Game system, computer program used therein, and control method

Abstract

To provide a game system that can add a game property to the selection in a selection opportunity.SOLUTION: A game system 1 provides a selection screen 70 to select at least one of multiple individual choice areas 73 included in a game screen 50 of a baseball game provided by a game machine 3 to a viewer who views the game screen 50 of the baseball game through a user terminal device. The game system 1 determines an area 73 into which a ball image 65 of a home run jumps when the home run is hit according to a prescribed rule so as to jump into (reach) any one of the multiple individual choice areas 73 in the baseball game, and grants a privilege to a viewer who has performed the selection when the area 73 matches the individual choice area 73 selected on the selection screen 70.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system, etc., that provides a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options that respectively correspond to a plurality of areas included in a game screen of a game that is played through a game screen displayed on a display device. [Background technology]

[0002] There are game systems that provide a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options corresponding to a plurality of areas included in a game screen of a game played through a game screen displayed on a display device. For example, a game system is known that provides a spectator player watching a racing game with the opportunity to select a viewpoint for watching the game from a plurality of viewpoints set on a racing course (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Another prior art document related to the present invention is Patent Document 2. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-77299 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6665273 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the game of Patent Document 1, for example, some event associated with the viewpoint may occur, such as a car crash at a spectator viewpoint. However, even if such an event occurs, the system does not provide any special benefits to the spectator player who selected the viewpoint from which the event occurred, provided that the event occurs. Similarly, in the system of Patent Document 2, content including characters appears to be viewed from a viewing position selected by a viewing user. In this system, it is possible that a character may perform some kind of event at the viewing position. However, even if such an event occurs, the system does not provide any special benefits to the viewing user at the viewing position, provided that the event occurs. (In fact, given the efforts to ensure fairness, as described in paragraphs 0057-0059, for example, the provision of such special benefits may be considered the opposite of the system.) As a result, in these systems, the state of the game or content does not provide significant benefits to spectator players, etc. Therefore, there is room for improving the benefits of spectators (or viewers) of games, etc., and even the enjoyment of spectating.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game system or the like that can add a gaming element to the selection in the selection opportunity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The game system of the present invention is a game system that provides a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options corresponding to each of a plurality of areas included in a game screen of a game played through a game screen displayed on a display device, and is equipped with an area determination means that, when an event occurs in the game according to predetermined rules so as to be associated with a portion of the plurality of areas, determines the portion of the area associated with the event, and a bonus granting means that grants a bonus to the user when the portion of the area is included in a corresponding area that corresponds to at least one of the options selected in the selection opportunity.

[0007] On the other hand, a computer program according to the present invention is configured to cause a computer connected to the display device to function as each of the means of the game system described above.

[0008] Furthermore, the control method of the present invention causes a computer incorporated in a game system that provides a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options corresponding to each of a plurality of areas included in a game screen of a game played through a game screen displayed on a display device to execute an area determination procedure for determining the portion of the plurality of areas associated with an event when the event occurs in the game according to predetermined rules so as to be associated with the portion of the plurality of areas, and a bonus granting procedure for granting a bonus to the user when the portion of the area is included in a corresponding area that corresponds to the at least one option selected in the selection opportunity. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the main parts of a control system of the game system. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an overview of an area selection service. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a viewing screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a selection screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a development event as a benefit condition. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between a hit ball and a bonus condition. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a game screen for a home run catch game. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of area data. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for area selection processing. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a benefit granting process. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a probability change process. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a selection screen according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An example of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below. First, the overall configuration of the game system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The game system 1 includes a center server 2 as a server device and game machines 3 connected to the center server 2 via a predetermined network NT. The center server 2 is configured as a single logical server device by combining server units 2A, 2B, etc. as multiple computer devices. However, the center server 2 may also be configured by a single server unit. Alternatively, the center server 2 may be configured logically using cloud computing.

[0011] The network NT may be configured as appropriate as long as it can connect the game machines 3 (or the user terminal devices 4, described later, etc.) to the center server 2. As an example, the network NT is constructed by the Internet as a WAN and a LAN that connects the center server 2 and the game machines 3 to the Internet. Note that various computer devices may be interposed between the game machines 3 and the LAN as appropriate. In this case, such computer devices and the game machines 3 may be constructed as a single local system, and such a local system may be connected to the center server 2 via the network NT.

[0012] The game machine 3 is a device that provides games. The game machine 3 may be any of a variety of computer devices for personal use, such as a stationary or portable game machine (including a tablet or smartphone) or a stationary or notebook personal computer, but the example in FIG. 1 uses an arcade game machine. Arcade game machines are computer devices installed in various facilities, such as stores, with the primary purpose of generating revenue by having many users repeatedly play games. For this reason, the game machine 3 is configured as a commercial (business-use) game machine (a game machine that provides games for a fee) that allows users to play games within a range corresponding to the payment of a predetermined play fee in exchange for the payment of the play fee.

[0013] The game machine 3 may be installed in various facilities as appropriate, but in the example of Fig. 1 it is installed in an event venue (facility) EF. Various events may be held at the event venue EF, and the game machine 3 may be used as appropriate at the events, but in the example of Fig. 1 a game event using a game provided by the game machine 3 is being held at the event venue EF. In this case, the game machine 3 may provide games in exchange for a predetermined play fee, as in the case where it is installed in a store or the like, but in the example of Fig. 1 the game is provided free of charge.

[0014] The game machine 3 may provide appropriate games for game events, such as action games, simulation games, role-playing games, timing games (music games), or sports games. The game machine 3 may provide these games for single (solo) play or for multiplayer play. In the case of multiplayer play, the games may be provided as competitive or cooperative games (including cases where the opponent or the cooperator is a computer) in appropriate formats, such as one-on-one, one-on-many (team), or many-on-many (the number of players may be the same or different). For this reason, an appropriate number of game machines 3 may be installed at the event venue EF depending on the type of game. In the example of FIG. 1, two or more game machines 3 are installed at the event venue EF. These two game machines 3 each provide a competitive game in which two users P (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as players P) playing the game via the two game machines 3 compete one-on-one.

[0015] A game event may be configured as a competition in which results are competed for in an appropriate format, such as a tournament or league match, or may simply be configured as a gathering where players show off their skills. A game event may also be an event without spectators or an event with spectators. While a game event may be configured as appropriate depending on the type of game, etc., in the example of FIG. 1 , it is configured as an event with spectators, with spectators PA present to watch two players P playing against each other on a stage via two game machines 3.

[0016] An event venue EF is a venue where a game event is held. An appropriate number of event venues EF may be prepared as the venue for the game event, and only one event venue EF may be prepared, or multiple event venues EF (including cases where one event venue EF functions as multiple event venues EF at different times). Furthermore, multiple event venues EF may host one game event (including both simultaneous and staggered events), or multiple game events. Below, a game system 1 applied to a game event at one event venue EF will be described as an example.

[0017] In addition to the game machine 3, various devices such as performance equipment for producing (enhancing) the game event may be installed appropriately at the event venue EF, and in the example of Figure 1, a light unit LU, a speaker SP, a smoke device SU, a monitor MO, and a camera CA are installed as types of performance equipment (in the example of Figure 1, one of each device is shown, but these are not limited to one and any appropriate number may be installed).

[0018] The light unit LU is a well-known lighting device that produces various visual effects using lighting (light), such as lighting on, flashing, turning off, or appropriately colored. The speaker SP is a well-known audio output device that produces auditory effects by playing (outputting) various sounds. The smoke unit SU is a well-known device that produces visual effects by generating an appropriate amount of smoke. The camera CA is a well-known device that captures video (the situation of the game event). The monitor MO is a well-known display device that displays various images (including images for effects or various information). The monitor MO may appropriately display, for example, images captured by the camera CA as effects, or game screens provided by each game machine 3. These various effect devices may be connected to the center server 2 and controlled by the center server 2, or, if a local system is installed at the event venue EF, may be connected to and controlled by that local system. In this manner, each effect device may be appropriately controlled.

[0019] A user terminal device 4 may be connected to the game system 1 via the network NT. The user terminal device 4 is a computer device that can be connected to a network and is provided for the user's personal use. By implementing various computer software, the user terminal device 4 can allow the user to enjoy various services provided by the center server 2. For example, the user terminal device 4 functions as a display terminal that can display various videos by executing a predetermined application (software). Any suitable computer device may be used as the user terminal device 4. In the example of FIG. 1, user terminal devices such as a mobile terminal device 4A such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a portable tablet terminal device 4B, and a notebook-type (or stationary) personal computer 4C are shown. These are connected to the network NT as appropriate via, for example, an access point AP. Note that other computer devices that can be connected to a network and are provided for the user's personal use, such as a stationary home game console or a portable game console, may also be used as the user terminal device 4 as appropriate.

[0020] When the user terminal devices 4 connected to the game system 1 function as display terminals, a video distribution system is established in the game system 1 through appropriate server units 2A, 2B, etc. of the center server 2. In other words, in this case, the game system 1 includes the video distribution system. The video distribution system is a system for distributing the status of a game event to users of the user terminal devices 4. The video distribution system distributes various types of video (moving images) to the user terminal devices 4 as the status of the game event, such as appropriate game screens displayed by the game machines 3, photographed images taken by the cameras CA, or appropriate combinations of these (including appropriately edited video). For this reason, various devices installed at the event venue EF, such as the game machines 3 or the cameras CA, may be connected to the video distribution system (center server 2) as appropriate, but in the example of FIG. 1, only the game machine 3 is connected. In this case, the video distribution system appropriately acquires information on various game situations including game results (including information for replay data to reproduce the game screen), or image data capturing the game screen, from the game machine 3, and distributes video based on the acquired results (hereinafter sometimes referred to as game video) to the user terminal device 4 as the status of the game event.

