Program, system, and method

Abstract

To provide a program capable of appropriately notifying information for a viewer of distribution.SOLUTION: A program causes a processor to distribute a game image of a game executed in a terminal to a viewer. The game image includes a result image indicating information of a result of the game that has been executed in the terminal. When at least part of the information of the result is skipped in the terminal, the program causes the processor to skip the result image other than information for the viewer included in the information of the result in the terminal operated by the viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, game distribution systems that allow viewers to view images of games played by players on play terminals (hereinafter referred to as "game images") on viewing terminals have become popular. In such game distribution systems, there is a technology that provides viewing benefits to viewers to motivate them to view the game images (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-048505 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The fact that a viewing privilege has been granted to a viewer is notified to the viewing terminal together with the distribution of an image notifying the viewer of the game result, for example. However, with this method, there is a problem that if the notification of the game result is skipped on the playing terminal, the viewer will not be able to recognize that a viewing privilege has been granted.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to Viewing benefits The present invention aims to provide a program that can appropriately notify users of the above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the program according to the present invention includes: The first player-controlled Game images of games running on the device 、 viewers A second device operated byand the game image is distributed to the No. 1 a result image showing information on the result of a game executed on the terminal, When the result information is not skipped on the first terminal, a viewing benefit granted as a result of viewing the game image is displayed on the second terminal together with the result image; The aforementioned No. 1 If at least a portion of the result information is skipped at the terminal, Displaying the viewing privilege on the second terminal after the result image is skipped. . [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, Viewing benefits can be appropriately notified. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a game server. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a user terminal. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a game server. [Figure 5] Examples of the home screen (A) and matching screen (B). [Figure 6] This is an example of the play screen (A) and the viewing screen (B). [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart of a player game result process. [Figure 8] This is an example of a winning / losing display screen. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a screen displaying results. [Figure 10] This is an example of a rank-up effect screen. [Figure 11] This is an example of an experience point presentation screen. [Figure 12] This is an example of a treasure chest effect screen. [Figure 13] This is an example of a summary screen (A) and a confirmation screen (B). [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart of a viewer game result process. [Figure 15]10A shows an example of a viewing bonus screen (A) displayed together with the experience point effect, a viewing bonus screen (B) when the experience point effect is skipped, and a prediction acceptance screen (C). [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart of a distribution result process. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of stopping distribution via the home screen. [Figure 18] This is an example of a countdown screen for the end of distribution. [Figure 19] This is an example of a delivery result screen (A) and a gift list screen (B). [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of stopping distribution via a confirmation screen. [Figure 21] This is an example of a toast display announcing the end of distribution (A) and a screen notifying the end of distribution (B). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A system 1 according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment of the present invention described below is an example of how the present invention can be realized, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope of the described embodiment. Therefore, the present invention can be implemented by adding various modifications to the embodiment.

[0010] [System 1 Overview] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 1 mainly includes a game server 10 and user terminals 20A, 20B, and 20C (hereinafter, these may be collectively referred to as "user terminals 20"). Although three user terminals 20 are illustrated in FIG. 1, examples of the user terminals 20 included in the system 1 are not limited to this. The game server 10 and the user terminals 20 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network 2. Specific examples of the communication network 2 are not particularly limited, and may include, for example, the Internet, a mobile communication system (e.g., 4G, 5G, etc.), a wireless network such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or a combination of these.

[0011] The system 1 is an online game system that provides an online game realized on a plurality of user terminals 20 by mutual communication between a game server 10 and the user terminals 20. As one example, the game is a cooperative online game in which users (players) of a plurality of user terminals 20 cooperate with each other. As another example, the game is a competitive online game in which users (players) of a plurality of user terminals 20 compete against each other.

[0012] The system 1 according to this embodiment provides a so-called "GvG (group battle)" in which multiple players (for example, 12 players) belong to one of two groups and play against each other (i.e., 6 players vs. 6 players). However, the game realized by the system 1 is not limited to an online game, and may be an offline game executed on only one user terminal 20.

