various information in response to operations input to the controller 63 connected to the game device 50, and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the information processing unit 56b of the game device 50.

[0310] [Processing in the management system] The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 of embodiment 2 includes a game progress processing instead of the virtual space construction processing of embodiment 1. Note that other processing included in the management processing of embodiment 2 (specifically, the first area setting processing, the second area setting processing, the login processing, the first behavior detection processing, the second behavior detection processing, and the reward granting processing) is the same as the other processing included in the management processing of embodiment 1.

[0311] [Game Progression Processing] Next, the processing (game progression processing) performed by the game progression unit 120 of the management server 10 and the game processing unit 56a of the game device 50 will be described.

[0312] The game progression unit 120 transmits game data, which is data for executing the game, to the game device 50. The game processing unit 56a outputs images and sounds related to the game to the display 61 and speaker 62 based on the game data transmitted from the management server 10. The user views the images and sounds output from the display 61 and speaker 62, and operates the controller 63.

[0313] The game processing unit 56a sends operation information indicating operations input to the controller 63 to the management server 10. Based on the operation information sent from the game device 50, the game progression unit 120 generates game data that reflects that operation information and sends the game data to the game device 50.

[0314] The game progresses by repeating the above process. In this example, the game is a game in which a player character moves within a game space in response to a user's operation. The game space is an example of a virtual space. The player character is an example of an object that moves within the virtual space in response to a user's operation.

[0315] [Second area setting process] In the second area setting process of the second embodiment, a virtual area that exists within the game space where the game is played is set as a "second virtual area A22."

[0316] [Virtual behavior detection processing] In the virtual behavior detection process included in the second behavior detection process of the second embodiment, a predetermined behavior is detected in a "virtual area within the game space" set in the second virtual area A22. In the virtual behavior detection process of the second embodiment, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the position and movement of the player character in the game space. The virtual behavior detection unit 322 also monitors operations (operations by the user) input to the controller 63 to move an object located at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22.

[0317] [Examples of prescribed actions in the second area (virtual area)] Next, predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22 of the second embodiment will be described using an example in which the second virtual area A22 is a “shrine area.” In the shrine area, objects that resemble shrines in the real world are placed.

[0318] The shrine area is an example of a virtual area that can be likened to a shrine area. An object that resembles a shrine is an example of an object that can be likened to a shrine building. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "main shrine," the shrine area set in the second virtual area A22 will be a "branch shrine."

[0319] The player character behaves as follows in the second virtual area A22, which is a shrine area within the game space.

[0320] First, the player character arrives at the shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. Here, an action in which the position of the player character in the game space arrives at the shrine area (one of the predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22) is detected.

[0321] Next, the player character arrives at the shrine in the shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. At the shrine, the player character takes the following actions.

[0322] As shown in Figure 10, at the point where the shrine is located, the player character C1 makes an offering, bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing in-game currency into an offering box (not shown) located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, the player character operates to take the action (movement) of throwing in-game currency into the offering box in front of the shrine, or an operation to make electronic payment for the offering is input to the controller 63.

[0323] The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the point where the shrine is placed are the action (movement) of the player character throwing in-game currency into the offering box placed in front of the shrine, the action of the user inputting an operation into the controller 63 to make an electronic payment for the offering in front of the shrine, and the action of the player character bowing twice, clapping twice and bowing once in front of the shrine (an example of the movement of an object performed in a predetermined procedure).

[0324] [The impact of the second area on game progress] Also, as shown in FIG. 10, in the game progression processing, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that the game progress status within a predetermined range R22 in the game space (virtual space) based on the second virtual area A22 differs from the game progress status when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

[0325] In this example, the game progress within a predetermined range R22 of the game space based on the second virtual area A22 is more advantageous to the user than the game progress when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

[0326] For example, when the position of the player character C1 in the game space is within a predetermined range R22, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that the player character C1 receives an advantageous effect in the game. Examples of advantageous effects in the game include an effect of improving the parameters of the player character C1 so that the player character C1 is advantageous in the game, an effect of restoring the stamina of the player character C1, etc.

[0327] [Effects of the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0328] Furthermore, in embodiment 2, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that the progress of the game within a predetermined range R22 based on the second virtual area A22 (the second area A20, which is a virtual area) in the virtual space differs from the progress of the game when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

[0329] In the second embodiment, the interest of the game can be improved by setting the second virtual area A22, which can increase the motivation to set the second virtual area A22.

[0330] (Embodiment 3) FIG. 11 illustrates the configuration of a management system 1 according to a third embodiment. The management system 1 according to the third embodiment includes a game device 50 in addition to the configuration of the management system 1 shown in FIG. 1. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 according to the third embodiment includes a game progression unit 120, a third area setting unit 230, and a third behavior detection unit 330 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 13 shown in FIG. 1. The other configuration of the management system 1 according to the third embodiment is similar to the configuration of the management system 1 according to the first embodiment. The game progression unit 120 according to the third embodiment is similar to the game progression unit 120 according to the second embodiment. The game device 50 according to the third embodiment is similar to the game device 50 according to the second embodiment.

[0331] [Software configuration of the control unit of the management server] The third area setting unit 230 allows the user to select an "area to be associated with the second area A20" from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10 and the second area A20 (second real area A21), or from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space that are different from the second area A20 (second virtual area A22).The third area setting unit 230 then sets the area selected by the user as the "third area A30."The third area A30 is associated with the second area A20.

[0332] The third area A30 includes a third area A30 that is a real area and a third area A30 that is a virtual area. Hereinafter, the third area A30 that is a real area will be referred to as a "second real area A31," and the second area A30 that is a virtual area will be referred to as a "third virtual area A32."