[0021] The center server 2 provides various device services to the game machines 3. The device services include an information acquisition service that acquires information on the playing status of each player P (including replay data and image data) from each game machine 3. In addition, when information on the playing record of each player P is managed via various data such as play data, the device services may also include a data update service that reflects information on the playing status in such data. Furthermore, in the case where various performance devices are controlled by the center server 2, the device services may also include a service for controlling the devices. For example, in the case where the results of shooting by a camera CA are used in a video distribution system, the device services may include a control service that controls the shooting conditions of the camera CA (such as the shooting direction, shooting range, angle of view, or shooting time), and a video recording service that acquires the results of shooting and records them as video data.

[0022] Similarly, the center server 2 provides various Web services to users of the user terminal devices 4 via the network NT. Web services include various services provided via the video distribution system, including, for example, a video distribution service, a video-related service, and a billing service. The video distribution service distributes game video to the user terminal devices 4. The video distribution service may be configured to distribute video data for displaying game video to the user terminal devices 4 as needed, but is configured to distribute the video data at any time using packet communication, for example. Such game video may be recorded video of past gameplay situations, but may also be distributed as live video of current gameplay situations in near real time. In other words, game play situations at game events are streamed as game video to the user terminal devices 4 in near real time via the video distribution service.

[0023] The video-related services are services related to game videos distributed through the video distribution service. The video-related services may include various services related to game videos as appropriate, and include an area selection service as an example. The area selection service is a service that provides viewers with an opportunity to select at least one of multiple areas set on the game screen of a game played through each game machine 3, and provides benefits based on the selection result and the actual game play situation. The area selection service may be provided free of charge, but is provided in exchange for a predetermined fee, as an example. The area selection service will be described in detail below.

[0024] The billing service is a service for collecting various fees from each user of the user terminal device 4 through well-known payment processing. Such fees include various fees depending on the content of the Web service, such as a video distribution service or a video-related service, and include, as an example, a fee for selecting an area in an area selection service. In other words, the fee (fee) required for the area selection service is collected through the billing service. Note that the Web service may also include, for example, a data distribution service that distributes various data or software (including updates to data, etc.) to each user terminal device 4, an ID assignment service that assigns a user ID for identifying each user, or an authentication service that receives user identification information from the user terminal device 4 and authenticates the user.

[0025] Next, the main parts of the control system of the game system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. First, the center server 2 is provided with a control unit 21 and a storage unit 22 as storage means. The control unit 21 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU, which is an example of a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined computer program, with an internal memory and other peripheral devices required for its operation.

[0026] The storage unit 22 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk array. The storage unit 22 may be configured to hold all data in one storage unit, or may be configured to store data in a distributed manner across multiple storage units. The storage unit 22 stores a server program PG1 as an example of a computer program that causes the control unit 21 to execute various processes necessary to provide various services to users. The storage unit 22 also stores server data 23 necessary for providing various services. The server data 23 includes various data necessary for providing device services or Web services. In the example of FIG. 2, video data VD and area data RD are shown as types of such various data.

[0027] The video data VD is well-known video data for displaying game images on the user terminal device 4. The video data VD is generated based on image data for displaying a game screen, etc. The area data RD is data for defining multiple areas set on the game screen. The area data RD is used, for example, to present options in a selection opportunity provided through an area selection service. Details of the area data RD will be described further below. Note that the server data 23 may also include various other data for realizing various other services. For example, such data may include the above-mentioned play data or ID management data for managing various IDs such as user IDs. However, illustration of these data is omitted.

[0028] The control unit 21 is provided with a device service management unit 26 and a Web service management unit 27 as logical devices realized by a combination of the control unit 21's hardware resources and the server program PG1 as a software resource. The device service management unit 26 executes various processes to realize the above-mentioned device services for the game machine 3. Meanwhile, the Web service management unit 27 executes various processes to realize Web services such as the above-mentioned video distribution service, video-related service, or billing service for the user terminal device 4. For example, the Web service management unit 27 executes well-known processes to realize streaming distribution of game video as a process to realize the video distribution service. Furthermore, the Web service management unit 27 executes well-known billing processes (including cooperation with other billing systems) as a process to realize the billing service.

[0029] Similarly, the Web service management unit 27 executes appropriate processes according to the content of the service provided as processes for realizing the video-related service, including processes for realizing the area selection service. For example, the Web service management unit 27 executes processes for providing a selection opportunity and for granting a reward based on the selection result as processes for realizing the area selection service. These processes may include various processes as appropriate, and examples include area selection processing, reward granting processing, and probability change processing. The procedures for these area selection processing, reward granting processing, and probability change processing will be described in detail below. Note that input devices such as a keyboard and output devices such as a monitor may be connected to the control unit 21 as needed; however, these are not shown in the figures.

[0030] The game machine 3 is provided with a control unit 31 as a computer and a storage unit 32 as storage means. The control unit 31 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU, an example of a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operational control according to a predetermined computer program, with internal memory and other peripheral devices required for its operation. The control unit 31 is provided with a game control unit 33 and a data management unit 34 as logical devices realized by combining the control unit 31's hardware resources and the game program PG2, which serves as software resources. The game control unit 33 executes various processes necessary for providing the game (including various processes necessary for receiving machine services). Similarly, the data management unit 34 executes various processes for managing data stored in the storage unit 32 (including various processes necessary for receiving machine services). Such processes include, for example, processes for generating or transmitting image data for displaying game screens for game footage.

[0031] The storage unit 32 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk or semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 32 stores various data along with the game program PG2 described above, and the example in FIG. 2 shows game data GD. The game data GD is data that is referenced as appropriate to allow the user to play the game in accordance with the game program PG2. The game data GD may include various types of data, such as audio data for playing game sounds, image data for displaying game screens, the above-mentioned play data, or ID management data, as appropriate.

[0032] The game machine 3 may also be provided with various output devices and input devices necessary for an arcade game machine, as appropriate, and connected to the control unit 31. In the example of FIG. 2, a monitor 36 and a speaker 37 are provided as output devices, and an input device IP1 is provided as an input device. The monitor 36 and the speaker 37 are well-known display devices that display various images related to the game, such as game screens for providing the game, and a well-known audio playback device that plays audio, respectively. The input device IP1 is a device for inputting various play actions that the player P executes to play the game. As the input device IP1, various input devices such as push button switches or touch panels may be appropriately adopted depending on the type of game, etc.

[0033] The user terminal device 4 is provided with a control unit 41 as a computer and a storage unit 42 as storage means. The control unit 41 is configured as a computer that combines a CPU as an example of a processor that executes various processes according to a predetermined computer program with an internal memory and other peripheral devices required for its operation.

[0034] The storage unit 42 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a nonvolatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk or a semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 42 stores a terminal program PG3 as an example of a computer program that causes the control unit 41 to execute various processes necessary to provide various services to the user. The storage unit 42 also stores terminal data TD necessary for enjoying Web services such as displaying game videos. The terminal data TD includes various types of data, and the example in FIG. 2 shows video data VD and area data RD as examples of such data. The video data VD and area data RD are provided by the center server 2 so as to include portions necessary as part of a video distribution service (or data distribution service) or a video-related service (or area selection service). The terminal data TD may also include, for example, ID management data appropriately provided by the center server 2. Similarly, the terminal data TD may include, for example, image data for displaying various images related to the distribution of game videos, or audio data for playing various sounds such as background music. However, these are not shown in the figure.

[0035] The control unit 41 includes various logical devices formed by combining the control unit 41's hardware resources with the terminal program PG3 as software resources. These logical devices execute various processes necessary for receiving Web services. The example in FIG. 2 shows the associated logical devices, a video control unit 43 and a data management unit 44. The video control unit 43 is a logical device that performs various processes for displaying various images (including videos). These processes include processes for displaying game videos (videos) (processing for receiving video distribution services), displaying various images related to game videos for receiving video-related services, and processing for receiving billing services related to these. For example, the video control unit 43 executes area selection processing in cooperation with the Web service management unit 27 of the center server 2 to realize an area selection service included in the video-related services. The data management unit 44 is a logical device that performs various processes related to the management of terminal data TD recorded in the storage unit 42. Such processing includes processing for acquiring the video data VD and the area data RD from the center server 2, processing for updating them as appropriate, and processing for providing (transmitting) the updated data to the center server 2.

[0036] The user terminal device 4 may be provided with various output devices and input devices as appropriate depending on the type of user terminal device, such as the mobile terminal device 4A. In the example of FIG. 2, a monitor 46 and a speaker 47 are shown as such output devices, and an input device IP2 is shown as an input device. The monitor 46 and the speaker 47 are well-known display devices for displaying various images, such as game videos, and a well-known audio playback device for playing audio, respectively. The input device IP2 is a device through which the user inputs actions for various services. An appropriate input device may be used as the input device IP2 depending on the various services, and a touch panel is used as an example. The touch panel is a well-known input device (detection device) that detects the position of a user's touch operation and outputs a signal corresponding to that position. Appropriate touch operations for using a video distribution service, a video-related service, or a billing service are input through touch operations on such a touch panel. The touch panel is disposed on and covering the monitor 46 to detect such touch operations.