[0013] Furthermore, a game includes main content (so-called in-game) and preparatory content (so-called out-game). The main content is a game element for achieving the main objective of the game (for example, defeating an enemy, obtaining an item, reaching a destination, etc.). The preparatory content is a game element for making preparations necessary to play the main content (for example, displaying game results or distribution results, changing the appearance of an avatar, changing avatar equipment, obtaining benefits granted by the game server 10, executing gacha, changing game distribution settings, etc.).

[0014] Furthermore, system 1 is a game distribution system that provides so-called "game distribution," in which images of a game being executed on user terminal 20A (hereinafter referred to as "game images") are viewed by a user (viewer) of user terminal 20B. Game distribution includes, for example, "real-time distribution," in which game images are viewed in parallel with the execution of the game, and "recorded distribution," in which recorded images are viewed after the game has ended.

[0015] Hereinafter, the user terminal 20A that plays the game may be referred to as the "play terminal 20A," and the user terminal 20B that views game images may be referred to as the "viewing terminal 20B." Furthermore, the user that operates the play terminal 20A will be referred to as the "player 20A," and the user that operates the viewing terminal 20B will be referred to as the "viewer 20B." In other words, the play terminal 20A and the viewing terminal 20B are different user terminals 20. However, the play terminal 20A can also be a viewing terminal, and the viewing terminal 20B can also be a play terminal.

[0016] [Game Server 10 Configuration] The game server 10 realizes an online game by synchronizing the game data of each of the multiple play terminals 20. The game server 10 also realizes game distribution by acquiring game images from the play terminal 20A and providing the acquired game images to the viewing terminal 20B. Note that the server that realizes the online game and the server that realizes the game distribution are not limited to running on the same hardware, and may run on different hardware. However, the server that realizes the online game and the server that realizes the game distribution operate in cooperation with each other, as described below.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the game server 10. The game server 10 is realized by, for example, a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. As shown in FIG. 2, the game server 10 mainly includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a storage 13, an input / output interface 14, and a communication interface 15. Each component of the game server 10 is connected to a communication bus 19.

[0018] The processor 11 performs the processes described below by executing a series of instructions included in a server program 13P stored in the memory 12 or the storage 13. The processor 11 is realized as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other devices.

[0019] The memory 12 temporarily stores the server program 13P and data. The server program 13P is loaded from, for example, the storage 13. The data includes data input to the game server 10 and data generated by the processor 11. For example, the memory 12 is realized as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or other volatile memory.

[0020] The storage 13 permanently stores the server program 13P and data. The storage 13 is realized, for example, as a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a hard disk drive, a flash memory, or other non-volatile storage device. The storage 13 may also be realized as a removable storage device such as a memory card. As yet another example, the storage 13 may be connected to the game server 10 as an external storage device instead of being built into the game server 10. With this configuration, for example, in a situation where multiple user terminals 20 are used, such as an amusement facility, it becomes possible to collectively update the server program 13P and data.

[0021] The input / output interface 14 is an interface for connecting external devices such as a monitor, input device (e.g., keyboard, pointing device), external storage device, speaker, camera, microphone, sensor, etc. to the game server 10. The processor 11 communicates with the external devices through the input / output interface 14. The input / output interface 14 is realized using, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB), a Digital Visual Interface (DVI), a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI, registered trademark), or other terminals.

[0022] The communication interface 15 communicates with other devices (e.g., user terminal 20) connected to the communication network 2. The communication interface 15 is realized as, for example, a wired communication interface such as a LAN (Local Area Network), or a wireless communication interface such as Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0023] [Configuration of user terminal 20] The user terminal 20 is realized as, for example, an HMD (Head Mounted Display) set, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a feature phone, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, etc. In this embodiment, an example of the user terminal 20 as a tablet terminal will be described as shown in FIG.

