Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide a technique for increasing fun in a virtual space.SOLUTION: Information that the owner of a first item, or a first related item generated based on the first item is a first user is recorded, the first item or the first related item is transferred among users, owner information is recorded and access to item information is permitted when a second item or a second related item is transferred, a first character is controlled so as to travel in a virtual space according to the first user's operation, information corresponding to at least the first character and information corresponding to a virtual object are related and first processing is executed on the basis of satisfaction of a positional condition between the first character and the virtual object, and the first processing is executed regardless of whether the positional condition is satisfied on the basis of the first user information or the item information, or second processing for executing the first processing is executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing method, an information processing system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are known technologies that use various distributed ledger technologies, such as blockchain, to generate an "appraisal" for an in-game item, thereby guaranteeing the legitimacy of the item (that there is no fraud in its acquisition or transaction). Patent Document 1 discloses that a predetermined game process is executed, such as strengthening the effect of an item, when there are many entities holding the item. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-029608 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Meanwhile, in an information processing system that allows users to use items in a virtual space, methods are being sought to increase the strategic nature of item transactions.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure provides a technology for improving the interest in virtual spaces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing method. The information processing method includes the following steps: a first recording step, recording information in a distributed ledger that a first user owns a first item or a first related item generated based on the first item; the first item or the first related item is used in a virtual space in response to an operation by the first user, and is transferred between users including the first user in an exchange different from the virtual space; a second recording step, when a second item or a second related item is transferred to the first user in the exchange, recording information in the distributed ledger that the first user owns the second item or the second related item; an access control step, when information that the first user owns the second item or the second related item is received from the distributed ledger, performing control to permit access to first user information associated with the first user or item information associated with the second item or the second related item; and a character control step, performing control to move a first character associated with the first user in the virtual space in response to an operation by the first user. In the execution step, when a positional condition regarding a positional relationship between the first character and the virtual object is satisfied, a first process is executed by associating at least information corresponding to the first character with information corresponding to the virtual object. Based on the first user information or the item information, the first process is executed or a second process for causing the first process to be executed is executed regardless of whether the positional condition is satisfied.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to increase the interest in virtual spaces. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an information processing device 2 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3]2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a game device 3 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is an activity diagram showing an example of the flow of information processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is an activity diagram showing an example of the flow of information processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing an example of a field display screen 8. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing an example of a field display screen 8. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing an example of a field display screen 8. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a visited destination management table T1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an item management table T2. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an owner management table T3. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing a modified example of the field display screen 8. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an encountered user management table T4. [Figure 14] 10 is an activity diagram showing a modified example of the flow of information processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0010] Incidentally, the program for realizing the software appearing in this embodiment may be provided as a non-transitory computer-readable medium, or may be provided so that it can be downloaded from an external server, or may be provided so that the program is started on an external computer and its functions are realized on a client terminal (so-called cloud computing).

[0011] In this embodiment, the term "unit" may also include, for example, a combination of hardware resources implemented by a circuit in the broad sense and software information processing that can be specifically realized by these hardware resources. In addition, this embodiment handles various types of information, which may be represented by, for example, physical values ​​of signal values ​​representing voltages and currents, high and low signal values ​​as a binary bit set consisting of 0 or 1, or quantum superposition (so-called quantum bits), and communication and calculations may be performed on a circuit in the broad sense.

[0012] In addition, a circuit in the broad sense is a circuit realized by at least appropriately combining a circuit, circuitry, a processor, a memory, etc. That is, it includes an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), etc.

[0013] 1. Game Description 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1, an information processing device 2 and a plurality of game devices 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the game devices 3.

[0014] The game according to this embodiment is an online game executed by the information processing system 1. In this game, a user of the game device 3 controls one or more player characters to act in a virtual game space, and controls the player characters to fight against enemy characters, which are non-player characters. The characters are an example of objects.

[0015] The above-described games are played using a game device 3, which is a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), a virtual reality (VR) game console such as Oculus VR (registered trademark) equipped with a VR (Virtual Reality) headset, or an electronic device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal.

[0016] 2. Overview of Information Processing System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 is composed of an information processing device 2, multiple game devices 3, a display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c connected to the game device 3, a blockchain system 6 including multiple node devices 5, and a transaction processing device 7. The information processing device 2 stores game programs and game data, and manages the game data of the game device 3 (for each account information described below). Furthermore, by connecting to a P2P (Peer to Peer) network, the information processing device 2 and the game device 3 can participate in a network that shares a blockchain, which is a type of distributed ledger. Furthermore, the information processing device 2 manages electronic data associated with NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens).

[0017] An NFT is a non-fungible digital token (also called a "non-fungible token") issued on a blockchain. The information processing device 2 issues an NFT associated with, for example, electronic data or a real-world product or service, and records the NFT on the blockchain. NFTs are traded among multiple users on an exchange (also called a marketplace) managed by a transaction processing device 7. The transaction processing device 7 executes an NFT transfer process via a communication network 11, and records information about the owner of the NFT (or, from another perspective, the owner of the electronic data linked to the NFT) on the blockchain.

[0018] The information processing device 2 is configured, for example, by a server. Each of the multiple game devices 3 has the same configuration. In this embodiment, a system is made up of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, even an information processing device 2 or a game device 3, which will be described later, can be an example of the information processing system 1.

[0019] The game device 3 executes a predetermined game based on user operations. To do so, the game device 3 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the information processing device 2 via the communication network 11. Each user is assigned account information, including identification information and a password, in association with the game device 3. This account information is transmitted from the game device 3 to the information processing device 2 at the time of login, and is used for user authentication on the information processing device 2.

[0020] After user authentication, mutual communication becomes possible between the information processing device 2 and the game device 3. After logging in, the game device 3 receives data necessary for game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the information processing device 2, and then progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and speaker 4b based on user operations.

[0021] The game device 3 is also capable of executing NFT transactions. The game device 3 executes transactions of digital assets (e.g., NFTs, virtual currency, etc.) stored in a user's wallet via the communication network 11. Specifically, for example, a user can operate the game device 3 to purchase an NFT put up for sale by another user by paying with virtual currency. By associating the account information managed by the information processing device 2 with the wallet, the user can use the digital asset in a game or virtual space.

[0022] A plurality of node devices 5 are connected to each other via a P2P network to form a blockchain system 6. Generally, a P2P network is included as part of a communication network 11. The blockchain system 6 divides transaction data indicating the history of past processing into blocks of a certain capacity, and generates a blockchain by arranging and connecting these blocks in order. The blockchain system 6 assigns each block a hash value of the previous block, and distributes and stores the generated blockchain among the plurality of node devices 5. In this way, the blockchain system 6 improves the tamper-resistance of the blockchain. The P2P network to which these multiple blockchain systems 6 are connected is a network that shares a blockchain.

[0023] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0024] <Information processing device 2> 1, the information processing device 2 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The communication unit 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a communication bus 20.

[0025] The communication unit 21 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to each game device 3 via a communication network 11 such as the Internet or a LAN. Main information received by the information processing device 2 via the communication unit 21 includes game program download request information, a gacha lottery request in response to a user operation, a quest execution request, an autoplay execution / end request, account information, game data, etc. Main information transmitted by the information processing device 2 via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the game device 3 has received the game program, information related to game media obtained through gacha, etc.