[0037] Next, the area selection service will be described in detail with reference to Figures 3 to 8. As described above, the area selection service is a service that provides viewers of game footage with selection opportunities and benefits based on the selection results therein, and in other words, it functions as a service that adds a gaming element to viewers of game footage through these selection opportunities and benefits. As described above, the game machine 3 may provide various games as appropriate, and the area selection service may be applied to these various games as appropriate. Below, the area selection service will be described for the case where the game machine 3 provides a baseball game (sports game).

[0038] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an overview of the area selection service. The area selection service may be provided independently (separately) from the video distribution service as part of a video-related service. However, the example in FIG. 3 illustrates a case where the area selection service is provided while the video distribution service is being provided (the two are provided in parallel). The example in FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a procedure for implementing the area selection service in such a case. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the area selection service includes steps F1 to F6. Specifically, a game screen 50 is displayed on the monitor 36 of each game machine 3 for game play. First, data for distributing the game screen 50 as game video is transmitted from each game machine 3 to the center server 2 (F1). When video data VD is generated on the game machine 3 side, for example, the video data VD may be transmitted to the center server 2 as such data. In this way, the game machine 3 may transmit appropriate data to the center server 2 as long as it is capable of displaying the game screen 50. As an example, the game machine 3 transmits image data of the game screen 50 captured at regular intervals (e.g., at a predetermined refresh rate) to the center server 2.

[0039] Meanwhile, upon acquiring image data from each game machine 3, the center server 2 generates video data VD for displaying game footage and distributes the game footage based on the video data VD to the user terminal device 4 (F2). The video data VD may be configured to display only one game screen 50 of the two game machines 3 as game footage, but as an example, is generated to display game footage that appropriately includes two game screens 50 corresponding to the two game machines 3. The game footage may also be appropriately processed, for example, by enlarging one of the game screens 50, focusing on a portion, or fading out. Such game footage may be viewed appropriately on the user terminal device 4, but as an example, it is viewed on a viewing screen 60. Details of the viewing screen 60 will be described later.

[0040] When a predetermined touch operation requesting a selection opportunity is performed on the viewing screen 60, a selection screen 70 is displayed on the monitor 46 of the user terminal device 4. The selection screen 70 is a screen for providing a selection opportunity. Specifically, the selection screen 70 is a screen for the viewer to select a desired area from a plurality of areas set on the game screen 50. The selection of an area on the selection screen 70 may be provided free of charge, or, as an example, is provided in exchange for a predetermined fee, as described above. Therefore, each viewer selects a desired area (option) on the selection screen 70 while paying a fee through a billing service. The selection result on the selection screen 70 is transmitted to the center server 2 (F3). Details of the selection screen 70 will be described later.

[0041] Meanwhile, in a game provided by each game machine 3, developments (progress) may occur as appropriate in response to the play actions of each player P. Such developments include events (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as development events to distinguish them from real-life events such as game events) that occur according to predetermined rules. For example, in a baseball game, various types of batted balls, such as hits, fouls, and home runs, may occur depending on the match between the pitcher and batter. These are determined based on the parameters of the pitcher and batter, and, if the player P controls the batter, the timing of the operation. In other words, the direction, distance, speed, etc. of the batted ball are determined according to predetermined rules (algorithms or probabilities) that utilize various parameters, and are classified as hits, etc. Therefore, such batted balls function as a type of development event. Similarly, various development events, such as a runner stealing a base, may occur in a baseball game. Each game machine 3 appropriately transmits information on various play situations, including information on such development events, to the center server 2 (F4).

[0042] When the center server 2 acquires information about the play situation from each game machine 3, it determines whether the viewer's selection results satisfy a bonus condition based on the information about the play situation (F5). The bonus condition may be configured as appropriate. For example, the bonus condition is satisfied when a predetermined play situation occurs in the area selected by the viewer. As such a predetermined play situation, an appropriate play situation occurring in association with each area (option in the selection opportunity) on the game screen 50 may be used. For example, a development event occurring in association with each area is used. In other words, the bonus condition is satisfied when a development event occurs in association with the area selected in the selection opportunity. As described above, the development event includes various developments. For example, a ball hit is used as the bonus condition, and the bonus condition is satisfied when a ball hits the area selected in the selection opportunity. Then, when the bonus condition is satisfied, that is, when a ball hits the area selected in the selection opportunity, the center server 2 grants a bonus to the viewer of the user terminal device 4 (F6). The area selection service may add appropriate gameplay to the game footage depending on the type of game provided by the game machine 3. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the gameplay of predicting the trajectory of the batted ball is added to the viewing of the game footage.

[0043] Fig. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of viewing screen 60. Viewing screen 60 may also function as a selection screen for realizing selection opportunities. In other words, areas functioning as options may be set in the game video (game screen) included in viewing screen 60, and selection of each area may be performed by touching these areas; however, the example of Fig. 4 shows viewing screen 60 in the case where a screen (selection screen 70) separate from viewing screen 60 is used as the selection screen. In this case, as shown in Fig. 4, viewing screen 60 includes video area 61 and ball prediction icon 62.

[0044] The video area 61 is an area for displaying game footage. As described above, the game footage may be a combination of two game screens 50 from two game machines 3, as appropriate. However, in the example of FIG. 4, the video footage is composed of only the game screen 50 corresponding to the game machine 3 on the offensive team. In this case, the video area 61 displays the game screen 50 displayed on the game machine 3 on the offensive team as is. The game screen 50 includes a pitcher character 64 as the pitcher who throws the ball, and a batter character 63 as the batter who hits back the ball thrown by the pitcher. The game screen 50 on the offensive team is configured to correspond to the results of filming the stadium from the catcher's (or umpire's) perspective. For this reason, in the example of FIG. 4, the video area 61 displays the game screen 50 corresponding to the catcher's perspective, so that the back of the batter character 63 and the front of the pitcher character 64 are respectively displayed.

[0045] On the other hand, the ball prediction icon 62 is an icon (image) that indicates a touch position for requesting a selection opportunity. In other words, when the position of the ball prediction icon 62 is touched, a selection opportunity is provided to the viewer on the viewing screen 60. More specifically, when the ball prediction icon 62 is touched, a selection screen 70 is displayed.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a selection screen 70. In a baseball game, hits that occur as development events include multiple types of hits, such as a hit, and these various types of hits may be used as requirements for a bonus condition. For example, only a home run may be used as a requirement for a bonus condition. However, the following describes, as an example, a case in which a foul ball (some foul balls) that flies into the outfield seats is used as a requirement (development event) for a bonus condition in addition to a home run. The example of FIG. 5 illustrates the selection screen 70 that is displayed in such a case.

[0047] Furthermore, the selection screen 70 is displayed to realize the selection opportunity as described above, and during the selection opportunity, each option is set so as to predict the location where the ball will land. Therefore, during the selection opportunity, multiple options are provided corresponding to multiple locations (areas) included in the game screen 50. While such options may be provided separately from each location (each location may be indirectly selected), the example of FIG. 5 shows the selection screen 70 in which each location is directly used as an option (each location is directly selected). Furthermore, the selection screen 70 may directly (as is) display the game screen 50 so as to include such locations, or may display a screen other than the game screen 50 as long as it includes such locations. Such a screen may be, for example, a screen (or a screen simulating such a screen) of a game field similar to the game screen 50 photographed under different shooting conditions (e.g., a different angle, field of view, shooting direction, etc.). Furthermore, such a screen may not be a screen that can be displayed on the game machine 3 as a game screen. In this way, any appropriate screen may be used as the selection screen 70 as long as it includes locations common to the locations included in the game screen 50 (which may be conceptually common locations), and the example of Fig. 5 shows a case where such a separate screen is used as the selection screen 70. In this case, as shown in Fig. 5, the selection screen 70 includes a stadium image 71.

[0048] The stadium image 71 is an image showing a stadium that functions as a game field for a baseball game. The selection screen 70 may display a stadium image 71 obtained by photographing such a stadium under appropriate photographing conditions, but in the example of Fig. 5, a stadium image 71 corresponding to the photographed result when the stadium is photographed in plan view from above is displayed. Although such a stadium image 71 may not be displayed on the game screen 50, it shows the entire stadium (game field) similar to that on the game screen 50, and therefore includes locations similar to each location included on the game screen 50 (the same locations but with different photographing conditions).

[0049] Specifically, the stadium image 71 includes a ground area 71A and a spectator area 71B. The ground area 71A is an area that functions as a field where players such as batters play (where baseball is played). The spectator area 71B is an area set up as spectator seats where spectators can watch the baseball game. The spectator area 71B is formed outside the ground area 71A in the stadium image 71, surrounding it. The game screen 50 also naturally includes the ground area 71A and the spectator area 71B, but only a portion of them is displayed as a result of being photographed from a different angle (an angle that mimics the catcher's field of view). On the other hand, the selection screen 70 in the example of FIG. 5 displays the entirety of these.