[0333] The third behavior detection unit 330 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area. Specifically, the third behavior detection unit 330 has at least one of a real behavior detection unit 331 and a virtual behavior detection unit 332 (in this example, both).

[0334] The real-world behavior detection unit 331 detects a predetermined behavior in the real world that is taken in the third real area A31. Note that the predetermined behavior in the third real area A31 (the predetermined behavior in the real world) is a behavior that is related to the predetermined behavior in the second area A20. Examples of the predetermined behavior in the third real area A31 are the same as the examples of the predetermined behavior in the second real area A21.

[0335] The real behavior detection process (processing for detecting a predetermined behavior in the third real area A31) by the real behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 is similar to the first behavior detection process by the first behavior detection unit 310 or the real behavior detection process by the real behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320. For example, the "predetermined behavior in the third real area A31" taken by the user may be detected based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as the camera 41) connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the third real area A31, or may be detected based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as the camera 35) included in the user terminal 30 located in the third real area A31.

[0336] The virtual behavior detection unit 332 detects a predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in the third virtual area A32. Note that the predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32 (the predetermined behavior in the virtual space) is a behavior related to the predetermined behavior in the second area A20. Examples of the predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32 are the same as the examples of the predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22.

[0337] The virtual behavior detection process (processing for detecting a predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32) by the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 is similar to the virtual behavior detection process by the virtual behavior detection unit 322 of the second behavior detection unit 320. For example, the "predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32" taken by the user may be detected based on the movement of an object (an object operated by the user) located in the third virtual area A32, or may be detected based on an operation (an operation by the user) input to the controller 63 of the user terminal 30 or the game device 50 in order to move an object located in the third virtual area A32.

[0338] In embodiment 3, in the reward granting process, the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, and a predetermined behavior in the third area A30 detected by the third behavior detection unit 330.

[0339] [Processing performed in the management system] The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 of embodiment 3 includes game progression processing, third area setting processing, and third behavior detection processing in addition to the processing by the management system 1 of embodiment 1. Note that the game progression processing of embodiment 3 is similar to the game progression processing of embodiment 2.

[0340] [Third area setting process] The third area setting process is similar to the second area setting process. Specifically, the third area setting process corresponds to a process in which the "first area A10" and the "second area A20" in the second area setting process are replaced with the "second area A20" and the "third area A30," respectively.

[0341] [Third behavior detection process] The third behavior detection process is similar to the second behavior detection process, and includes a process by the real behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 (real behavior detection process) and a process by the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 (virtual behavior detection process).

[0342] The real behavior detection process and the virtual behavior detection process of the third embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment. Specifically, the real behavior detection process of the third embodiment corresponds to the real behavior detection process of the first embodiment, in which the "second real area A21" is replaced with the "third real area A31." The virtual behavior detection process of the third embodiment corresponds to the virtual behavior detection process of the first embodiment, in which the "second virtual area A22" is replaced with the "third virtual area A32."

[0343] [Reward Granting Process] In the reward granting process of the third embodiment, the following process is performed in addition to the reward granting process of the first embodiment. In the reward granting process of the third embodiment, when the third behavior detection unit 330 detects "a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area A30," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the reward has been granted.

[0344] Specifically, when the real behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 detects a "predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the third real area A31 (a predetermined behavior taken by the user himself in the real world)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior. Also, when the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 detects a "predetermined behavior in the virtual world taken in the third virtual area A32 (a predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to the user's operation)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior.

[0345] [Effects of the Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0346] In addition, in embodiment 3, the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user based on at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, and a predetermined behavior in the third area A30 detected by the third behavior detection unit 330.

[0347] In the third embodiment, a reward can be given to a user when the user performs a predetermined action in the third area A30, thereby increasing the user's motivation to visit the third area A30 (the user's desire to visit the third area A30).

[0348] If the user is unable to visit the second area A20 for some reason, the user will not be able to take a predetermined action in the second area A20, and will therefore not be able to receive a reward for that predetermined action, which may result in the user losing motivation to visit the second area A20.

[0349] In the third embodiment, by visiting the third area A30 associated with the second area A20, it is possible to virtually reproduce (achieve) visiting the second area A20. Therefore, by increasing the motivation to visit the third area A30, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the motivation to visit the second area A20 even when the user cannot visit the second area A20.

[0350] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, it is possible to set a third area A30 associated with a first area A10, provided that a second area A20 associated with the second area A20 has been set. Taking the case where the first area A10 is a "shrine area" as an example, a second area A20 is set as a "branch shrine" associated with the first area A10, which is the "main headquarters," and further a third area A30 is set as a "branch shrine of the branch shrine" associated with the second area A20, which is the "branch shrine." This setting makes it possible to form a new community (a community that can extend not only in the real world but also in virtual space) that extends from the "main headquarters" through the "branch shrine" to the "branch shrine of the branch shrine."

[0351] In the third embodiment, the "first area A10," the "second area A20," and the "third area A30" may be managed in layers. A different benefit may be set for each layer (a benefit granted in response to a predetermined action in an area belonging to that layer).

[0352] (Embodiment 4) Fig. 12 illustrates the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 4. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 in embodiment 4 has a lottery unit 410 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 13 shown in Fig. 1. Other configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 4 are similar to the configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 1. The following describes an example in which a lottery ticket is consumed and a lottery is held according to the lottery ticket.

[0353] [Software configuration of the control unit of the management server] The lottery unit 410 performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to a user's operation. Examples of virtual mediums include objects placed in the virtual space, items usable in the virtual space, and game media used in the game space. Examples of objects placed in the virtual space include objects that imitate objects that exist in the real world and objects (e.g., avatars) that move in response to a user's operation. Examples of items usable in the virtual space include discount coupons that can be used at stores located in the virtual space.