[0026] The storage unit 22 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs including a part of the game program according to this embodiment, various data related to the game, etc.

[0027] Specifically, for example, the storage unit 22 stores a user DB, a lottery list, and the like. The user DB stores, for each identification number of a user playing a game, information such as the user name, user rank, status information regarding the player character operated by the user, the amount of consumable media usable in the virtual game space, information regarding parameters, and the like, in association with each other. The lottery list is used for a lottery process commonly known as gacha, and includes multiple pieces of information regarding game media to be selected. The lottery list associates information regarding game media (such as name, ability parameters, rarity, and level) with the selection rate in the lottery. Furthermore, when the game media is a player character, the ability parameters include, for example, combat power, HP, attack power, defense power, intelligence, or speed.

[0028] The control unit 23 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the information processing device 2, which is its own device. In particular, the control unit 23 realizes various functions related to the information processing device 2, which is its own device, by reading out predetermined programs stored in the storage unit 22. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and it may be implemented with multiple control units 23 for each function. It may also be a combination of these.

[0029] Examples of information processing executed by the control unit 23 include a charge settlement process, a user account authentication process, and a gacha lottery selection process. The charge settlement process is executed, for example, based on a request for a charge required to restore a predetermined amount of in-game parameters. The user account authentication process is executed, for example, using user identification information received from the game device 3. The gacha lottery selection process is a process in which, in response to a gacha lottery request, one or more game media are selected by lottery from a lottery list based on the selection probability for each game medium. According to the gacha lottery selection process, information about the selected game media and the identification information of the user who performed the operation that sent the lottery request are associated in the user DB, and the user is thereby awarded the game media that they won as a result of their own gacha draw.

[0030] Here, we will further supplement the above. "Game media" refers to electronic data representing elements related to a game. Game media includes electronic data associated with NFTs. For example, electronic data is content in the form of digital data. Specifically, electronic data includes information associated with a user and used in the virtual space, such as in-game items (such as a player's avatar or character, weapons, armor, accessories, consumables, tools, or pets), land in the virtual space, data associated with products existing in the real world, and in-game music (such as background music and sound effects). Electronic data also includes information associated with a user and associated with other in-game items and used in the virtual space, such as character skins (such as items that change a character's appearance or costume), in-game artwork (such as still images, videos, or 3D data), warranty certificates, and appraisal certificates. Electronic data also includes various information associated with a user and used in the virtual space and in the game, such as in-game currency, event-exclusive content (such as tickets that grant participation in events), and titles (such as awards that reflect in-game achievements, distinctive user names, etc.). The electronic data is used by the user both in and out of the virtual space, or in and out of the game.

[0031] Users can use items in games or virtual spaces. As an example, items activate effects related to game progress, character status, etc. Users can transfer items they own or acquire items owned by other users by trading items in exchanges outside the game or virtual space. Items include items associated with NFTs. As an example, items include items that can be used in games or virtual spaces (referred to as in-virtual space items) and items that can only be used in transactions with other users in exchanges outside the game or virtual space (referred to as trade-only items). In-virtual space items and trade-only items are associated one-to-one and can be converted into each other.

[0032] Game media are granted to users through game progression (e.g., completing quests, progressing through the story, participating in events, login bonuses, etc.), purchases at shops inside or outside the virtual space, a lottery system known as gacha, and other methods. Acquired game media are stored and managed in association with the identification information of the user who has come to own the game media. Furthermore, "gacha" is a method in which an information processing device 2 randomly selects game media from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection rate. The selected game media is granted to the user's game device 3. "Granting game media selected through gacha to a user / ownership by the user" is synonymous with "associating / being associated with the game media selected through the lottery process with identification information identifying the user."

[0033] <Game Device 3> The game apparatus 3 has a display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c either externally connected or built-in. The game apparatus 3 also has a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, a graphics processing unit 34a, an audio processing unit 34b, and an operation unit 34c. The communication unit 31, the storage unit 32, the graphics processing unit 34a, the audio processing unit 34b, and the operation unit 34c are electrically connected to the control unit 33 via a communication bus 30. For example, in the case of a headset-type game apparatus 3, the display 4a and the speaker 4b are included in the game apparatus 3. Specifically, for example, the speaker 4b may be headphones or earphones. Furthermore, a headset-type game apparatus 3 further including an input device 4c may be configured to accept input via eye movement.

[0034] The communication unit 31 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to the communication network 11 in order to transmit and receive various data between the game device 3 and the information processing device 2. Main information that the game device 3 receives via the communication unit 31 includes account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, a quest execution request, etc. Main information that the game device 3 transmits via the communication unit 31 includes new game data sent from the information processing device 2 in response to the download request information, information on the game media selected by lottery processing, etc.

[0035] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, an SSD, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. The storage unit 32 stores game data downloaded from the information processing device 2, various programs including a part of the game program, account information of the game device 3 itself, user information, and the like. The user information is at least a part of the information in a user DB stored in the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2. The user DB manages a master of the user information, and the storage unit 32 of the game device 3 stores at least a part of the information in this master that is distributed from the information processing device 2.

[0036] The control unit 33 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the game device 3 itself. In particular, the control unit 33 realizes various functions related to the game device 3 itself by reading out predetermined programs stored in the storage unit 32. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 32 is specifically realized by the control unit 33, which is an example of hardware, and each of the functional units described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 33 is not limited to being a single unit, and multiple control units 33 may be provided for each function. A combination of these may also be used.

[0037] In particular, the control unit 33 is configured to execute a game in accordance with the operation of the input device 4c by the user of the game apparatus 3, which is the own apparatus. Specifically, the control unit 33 reads data such as virtual game space objects and textures included in the game data from the storage unit 32, or generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information using data received from the information processing device 2. The game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 34a, and the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 4a. In other words, the control unit 33 is configured to perform display control of the display 4a and audio output control of the speaker 4b in accordance with the operation of the user of the game apparatus 3, which is the own apparatus, when executing a game.

[0038] The graphics processing unit 34a renders game images, including characters and various objects related to the virtual game space, in video or VR format in accordance with game image information output from the control unit 33. The graphics processing unit 34a is connected to a display 4a, such as an LCD display, and the rendered game images in video or VR format are displayed on the display 4a as a game screen or a field of view corresponding to the user. The audio processing unit 34b is connected to a speaker 4b and plays and synthesizes game sounds in accordance with instructions from the control unit 33, and outputs the sounds from the speaker 4b. The operation unit 34c is connected to an input device 4c and exchanges data related to operation inputs with the input device 4c. The user inputs operation signals to the game apparatus 3 by operating the input device 4c. The input device 4c is a collective term for a touch panel integrated with the display 4a, an external game pad, a mouse or keyboard, a microphone for inputting audio, an imaging device for tracking facial expressions or physical movements, a motion capture device for tracking physical movements, etc.

[0039] <Node device 5> The node device 5 includes a communication bus 50, a communication unit 51, a storage unit 52, and a control unit 53. The communication bus 50 electrically connects the units included in the node device 5 together.