[0050] An option area 72 is set on the stadium image 71. The option area 72 is an area that functions as an option (a location to be selected) in a selection opportunity. The option area 72 may be set appropriately on the stadium image 71, but as an example, it is set only in a portion (range) corresponding to the outfield seats of the spectator area 71B (between the left and right first boundary lines BL1 that indicate the boundary with the infield seats). Specifically, the outfield seats include a home run area where a hit is determined to be a home run (between the left and right second boundary lines BL2 that are extensions of the left and right foul lines FL) and a foul area where a hit is determined to be a foul (the left and right areas between the first boundary line BL1 and the second boundary line BL2). Therefore, the option area 72 is set to the range (area) that a home run and a foul ball flying into the outfield seats can reach.

[0051] The option area 72 is divided into a plurality of individual option areas 73. Each of the plurality of individual option areas 73 functions as an option in the selection opportunity. That is, each viewer determines the individual option area 73 (option) they wish to select by touching each individual option area 73. Each individual option area 73 may be formed in an appropriate form (size, shape, etc.), and an appropriate number of individual option areas 73 may be provided in the option area 72 depending on such form, etc. For example, each individual option area 73 may be formed in an appropriate shape and size, such as a circle, an ellipse, a cylinder, a cone, or various polygons. In the example of FIG. 5, each individual option area 73 is formed in a square shape with sides several times the length of a baseball in a baseball game. In this example, the plurality of individual option areas 73 function as both the plurality of areas and the plurality of options of the present invention. Also, in this example, the viewer functions as the user of the present invention.

[0052] Furthermore, the shape of each individual option area 73 may change appropriately depending on various conditions, such as the game play situation, characteristic information related to the user's characteristics, various ranges (area attributes) such as infield or outfield, or randomness. Specifically, for example, when the situation of a baseball game corresponds to a pinch or chance, or a specific inning (specific period) such as the seventh inning, the size of each individual option area 73 may increase or decrease (for example, based on each individual option area 73 in the example of FIG. 5, the size may be set to correspond to two or more individual option areas 73 in a specific inning, and the size may be set to correspond to one individual option area 73 in a normal inning). Furthermore, the shape (area) may differ depending on the area (its attribute), such as a small area corresponding to a foul and a large area corresponding to a home run.

[0053] Similarly, the shape of each individual option area 73 may change depending on various attribute information, such as the viewer's payment amount (including both the cumulative total and each payment), the number of views, the number of comments if comments can be added to game footage, viewers managed as blacklists or viewer ranks according to appropriate conditions, and various attribute information such as the viewer's physical build (for example, entered by each viewer). In these cases, the range (shape) of each individual option area 73 can be changed depending on the viewer's characteristics. Generally, the wider the range of an individual option area 73, the higher the probability that a ball will land there (and a development event will occur there). Therefore, for example, by making the range of each individual option area 73 wider than usual for a viewer who frequently uses selection opportunities, that viewer can be given preferential treatment. In other words, by changing the range of each individual option area 73, it is possible to give preferential or disfavored treatment to certain viewers. As a result, such preferential treatment can encourage the use of selection opportunities. In this way, the shape of each individual option area 73 set for each viewer may change as appropriate, but as an example, it is set uniformly. That is, the same number of individual option areas 73 having square shapes of similar size are set in the option area 72 for all viewers.

[0054] In a selection opportunity, selection of each individual option area 73 may be free of charge, or may be provided for a fee as described above, for example. Furthermore, in a selection opportunity, selection of one individual option area 73 per person may be limited, or selection of one individual option area 73 may be limited to only one viewer, although, for example, multiple individual option areas 73 may be allowed for each viewer (multiple viewers may overlap in one individual option area 73). Selection of multiple individual option areas 73 may be allowed as appropriate, and may vary, for example, depending on the amount paid by each viewer. Such a variation may, for example, exponentially increase the number of selectable individual option areas 73 as the amount paid increases, but, for example, is set linearly, increasing the number of selectable individual option areas 73 by one for each fixed amount. In other words, a fixed amount is charged for selecting one individual option area 73, and an amount obtained by multiplying the fixed amount for each of the multiple individual option areas 73 is charged. Therefore, on the selection screen 70, after each individual option area 73 is selected, the individual option area 73 selected by the viewer is confirmed through appropriate intermediate steps (processing) such as deciding on the selection and charging the fee corresponding to the selection.

[0055] Furthermore, the individual option area 73 selected on the selection screen 70 may be used only to determine the benefit conditions, but may also be used for other purposes as appropriate. For example, such other purposes include specifying a spectator point. That is, the individual option area 73 selected on the selection screen 70 functions as a spectator point for the viewer who selected that individual option area 73. More specifically, the game video is displayed so as to reproduce the stadium as seen from the individual option area 73 selected on the selection screen 70. That is, the video area 61 on the viewing screen 60 displays game video (game screen) corresponding to the stadium as seen from the individual option area 73 selected on the selection screen 70. In other words, the viewpoint (range of the viewing field) of the game video (game screen) displayed on the viewing screen 60 is switched depending on the selection result on the selection screen 70.

[0056] Furthermore, when multiple individual option areas 73 are selected on the selection screen 70, the viewing point may be switched between those individual option areas 73 as appropriate based on a predetermined priority order or the like. As an example, any one of the individual option areas 73 selected by the viewer is set as the viewing point (in this case, each individual option area 73 may be set to a range in units of spectator seats, or may be set independently). In the example of FIG. 5 , the second individual option area 73 from the right end of the option area 72 and two above the bottom (the individual option area 73 with a dot pattern) is touched. In this case, game footage corresponding to the stadium as seen from this viewing point is displayed in the video area 61 on the viewing screen 60. The effect of a selection on the selection screen 70—in other words, the determination of the bonus condition (the effect of ball prediction) and the viewing point—may be applied, for example, to a player, an at-bat, or an inning (either just the batting inning or both the batting and at-bat innings). In this way, the effect of a selection on the selection screen 70 may be applied to an appropriate range (unit), but as an example, it is applied to a game. In other words, once selected, the effect of ball prediction, etc. will continue (maintain) until the end of the game (changes to the selected individual option area 73 may be permitted). In this example, the dotted individual option area 73 functions as both one option and a corresponding area of ​​the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a development event as a bonus condition. Specifically, the example of FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a viewing screen 60 when a home run occurs as the hit ball (development event) in the example of FIG. 4. As described above, the video area 61 may display game footage corresponding to the viewpoint from the individual option area 73 selected on the selection screen 70 (or an appropriate one, if multiple options are selected). However, in the example of FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the video area 61 displays the game screen 50 (game footage) as seen from the same viewpoint as in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 6, compared to the example of FIG. 4, a ball image 65 has been added to the video area 61. More specifically, the ball image 65 is displayed so as to trace a trajectory 66 of a home run (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the home run trajectory 66). Such a home run trajectory 66 (which may or may not be visually displayed) is generally formed from the point of impact of the batter character 63 to the outfield seats (home run area). As a development event, various types of hits by the batter character 63 can occur as described above, and when a home run occurs, such a ball image 65 is displayed. In this case, an appropriate exercise such as an enlarged display of the ball image 65 may be added to the video area 61.

[0058] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationship between batted balls and bonus conditions. Various types of batted balls, including home runs, occur in a stadium that creates a virtual three-dimensional space, and thus are generated three-dimensionally in the virtual three-dimensional space, such as the home run trajectory 66 shown in the example of FIG. 6 . Therefore, each individual option area 73 may be set within an appropriate range of the virtual three-dimensional space (including the field). As a result, bonus conditions may be satisfied appropriately between the various individual option areas 73 and the batted ball. Specifically, if a net is installed in the stadium to prevent foul balls from entering the spectator seats (including the infield seats), appropriate individual option areas 73 may be installed on the net in the virtual three-dimensional space, and the individual option area 73 corresponding to the area of ​​the net where the foul ball hit may satisfy the bonus condition. Alternatively, appropriate individual option areas 73 may be installed above the field, and among these individual option areas 73, for example, the individual option area 73 including the home run trajectory 66 in the example of FIG. 6 (the individual option area 73 through which the ball image 65 passed) may satisfy the bonus condition. Furthermore, among the various trajectories of the ball, only the individual option area 73 (home runs and various fouls including infield seats) in the spectator area 71B that includes the trajectory may be provided as an option to satisfy the privilege condition.

[0059] The relationship between the batted ball and the awarding of a bonus may be set as appropriate, as described above. However, when an individual option area 73 is selected through the selection screen 70 shown in FIG. 5 , the individual option area 73 that includes the landing position of the batted ball, such as the home run trajectory 66, satisfies the bonus condition. The example shown in FIG. 7 illustrates the relationship between the batted ball and the awarding of a bonus corresponding to the selection result shown in FIG. 5 in such a case. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7 , the bonus condition is satisfied when the landing position of the batted ball is included in the individual option area 73 shown in FIG. 5 , in other words, when the landing position of the batted ball matches the selected individual option area 73. For example, when a home run similar to that shown in FIG. 6 is hit, the ball image 65 traces the home run trajectory 66, but the landing position of the ball image 65 (home run) is included in the individual option area (right-diagonal individual option area) 73 near the left side of the back screen BS. In this case, the individual option area 73 that includes this landing position does not match the individual selection area (polka-dotted individual selection area) 73 shown in FIG. 5 . In this case, the bonus condition is not satisfied. In this example, the individual option area 73 with diagonal lines to the right functions as a part of the area of ​​the present invention.