[0354] [Information and data stored in the storage unit of the management server] In the fourth embodiment, the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 stores, for each user, lottery ticket information indicating the lottery ticket (lottery ticket used to draw a lottery for a virtual medium) granted to that user. The lottery ticket information registers the lottery ticket granted to the user. The lottery ticket information may be information constituting a part of the reward information.

[0355] [Type of lottery] The lottery for the virtual medium held in the management system 1 of embodiment 4 includes a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20. Specifically, in the management system 1 of embodiment 4, multiple lotteries (types of lotteries) including lotteries that can only be held in the second area A20 are prepared. In this example, multiple lottery tickets (types of lottery tickets) are prepared, including lottery tickets that can only be used in the second area A20.

[0356] [Lottery process] Next, the processing (lottery processing) by the lottery unit 410 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. For example, a user who wishes to hold a lottery inputs an operation for preparing for the lottery (lottery preparation operation) into the user terminal 30. The lottery preparation operation includes an operation for displaying, on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, an image of a lottery selection screen for selecting the lottery the user wishes to hold from one or more lotteries (lottery tickets in this example). In response to the lottery preparation operation, the lottery unit of the management server 10 performs the following processing.

[0357] <Step S41> First, the lottery unit 410 determines whether the position where the lottery is to be held is included in the "second area A20." If the position where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20, the process of step S42 is performed; if not, the process of step S43 is performed.

[0358] Specifically, the lottery unit 410 acquires location information (location information indicating the user's location in the real world) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30 and account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38 of the user terminal 30. Then, the lottery unit 410 detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, second real area information associated with the user to whom the account information is assigned.

[0359] Next, lottery unit 410 determines whether the location where the lottery is to be held is included in second area A20 based on the user's location indicated in the location information and the location range of second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. If the "user's location" indicated in the location information is included in the "location range of second real area A21," lottery unit 410 determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is included in second area A20; if not, lottery unit 410 determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is not included in second area A20.

[0360] Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 identifies a user who operates an object placed in the virtual space, and detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, second virtual area information associated with that user.

[0361] Next, the lottery unit 410 determines whether the position where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20 based on the position of the object in the virtual space and the position range of the second virtual area A22 indicated in the second virtual area information. If the "position of the object in the virtual space" is included in the "position range of the second virtual area A22," the lottery unit 410 determines that the position where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20, and if not, determines that the position where the lottery is to be held is not included in the second area A20.

[0362] <Step S42> If the position where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20, the lottery unit 410 allows the user to hold a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20."

[0363] For example, the lottery unit 410 displays an image of a lottery selection screen including a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20)" on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

[0364] In addition, the lottery unit 410 conducts the lottery selected by the user in response to an operation to conduct the lottery (for example, an operation to select the lottery that the user wishes to conduct from one or more lotteries displayed on the lottery selection screen).

[0365] In this example, the lottery unit 410 detects the lottery ticket selected by the user from the lottery ticket information stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, consumes (uses) the detected lottery ticket, and conducts a lottery according to the lottery ticket. For example, the lottery unit 410 conducts a lottery for a virtual medium based on a lottery table that indicates the relationship between virtual media that are candidates for winning in the lottery and their winning probabilities.

[0366] The lottery unit 410 then awards the virtual medium that has been won by the lottery to the user who held the lottery. Specifically, the lottery unit 410 associates the virtual medium awarded to the user who held the lottery with the user and stores it in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. For example, the lottery unit 410 registers the virtual medium awarded to the user by the lottery in the reward information (reward information associated with the user) stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10.

[0367] <Step S43> On the other hand, if the position where the lottery is to be performed is not included in the second area A20, the lottery unit 410 prohibits the user from performing the "lottery that can only be performed in the second area A20."

[0368] For example, when a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20)" is selected from one or more lotteries displayed on the lottery selection screen, the lottery unit 410 notifies the user through the display 33 and / or speaker 34 of the user terminal 30 that the selected lottery cannot be held (in this example, the selected lottery ticket cannot be used).

[0369] Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 displays on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 an image of the lottery selection screen along with an image notifying the user that a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20)" cannot be held.

[0370] Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 displays an image of a lottery selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 that does not include "lotteries that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, lottery tickets that can only be used in the second area A20)."

[0371] [Effects of the fourth embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0372] In the fourth embodiment, the lottery for the virtual medium includes a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20.

[0373] In the fourth embodiment, by providing a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20, it is possible to increase users' interest in the second area A20, thereby increasing their motivation to visit the second area A20.

[0374] In the fourth embodiment, the lottery for the virtual medium may include a lottery that can only be held in the first area A10. The process (lottery process) related to the lottery that can only be held in the first area A10 is the same as the process (lottery process) related to the lottery that can only be held in the second area A20. In this way, by providing a lottery that can only be held in the first area A10, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the first area A10. This can increase the user's motivation to visit the first area A10. The same applies to the third area A30.

[0375] In the above description, the result of the lottery process may vary depending on whether the area where the lottery is held is within the area selected by the user (one of the first area A10, the second area A20, and the third area A30). For example, the objects to be won by the lottery (potential winners) may vary, or the probability of winning for the potential winners may vary, depending on whether the area where the lottery is held is within the area selected by the user.

[0376] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, a lottery that can be held in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 may be held in the second area A20. For example, when the user is located in the second area A20 (when the user's location in the real world is in the second real area A21, or when the user or an object's location in the virtual space is in the second virtual area A22), the lottery unit 410 may permit the user to hold a lottery that can be held in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 in the second area A20.

[0377] (Embodiment 5) The management unit 400 in the fifth embodiment performs a selling process in addition to the process performed by the management unit 400 in the first embodiment. Other configurations and processes of the management system 1 in the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the management system 1 in the first embodiment.