[0040] The communication unit 51 is configured to be able to transmit various electrical signals from the node device 5 to external components. The communication unit 51 is also configured to be able to receive various electrical signals from the external components to the node device 5. More preferably, the communication unit 51 has a network communication function, which may enable communication of various information between the node device 5 and external devices via the communication network 11.

[0041] The storage unit 52 is configured with an HDD, an SSD, a RAM, a ROM, etc. The storage unit 52 stores various programs and variables related to the information processing system 1 executed by the control unit 53.

[0042] The control unit 53 realizes various functions related to the node device 5, which is its own device, by reading out predetermined programs stored in the storage unit 52. In other words, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 52 is specifically realized by the control unit 53, which is an example of hardware, and each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 53 is not limited to being a single unit, and multiple control units 53 may be provided for each function. A combination of these may also be used.

[0043] <Transaction processing device 7> Transaction processing device 7 has a configuration similar to that of information processing device 2. For example, transaction processing device 7 has a communication unit, a memory unit, and a control unit (not shown), and a communication bus (not shown) electrically connects each unit. The description of each unit is omitted because it is similar to that of information processing device 2.

[0044] 2.2 Functional Configuration <Information processing device 2> Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 2 of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0045] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the control unit 23 (processor) executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22, thereby functioning as a recording unit 230, an execution unit 231, a management unit 232, a reception unit 233, a notification unit 234, an access control unit 235, a character control unit 236, an item control unit 237, and a display control unit 238. In other words, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 23.

[0046] As a recording step, the recording unit 230 is configured to record various data in a distributed ledger based on blockchain technology. For example, the recording unit 230 records information about the owner of an item in the blockchain. Specifically, for example, when a user acquires an item associated with an NFT, the recording unit 230 associates the item with the user.

[0047] The execution unit 231 is configured to execute various information processes as execution steps. As an example, the execution unit 231 executes a first process or a second process. For example, the first process is a process executed by associating at least information corresponding to a character with information corresponding to a virtual object. Specifically, for example, the first process is a process executed by associating user information of a user corresponding to a character with information regarding a location or event corresponding to a virtual object. Specifically, for example, the first process is a process executed by associating information regarding the position of a character in a virtual space with a specific area corresponding to a virtual object. An area is a division of the virtual space. An area refers to, for example, a continuous range in the virtual space in which a user can move a character. For example, the second process is a process for executing the first process. Specifically, for example, the second process is a process for satisfying a condition for executing the first process. Specifically, for example, the second process is a process for satisfying a condition for executing the first process.

[0048] The management unit 232 is configured to manage various types of information as a management step. As an example, the management unit 232 manages user information associated with users or item information associated with items. User information and item information will be described in detail later.

[0049] The reception unit 233 is configured to receive various data as a reception step. For example, the reception unit 233 acquires user account information, game data, input from the user, information related to electronic data, etc. from an external device such as the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2, the game device 3, the blockchain system 6, or the transaction processing device 7. As an example, the reception unit 233 acquires various information related to electronic data via the communication network 11, the communication unit 21, etc. In the present embodiment, the various information received by the reception unit 233 will be described as being stored in the storage unit 22.

[0050] The access control unit 235 is configured to control access to various data as an access control step. As an example, when information about an item owner is received from the blockchain system 6, the access control unit 235 controls the item owner to be permitted to access user information or item information.

[0051] The character control unit 236 is configured to control a character in the virtual space as a character control step. As an example, the character control unit 236 places a character (also called a player character or an avatar) associated with a user in the virtual space and controls the character to move in response to an operation by the user. A character is an avatar of the user in the virtual space, and is a virtual object whose various behaviors, such as movement and positional changes, are controlled by an input operation by the user.

[0052] The item control unit 237 is configured to control the process of granting various benefits to the user. A benefit is any benefit that the user can enjoy in real space or virtual space. Benefits are not limited to objects or media, but also include advantageous effects given to the user and changes to various game specifications, such as generating various events to grant advantageous effects to the user. Benefits include, for example, NFTs (e.g., NFTs linked to electronic data), virtual currency, items, etc. The advantageous effects given to the user include effects that increase the user's interest in the virtual space compared to normal times, such as displaying special visual effects on the display 4a, enhancing the image display, generating special background music or sound effects, and vibrating the input device 4c, thereby increasing the user's interest in the virtual space through the user's five senses. Specifically, for example, the item control unit 237 is configured to control the process of granting an item to the user as an item control step. For example, the item control unit 237 grants an item to the user when certain conditions are met.

[0053] As a display step, the display control unit 238 displays various pieces of information stored in the storage unit 22 or the storage unit 32 or screens containing such information in a visible manner on the display 4a of the game device 3. Specifically, the display control unit 238 may generate visual information itself generated in a human-visible manner, such as a screen, an image (e.g., a still image or a video), an icon, or text, or may generate rendering information for displaying the visual information on the display 4a, for example, and transmit the information.

[0054] <Game Device 3> Next, the functional configuration of the game device 3 of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device 3 according to this embodiment.

[0055] 3, the control unit 33 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 32, thereby functioning as a recording unit 330, an execution unit 331, a reception unit 332, a notification unit 333, a character control unit 334, and a display control unit 335. In other words, information processing by the software stored in the storage unit 32 is specifically realized by the control unit 33, which is an example of hardware, and can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 33. In one aspect, at least some of the functional units included in the control unit 33 may be implemented as functional units realized by the control unit 33 of the game device 3.

[0056] For example, the functions of the recording unit 330, the execution unit 331, the reception unit 332, the notification unit 333, the character control unit 334, and the display control unit 335 are similar to those of the recording unit 230, the execution unit 231, the reception unit 233, the notification unit 234, the character control unit 236, and the display control unit 238, and therefore will not be described here.

[0057] 3. Operational flow of information processing system 1 3.1 Overview of Information Processing In this section, the flow of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 and 5. Figs. 4 and 5 are activity diagrams showing an example of the flow of information processing executed by the information processing system 1. First, with reference to Fig. 4, the flow of processing when a first item IT1 is granted to a first user and a first related item CN1 issued based on the first item IT1 is transferred to a second user will be described. Next, with reference to Fig. 5, the flow of processing when a second item IT2 transferred from the second user to the first user is used by the first user. In the following, the first user and the second user are examples of users.

[0058] In the following description, the first item IT1, the second item IT2, the first related item CN1, and the second related item CN2 are examples of items. The first related item CN1 is an item generated based on the first item IT1, and the second related item CN2 is an item generated based on the second item IT2. In an embodiment, the first item IT1, the second item IT2, the first related item CN1, and the second related item CN2 are used in a virtual space in response to an operation by a first user and are transferred among multiple users in an exchange (marketplace) separate from the virtual space. In an embodiment, the first item IT1, the second item IT2, the first related item CN1, and the second related item CN2 are items associated with NFTs. By associating these items with NFTs, they can be managed as non-fungible items.