[0060] On the other hand, for example, if a foul ball is hit into the outfield seats and traces a trajectory 68 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a foul trajectory 68), the arrival position of the ball image 65 tracing the foul trajectory 68 is included in the individual selection area (dot-patterned individual selection area) 73 in the example of FIG. 5. In other words, the individual option area 73 including the arrival position of the foul trajectory 68 (foul ball) matches the individual selection area (dot-patterned individual selection area) 73 in the example of FIG. 5 (its entirety is included in the dot-patterned individual option area 73). In this case, the bonus condition is met. Furthermore, if two or more individual option areas 73 are selected in a selection opportunity, a similar determination (match / mismatch) is made for those individual option areas. In other words, if the two or more individual option areas 73 include the individual option area 73 corresponding to the arrival position, it is determined to be a match; if they do not, it is determined to be a mismatch. Furthermore, when the dot-patterned individual option area 73 is selected by multiple viewers in the selection opportunity, only one of the multiple viewers specified by appropriate conditions may satisfy the bonus conditions, but as an example, all viewers may satisfy the bonus conditions.

[0061] The benefit awarded when the benefit condition is satisfied may be the same when the individual option area 73 selected in the selection opportunity corresponds to the landing position of a home run ball and when it corresponds to the landing position of a foul ball, but as an example, they are different. Specifically, when the individual option area 73 selected in the selection opportunity corresponds to the landing position of a home run ball, a benefit of higher value is awarded than when it corresponds to the landing position of a foul ball. In other words, the benefit is awarded so that its value changes when the individual option area 73 selected in the selection opportunity corresponds to the landing position of a home run ball and when it corresponds to the landing position of a foul ball. In this case, the same compensation may be set for selecting the individual option area 73 corresponding to a foul ball and the individual option area 73 corresponding to a home run ball, but as an example, different compensation is set. In other words, different compensation is required depending on each individual option area 73 (in other words, the value of the benefit when the prediction is correct).

[0062] Furthermore, while the landing position of the batted ball is determined according to a predetermined rule as described above, the probability that the ball image 65 will reach the selected individual option area 73 during a selection opportunity may be constant or variable, and is set to be variable as an example. The probability may change as appropriate depending on various change conditions, such as the game play situation, the characteristics of the viewer (or player P), the viewer's actions, or randomness. For example, the probability may change depending on the play situation, such as a particular inning or a particular situation (e.g., a pinch or an opportunity). In this way, the probability may change as appropriate depending on various change conditions, and as an example, an item that affects the probability is prepared, and the probability changes with the use of the item. This item may be for either the viewer or the player P, and is used by the viewer as an example. In other words, the change condition is met when the viewer uses the item, and the probability that the ball image 65 will reach the selected individual option area 73 changes.

[0063] This change in probability may be achieved by a change to a predetermined rule, and is realized, for example, as a change in the arrival position. Specifically, this change in probability occurs on the game screen 50 (or may be only the game video) as wind that affects the arrival position of the ball image 65 (correcting deviations within a predetermined range). When an item is used, the arrival position is corrected as a result of the influence of the wind so that the ball image 65 reaches the individual option area 73 selected in the selection opportunity within the predetermined range. In other words, when the viewer uses the item, the probability that the ball image 65 will reach the individual option area 73 selected in the selection opportunity increases. The predetermined range may be set as appropriate, and is, for example, set to the range of a predetermined number of individual option areas 73 located before, after, or to the left and right of the arrival position. Such an item (whose effectiveness may be limited as appropriate, such as for one time only or for one inning only) may be granted to the viewer as appropriate, and is, for example, purchased in exchange for a predetermined price through an appropriate purchase screen. As an example, such a relationship is set between the hit ball and the benefit conditions. A game element of predicting the destination of a home run ball or a foul ball flying into the outfield seats is added to the viewing screen 60. The trajectory and destination of the batted ball may be determined as appropriate, and the item may have an appropriate effect depending on the various determination methods. For example, the trajectory and destination of the batted ball may be determined by physical calculations based on various conditions such as the initial speed and angle of the batted ball. In this case, the use of an item may affect various conditions such as wind, and the trajectory and destination of the batted ball may be determined based on various conditions after the item is used, for example.

[0064] The bonus condition may be limited to a position condition that is satisfied when the individual option area 73 selected during a selection opportunity includes the position of the ball image 65, or the bonus condition may be automatically satisfied when the position condition is satisfied. However, other conditions may also be included. Such conditions may include, for example, a count condition or a game condition. For example, the count condition is a condition that is satisfied when the number of times counted each time the position condition is satisfied exceeds a predetermined number (including both consecutive times and cumulatively over a predetermined period). In other words, when the bonus condition requires the count condition to be satisfied, the bonus condition is satisfied when the position condition is satisfied more than the predetermined number of times. On the other hand, the bonus condition is not satisfied when the number of times is less than the predetermined number. Specifically, for example, if the cumulative number of times is two, the bonus condition is not satisfied when the individual option area 73 selected during a selection opportunity matches the position of the ball image 65 up to two times (less than the predetermined number of times), but the bonus condition is satisfied when the number of times matches exceeds two (the predetermined number of times).

[0065] On the other hand, the game condition is a condition that is satisfied depending on the result of the mini-game. In other words, if the bonus condition includes the game condition, a mini-game is provided to the viewer, and whether or not the bonus condition is satisfied is determined depending on the result of the mini-game. Such a mini-game may be any suitable game, such as roulette, a card game, or a shooting game. One example is a home run catch game. The home run catch game is a game in which the viewer controls a catching character to catch a home run ball. This home run catch game is provided to viewers who satisfy a position condition when the position condition is satisfied. More specifically, the home run catch game is provided to viewers whose individual option area 73 selected during the selection opportunity matches the position of the ball image 65, and the bonus condition is satisfied when the catching character catches the home run ball in the home run catch game. In other words, whether or not the bonus condition is satisfied is determined depending on the result of the home run catch game.

[0066] If the reward conditions include a number of times condition or the like as a requirement, a reward may or may not be awarded when a location condition is met. For example, if a reward is awarded when a location condition is met (for example, the provision of the above-mentioned mini-game may be considered a reward), the value of the reward may change when a number of times condition or the like is also met. In other words, the value of the reward (including differences in the reward itself) may vary appropriately between when only the location condition is met and when additional conditions such as a number of times condition are met, including when no reward is awarded (the value of the reward is zero). In this way, if the reward conditions include a number of times condition or the like as a requirement, a reward may be awarded appropriately in combination with additional conditions such as a number of times condition. For example, if the location condition is met, no reward is awarded, and only when additional conditions such as a number of times condition are met. In other words, no reward is awarded when a location condition is met, and the reward differs depending on whether or not a reward is awarded between when only the location condition is met and when additional conditions such as a number of times condition are met.

[0067] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a game screen for a home run catch game. As shown in FIG. 8, a game screen 80 for the home run catch game (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a catch screen 80) is displayed on the monitor 46 of the user terminal device 4, and includes a catch field 81, a catching character 82, and a ball image 65. The catch field 81 is a field for catching the ball image 65. The catching character 82 is a character that moves in response to a viewer's operation. The catching character 82 is movable within the catch field 81. The ball image 65 is an image representing a batted ball (ball). The ball image 65 starts to be displayed appropriately on the catch screen 80, and falls into the catch field 81 so as to indicate the arrival position of the batted ball. The viewer is required to perform an operation to match the falling position (arrival position) with the position of the catching character 82.

[0068] The operation of the catching character 82 may be realized as appropriate, for example, through a touch operation (e.g., a touch operation on the catching character 82), or an operation unit for realizing such an operation (e.g., arrows indicating the left / right and up / down directions in the example of FIG. 8) may be displayed and the operation may be realized by a touch operation on the operation unit. In either case, a bonus is awarded when the falling position (arrival position) of the ball image 65 matches the position of the catching character 82, and no bonus is awarded when they do not match. As an example, the following home run catching game is provided. The bonus conditions may include not only position conditions but also various conditions (including combinations thereof) such as game conditions or the number of times conditions described above, as well as the position conditions.

[0069] Next, the details of the region data RD will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the region data RD. The example in FIG. 9 shows region data RD in the case where the fee required for selection differs depending on each individual option region 73. Furthermore, although the selection results in the selection opportunity may be managed by appropriate data separate from the region data RD, the example in FIG. 9 shows a case where they are managed by the region data RD. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the region data RD includes a region record RDR for defining each individual option region 73. Furthermore, to realize such a definition, the region record RDR includes information such as "region ID," "details," "fee," and "viewer ID."

[0070] The "area ID" is information indicating a unique area ID for each individual option area 73 to identify each individual option area 73. The "details" is information indicating details for defining (specifying) each individual option area 73. For example, the "details" describes detailed information (information defining each individual option area 73), such as coordinates (e.g., coordinates of the center position) and area (including the shape) on the selection screen 70. The "fee" is information indicating the amount of fee (charge amount) required to select each individual option area 73. The "viewer ID" is information indicating a unique viewer ID for each viewer (user) to identify each viewer. Each individual option area 73 (area ID) is associated with a viewer ID indicating the viewer who selected the individual option area 73. The viewer ID (e.g., managed separately and uniquely through ID management data, etc.) may be acquired as needed, but may be registered or entered when using a specific application to display the viewing screen 60. The area record RDR records these pieces of information in a manner that correlates them with each other. The region data RD is not limited to these pieces of information, and may manage appropriate information according to the requirements of the form of each individual option region 73 to be managed. Alternatively, some of this information may be omitted as appropriate.