[0378] The management unit 400 performs a selling process to sell virtual media used in the virtual space in response to a user's operation. The virtual media sold in the virtual space include virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10.

[0379] [Sale Processing] Next, the selling process by the management unit 400 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. For example, a user who wishes to sell a virtual medium inputs an operation (selling operation) to start the sale into the user terminal 30. The selling operation includes an operation to select the virtual medium to be sold. In response to the selling operation, the management unit 400 of the management server 10 performs the following process.

[0380] <Step S51> First, the management unit 400 determines whether the virtual medium the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10." If the virtual medium the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the process proceeds to step S53; if not, the process proceeds to step S52.

[0381] <Step S52> If the virtual medium that the user wants to sell is not a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the management unit 400 sells the virtual medium selected by the selling operation. Specifically, the management unit 400 performs the following process.

[0382] The management unit 400 detects the virtual medium selected by the selling operation from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 (e.g., remuneration information stored in the storage unit 12). The management unit 400 then disassociates the detected virtual medium from the user, and stores the payment for the sale of the virtual medium in the storage unit 12, associating it with the user. This marks the virtual medium as having been sold.

[0383] <Step S53> On the other hand, if the virtual medium that the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the management unit 400 determines whether the location where the user wishes to sell the virtual medium is included in the first area A10. Specifically, the management unit 400 performs the following process.

[0384] The management unit 400 acquires the location information (location information indicating the location of the user) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30 and the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the storage unit 38 of the user terminal 30. Then, the management unit 400 detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, the first area information associated with the user to whom the account information is assigned.

[0385] Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10 based on the user's location indicated in the location information and the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information. Specifically, if the "user's location" indicated in the location information is included in the "location range of the first area A10," the management unit 400 determines that the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10; otherwise, the management unit 400 determines that the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is not included in the first area A10.

[0386] If the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10, the process of step S52 is performed, and if not, the process of step S54 is performed.

[0387] <Step S54> If the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is not included in the first area A10, the management unit 400 does not sell the virtual medium. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user terminal 30 that the virtual medium cannot be sold. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that the virtual medium cannot be sold on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

[0388] [Effects of the fifth embodiment] In the fifth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0389] In the fifth embodiment, the virtual media sold in the virtual space include virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10.

[0390] In the fifth embodiment, by providing a virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10, it is possible to increase users' interest in the first area A10, thereby increasing their motivation to visit the first area A10.

[0391] The selling process of the fifth embodiment may be the same as the lottery process of the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 13). For example, the selling process may be a process in which the "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20", "second area A20", "lottery", "lottery unit 410", and "virtual medium won by lottery" in the lottery process of the fourth embodiment are respectively read as "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10", "first area A10", "sale", "management unit 400", and "remuneration obtained by sale".

[0392] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the virtual media sold in the virtual space may include virtual media that can only be sold in the second area A20. The process (sale process) for virtual media that can only be sold in the second area A20 is similar to the process (sale process) for virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10. In this way, by providing virtual media that can only be sold in the second area, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the second area A20. This can increase the user's motivation to visit the second area A20. The same applies to the third area A30.

[0393] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, buying and selling that can be performed in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 may be performed in the second area A20. For example, when the user's location is within the second area A20 (when the user's location in the real world is within the second real area A21, or when the user or object's location in the virtual space is within the second virtual area A22), the management unit 400 may permit the user to perform buying and selling that can be performed in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 in the second area A20.

[0394] (Other embodiments) In the above description, the case where the first behavior detection unit 310 is included in the control unit 13 of the management server 10 has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first behavior detection unit 310 may be included in the control unit 23 of the area terminal 20, or may be included in the control unit 39 of the user terminal 30. In other words, a predetermined behavior by the user may be detected in the area terminal 20 (or the user terminal 30), and the detection result may be transmitted to the management server 10.

[0395] Furthermore, in the above description, for one area (one of the first area A10, the second area A20, and the third area A30) or one specific location set by the user, multiple predetermined actions (specifically, multiple behavioral patterns) to be taken in that area or specific location may be set.

[0396] In the above example, a reward may be granted to a user on the condition that any one of a plurality of predetermined actions set for one area or one specific location has been taken. Alternatively, a reward may be granted to a user on the condition that at least two of a plurality of predetermined actions set for one area or one specific location have been taken. Alternatively, a reward may be granted to a user on the condition that all of a plurality of predetermined actions set for one area or one specific location have been taken.

[0397] For example, if a first action is set for a location where a torii gate is located, in which the user bows in front of the torii gate, and a second action is set for the user passing through the torii gate, a reward may be given to the user according to the action, provided that at least one of the first action and the second action is taken. Also, if a first action is set for a location where a shrine is located, in which the user throws coins into an offering box, and a second action is set for the user to operate user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering, a reward may be given to the user according to the action, provided that both the first action and the second action are taken.

[0398] In the above description, a predetermined action taken by a user may be detected as follows.

[0399] For example, it may be possible to detect that a predetermined action has been taken by a user on the condition that the action by the user completely matches a preset action pattern (a predetermined action that should be taken by the user).

[0400] Alternatively, it may be detected that a user has taken a predetermined action on the condition that a part or all of the user's action matches a part or all of a preset action pattern. For example, it may be determined that a user has taken a predetermined action when the degree of match (similarity) between the user's action and the action pattern exceeds a threshold.

[0401] Specifically, if "two bows, two claps, one bow" is set as the behavior pattern, it may be determined that the behavior of two bows, two claps, one bow has been taken if at least one bow out of three bows is detected (recognized). Alternatively, if "two bows, two claps, one bow" is set as the behavior pattern, it may be determined that the behavior of two bows, two claps, one bow has been taken if "two bows" and "one bow" are detected even if "two claps" is omitted.