[0059] <Granting of the first item IT1, issuance and transfer of the first related item CN1> The following description will be given with reference to FIG. 4. First, as a granting step, the item control unit 237 grants a first item IT1 to a first user (activity A001). The first item IT1 is granted to the first user in a virtual space (typically, an in-game virtual store such as an item shop in the virtual space) or in a game (a virtual store in an out-of-game where items can be purchased before starting to control a character in the virtual space) on the condition that a predetermined fee is paid. The first item IT1 may also be granted to the first user in a virtual space or outside the game (typically, an official website, an e-commerce site, etc.) on the condition that a predetermined fee is paid to the operator of the game. That is, in activity A001, the first item IT1 is granted to the first user through primary distribution, which is not a user-to-user transaction of the game.

[0060] Next, as a first recording step, the recording unit 230 records information that the owner of the first item IT1 is the first user in the blockchain (activity A002). Specifically, for example, this can be divided into the following processes. First, in response to the first item IT1 being granted to the first user, the recording unit 230 outputs an instruction to record the owner of the first item IT1 via the communication unit 21. Next, the node device 5 included in the blockchain system 6 receives the instruction from the recording unit 230 via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 51. Next, based on the received instruction, the control unit 53 of the node device 5 records information that the owner of the first item IT1 is the first user in the blockchain as a transaction associated with electronic data defining the first item IT1.

[0061] Next, the receiving unit 332 of the game device 3 receives, via the input device 4c, from the first user an instruction to put up a first related item CN1 generated based on the first item IT1 (activity A003). Specifically, for example, this process can be divided into the following steps: First, the receiving unit 233 receives, via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21, an instruction to issue a first related item CN1 based on the first item IT1 and a designation of the number of items to be issued, from the game device 3 operated by the first user. In this example, the first related item CN1 is an item issued as a copy of the first item IT1. Next, the item control unit 237 grants the first item IT1 to the first user. Next, the recording unit 230 records information in the blockchain that the owner of the issued first related item CN1 is the first user. Next, the receiving unit 332 receives, via the first user's operation, an instruction to put up the first related item CN1 on the marketplace.

[0062] Next, the transaction processing device 7 executes a transfer process for the first related item CN1 (activity A004). Specifically, for example, this process is divided into the following processes: In response to receiving an auction instruction from the first user, the transaction processing device 7 displays the first related item CN1 in the marketplace. Next, in response to receiving a purchase instruction for the first related item CN1 from the second user, the transaction processing device 7 transfers the first related item CN1 to the second user. Next, in response to the transfer of the first related item CN1 to the second user, the transaction processing device 7 outputs an instruction to record the owner of the first related item CN1.

[0063] Next, the recording unit 230 records information that the owner of the first related item CN1 is the second user in the blockchain (activity A005). For example, a process similar to activity A002 is executed. In this way, the first related item CN1 is given to the second user through secondary distribution among users of the game.

[0064] <Transfer and Use of Item 2 IT2> The following description will be given with reference to Figure 5. First, transaction processing device 7 executes a transfer process for second item IT2 (activity A101). Specifically, for example, transaction processing device 7 executes a transfer process for second item IT2 from the second user to the first user. For example, a process similar to activity A004 in Figure 4 is executed.

[0065] Next, as a second recording step, the recording unit 230 records information that the owner of the second item IT2 is the first user in response to the second item IT2 being transferred to the first user at the exchange (activity A102). For example, a process similar to activity A002 in FIG. 4 is executed.

[0066] Next, the item control unit 237 grants the second item IT2 to the first user (activity A103). Specifically, for example, this is divided into the following processes. First, the reception unit 233 receives a record regarding the transfer of the second item IT2 from the blockchain system 6 via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21. Next, the item control unit 237 identifies the owner of the second item IT2 based on the record regarding the transfer. Furthermore, the item control unit 237 grants the second item IT2 to the first user identified as the owner. In this way, the second item IT2 is granted to the first user through secondary distribution among users of the game.

[0067] Next, the receiving unit 233 receives an instruction to use the second item IT2 from the game device 3 operated by the first user via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21 (activity A104). Specifically, for example, the second item IT2 is used in the virtual space by the first character CH1 operated by the first user.

[0068] Next, the access control unit 235 identifies the owner of the second item IT2 (activity A105). Specifically, for example, this is divided into the following processes: First, the reception unit 233 receives information about the owner of the second item IT2 from the blockchain system 6 via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21. Next, the access control unit 235 identifies the owner of the second item IT2 based on the information about the owner.

[0069] Next, if the owner is identified as the first user, the access control unit 235 permits the first user to access the first user information (activity A106). On the other hand, if the owner is identified as someone other than the first user, the access control unit 235 does not permit access to the first user information.

[0070] User information is information about a user's attributes or a history of the user's activities in the virtual space. Specifically, for example, first user information is information about the first user stored in the storage unit 22. For example, the first user information includes information specifying a virtual object that has satisfied a position condition for the first character CH1. The position condition is a condition regarding the positional relationship between the first character CH1 and the virtual object. Specifically, for example, the position condition is that the first character CH1 and the virtual object are arranged in a predetermined positional relationship in the virtual space. Specifically, for example, the first character CH1 and the virtual object are located within a certain distance defined for determining that the first character CH1 and the virtual object have come into contact with each other.

[0071] Next, the execution unit 231 executes, as an execution step, a second process for executing the first process. Specifically, for example, the execution unit 231 executes a process (an example of the second process) of moving the first character CH1 near a specific virtual object based on the first user information (activity A107). Specifically, for example, the process is divided into the following processes. First, the display control unit 238 displays information about the identified one or more virtual objects on the display 4a via the communication network 11, the communication unit 21, etc., in a manner visible to the first user. Next, the reception unit 233 receives, via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21, from the game device 3 operated by the first user, an instruction to select one of the identified virtual objects. Next, the execution unit 231 executes a process of moving the first character CH1 near the selected virtual object. Next, the character control unit 236 controls the movement of the first character CH1 in the virtual space based on the second process. Next, the display control unit 238 causes the display 4a to display the first character CH1 that has moved in the virtual space via the communication network 11, the communication unit 21, etc. in a manner that is visible to the first user.

[0072] Next, as an execution step, the execution unit 231 associates information corresponding to the first character CH1 with information corresponding to a specific virtual object based on the satisfaction of the position condition, and executes a first process (activity A108). Specifically, for example, the execution unit 231 associates an area in which the first character is located with an area corresponding to the specific virtual object, and executes the first process. The specific virtual object refers to, for example, a virtual object that is a target destination of the first character CH1. As an example, the execution unit 231 executes a process (an example of the first process) of placing the first character CH1 in a specific area in the virtual space. Specifically, for example, the following process is further executed. The character control unit 236 controls the movement of the first character CH1 in the virtual space based on the first process. Subsequently, the display control unit 238 displays the first character CH1 placed in the specific virtual space on the display 4a via the communication network 11, the communication unit 21, etc., in a manner that is visible to the first user. From another perspective, the first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

[0073] To summarize the above, the information processing device 2 includes a control unit 23. The control unit 23 includes the following units. The information processing system 1 is an information processing system 1 including at least one device. The information processing system 1 includes at least one control unit 23 that can execute a program to cause the following units to function. As a first recording step, the recording unit 230 records information in the distributed ledger that the owner of the first item IT1 or the first related item CN1 generated based on the first item IT1 is the first user. The first item IT1 or the first related item CN1 is used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the first user and is transferred between users including the first user in an exchange different from the virtual space. As a second recording step, the recording unit 230 records information in the distributed ledger that the owner of the second item IT2 or the second related item CN2 is the first user when the second item IT2 or the second related item CN2 is transferred to the first user in the exchange. In the access control step, the access control unit 235 performs control to permit access to first user information associated with the first user or item information associated with the second item IT2 or the second related item CN2 when information indicating that the owner of the second item IT2 or the second related item CN2 is the first user is received from the distributed ledger. In the character control step, the character control unit 236 performs control to move a first character CH1 associated with the first user in the virtual space in response to an operation by the first user. In the execution step, the execution unit 231 associates information corresponding to at least the first character with information corresponding to the virtual object and executes a first process based on whether a position condition regarding the positional relationship between the first character CH1 and the virtual object is satisfied. In the execution step, the execution unit 231 executes the first process, or executes a second process for executing the first process, based on the first user information or the item information, regardless of whether the position condition is satisfied.