[0071] Next, the area selection process, the bonus award process, and the probability change process will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12. The area selection process is a process for providing a selection opportunity. The example of Figure 10 shows the area selection process when the selection opportunity is provided through the selection screen 70 of the example of Figure 5. In the example of Figure 10, the process mainly executed by the control unit 41 (video control unit 43) of the user terminal device 4 is shown as the user terminal device 4, and the process mainly executed by the control unit 21 (Web service management unit 27) of the center server 2 is shown as the center server 2.

[0072] When a request to display the selection screen 70 is made (for example, when the ball prediction icon 62 is touched), the user terminal device 4 starts the area selection process of Fig. 10 and first requests area data RD from the center server 2 (step S101). When the user terminal device 4 requests area data RD, the center server 2 starts the area selection process of Fig. 10, acquires the request (step S201), and transmits the requested area data RD to the user terminal device 4 (step S202). Note that the area data RD may have been acquired from the center server 2 at an appropriate time in advance.

[0073] When the user terminal device 4 acquires the area data RD from the center server 2, it displays the selection screen 70 on the monitor 46 (step S102). That is, the user terminal device 4 provides a selection opportunity via the selection screen 70 (in other words, the center server 2 indirectly provides a selection opportunity via the user terminal device 4). If the range (shape) of each individual option area 73 changes in accordance with the viewer's characteristic information or the like, the user terminal device 4 (or the center server 2) provides the selection screen 70 so that the range of each individual option area 73 changes in accordance with such characteristic information or the like, but as an example, the selection screen 70 is provided so that each individual option area 73 is set uniformly as described above.

[0074] Next, the user terminal device 4 acquires the selection result on the selection screen 70 (step S103) and collects the fee corresponding to the selection result (step S104). Well-known processes may be applied as appropriate to collect the fee (billing). After collecting the fee, the user terminal device 4 transmits the selection result on the selection screen 70 to the center server 2 (step S105). However, if the collection of the fee cannot be completed in step S104 (billing has failed), the user terminal device 4 transmits information indicating failure of billing to the center server 2 as the selection result (or instead of the selection result). After this transmission, the user terminal device 4 terminates the current area selection process.

[0075] On the other hand, when a selection result is transmitted from the user terminal device 4, the center server 2 acquires the selection result (step S203). Subsequently, the center server 2 updates the area data RD to reflect the selection result (step S204). Specifically, the center server 2 updates the "viewer ID" information in the area data RD so that the viewer is associated with the individual option area 73 selected by the viewer in the selection opportunity (selection screen 70). After this update, the center server 2 terminates the current area selection process. As a result, the selection opportunity in the area selection service is realized by providing the selection screen 70. Note that if information indicating billing failure is transmitted from the user terminal device 4 as the selection result, the center server 2 may skip the process of step S204 and terminate the current area selection process.

[0076] The reward awarding process is a process for awarding a reward to a viewer based on the selection result during a selection opportunity. As described above, if a selection result during a selection opportunity satisfies the location condition, the viewer who selects that selection is granted the right to obtain a reward. However, the actual awarding of a reward may require additional conditions, such as a number of times condition. In other words, the reward conditions may include additional conditions, and fulfilling those additional conditions may be required for the awarding of a reward. The example of Figure 11 shows the reward awarding process when the reward conditions include a location condition and a game condition. Furthermore, as described above, the same reward may be awarded uniformly regardless of the individual option area 73 that satisfies the location condition. However, the example of Figure 11 shows the reward awarding process when different rewards are awarded depending on the individual option area 73 that satisfies the location condition.

[0077] In the above case, the Web service management unit 27 starts the bonus granting process of Fig. 11 each time a ball is hit (development event) occurs in the game of each game machine 3, and first determines a winning individual option area 73 (hereinafter may be referred to as winning area 73) based on the hit ball (step S301). The winning area 73 may be determined appropriately based on the trajectory of the ball, but as an example, the arrival position on the trajectory of the ball is used to determine the winning area 73, as described above. For this reason, the Web service management unit 27 determines the arrival position of the ball, and determines the individual option area 73 that includes the arrival position (strictly speaking, the expected arrival position, since this is determined based on a predetermined rule a predetermined time before the actual arrival, for example) as the winning area 73.

[0078] Next, the Web service management unit 27 determines whether or not the location condition is satisfied (step S302). The location condition is satisfied when the individual option area 73 selected by the viewer during the selection opportunity (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the selected area 73) matches the winning area 73, as described above. Therefore, the Web service management unit 27 determines whether or not the selected area 73 matches the winning area 73 (if there are multiple selected areas 73, whether or not they include a winning area). Then, if the selected area 73 does not match the winning area 73, that is, if the location condition is not satisfied, the Web service management unit 27 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current benefit granting process. In this case, no benefit is granted to the viewer.

[0079] On the other hand, if the selected area 73 and the hit area 73 match, that is, if the position condition is satisfied, the Web service management unit 27 provides a mini-game (step S303). Specifically, the Web service management unit 27 provides a home run catch game as a mini-game, for example, through the catch screen 80. The Web service management unit 27 may provide such a mini-game indirectly through the user terminal device 4. In other words, the Web service management unit 27 may provide the mini-game by instructing the user terminal device 4 to provide the mini-game.

[0080] Next, the Web service management unit 27 determines whether the game conditions are met based on the play status of the mini-game (for example, whether a predetermined number of times has been exceeded in the case of a count condition) (step S304). For example, in the case of a home run catch game, the game conditions are met when the position where the batted ball falls and the position of the catching character 82 match as described above (the range of match may be set to an appropriate range within which it can be assumed that the batted ball has been caught by the catching character 82). Therefore, in the case of a home run catch game, the Web service management unit 27 determines whether the position where the batted ball falls and the position of the catching character 82 match. If the position where the batted ball falls and the position of the catching character 82 do not match, that is, if the game conditions are not met, the Web service management unit 27 also skips the subsequent processing and ends the current bonus awarding process. In this case, no bonus is awarded to the viewer either.

[0081] On the other hand, if the landing position of the batted ball matches the position of the catching character 82, that is, if the game conditions are satisfied, the Web service management unit 27 determines the benefit to be given to the viewer (step S305). The benefit may change appropriately depending on various conditions, but as an example, it changes depending on the individual option area 73 corresponding to the hit area 73, as described above. Specifically, for example, if the benefit differs between a home run area (home run) and a foul area (foul), the benefit changes depending on the attribute of the hit area 73, such as whether the hit area 73 belongs to a home run area or a foul area. Therefore, in this case, the Web service management unit 27 determines whether the hit area 73 belongs to a home run area or a foul area, and determines the benefit to be given to the viewer to be the benefit according to the area to which the hit area 73 belongs (the attribute of the hit area 73).

[0082] Next, the Web service management unit 27 grants the benefit determined in step S305 to the viewer (step S306). The benefit may be granted appropriately depending on the content of the benefit to be granted. For example, the benefit may be an autographed ball, a spectator ticket (a viewing ticket if the game video is paid), various discount tickets, a ticket for cheering, or any other suitable electronic or physical benefit (in the case of a physical benefit, separate input of delivery address information is required). Therefore, the benefit may be granted appropriately depending on the characteristics of the benefit. For example, if an electronic benefit is granted, the benefit is granted by updating data for managing the ownership of the benefit. After such granting, the Web service management unit 27 terminates the current benefit granting process. As a result, the benefit is granted depending on the selection result at the selection opportunity. More specifically, if the selection result satisfies the location condition, a mini-game is provided, and the benefit is granted depending on the result of the mini-game. In other words, the benefit granting portion of the area selection service is realized.

[0083] The probability change process is a process for changing the probability that a position condition is satisfied. The probability that a position condition is satisfied may be changed as appropriate according to various change conditions. The example of FIG. 12 illustrates a probability change process in which the probability is increased by changing the ball's arrival position within a predetermined range when an item is used. This change in arrival position occurs, for example, when a predetermined item is used, as described above. However, such an item may be used at any appropriate timing. For example, the item may be used after the ball is hit (before it reaches the arrival position). However, the example of FIG. 12 illustrates a probability change process in which the item is used before the ball is hit (before the ball is hit). In this case, the Web service management unit 27 starts the probability change process of FIG. 12 each time the ball is hit while the item's effect remains after its use, and first determines the arrival position of the ball (step S401). The arrival position is determined based on a predetermined rule a predetermined time before the actual arrival, similar to the determination of the winning area 73 in the bonus awarding process (or information on the expected arrival position, calculated in a similar manner, may be obtained from the game machine 3).

[0084] Next, the Web service management unit 27 changes the arrival position determined in step S401 (step S402). Specifically, the Web service management unit 27 changes the planned arrival position so that it approaches the selected area 73 by a predetermined range (corresponding to a predetermined number of individual option areas 73). In other words, the Web service management unit 27 causes a shift in the planned arrival position as an item effect so that it approaches the selected area 73. Furthermore, if the selected area 73 is included in the predetermined range, the Web service management unit 27 changes the arrival position to the selected area 73. As a result, the Web service management unit 27 changes the probability that the position condition will be satisfied through such a change in the arrival position. Furthermore, this change may be realized directly by the Web service management unit 27 by controlling the game screen 50 of the game machine 3, but is also realized, for example, by the game machine 3 issuing an instruction to execute this change. In other words, the Web service management unit 27 realizes this change indirectly. Furthermore, this change may be accompanied by an appropriate effect for changing the arrival position, such as a wind effect. After this change, the Web service management unit 27 ends this probability change process.