[0402] Furthermore, in the above description, the "predetermined action in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual action detection unit 322 of the second action detection unit 320 may be a predetermined action taken by the user in the real world when an object operated by the user in the virtual space is located in the second virtual area A22. In other words, the virtual action detection unit 322 may determine whether the "predetermined action in the second virtual area A22" has been taken based on the user's action taken in the real world when the object operated by the user in the virtual space is located in the second virtual area A22. The same applies to the "predetermined action in the third virtual area A32" detected by the virtual action detection unit 332 of the third action detection unit 330.

[0403] In the above description, the condition for an area that can be set as the first area A10 may be set as "an area that the user has actually visited."

[0404] For example, the first area setting unit 210 may allow the user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas that the user has actually visited, and set the selected area as the first area A10. Note that the determination of whether the area is a real area that the user has actually visited may be made based on position history information (information indicating the user's position history, for example, location history) stored in the storage unit 38 of the user terminal 30.

[0405] Similarly, in the above description, the condition for a real area that can be set as second area A20 may be "a real area that the user has actually visited in the real world." Also, the condition for a virtual area that can be set as second area A20 may be "a virtual area that the user has actually visited in the virtual space."

[0406] For example, the second area setting unit 220 may have the user select an area to associate with the first area A10 from among "real areas the user has actually visited in the real world" or "virtual areas the user has actually visited in the virtual space," and set the selected area as the second area A20. Note that the determination of whether the area in the virtual space is a virtual area the user has actually visited may be made based on virtual position history information (information indicating the user's position history in the virtual space) stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10.

[0407] In the above description, the first area description information (information that provides a description of the first area A10) included in the first area information may be information obtained from an information source such as an official website or Wikipedia. By referring to such information, it is possible to deepen understanding of the first area. The same can be said for the specific point description information included in the first area point information, the second area description information included in the second area information, and the specific point description information included in the second area point information.

[0408] In the above description, an example has been given in which an avatar takes "a predetermined action that imitates a predetermined action in a shrine area in the real world" in a virtual shrine area that imitates a shrine area in the real world, but this is not limiting. The predetermined action in the second virtual area A22 may be an action that imitates a predetermined action in the first area A10, or may be a different action (individually set action) from the predetermined action in the first area A10.

[0409] In the above description, the lottery process and the selling process are given as examples of processes performed in the first area A10 (or the second area A20), but the present invention is not limited to these. Other examples of processes performed in the first area A10 (or the second area A20) include a process of using a virtual medium to strengthen another virtual medium, a process of combining virtual media, and a process of progressing through a game. For example, these processes may include a process that can only be performed in the first area A10 (or the second area A20).

[0410] In the above description, the user may be able to select whether to use "the user's position in the real world" or "the position of the user or object (object operated by the user) in the virtual space."

[0411] For example, if the user's position in the real world is within the "first area A10 (or second real area A21)" and the user or object's position in the virtual space is within the "second virtual area A22," the user may select the "user's position in the real world" and take a predetermined action within the first area A10 (or second real area A21), or may select the "user's or object's position in the virtual space" and take a predetermined action within the second virtual area A22. The same applies not only to predetermined actions but also to predetermined processes such as lottery processes and sale processes.

[0412] In the above description, the reward given to the user may be set for each area. For example, the rewards for predetermined actions in each of a plurality of areas (such as the first area A10) associated with the user may be different or the same. Furthermore, if a plurality of first areas A10 are set, the rewards for predetermined actions in each of the plurality of first areas A10 may be different or the same. The same applies to rewards for predetermined actions in other areas (such as the second area A20).

[0413] In the above description, the reward given to the user may be set for each predetermined action (type of action). For example, the reward for "user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure" in the first area A10 and the reward for "user operation of an information terminal performed by a user for a predetermined electronic payment" in the first area A10 may be different rewards or the same reward. The same applies to rewards for predetermined actions in other areas (such as the second area A20).

[0414] Furthermore, in the above description, the reward may be given to the user each time a predetermined behavior is detected, or may be given to the user on the condition that the number of times the predetermined behavior is detected reaches a predetermined number.

[0415] Specifically, the management unit 400 may grant the user a reward according to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 each time the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "predetermined behavior in the first area A10." Alternatively, the management unit 400 may count the number of times the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "predetermined behavior in the first area A10," and when the number of times reaches a predetermined number, reset the count to zero and grant the user a reward according to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10. The same applies to rewards according to predetermined behavior in other areas (such as the second area A20).

[0416] In addition, the above explanation has given an example of a case where a user is given a reward based on a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a reward based on a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, but this is not limited to this.

[0417] For example, the user may be granted a reward according to both a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320. In other words, the reward granted to the user may include a reward granted to the user when a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 are detected.

[0418] In the above description, a "period and number of times that a reward can be granted" may be set for each reward. For example, a reward granted in response to either a predetermined action in the first area A10 or a predetermined action in the second area A20 (a reward granted if a predetermined action is taken in either the first area A10 or the second area A20) may be granted up to once a day, while a reward granted only in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 (a reward not granted unless a predetermined action is taken in the first area A10) may be granted up to once a month.

[0419] In the above description, in the login process that can be performed in a specific real area (first area A10 and second real area A21), the user may be permitted to log in on the condition that a predetermined action has been taken in the specific real area. Examples of the predetermined action include the action of passing through a torii gate, the action of offering coins, etc.

[0420] Furthermore, in a login process executable in a specific real-world area, if a user is permitted to log in on the condition that the user has taken the action of passing through a torii gate, the user may be permitted to log in by an alternative means when the user is unable to pass through the torii gate due to reasons such as mourning. Examples of alternative means include going in front of the torii gate or passing beside the torii gate without going through it. For example, a user who is in mourning cannot take the action of passing through the torii gate, but can achieve the effect of being permitted to log in by taking the action (alternative means) of passing beside the torii gate.