[0024] Fig. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of the user terminal 20. As shown in Fig. 3, the user terminal 20 mainly includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a storage 23, a communication interface 25, a monitor 31, cameras 33 and 34, a microphone 35, a speaker 36, a motion sensor 41, and an operation device 42 (operation unit). Each component of the user terminal 20 is connected to a communication bus 29.

[0025] The processor 21, memory 22, storage 23, and communication IF 25 have the same configuration as the processor 11, memory 12, storage 13, and communication IF 15 of the game server 10. The storage 23 also stores a terminal program 23P.

[0026] Monitor 31 is provided on the surface of a flat housing, as shown in Fig. 1, for example. Monitor 31 is a display device (display unit) that displays images or videos. Camera 33 is a so-called in-camera that is attached to the surface of the flat housing and captures an image of the face of a user viewing monitor 31. Camera 34 is a so-called out-camera that is attached to the back surface of the flat housing (the surface opposite to monitor 31) and captures an image of the surroundings.

[0027] The microphone 35 converts the user's speech into an audio signal (electrical signal) and outputs it. The speaker 36 converts the audio signal into sound and outputs it to the user. Note that the user terminal 20 may include earphones instead of the speaker 36.

[0028] The motion sensor 41 detects the motion of the housing (for example, rotation around three mutually orthogonal axes). The motion sensor 41 may be realized by, for example, an angular velocity sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, or an acceleration sensor.

[0029] The operation device 42 accepts input (operation) of commands by the user to the user terminal 20. The operation device 42 is, for example, a touch panel that is superimposed on the monitor 31 and accepts various touch operations by the user. In other words, the monitor 31 according to this embodiment is a touch panel display unit. As another example, the user terminal 20 may be provided with a controller equipped with buttons, an operation stick, etc. as the operation device 42.

[0030] [Game Server 10 Functional Block Diagram] Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram of the game server 10. As shown in Fig. 4, the server program 13P loaded into the memory 12 causes the game server 10 (processor 11) to function as game progression means 110, distribution control means 120, distribution means 130, distribution result display means 140, game result display means 150, simple display means 160, confirmation means 170, information display means 180, and prediction acceptance means 190.

[0031] The game progression means 110 synchronizes and progresses the online game across multiple play terminals 20. More specifically, the game progression means 110 transmits data necessary for the progress of the online game to all play terminals 20 participating in the online game. The game progression means 110 also causes the multiple play terminals 20 participating in the online game to share game data. In other words, the game progression means 110 transmits game data received from one play terminal 20 to all other play terminals 20. This allows the online game to progress synchronized across all play terminals 20. The processing executed by the game progression means 110 is an example of a game progression step.

[0032] The distribution control means 120 controls the start and stop of distribution of game images (hereinafter referred to as "game distribution"). For example, when a "Start Distribution" icon displayed on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A is tapped, the distribution control means 120 causes the distribution means 130 to start game distribution. Furthermore, for example, when a "Stop Distribution" icon displayed on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A is tapped, the distribution control means 120 causes the distribution means 130 to stop game distribution. The processing executed by the distribution control means 120 is an example of a distribution control step.

[0033] Here, the terminal program 23P of the user terminal 20 receives a user operation of tapping an icon displayed on the monitor 31 via the operation device 42. Then, the terminal program 23P transmits information indicating the icon tapped via the operation device 42 to the game server 10 via the communication IF 25. As a result, the distribution control means 120 recognizes that the [Start distribution] icon or the [Stop distribution] icon has been tapped. Hereinafter, these processes will be omitted. The same applies to the other control means.

[0034] The distribution means 130 distributes game images of the game being executed on the play terminal 20A to the viewing terminal 20B. As one example, the distribution means 130 may receive game images from the play terminal 20A via the communication IF 15, and transmit the game images to the viewing terminal 20B via the communication IF 15. As another example, the distribution means 130 may generate image data for the play terminal 20A based on game data collected by the game progression means 110, and transmit the generated image data to the viewing terminal 20B via the communication IF 15. The processing performed by the distribution means 130 is an example of a distribution step.