[0085] 12, the landing position of the ball is changed within a predetermined range. Therefore, the position condition is satisfied not only when the hit area 73 corresponds to the selected area 73, but also when it is included in the predetermined range. In other words, the application range of the position condition is expanded to a predetermined range based on the selected area 73. As a result, the probability that the position condition will be satisfied increases compared to when the application range of the position condition is limited to the selected area 73.

[0086] As described above, according to this embodiment, when a home run or foul ball (hit ball) occurs, a hit area 73 corresponding to the location where the hit ball will land is determined according to a predetermined rule so as to be associated with one of a plurality of individual option areas 73 set in the outfield seats of a baseball game. If the hit area 73 matches the area 73 selected in the selection opportunity, a home run catch game is presented, and if the ball is caught in the home run catch game, a bonus is awarded to the viewer. Therefore, through these hit areas 73 and the awarding of bonuses based thereon, a game element of predicting the location where the hit ball will land can be added to the selection in the selection opportunity. This can increase the interest of the selection in the selection opportunity. Furthermore, if the prediction is correct, a home run catch game is presented, and a bonus is awarded depending on the play situation, thereby increasing the viewer's profits through the home run catch game or bonus. These factors can encourage selection in the selection opportunity.

[0087] Furthermore, the probability of a home run occurring during a game is generally lower than that of a foul (the opposite is true from the perspective of the impact on the outcome of the match), but if the value of the benefit changes between when the hit area 73 is a home run area and when it is a foul area, that is, if the value of the benefit changes depending on the attribute of the hit area 73, such a possibility can be reflected in the value of the benefit. This makes it possible to relatively ensure fairness compared to when such a difference in possibility is not reflected and a uniform benefit is awarded.

[0088] On the other hand, when the selection of multiple individual option areas 73 at a selection opportunity is permitted depending on the amount charged, the amount charged can be reflected in the probability that the location condition is satisfied. Therefore, just as in the case where the range of each individual option area 73 changes depending on the amount charged, viewers who pay a large amount (specific viewers) can be given preferential treatment.

[0089] Furthermore, if the reward condition includes additional conditions in addition to the position condition, the entertainment value of the game element added to the selection opportunity can be increased. For example, if the game condition described above is used as the additional condition, when the position condition is met, an appropriate mini-game, such as a home run catch game, is provided, and a reward is awarded depending on the game result of the mini-game. As a result, the entertainment value of playing such a mini-game can be added to the game element added to the selection opportunity. This can increase the entertainment value of the game element added to the selection opportunity.

[0090] Furthermore, the selection opportunity is provided via the user terminal device 4 as part of the area selection service. As a result, the above-mentioned selection opportunity can be provided to viewers watching the game video. This can increase the entertainment value of watching the game video, thereby further promoting such viewing. Furthermore, if items that affect the landing position of the batted ball are provided for such viewers, viewers can become involved in the game play situation through the use of such items. As a result, for example, a batted ball that would not normally be a home run may become a home run, allowing viewers to influence (interfere with) the outcome of the game. In this case, too, the entertainment value of the game element added to the selection opportunity can be increased.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the Web service management unit 27 of the center server 2 functions as the area determination means, the award means, the condition determination means, and the mini-game providing means of the present invention by executing the award granting process of Fig. 11. Specifically, the Web service management unit 27 functions as the area determination means by executing the process of step S301 of Fig. 11, as the award granting means by executing the process of step S306 of Fig. 11, as the condition determination means by executing the process of step S304 of Fig. 11, and as the mini-game providing means by executing the process of step S303 of Fig. 11. Furthermore, the Web service management unit 27 of the center server 2 functions as the opportunity providing means of the present invention by indirectly providing the selection screen 70 via the user terminal device 4 through the process of step S202 of Fig. 10. Furthermore, the Web service management unit 27 of the center server 2 functions as the probability changing means of the present invention by executing the process of step S402 of Fig. 12.

[0092] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be embodied in an appropriate modified or altered form. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the selection opportunity is provided to the viewer of the game video via the user terminal device 4. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the above-described selection opportunity may be provided to the player P playing the game via the game machine 3.

[0093] In the above-described embodiment, the selection screen 70 shown in FIG. 5 is an example. In other words, through the selection screen 70 shown in FIG. 5, option areas 72 are set in a stadium image 71 obtained by photographing the stadium from above in a planar manner. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The option areas 72 (each individual option area 73) may be set in an appropriate area included in the stadium image 71 (which may be an appropriate part or all of the game screen 50, and may include, for example, the outside of the stadium image 71, i.e., the outside of the arena). For example, as described above, the option area 72 may be set above the ground area 71A. In this case, the selection screen 70 may be configured to select each individual option area 73 set above the ground area 71A.

[0094] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the selection screen 70 for selecting each individual option area 73 set above the field area 71A, i.e., a selection screen 70S according to a modified example. Specifically, the example of FIG. 13 schematically illustrates the selection screen 70S showing the area above the field area 71A in a cross section taken along line XIII-XIII in the example of FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 13, in the selection screen 70S according to the modified example, option areas 72 are set above the field area 71A and the spectator area 71B, and each option area 73 included therein is selected. For ease of explanation, the example of FIG. 13 also illustrates a ball image 65 and a home run trajectory 66. In this case, as an example, each individual option area 73 including the ball image 65 and the home run trajectory 66 (each individual option area 73 indicated by diagonal lines on the right in the example of FIG. 13) satisfies the bonus condition.

[0095] The selection screen 70S according to the modified example may be configured to correspond to an appropriate range of the sky. For example, the selection screen 70S according to the modified example may be configured to set option areas 72 at predetermined angles centered on a predetermined position such as home base. The appropriate range is not limited to predetermined angles. For example, if the sky above the ground area 71A and the spectator area 71B is divided into a grid of individual option areas 73 each having a cubic or rectangular parallelepiped shape, the option screen 70S may be configured to select each individual option area 73 for each of various units of such a grid. In other words, the sky above the ground area 71A and the spectator area 71B (or either one of them) may be divided into individual option areas 73 having various three-dimensional shapes, and the option screen 70S may be configured to select each of such individual option areas 73 within an appropriate range. Specifically, for example, the option screen 70S may be set up to correspond to a fixed range, such as the range corresponding to line XIII-XIII in the example of Figure 5, and the selection results there may be applied to similar heights in the entire range, such as the entire angle centered on a predetermined position such as home base (which may also be a partial angle within the fairway, etc.).

[0096] Similarly, all or part of the role (various processes, etc.) of the center server 2 in the above-described embodiment may be appropriately performed by other systems (or devices), such as the local system, the game machine 3, or the user terminal device 4. In other words, the game system of the present invention may include various other systems as appropriate. On the other hand, only the center server 2 may function as the game system of the present invention, or only other appropriate systems, such as the local system, the game machine 3, or the user terminal device 4, may function as the game system of the present invention.

[0097] Various aspects of the present invention derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described below. In the following description, corresponding components shown in the accompanying drawings will be written in parentheses to facilitate understanding of each aspect of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated forms.

[0098] The game system of the present invention is a game system (1) that provides a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options (73) corresponding to a plurality of areas (73) included in a game screen (50) of a game played through the game screen (50) displayed on a display device (36), and is equipped with: area determination means (27) that, when an event occurs in the game according to a predetermined rule so as to be associated with a portion of the plurality of areas (the individual option area 73 with diagonal lines to the right in the example of Figure 7), determines the portion of the area associated with the event; and benefit granting means that grants a benefit to the user when the portion of the area is included in a corresponding area (the individual option area 73 with a dotted pattern in the example of Figure 5) that corresponds to at least one of the options selected in the selection opportunity.

[0099] According to the present invention, when an event occurs according to a predetermined rule so as to be associated with a portion of a plurality of regions, the portion of the region associated with the event is determined, and a reward is awarded if the portion of the region is included in the corresponding region. Therefore, by determining the portion of the region and awarding a reward based on the determination, a game element can be added to the selection in the selection opportunity, in that the selection can be made by predicting the portion of the region associated with the event. This can increase the interest of the selection in the selection opportunity. Furthermore, if the portion of the region is included in the corresponding region, in other words, if the prediction is correct, a reward is awarded, and the benefit of the user (the person making the selection in the selection opportunity) can also be increased through the reward. These factors can encourage selection in the selection opportunity.

[0100] The term "included" in "when the partial area is included in a corresponding area that is an area corresponding to the at least one option selected in the selection opportunity" includes both cases where the corresponding area includes a further part of the partial area and cases where the corresponding area includes all of the partial area. Furthermore, when the corresponding area includes all of the partial area, it not only includes cases where the corresponding area is larger than the partial area (for example, when the partial area is one and the corresponding area is two or more areas that include that one area), but also cases where the partial area and the corresponding area match (for example, when both are one area and they match).