[0074] These aspects can improve the interest in virtual spaces, particularly in virtual spaces where items traded as NFTs can be used.

[0075] Specifically, in games where related items are generated from items according to user instructions, the strategic element of the game can be enhanced. Since the user can decide whether to monopolize an item that activates an effect related to a character, or to copy and distribute it, an element of strategy is introduced into the game, making it more interesting.

[0076] Furthermore, since the first user information includes information identifying virtual objects that have satisfied a position condition for the first character CH1, the user's activities in the virtual space can be associated with the effectiveness of items. This allows the user to obtain more advantageous effects as the user advances in his or her exploration in the virtual space, thereby motivating the user to visit the virtual space. If the information processing system 1 is a system for realizing a game, the user can be motivated to progress in the game.

[0077] 3.2 Details of information processing The details of the information processing outlined above will be explained using the drawings.

[0078] <Using moving items> 6 to 8 are conceptual diagrams showing an example of the field display screen 8. For example, the field display screen 8 is a screen displayed on the input device 4c of the game apparatus 3 by the display control unit 238. The field display screen 8 includes a field display area 80.

[0079] The field display area 80 displays a field, which is a map of the virtual world. A field is an example of an area in virtual space. The field display area 80 includes a plurality of virtual objects. A virtual object is a virtual object that is virtually placed within the field. Examples of virtual objects include terrain, buildings, vehicles, flora and fauna, objects that arise due to meteorological phenomena, characters, etc.

[0080] The first character CH1, the second character CH2, the third character CH3, the enemy object 82, and the town object 83 are examples of virtual objects. As an example, the first character CH1, the second character CH2, and the third character CH3 are player characters, and the enemy object 82 is a non-player character. For example, the town object 83 is an object that indicates a specific location on the field, called "M Town."

[0081] In the example of FIG. 6, the first character CH1 is located at point A. The character control unit 236 moves the first character CH1 in the field based on the operation of the first user. Similarly, the character control unit 236 moves the second character CH2 and the third character CH3 in the field based on the operations of the second user and the third user. From another perspective, the virtual object is another character associated with a user other than the first user. From yet another perspective, the virtual object is the second character CH2 associated with the second user.

[0082] 6, the collision detection area 81 is a circular graphic of a certain size displayed around the player character. For example, when the collision detection area 81 of the first character CH1 overlaps with another virtual object, the execution unit 231 determines that the virtual objects have come into contact with each other. Hereinafter, this determination will be referred to as a collision determination.

[0083] The execution unit 231 generates an event when, for example, a collision determination is made (an example of a first process). Specifically, for example, the event is the progression of a story, the start of a quest, movement between areas of the virtual space, the granting of an advantageous or disadvantageous effect to the user, the display of information, the realization of communication with a player character or a non-player character, the change of parameters related to a character or the virtual space, etc. For example, the event is started in response to the receipt of a start instruction from the user or in response to the occurrence of a collision determination.

[0084] The example in FIG. 7 shows a state in which first character CH1 has moved from point A to point B by an operation of the first user. In the example in FIG. 7, the first user comes into contact with an enemy object 82 while moving first character CH1, and after completing a battle quest, reaches point B. In the example in FIG. 7, first character CH1 has moved to a position where collision detection area 81 comes into contact with town object 83, and therefore is placed "inside Town M" (an example of an area of ​​virtual space) by character control unit 236.

[0085] The example of Fig. 8 shows an example screen that is displayed when the first character CH1 uses the second item IT2 through an operation by the first user. The field display area 80 further includes an operation window 84, which includes the second item IT2 and an operation button 85. In the example of Fig. 8, the second item IT2 is an item that allows the user, who owns it, to move the character to places that the user has been to before.

[0086] The processing aspects of activities A104 to A108 in FIG. 4 will be described using the example of FIG. 8. For example, an operation window 84 showing items owned by the first user is displayed by an operation by the first user. When the first user selects an operation button 85 and the reception unit 233 receives the use of the second item IT2, potential destinations are displayed. From another perspective, a list of locations where a collision determination has occurred with the first character CH1 is displayed. For example, in response to an input by the first user selecting "Town M," the character control unit 236 moves the first character CH1 to point B. From another perspective, the second processing is processing for moving at least the first character CH1 in the virtual space so as to satisfy a positional condition. Typically, the first user can place the first character CH1 in "Town M," which is the area of ​​the virtual space corresponding to the town object 83, by moving the first character CH1 to a position where a collision determination with the town object 83 is established. From another perspective, the first user can move the first character CH1 to a selected destination without relying on manual operation input, rather than normally moving the first character CH1 by his / her own operation input. This allows the first user to efficiently manually move the first character CH1 to the location of the town object 83. Therefore, using the second item IT2 to move the first character CH1 to a destination selected by the first user corresponds to a second process for executing the first process.

[0087] This embodiment makes it easier for the user to move within the virtual space, improving convenience for the user. Furthermore, since obstacles such as enemy characters can be avoided, the user can move more strategically.

[0088] <Visiting Destination Management Table T1> FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of visited destination management table T1. Visited destination management table T1 is reference information for managing places that a user has visited, and is an example of user information. Visited destination management table T1 includes, for example, a user name T11, a place name T12, and a number of visits T13. Note that although the reference information constituting visited destination management table T1 can be stored in separate, distributed devices, for convenience, the following description will be given assuming that it is stored as a single table in storage unit 22 and managed by management unit 232. The same applies to other reference information.

[0089] The user name T11 is information indicating the name of the user. For example, the user name "Kurga" is the name of the first user. The place name T12 is information indicating the names of places the user has visited. In the example of FIG. 9, the first user has visited places named "M Town," "D Town," "P Village," and "S Desert." The number of visits T13 is information indicating the number of times the user has visited each destination. The operation window 84 in FIG. 8 displays the names of places identified based on the visited destination management table T1. In one embodiment, the names of places are presented as destinations in descending order of the number of visits. In another embodiment, the quantity or quality of travel may vary depending on the number of visits. For example, whether travel is permitted may be determined based on the number of visits, or travel may be permitted only if the user has visited a certain number of times. Furthermore, the time required for travel may vary gradually depending on the number of visits, or a video such as an advertisement may be temporarily displayed depending on the time required for travel. Furthermore, the distance to the destination may be set depending on the number of visits, or travel may be gradually closer to the destination depending on the number of visits. If a destination that has been visited by another user who has owned the item in the past is a destination that the user has not visited, the amount or quality of travel achieved may be changed by adding up the number of visits to the destination by multiple users who have owned the item, as described below. Also, if the amount or quality of travel changes in stages as the number of visits meets a predetermined condition, destinations that have reached a predetermined stage or that are close to reaching a predetermined stage may be displayed in a manner that allows them to be distinguished from other destinations.