[0035] The game images are still images or moving images (video) displayed on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. The game images may also include images captured by the cameras 33 and 34 of the play terminal 20A. Furthermore, the game images may also include audio picked up by the microphone 35 of the play terminal 20A and audio output from the speaker 36 of the play terminal.

[0036] The game images include standby images, play images, and result images. A standby image is an image that is displayed when waiting for the start of the main content of the game (in this embodiment, a group battle) (i.e., outside the game). For example, the home screen shown in FIG. 5(A), the matching screen shown in FIG. 5(B), and the game image showing the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 13(B) are examples of standby images. A play image is an image that is displayed when the main content is being executed (i.e., in the game). The play screen shown in FIG. 6(A) is an example of a play image. A result image is an image that shows information on the result of playing the main content (game result). The game images showing result screens shown in FIGS. 8 to 13(A) are examples of result images.

[0037] When the primary content is played once, the game image contains a standby image, a play image, and a result image in that order. When the primary content is played repeatedly, the result image of the previous primary content is followed by a standby image, a play image, and a result image of the next primary content.

[0038] The distribution result display means 140 displays the distribution results of the game images on the play terminal 20A. More specifically, when the distribution control means 120 stops the game distribution, the distribution result display means 140 displays the distribution result screen shown in FIG. 19(A) and the gift list screen shown in FIG. 19(B) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. The distribution result is information indicating the results of the game distribution. The distribution result includes, for example, the time the game images were distributed, the cumulative number of viewers who viewed the game images, the number of gifts and cheers given by viewers, and experience points given by the game server 10 as a result of the game images being distributed. The processing executed by the distribution result display means 140 is an example of a distribution result display step.

[0039] Here, "the distribution result display means 140 causes the user terminal 20 to display a screen" means that the distribution result display means 140 instructs the terminal program 23P of the user terminal 20 to display a screen. Instructing to display a screen may mean, for example, sending screen data for a screen to be displayed on the monitor 31, or sending information to be displayed on the screen (for example, numerical values, icons, images). In the following, these processes will be omitted. The same applies to other control means.

[0040] The game result display means 150 displays the game result on the play terminal 20A. More specifically, the game result display means 150 displays the result screens shown in Figs. 8 to 13(A) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. The game result is information indicating the result of playing the main content of the game. The game result includes, for example, the win / loss of the main content, the score of the player operating the play terminal 20A, the rank of the proficiency level of the main content, the experience points given to the player, and the benefits given to the player. The process executed by the game result display means 150 is an example of a game result display step.

[0041] When the display of multiple game results is skipped on the play terminal 20A, the simplified display means 160 causes the play terminal 20A to simply display the skipped game results together. More specifically, the simplified display means 160 causes the play terminal 20A to display a summary screen shown in Fig. 13(A). The processing executed by the simplified display means 160 is an example of a simplified display step.

[0042] After displaying the game result on the play terminal 20A, the confirmation means 170 confirms whether or not to play the game (primary content) again. More specifically, after the result screens shown in FIGS. 8 to 13(A) are displayed (or a portion of them is skipped), the confirmation means 170 displays the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 13(B) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. Then, when the [Retry] icon is tapped, the confirmation means 170 causes the play terminal 20A to continue playing the primary content. On the other hand, when the [Home] icon is tapped, the confirmation means 170 causes the play terminal 20A to transition to the home screen shown in FIG. 5(A) without continuing to play the primary content. The process executed by the confirmation means 170 is an example of a confirmation step.

[0043] The information display means 180 displays, on the viewing terminal 20B, a viewing benefit that is granted in response to viewing a game image. More specifically, the information display means 180 displays the viewing benefit in the UI area A2, as shown in Fig. 15(A) and Fig. 15(B). The process executed by the information display means 180 is an example of an information display step.