[0101] Various games may be provided as games, as long as events occur in a manner associated with a partial area of ​​the game screen. For example, various games, such as action games, shooting games, simulation games, role-playing games, or sports games, may be provided as games in a game system. Appropriate events may occur in a manner associated with a partial area depending on the game. For example, if an action game is configured as a fighting game, a knockout in the fighting game and the location of the knockout, or a specific move such as a special move and the location where the specific move was performed, may function as an event and a partial area, respectively. Similarly, if a sports game is configured as a ball game such as tennis, a ball that flies out of the court and the location where the ball is hit, or a serve and the location where the serve was made, and the trajectory of the specific ball, may function as an event and a partial area, respectively. The same applies to other games. Therefore, for example, in one aspect of the game system of the present invention, when a baseball game including a pitcher (64) throwing a ball (65) and a batter (63) hitting the ball thrown by the pitcher as a batted ball is provided as the game through the game screen, the area determination means may determine, as the partial area, an area including a trajectory (66) drawn by the batted ball on the game screen so that the batted ball occurring in the baseball game functions as the event.

[0102] The multiple regions may be set appropriately on the game screen. For example, when a hit ball functions as an event in a baseball game, the game screen often includes, for example, a baseball field and spectator stands for watching the baseball game. The multiple regions may be set to an appropriate range, such as both the field and the spectator stands, or either one of them. Furthermore, when the game screen is displayed to create a virtual three-dimensional space, the multiple regions may be set at appropriate locations in such virtual three-dimensional space. Similarly, an appropriate region including the trajectory of the batted ball may function as a partial region. For example, not only the position where the batted ball reaches the trajectory of the batted ball, but also appropriate regions that the batted ball passes through on the way to that position may function as a partial region. Thus, for example, when a hit ball is a fly ball, the multiple regions may be set in the air (space) above the field along the trajectory of the fly ball.

[0103] Specifically, for example, in an aspect of the present invention in which a baseball game is provided, when the game screen includes a ground area (71A) where the batter and the pitcher play baseball and a spectator area (71B) set as spectator stands for watching the baseball game, the area determination means may determine the spectator area including the trajectory as the part of the area. Also, in this aspect, when the arrival position of the batted ball is the spectator area, the area determination means may determine an area of ​​the spectator area including the arrival position as the part of the area.

[0104] Furthermore, various types of benefits may be appropriately used as benefits when a portion of an area is included in a corresponding area. For example, the benefit may be a physical object, an electronic object, or an intangible object such as various rights. Such benefits may be uniform regardless of the portion of an area, the user, or the playing situation, or may vary depending on the portion of an area, the user, or the playing situation. For example, a user who frequently uses selection opportunities may be granted a benefit of higher value than a user who does not frequently use selection opportunities. Alternatively, a benefit of higher value than usual may be granted when an event occurs in a specific inning or situation (such as a pinch or a chance). Furthermore, the value of a benefit may vary depending on the attribute of the portion of an area. Specifically, for example, in a mode in which a baseball game is provided, when a home run area corresponding to a home run in baseball and a foul area corresponding to a foul are included in the spectator area, the benefit granting means may grant the user the benefit such that the value of the benefit changes between when the portion of an area corresponds to the home run area and when the portion of an area corresponds to the foul area. The probability of a home run occurring during a game is lower than that of a foul (in terms of the impact on the outcome of the game), but in this case, such a probability can be reflected in the value of the bonus, which can relatively ensure fairness.

[0105] Furthermore, the above-described benefit may be granted unconditionally when a portion of the area is included in the corresponding area, or may be granted when additional conditions are met. If additional conditions are required, various conditions may be appropriately adopted as such conditions. For example, such conditions may be a condition that is satisfied when a portion of the area is included in the corresponding area a predetermined number of times (including both consecutive and cumulative occurrences), a condition that utilizes the game play status, etc. Furthermore, a benefit may be granted only when the additional conditions are satisfied, or a benefit may be granted when a portion of the area is included in the corresponding area, and a benefit of a higher value than the benefit may be granted when the additional conditions are satisfied. In other words, benefit conditions that appropriately include these conditions as requirements are used as conditions for granting a benefit, and the value of the benefit may vary appropriately between when the benefit conditions are satisfied and when they are not satisfied, including when the benefit is not granted.

[0106] Specifically, for example, one aspect of the game system of the present invention may include a condition determining means (27) that determines whether the user satisfies a benefit condition when the partial area is included in the corresponding area, and the benefit granting means changes the benefit between when the benefit condition is satisfied and when the benefit condition is not satisfied. In this aspect, the condition determining means may determine whether the benefit condition is satisfied when the number of times counted each time the partial area is included in the corresponding area exceeds a predetermined number, or whether the benefit condition is not satisfied when the number of times is equal to or less than the predetermined number. The benefit granting means may grant the benefit only when the benefit condition is satisfied, thereby changing the benefit so that the benefit differs depending on whether the benefit condition is satisfied and when the benefit condition is not satisfied. Alternatively, as an aspect utilizing the benefit condition, the game system may include a mini-game providing means (27) that provides the user with a mini-game when the partial area is included in the corresponding area, and the condition determining means may determine whether the benefit condition is satisfied depending on the result of the mini-game. In these cases, the interest of the gameplay added to the selection opportunities can be enhanced.

[0107] The range of each of the multiple areas may be set as appropriate. For example, the range of each area may be uniform (fixed) regardless of the game play situation, user characteristics, etc., or may change (variable) depending on the play situation, etc. For example, the form, such as the shape or size, of each area may change during a specific period or in a specific play situation (such as a pinch or chance), resulting in a change in the range. Similarly, the range of each area may change depending on user characteristics, such as various attributes such as gender and age, or various achievements such as game play history and viewing history. Specifically, for example, one aspect of the game system of the present invention may include opportunity providing means (27) that provides the user with the selection opportunity so that the range of the area corresponding to each option changes depending on characteristic information related to the user's characteristics. In this case, the range of each area can be changed depending on the user's characteristics. Generally, the wider the range of an area, the higher the probability that an event will occur there. Therefore, for example, by making the range of each area wider than usual for a user who frequently uses selection opportunities, that user can be given preferential treatment. In other words, by changing the range of each area, it is possible to give preferential or disfavored treatment to a user. As a result, such preferential treatment can encourage the use of choice opportunities.

[0108] Furthermore, while game events occur according to predetermined rules, the probability of the event occurring so that a portion of the area falls within the corresponding area may be fixed or variable. For example, the probability may change depending on various change conditions, such as the play situation, the characteristics of the user (or game player), the user's actions, or randomness. For example, the use of a predetermined item may be employed as a user action. That is, an item may be provided that affects the probability of the event occurring so that a portion of the area falls within the corresponding area, and when the item is used, a change condition may be satisfied, changing the probability. This change may occur according to predetermined rules to affect the probability, or may occur in the area after the area in which the event will occur is identified according to the predetermined rules. For example, one aspect of the game system of the present invention may include probability change means (27) that changes the probability of the event occurring so that the portion of the area falls within the corresponding area when the user satisfies the change condition. This may enhance the interest of the gameplay by adding selection opportunities.

[0109] The selection opportunity may be provided to a user (player) playing the game, or, for example, when game play status is broadcast, to a user (viewer) watching the broadcast. Specifically, for example, in one aspect of the game system of the present invention, when game video recording the game screen is broadcast to a user terminal device (4) connected via a network (NT), the selection opportunity may be provided to a viewer watching the game video via the user terminal device, and the viewer may function as the user. In this case, the above-described selection opportunity can be provided to the viewer watching the game video. This can increase the interest in watching the game video, thereby further promoting viewing. Note that in this case, the game system does not necessarily provide the game.

[0110] On the other hand, the computer program of the present invention is configured to cause a computer (21) connected to the display device to function as each means of the above-mentioned game system.

[0111] Furthermore, a control method of the present invention causes a computer (21) incorporated in a game system (1) that provides a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of a plurality of options (73) corresponding to a plurality of areas (73) included in a game screen (50) of a game played through the game screen (50) displayed on a display device (36), to execute the following steps: an area determination step for determining, when an event occurs in the game according to a predetermined rule so as to be associated with a portion of the plurality of areas (the individual option area 73 with diagonal right-hand lines in the example of FIG. 7), the portion of the area associated with the event; and a bonus granting step for granting a bonus to the user when the portion of the area is included in a corresponding area (the individual option area 73 with a dotted pattern in the example of FIG. 5) that corresponds to at least one of the options selected in the selection opportunity. Execution of these computer programs or control methods enables the game system of the present invention to be realized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Game System 2. Central server 4. User terminal equipment 21 Control unit (computer) 27 Web service management unit (area determination means, bonus granting means, condition determination means, mini-game provision means, opportunity provision means, probability change means) 50 Game Screens 63 Batter character (batter) 64 Pitcher Character (Pitcher) 65 ball images (balls, shots) 73 Individual Choice Area (Area, Choice) 71A Ground Area 71B Spectator area NT Network PG1 Server program (computer program)

Claims

1. a game screen display means for displaying a game screen of a baseball game including a batter hitting a ball thrown by a pitcher in a game field; an area setting means for setting a plurality of areas within a range that the ball can reach in the game field; providing means for providing a user with a selection opportunity to select at least one of the plurality of areas; a reward granting means for granting a reward to the user when the area selected in the selection opportunity includes the landing position of the ball; Equipped with the game screen includes an offensive game screen that takes a picture of the game field so that the back view of the batter is displayed; the game screen display means displays, at the selection opportunity, a selection screen which is a screen of the game field photographed under photographing conditions different from those of the offense side game screen or a screen simulating the photographed screen; Game system.

2. A spectator screen display means for displaying a spectator screen that is a screen in which the game field is photographed from a viewpoint corresponding to the area selected in the selection opportunity. The game system according to claim 1 , comprising:

Images