[0421] Furthermore, in the above description, the login bonus granted to a user through a login process that can be executed in a specific real-world area may vary depending on the time conditions under which the user is permitted to log in. For example, the login bonus obtained on a specific day may be larger than the login bonus obtained on days other than the specific day. Furthermore, the login bonus obtained on a specific day may be more expensive than the login bonus obtained on days other than the specific day. The specific day may be set by an administrator who manages the management system 1, an administrator who manages a specific real-world area, or a user. Furthermore, the number of days that can be set as specific days by a user may be limited to a predetermined number of days.

[0422] Furthermore, in the above description, in a login process that can be performed in a specific real area, a user may be permitted to log in on the condition that a predetermined time has passed since the previous login. For example, in the login process, a user may be permitted to log in if the user's location is included in a specific real area associated with the user and a predetermined time (e.g., one day) has passed since the previous login. Alternatively, a user may be permitted to log in if it is the day after the previous login.

[0423] Furthermore, in the above description, the login bonus granted to a user through a login process that can be executed in a specific real-world area may vary depending on the amount of time that has elapsed since the last login. For example, the login bonus granted when the amount of time that has elapsed since the last login is less than a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one day) may be less than the login bonus granted when the amount of time that has elapsed since the last login is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount of time.

[0424] In the above description, the management unit 400 may also grant a consecutive login bonus to a user. The consecutive login bonus is a benefit granted to a user when the number of consecutive days the user has logged in reaches a predetermined number of days. In this case, the consecutive login bonus may be granted to a user when the number of consecutive days the user has logged in to at least one of the areas set by the user (first area A10, second area A20, third area A30) reaches a predetermined number of days.

[0425] In the above description, a level (area level) related to the first area A10 associated with the user may be set for each user. For example, the "area level related to the first area A10" set for each user is registered in the first area information related to the user and the first area A10. The same applies to other areas (such as the second area A20) associated with the user.

[0426] For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may be increased as the number of visits to the first area A10 increases. In this case, updating (adding) the number of visits to the first area A10 may be permitted on the condition that a predetermined time (e.g., one day) has passed since the last visit to the first area A10.

[0427] Furthermore, the login bonus obtained by the login process in the first area A10 may include points (area points) corresponding to the level associated with the first area A10. In this case, the more area points there are, the higher the area level associated with the first area A10 corresponding to those area points may become. In this case, updating (adding) of area points may be permitted on the condition that a predetermined time (e.g., one day) has passed since the last visit to the first area A10. Alternatively, updating (adding) of area points may be permitted on or after the day following the last login. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (e.g., the second area A20).

[0428] Furthermore, the area level associated with the first area A10 may change depending on the number of visits to the second area A20 associated with the first area A10. For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of visits to the second area A20 associated with the first area A10 increases. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

[0429] Furthermore, the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may vary depending on the area level associated with the first area A10. For example, as the area level associated with the first area A10 increases, the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may increase, or the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may become more expensive. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

[0430] Furthermore, the area level associated with the first area A10 may vary depending on the area points corresponding to the second area A20 associated with the first area A10. For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the area points corresponding to the second area A20 associated with the first area A10 increase. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

[0431] In the above description, the first area A10 may be available to users other than the user who set the first area A10. In this case, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of times the other users other than the user who set the first area A10 visit the first area A10 increases. Furthermore, the manner in which the area level increases (the amount of increase) depending on the number of times the other users other than the user who set the first area A10 visit the first area A10 may differ from the manner in which the area level increases depending on the number of times the user who set the first area A10 visits the first area A10. The same applies to other areas (such as the second area A20) associated with the user.

[0432] In the above description, the rewards obtained by passing through the first area A10 may include rewards that affect the game. Examples of rewards that affect the game include the effect of improving game parameters (e.g., parameters of a character owned by the user) to gain an advantage in the game, the effect of raising the character's level, the effect of imparting skills to the character, the effect of restoring the character's stamina, and the effect of reviving the character. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (e.g., the second area A20).

[0433] Furthermore, attributes of each first area A10 may be set for that first area A10. For example, the attributes of the first area A10 may be set by an administrator who manages the management system 1, an administrator who manages a specific real area, or a user.

[0434] Furthermore, the reward obtained by passing through the first area A10 (especially the reward that affects the game) may vary depending on the attribute of the first area A10. For example, "the attribute preset for the first area A10" may correspond to "an attribute in the game (fire, water, earth, wind, etc.)," ​​and the reward obtained by passing through the first area A10 may be an item with an attribute corresponding to the attribute of the first area A10.

[0435] Furthermore, in the above description, an example has been given in which electronic payment is made for offering money, but this is not limiting. For example, offering money may be made using virtual currency. In this case, the results of offering money may be managed using a blockchain (distributed ledger technology). Offering money may also be made using game media (for example, in-game currency or items). Offering money may also be made using points that replace cash.

[0436] Furthermore, in the above description, characters, which are an example of game media, may include characters that undergo special effects when sold in a specific area. The special effects may be different for each character, or may be different for each location where the character is sold. The special effects may be a process performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 may output images and sounds for the effects to a display and speaker that output images and sounds to the user.

[0437] Furthermore, in the above description, when an "object representing a real-world chozuya" or an "object representing a real-world incense burner" is placed in the game space, the player character may take a predetermined action at the point where the object is placed, thereby providing the player character with an advantageous effect in the game. For example, an abnormal status of the player character may be resolved.