[0044] The viewing reward is something that is given to the viewer 20B to increase motivation to view the game images. The viewing reward may be, for example, an item or coins that can be used in the game provided by the game server 10, or experience points that are given by playing the game (for example, a part of the experience points given to the player 20A who played the game on the play terminal 20A). The viewing reward is an example of information for the viewer that is included in the game result. However, specific examples of information for the viewer are not limited to the viewing reward.

[0045] The prediction accepting means 190 accepts, through the viewing terminal 20B, a prediction of the ranking of the player 20A operating the playing terminal 20A in the game to be subsequently played while a standby image (confirmation image) showing a confirmation screen is being distributed. More specifically, the prediction accepting means 190 displays the prediction acceptance screen shown in FIG. 15(B) on the monitor 31 of the viewing terminal 20B. Then, the prediction accepting means 190 accepts a prediction of the ranking from the viewer 20B of the viewing terminal 20B via the [1st place] icon, [2nd to 6th place] icon, and [7th to 12th place] icon. The process executed by the prediction accepting means 190 is an example of a prediction accepting step.

[0046] [Game distribution processing] Game distribution provided by the game server 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 5 and 6. Fig. 5 shows example screens of a home screen (A) and a matching screen (B). Fig. 6 shows example screens of a play screen (A) and a viewing screen (B). Note that the game (main content) according to this embodiment involves two groups (teams) each of which has six players (avatars), and the groups compete against each other. The competition may involve, for example, players fighting each other, or competing to see who can obtain the most items. The game may also include a portrait screen (e.g., Fig. 5) and a landscape screen (e.g., Fig. 6(A)).

[0047] First, the game progression means 110 displays the home screen shown in Fig. 5(A) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. Then, when the [Battle] icon is tapped, the game progression means 110 performs matching with other players who wish to participate in the game (i.e., a player's team is formed of six players including the player 20A, and an enemy team is formed of the other six players). Then, the game progression means 110 displays a matching screen (Fig. 5(B)) showing the matching results on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A.

[0048] Next, when all of the players' user terminals 20 are ready to play the main content, the game progression means 110 displays the play screen shown in FIG. 6(A) on the play terminal 20A. Then, in accordance with the operation of the player 20A via the operation device 42, the game progression means 110 moves the player's own avatar, causes the player's own avatar to attack other player's avatars, and causes the player's own avatar to acquire items. The game progression means 110 then shares this game data among all of the play terminals 20, thereby synchronously progressing the main content on all of the play terminals 20. Note that the player's own avatar is an avatar operated by the player 20A, and the other player's avatar is an avatar operated by a player other than the player 20A.

[0049] Furthermore, when the [Start distribution] icon displayed on the play terminal 20A is tapped at any timing, the distribution control means 120 causes the distribution means 130 to start game distribution to the viewing terminal 20B that wishes to view the gameplay image of the play terminal 20A (for example, the viewing terminal 20B has selected the play terminal 20A from a list of play terminals 20 currently distributing a game). The distribution means 130 transmits the game image of the play terminal 20A to the viewing terminal 20B.

[0050] More specifically, the distribution means 130 displays the viewing screen shown in Fig. 6(B) on the monitor 31 of the viewing terminal 20B. The viewing screen is a screen that allows the viewer 20B to view game images and also provides the viewer 20B with an input / output interface (e.g., sending and displaying chat messages, accepting ranking predictions, and notifying viewing benefits) with the game server 10. As shown in Fig. 6(B), the viewing screen includes a viewing area A1 and a UI area A2.

[0051] The viewing area A1 is an area that displays image data received from the game server 10. The UI area A2 is an area that provides an input interface from the viewer 20B to the game server 10 (e.g., input of text chat, cheers, gifts, and predicted rankings) and an output interface from the game server 10 to the viewer 20B (e.g., display of a list of text chats from other viewers, notification of viewing benefits). As shown in FIG. 6(B), the distribution means 130 displays a list of text chats, an input area for text chat, an "cheer" icon, and a "gift" icon in the UI area A2 in synchronization with displaying gameplay images in the viewing area A1.