[0090] [others] The information processing method according to the above-described embodiment may be modified as follows.

[0091] In one embodiment, the various reference information may be stored in the blockchain system 6, the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2, or the storage unit 32 of the game device 3. The various reference information may also be stored in a distributed manner. Note that the device operated by the user is not limited to the game device 3, and there are no particular restrictions on the type of device as long as it has a similar configuration.

[0092] In one embodiment, the access control unit 235 permits access to item information. Item information is information about the history of item use or transfer, or about item attributes. Examples of item information include an item management table T2 or an owner management table T3.

[0093] <Item management table T2> 10 is a diagram showing an example of an item management table T2. The item management table T2 is reference information for managing items that exist in a virtual space. The item management table T2 includes, for example, an item name T21, an item number T22, an item type T23, a number of times that an item can be used T24, and a number of copies issued T25.

[0094] The item name T21 is information indicating the name of the item. For example, "Magic Lamp" is an example of a second item IT2, and "Duplicate Lamp" is an example of a second related item CN2. The item number T22 is information indicating a number uniquely assigned to each item. The item type T23 is information indicating the item type, which is an example of an item attribute. For example, it is information indicating whether each item is the original or an item duplicated from the original. The number of times each item can be used T24 is information indicating the remaining number of times each item can be used. The number of copies issued T25 is information indicating the number of related items issued from each item.

[0095] <Owner Management Table T3> In one aspect, the item information includes the owner history of the item. Owner history is information including the history of users who have owned the item. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an owner management table T3. The owner management table T3 is an example of owner history. The owner management table T3 is reference information for managing the history of item owners. The owner management table T3 includes, for example, owner history T31, acquisition date T32, acquisition time T33, etc. In the example of FIG. 11, the owner history of a "magic lamp," which is a transferable item, is managed by the owner management table T3.

[0096] Owner history T31 is information indicating the history of users who have become owners of an item. In the example of FIG. 11, the current owner of the item is a user called "Kuruga." The example of FIG. 11 shows that the "Magic Lamp" was transferred from "Tamamimi" to "Ogre" and then transferred back to "Kuruga." Acquisition date T32 is information indicating the date on which the user acquired the item. Acquisition time T33 is information indicating the time on which the user acquired the item.

[0097] In one aspect, the access control unit 235 performs control as an access control step to permit access to second user information associated with the second user when the second user is identified in the owner history. The owner history includes the history of users who have owned the second item IT2 or the second related item CN2. The execution unit 231 performs, as an execution step, a first process or a second process based on the second user information. Specifically, for example, when an item is used, the first process or the second process is executed for a user who has previously owned the item.

[0098] For example, a case where the second process is a process of moving at least the first character CH1 in the virtual space so as to satisfy a position condition will be described using the example of FIG. 11. By using an item, the current owner, "Kuruga," can move to the location where, for example, "Ogre," the previous owner of the "Magic Lamp," was located. This establishes a collision determination between "Kuruga" (first character CH1) and "Ogre" (second character CH2), allowing the first user to converse with the second user.

[0099] Typically, the first user can converse with the second user by moving the first character CH1 to a position where a contact determination with the second character CH2 is established. From another perspective, by using the "magic lamp," the first user can move the first character CH1 by selecting the person they want to meet, without having to move the first character CH1 normally through their own operational input. This allows the first user to go and meet the second user in the virtual space without having to search for the location of the second character CH2 and travel to that location. Therefore, using an item to move the first character CH1 to the location of a character selected by the first user corresponds to the second process for executing the first process.

[0100] In this manner, items transferred between many users have a greater advantageous effect when used. This increases the strategic value of items, as the transaction history affects the value of the items. Furthermore, even novice users can aim for a sudden turnaround by obtaining valuable items. This reduces the likelihood that beginners will abandon the virtual space or game.

[0101] <Use of communication items> FIG. 12 is an image diagram showing a modified example of the field display screen 8. Using the example of FIG. 12, another aspect of the second item IT2 will be described. In the example of FIG. 12, the second item IT2 is an item called a "magic crystal" that enables the first user to communicate with users he or she has encountered in the past, regardless of whether or not a contact determination is currently established. From another perspective, the first process is a process that enables communication between the first user and other users.

[0102] Only the differences from the example of FIG. 8 will be described below. When the first user selects the operation button 85 and the reception unit 233 receives the use of the second item IT2, candidate users with whom communication can be realized are displayed. From another perspective, a list of other characters that have previously been determined to have come into contact with the first character CH1 is displayed. For example, assume that the username of the second character CH2 is "Ogre." In this case, in response to the first user's input selecting "Ogre," the execution unit 231 realizes communication between the first user and the second user. Communication is realized regardless of whether or not a contact determination is currently made between the first user and the second user. Communication may be achieved by means of text, audio, still images (e.g., emoticons, stamps), video, the exchange of gifts, etc. For example, gifts to other users are given using game media.

[0103] From another perspective, the execution unit 231, as an execution step, associates information corresponding to the first character CH1 with information corresponding to a specific virtual object, and executes the first processing, regardless of whether the position condition is satisfied. Specifically, for example, the execution unit 231 associates a user corresponding to the first character with a user corresponding to a specific virtual object, and executes the first processing. The specific virtual object refers to, for example, a second character CH2 selected as a communication target for the first character CH1. As an example, the execution unit 231 executes processing (an example of the first processing) that realizes communication between the first user and the second user.

[0104] In this manner, users can efficiently obtain information about the virtual space or the game from other users, which increases the interest in the virtual space or the game.

[0105] In another aspect, the use of an item may enable communication with users who have previously owned the item. Using the example of FIG. 11, the current owner, "Kuruga," can use the item to communicate with the previous owners, "Ogre" or "Tamami." Communication is realized regardless of whether or not a contact determination is currently established between the users.

[0106] In this manner, users can use items to more efficiently gather information in virtual space. This improves the convenience of users when using virtual space. Furthermore, by providing users with an opportunity to communicate with past owners of items, users can more easily find other users in virtual space who share their interests. This further promotes communication in virtual space. Furthermore, by motivating users to acquire items through secondary distribution in the marketplace, the secondary distribution market for items can be revitalized.

[0107] <Encounter User Management Table T4> 13 is a diagram showing an example of the encountered user management table T4. For example, the encountered user management table T4 is reference information for managing other users that the user has encountered, and is an example of user information. From another perspective, the encountered user management table T4 is reference information for managing other characters that have been determined to have come into contact with the character operated by the user. The encountered user management table T4 includes, for example, a user name T41, an encountered user name T42, a number of encounters T43, a number of joint battles T44, and the like.