[0438] In addition, in the above description, a user may take a predetermined action in a real area (such as the first area A10) to enjoy advantageous effects in the game that the user is playing. For example, a status abnormality of the player character controlled by the user may be resolved by the user taking the action of washing their hands in a predetermined procedure at a water basin located in the real area.

[0439] In the above description, a shrine office may be placed in a shrine area that exists in the real world. Similarly, a virtual shrine office may be placed in a virtual shrine area that exists in a virtual space. Digital content related to the shrine may then be sold at the shrine office. An example of such digital content may be digital data (image data) showing a shrine seal. The digital content may be an NTF (Non-Fungible Token). The digital content may also be sold online.

[0440] Furthermore, in the above description, the path to reach the first area A10 may be part of the game. For example, the game progression unit 120 progresses a game in which the player character walks along a virtual road (a virtual road that imitates the road leading to the first area A10) within the game space in response to user operations. In addition, inns, teahouses (rest areas), palanquins, rickshaws, masters, enemies, and the like may be placed on the virtual road. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

[0441] Note that multiple virtual paths (virtual paths simulating paths leading to the first area A10) may be provided within the game space. The multiple virtual paths may each have a different level of difficulty. For example, the number and strength of enemies, the number of undulations and obstacles, the number of rest areas, and the like may be set for each of the multiple virtual paths depending on the difficulty of that path. Furthermore, the effects obtained on each virtual path (effects that affect the progress of the game) may differ.

[0442] In addition, in the above description, a virtual user area (an area to which a group of users belongs) in which a specific user is set (for example, installed) as a symbol may be provided in the virtual space. For example, a user who has left the virtual space after achieving a certain level of achievement is set as a symbol in the virtual user area. Furthermore, rewards that can be obtained by visiting this user area may include rewards according to the user set as a symbol in the user area and the achievements that the user has achieved.

[0443] In the above description, a memorial object may be placed at a point in the game space where the number of deaths of a character (number of times the game is over) exceeds a predetermined number. The memorial object may be placed on the condition that the user pays a fee.

[0444] Furthermore, within the game space, the game progress within a predetermined range based on the memorial object (for example, a circular range centered on the memorial object) may be different from the game progress outside the predetermined range based on the memorial object. For example, the game progress within the predetermined range based on the memorial object may be more advantageous to the user than the game progress outside the predetermined range based on the memorial object.

[0445] Furthermore, in the above description, the hauntings may be set in accordance with people's rumors. For example, the management unit 400 may analyze information posted on websites such as blogs and social networking services (SNS), and conversations (chats) taking place in the virtual space, and based on the results of that analysis, set an object that is attracting attention as a haunting in the virtual space, and set a virtual area in which that haunting is located. Furthermore, the management unit 400 may erase the haunting when attention to the object set as a haunting decreases.

[0446] In the above description, events that mimic events held in real-world shrine areas may be held in the virtual shrine area set up in the virtual space. Examples of events held in shrine areas include a competition (e.g., a race) to determine the lucky man, kemari (a traditional Japanese game), and yabusame (horseback archery). The results of the competition to determine the lucky man in the virtual shrine area may be managed as an NFT (Non-Fungible Token).

[0447] In the above description, the sensor 43 connected to the area terminal 20 may detect the user's movements, position, line of sight, body temperature, breathing, etc. In other words, the information acquired by the sensor 43 (information derived from the user's behavior) may include the user's movements, position, line of sight, body temperature, breathing, etc. Then, a predetermined behavior of the user may be detected based on this information. The same can be said for the sensor 37 included in the user terminal 30.

[0448] In the above description, the location sensor 371 (GPS) and the behavior sensor 372 (acceleration sensor, gyro sensor, etc.) have been given as examples of the sensor 37 of the user terminal 30, but the sensor is not limited to these. Other examples of the sensor 37 include a proximity sensor (infrared sensor, magnetic sensor, etc.), an ambient light sensor, a geomagnetic sensor (compass), and a barometric pressure sensor. A predetermined action by the user may be detected based on this information.

[0449] In the above description, the "user terminal 30" and the "game device 50" are given as examples of information terminals used by users, but the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the information terminal used by the user may be an information terminal including smart glasses such as AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, an information terminal including a head-mounted display, a personal computer, etc.

[0450] Specifically, the information terminal carried by the user may be a smartphone, a tablet, an information terminal including smart glasses, an information terminal including a head-mounted display, a notebook personal computer, etc. Examples of information terminals into which a user inputs operations to operate objects placed in a virtual space may be a smartphone, a tablet, an information terminal including a head-mounted display, a notebook personal computer, a desktop personal computer, etc.

[0451] If the virtual space is an augmented reality space (a virtual space where you can experience augmented reality (AR), which is a real world where additional information is displayed), an image of the virtual space may be constructed by superimposing an image (video) of flowing water on an image (video) of a real-world chozuya (purification fountain) in the shrine area in the real world. In this case, the user can purify their hands (the act of purifying their hands with water scooped up with a ladle) without actually touching the water.

[0452] Furthermore, if the virtual space is an augmented reality space, an image of the virtual space may be constructed by superimposing an image (video) of smoke on an image (video) of an incense burner in the real world of a temple area. In this case, the user can take the action (behavior) of being exposed to the smoke from the incense burner without actually touching the smoke.

[0453] In the above description, a "shrine area" was used as an example of the first area A10, but this is not limiting. For example, the first area A10 may be a religious area such as a temple area, a school area where schools are located, or any other area. The same applies to the second area A20.

[0454] In the above description, the first area A10 and the second area A20 are outdoor areas, but this is not limiting. The first area A10 and the second area A20 may be indoor areas. For example, the second real area A21 may be an area inside a house.