[0108] The user name T41 is information indicating the name of the user. The place name T12 is information indicating the name of a place that the user has encountered. According to the example of FIG. 9, the first user "Kuruga" has encountered users named "Ogre," "Tamami," and "Evel." The number of encounters T43 is information indicating the number of times the user has encountered each user. The number of joint battles T44 is information indicating the number of times the user has fought together with each user in the same party.

[0109] The operation window 84 in FIG. 12 displays the user names of users identified based on the encounter user management table T4. In one embodiment, candidate partners for communication are presented in descending order, such as by the number of encounters or the number of joint battles. In another embodiment, the quantity or quality of communication may vary depending on whether or not a user has experience in joint battles, the number of encounters, etc. For example, communication using audio or video may be possible with users who have previously joint battles, while only text communication may be possible with users who have not. Furthermore, the duration or number of times communication can continue without contact may be changed depending on the number of encounters or joint battles. Communication between users who are far from each other may be restricted by adding a limit to the distance between users who can communicate without contact. If the quantity or quality of communication changes gradually as the number of encounters or joint battles meets a predetermined condition, users who have reached a predetermined stage or who are close to reaching that stage may be displayed in a manner that distinguishes them from other users. In addition, if the user has never encountered another user who has previously possessed the item, communication may be possible if the user and the other user have encountered a common user. In this case, users who can communicate may be displayed in a manner that makes them distinguishable from users who cannot communicate. Furthermore, the number of encounters and the number of times of cooperation may be totaled for the user and other users who have previously possessed the item.

[0110] <Item issuing restrictions> FIG. 14 is an activity diagram showing a modified example of the flow of information processing executed by information processing system 1. The following description will be made with reference to FIG. 14. First, transaction processing device 7 executes a transfer process for the first related item CN1 (activity A201). Specifically, for example, transaction processing device 7 executes a transfer process for the first related item CN1 from the second user to the first user. For example, a process similar to activity A004 in FIG. 4 is executed. As one example, the first related item CN1 is an item exclusively for transactions outside the virtual space, and its use in the virtual space is restricted. As another example, the user cannot use the first related item CN1 in the virtual space.

[0111] Next, in response to the transfer of the first related item CN1 to the first user at the exchange, the recording unit 230 records information that the owner of the first related item CN1 is the first user in the blockchain (activity A202). For example, a process similar to activity A002 in FIG. 4 is executed.

[0112] Next, the receiving unit 233 receives an instruction to issue a first item IT1 based on the first related item CN1 from the game device 3 operated by the first user via the communication network 11 and the communication unit 21 (activity A203). Specifically, for example, the user inputs an instruction to convert the first related item CN1 into the first related item CN1 for use in the virtual space.

[0113] Next, the item control unit 237 identifies the number of first items IT1 to be issued (activity A204). Specifically, for example, the item control unit 237 identifies the number of first items IT1 to be issued based on the item management table T2 stored in the storage unit 22.

[0114] Next, if the number of issued first items IT1 is equal to or greater than the first upper limit, the notification unit 234 notifies the game device 3 via the communication unit 21, the communication network 11, etc. (activity A205). Specifically, the first user is notified that the first item IT1 cannot be issued. From another perspective, the item control unit 237, as an item control step, controls to allow the first user to obtain the first item IT1 based on the first related item CN1 obtained by the first user at the exchange, and if the number of issued first items IT1 in the virtual space has reached the first upper limit, controls to limit the issuance of the first item IT1 based on the first related item CN1.

[0115] On the other hand, if the number of issued first items IT1 is less than the first upper limit number, the item control unit 237 grants the first item IT1 to the first user as a granting step (activity A206).

[0116] Next, as a first recording step, the recording unit 230 records information that the owner of the first item IT1 is the first user in the blockchain (activity A207).

[0117] In one aspect, the item control unit 237 limits the provision of the first item IT1 when the number of first items IT1 issued has reached a first condition. Specifically, for example, as the item control step, when the number of first items IT1 issued in the virtual space has reached a first upper limit, the item control unit 237 controls so that the acquisition condition for allowing the first user to acquire the first item IT1 is not met, or controls so that the first user acquires the first temporary item TP1.

[0118] The first temporary item TP1 is an item that provides the first user with an advantageous effect in obtaining the first item IT1 when the number of issued items falls below the first upper limit number. Specifically, for example, the first temporary item TP1 may be an item that can be exchanged for the first item IT1.

[0119] From another perspective, as an item control step, the item control unit 237 controls the first user to obtain a second item IT2 based on the second related item CN2 obtained by the first user at the exchange, and controls the issuance of the second item IT2 based on the second related item CN2 to be limited if the number of second items IT2 issued in the virtual space has reached a second upper limit number.

[0120] This allows for an upper limit on the number of items that can be acquired in the virtual space, increasing the value of the items. This makes the virtual space more interesting because strategies for acquiring items become important.

[0121] <Other variations> In one aspect, use of an item may identify users who have owned the item and may further identify virtual objects that the users have come into contact with. Specifically, for example, use of the item may enable travel to a location that a previous owner of the item has been to or to a character that the previous owner of the item has met. It may also enable communication with users controlling characters that the previous owner of the item has met.

[0122] From another perspective, the second user information includes information that identifies a virtual object that has satisfied a position condition for the second character CH2. The first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

[0123] This aspect provides an opportunity for users to get to know other users, and encourages more active communication between users in the virtual space.

[0124] In one aspect, the second process may be a process of moving multiple characters in a virtual space. Furthermore, the positional condition satisfied by the execution of the second process may be different from the condition for executing the first process. For example, if the content of the first process is to realize a conversation, the position where the characters come into contact with each other becomes the first positional condition. If the content of the second process is to move to the location of a target character, the movement distance may vary depending on the intimacy between the users. For example, if the other character is a character that the user has fought alongside before, the user may move as far as possible to have a conversation, whereas if the other character is a character that the user has only encountered once, the user may only move to a nearby town.

[0125] In another aspect, the user information includes information about the user or character. For example, the user information includes information such as parameters (e.g., level, experience points, stamina, intelligence, etc.), attributes (e.g., occupation, base, race, etc.), game progress, activity time in the virtual space, the type or number of quests completed, items owned, titles acquired, intimacy with other users, team affiliation, ranking, reputation, etc. In another aspect, the location condition may be that the character and virtual object are located in the same area of ​​the virtual space (e.g., the same region, town, building, etc.), that the virtual object is within the character's field of view, etc.

[0126] In other aspects, item information includes information such as attributes (e.g., type such as fire, water, wind, earth, light, or darkness), resistance to attributes, classification (e.g., weapon, armor, accessory, consumable, quest item, etc.), parameters (e.g., attack power, defense power, effectiveness, degree of deterioration, level, rarity, weight, etc.), characters that can equip it, number of times it has been transferred, number of times it has been used, method of acquisition, price trends, maximum number that can be held, materials required to create it, description attached to the item, and restriction status (e.g., status such as untradeable or unusable in virtual space).

[0127] The information processing system 1 need only be able to realize a virtual space and does not have to realize a game. For example, the information processing system 1 may be an SNS (Social Networking Service) where users can communicate with each other via characters, a virtual town, an exhibition, or the like.

[0128] In one embodiment, an upper limit may be set on the number of times the first related item CN1 can be generated from the first item IT1. The upper limit on the number of times the first related item CN1 can be generated may be set for each user or each item.