[0455] Furthermore, the above-mentioned areas within the house may be "real areas likened to shrine areas." For example, a "washroom" within the house may be likened to a "chozuya" (purification foyer) in the shrine area. A "predetermined room" within the house may be likened to a "main shrine" in the shrine area. A "piggy bank" placed in a predetermined room within the house may be likened to an "offering box" in the shrine area.

[0456] In the above description, the real area set as the first area A10 is a "predetermined area of ​​land," but this is not limiting. For example, the real area set as the first area A10 may be a building or an object. Furthermore, the location range of the first area A10 is not limited to a circular range, and may be, for example, a range according to the shape of the site.

[0457] In the above description, the first area A10 is described as a "real area fixed to land or the like," but is not limited thereto. For example, the first area A10 may be a location (real area) where an object (movable object) designated by the user is located. In other words, the first area A10 may be a real area that moves in association with an object (e.g., a portable doll) designated by the user. In this case, the latest position of the first area A10 may be set to the position last determined by the user (position of the object), or may be set to the position indicated in the position information acquired by the position sensor 371 when the object was last photographed by the camera 35 included in the user terminal 30 operated by the user. The same applies to the second area A20 and the third area A30.

[0458] In the above description, the first area A10 may be a virtual area. In other words, the first area setting unit 210 may allow the user to select an arbitrary area from the virtual areas and set the selected area as the "first area A10."

[0459] Furthermore, in the above description, the objects (e.g., avatars) placed in the virtual space may include objects that operate in response to user operations, as well as objects that are operated by a computer (e.g., the control unit 13 of the management server 10).

[0460] In the above description, "avatars" and "player characters" are given as examples of objects that move in the virtual space in response to user operations, but the objects are not limited to these. For example, the objects that move in the virtual space in response to user operations may be objects that resemble parts of the user's body (such as hands or feet).

[0461] In the above description, an object recognized as an identifier (virtual identifier) ​​may be placed in a virtual area existing in the virtual space. The virtual identifier may be an imitation of an identifier placed in the real area, or may be a separate object different from the identifier placed in the real area.

[0462] In addition, in the above description, an example has been given in which the "first identified object image" and the "second identified object image" are stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, but this is not limiting. For example, if the third login process is not performed, the "first identified object image" and the "second identified object image" do not need to be stored in the storage unit 12.

[0463] The effects of the present invention 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. The above-described embodiments are essentially preferred examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. [Industrial Applicability]

[0464] As described above, the present disclosure is useful as a management technique. [Explanation of symbols]

[0465] 1 Management System 10 Management Server 11 Network Interface 12 Storage section 13 Control Unit 110 Virtual Space Generation Unit 120 Game Progression Section 210 First Area Setting Unit 220 Second Area Setting Section 230 Third Area Setting Section 310 First behavior detection unit 320 Second Behavior Detection Unit 321 Real-life Behavior Detection Unit 322 Virtual Behavior Detection Unit 330 Third Behavior Detection Unit 331 Real-life Behavior Detection Unit 332 Virtual Behavior Detection Unit 400 Management Department 410 Lottery Section 20 Area Terminal 30 User terminals 50 Gaming Devices A10 Area 1 A20 Area 2 A30 Third Area

Claims

1. a first area setting unit that allows a user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas that exist in the real world and sets the area selected by the user as a first area; a second area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as a second area; a first behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area; a second behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area; a management unit that grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, The second behavior detection unit includes a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area. Management system.

2. In the management system of claim 1, the second area setting unit allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the virtual area, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area; The second behavior detection unit includes the virtual behavior detection unit and a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area. Management system.

3. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, The predetermined behavior in the first area includes at least one of the user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure and the user's operation of an information terminal performed to make a predetermined electronic payment. Management system.

4. In the management system of claim 2, The predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, is an action related to the predetermined action in the first area. Management system.

5. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, The predetermined action in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area, includes at least one of a movement performed in a predetermined sequence of an object operated by the user in the virtual space, a predetermined electronic payment performed in the virtual space in response to the operation of the user, and an action in which the position of the user or the object in the virtual space arrives at the second area. Management system.

6. In the management system of claim 2, a reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space; The reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second area, which is the virtual area, includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world. Management system.

7. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, At least one of the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the first area and the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the second area includes a benefit that can be used in the first area or the second area. Management system.

8. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, a lottery unit that performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user; The lottery for the virtual medium includes a lottery that can only be conducted in the second area. Management system.

9. In the management system of claim 2, the management unit performs a login process to accept a login by the user and grant a login bonus to the user in response to the login by the user; the login process can be performed in each of the first area and the second area, which is the real area; A part or all of the login process executable in the second area, which is the real area, is the same as a part or all of the login process executable in the first area. Management system.

10. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, the management unit performs a selling process to sell a virtual medium used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user; The virtual medium sold in the virtual space includes a virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area. Management system.

11. In the management system of claim 1 or 2, a game progression unit that progresses a game in which an object moves within the virtual space in response to an operation by the user, The game progression unit progresses the game so that the progress of the game within a predetermined range based on the second area, which is the virtual area in the virtual space, differs from the progress of the game when the second area is not set. Management system.

12. In the management system of claim 2, a third area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the second area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the second area, or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space that are different from the second area, and sets the area selected by the user as a third area; a third behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area, the management unit grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit, a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, and a predetermined behavior in the third area detected by the third behavior detection unit; The third behavior detection unit includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the third area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the third area, which is the virtual area. Management system.

13. a first area setting step of having a user select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world and setting the area selected by the user as a first area; a second area setting step of having the user select an area to be associated with the first area from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space, and setting the area selected by the user as a second area; a first behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area; a second behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area; a reward granting step of granting a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected in the first behavior detecting step and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected in the second behavior detecting step, The second behavior detection step includes a virtual behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area. Management method.

14. A management program that causes a computer to execute the management method of claim 13.

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