[0129] In another embodiment, when at least one user in a group of multiple users possesses an item, the above-described information processing may be applied to the multiple users in the group, or may be applied only to users who possess a common item. Furthermore, information such as the number of visits, number of encounters, and number of joint battles may be aggregated for the multiple users in the group. This may stimulate secondary distribution of items and further motivate users to form groups and progress through the game.

[0130] The above-described embodiments may be implemented as a program that causes at least one computer (for example, the information processing device 2) to execute the steps of the information processing method.

[0131] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects.

[0132] (1) An information processing method, comprising the following steps: a first recording step of recording, in a distributed ledger, information that a first user owns a first item or a first related item generated based on the first item, wherein the first item or the first related item is used in a virtual space in response to an operation by the first user and is transferred between users including the first user in an exchange different from the virtual space; a second recording step of recording, in the distributed ledger, information that the first user owns the second item or the second related item when the second item or the second related item is transferred to the first user in the exchange; and an access control step of receiving, from the distributed ledger, information that the first user owns the second item or the second related item. a character control step of controlling a first character associated with the first user to move in the virtual space in accordance with an operation by the first user, and an execution step of associating information corresponding to at least the first character with information corresponding to the virtual object based on a positional condition regarding a positional relationship between the first character and a virtual object being satisfied, and executing the first processing, or executing a second processing for causing the first processing to be executed, based on the first user information or the item information, regardless of whether the positional condition is satisfied.

[0133] (2) In the information processing method described in (1) above, the first user information includes information identifying the virtual object that has satisfied the position condition for the first character, and the first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

[0134] (3) In the information processing method described in (1) or (2) above, the second processing is processing of moving at least the first character in the virtual space so as to satisfy the positional condition.

[0135] (4) In the information processing method described in (1) or (2) above, the virtual object is a character associated with a user other than the first user, and the first processing is a processing for realizing communication between the first user and the other user.

[0136] (5) In the information processing method described in (1) above, the access control step controls to allow access to second user information associated with the second user when the second user is identified in the owner history included in the item information, wherein the owner history includes the history of the user who has owned the second item or the second related item, and the execution step executes the first process or the second process based on the second user information.

[0137] (6) In the information processing method described in (5) above, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user, and the second processing is a processing of moving the first character in the virtual space so as to satisfy the positional condition.

[0138] (7) In the information processing method described in (5) above, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user, and the first processing realizes communication between the first user and the second user.

[0139] (8) In the information processing method described in any one of (5) to (7) above, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user, the second user information includes information identifying the virtual object that has satisfied the position condition for the second character, and the first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

[0140] (9) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (8) above, the item control step further includes, when the number of issues of the first item in the virtual space has reached a first upper limit number, controlling the first item so that the acquisition condition for the first user to obtain it is not met, or controlling the first user to obtain a first temporary item, wherein the first temporary item is an item that gives the first user an advantageous effect regarding the acquisition of the first item when the number of issues falls below the first upper limit number.

[0141] (10) In the information processing method described in (9) above, the item control step controls the first user to obtain the second item based on the second related item obtained by the first user at the exchange, and if the number of second items issued in the virtual space has reached a second upper limit number, controls to limit the issuance of the second item based on the second related item.

[0142] (11) An information processing system consisting of at least one device, the information processing system having at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (10) above.

[0143] (12) A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to any one of (1) to (10) above. Of course, this is not the case.

[0144] Finally, various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, but these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The embodiments and their modifications are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the disclosure, as well as within the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Network 2: Information processing equipment 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 230: Recording section 231: Executive Department 232: Management Department 233: Reception 234: Notification Department 235: Access control section 236: Character control section 237: Item control section 238: Display control unit 3: Game device 30: Communication bus 31: Communications Department 32: Storage section 33: Control section 330: Recording section 331: Executive Department 332: Reception 333: Notification Department 334: Character control section 335: Display control unit 34a: Graphics processing unit 34b: Audio processing section 34c: Operation section 4a: Display 4b: Speaker 4c: Input Device 5: Node device 50: Communication bus 51: Communications Department 52: Storage section 53: Control unit 6: Blockchain system 7: Transaction processing device 8: Field display screen 80: Field display area 81: Contact detection area 82: Enemy object 83: Town object 84: Operation window 84: Operation window 85: Operation button A: Point B: Point CH1: 1st character CH2: Second character CH3: Third character IT1: First item IT2: Second item CN1: 1st related item CN2: Second related item TP1: First temporary item T1: Visit management table T11: Username T12: Place name T13: Number of visits T2: Item management table T21: Item name T22: Item number T23: Item Type T24: Number of times available T25: Number of copies issued T3: Owner management table T4: Encounter user management table T41: User name T42: Encounter Username T43: Number of encounters T44: Number of joint battles

Claims

1. An information processing method, comprising: It includes the following steps: In the second recording step, when a second item or a second related item is transferred to a first user in an exchange, information that the owner of the second item or the second related item is the first user is recorded in the distributed ledger, wherein: the second item or the second related item is usable in a virtual space different from the exchange and is transferred between users including the first user in the exchange; In the access control step, when information that the owner of the second item or the second related item is the first user is received from the distributed ledger, control is performed to permit access to first user information associated with the first user, or item information associated with the second item or the second related item, on the condition that the first user uses the second item or the second related item, wherein: the first user information includes information identifying a virtual object that has satisfied a predetermined positional condition regarding a positional relationship with respect to a first character associated with the first user; the item information includes an owner history relating to a history of the user who has owned the second item or the second related item; In the character control step, the first character is controlled to move in the virtual space in response to an operation by the first user; In the execution step, execute a first process by associating information corresponding to at least the first character with information corresponding to the virtual object based on the fact that the position condition between the first character and the virtual object is satisfied; A method for executing the first process or a second process for causing the first process to be executed based on the first user information or the item information when use of the second item or the second related item is accepted from the first user, regardless of whether the location condition is met.

2. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The method, wherein the first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

3. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The method, wherein the second processing is processing of moving at least the first character in the virtual space so as to satisfy the position condition.

4. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, the virtual object is a character associated with a user other than the first user, A method, wherein the first process is a process for realizing communication between the first user and the other user.

5. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, In the access control step, when a second user is identified in the owner history, control is performed so as to permit access to second user information associated with the second user; In the executing step, the first process or the second process is executed based on the second user information.

6. 6. The information processing method according to claim 5, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user; The method, wherein the second processing is processing of moving the first character in the virtual space so as to satisfy the position condition.

7. 6. The information processing method according to claim 5, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user; The method, wherein the first process enables communication between the first user and the second user.

8. 6. The information processing method according to claim 5, the virtual object is a second character associated with the second user; the second user information includes information identifying the virtual object that has satisfied the position condition for the second character; The method, wherein the first process or the second process is a process related to the identified virtual object.

9. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, In the item control step, the method controls the first user to obtain the second item based on the second related item obtained by the first user at the exchange, and if the number of second items issued in the virtual space has reached a second upper limit number, controls to limit the issuance of the second item based on the second related item.

10. An information processing system comprising at least one device, An information processing system comprising at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A program, A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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