[0052] A user operating the viewing terminal 20B can input text chat and tap the "cheer" icon or the "gift" icon while viewing the game image displayed in the viewing area A1. The distribution means 130 then reflects the input text chat in the UI area A2 of all the viewing terminals 20. The distribution means 130 also tallies the cheers and gifts input at all the viewing terminals 20. An cheer is an expression of support for the player 20A. A gift is a present (for example, coins, items, etc.) sent to the player 20A. The distribution means 130 also tallies the time during which the playing terminal 20A has distributed the game image, the cumulative number of viewers who have viewed the game image, etc.

[0053] For example, when a "Stop Viewing" icon displayed in the upper left corner of the viewing area A1 of the viewing terminal 20B is tapped, the distribution control means 120 stops the game distribution to the viewing terminal 20B. Also, for example, when a "Stop Distribution" icon displayed on the monitor 31 of the playing terminal 20A is tapped, the distribution control means 120 stops the game distribution to all viewing terminals 20. The processing of the game progression means 110, distribution control means 120, and distribution means 130 may be similar to existing technology.

[0054] [Game result processing for players] The player game result processing will be described with reference to Figs. 7 to 13. Fig. 7 is a flowchart of the player game result processing. Fig. 8 is an example of a screen displaying a win / loss effect. Fig. 9 is an example of a screen displaying a performance effect. Fig. 10 is an example of a screen displaying a rank-up effect. Fig. 11 is an example of a screen displaying an experience value effect. Fig. 12 is an example of a screen displaying a treasure chest effect. Fig. 13 is an example of a summary screen (A) and a confirmation screen (B). The player game result processing is processing for displaying the game results of the main content played by the player 20A on the play terminal 20A. The player game result processing is executed when play of the main content has ended.

[0055] First, the game result display means 150 executes a win / loss effect (S11). The win / loss effect is an effect that displays the win / loss of the primary content on the play terminal 20A. The win / loss of the primary content according to this embodiment indicates whether the team to which the player 20A belongs (the player's team) has won or lost. The game result display means 150 sequentially displays, for example, a screen (FIG. 8(A)) indicating that the player's team has won, a screen (FIG. 8(B)) indicating the cumulative number of wins and losses of the player's team and the opponent team, and a screen (FIG. 8(C)) indicating the contribution of each player belonging to the player's team to the primary content on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. However, specific examples of the win / loss effect are not limited to the example of FIG. 8.

[0056] Next, the game result display means 150 executes a result presentation (S12). The result presentation is a presentation in which the result of the player 20A in the main content is displayed on the play terminal 20A. The result of the player 20A refers to the points acquired by the player 20A while playing the main content, the degree of the player 20A's performance (for example, the number of other avatars defeated or supported in defeat, the number of times the player's avatar has been defeated, the time the player's avatar survived, the amount of recovery, damage inflicted, and damage received), and the point ranking of all players who played the main content. For example, the game result display means 150 sequentially displays a screen (FIG. 9(A)) showing the points acquired by the player 20A, a screen (FIG. 9(B)) showing the degree of the player 20A's performance, and a screen (FIG. 9(C)) showing the point ranking on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A. However, specific examples of the result presentation are not limited to the example of FIG. 9.

[0057] Then, the game result display means 150 displays a [Skip] icon on the last screen of the result presentation, as shown in FIG. 9(C). The [Skip] icon is an icon for skipping the display of the game result. This [Skip] icon is not displayed on screens prior to FIG. 9(C) among the various screens displaying the game result, but is displayed on screens subsequent to FIG. 9(C). In other words, the game result display means 150 prohibits skipping of the win / loss presentation and the result presentation, but permits skipping of the rank-up presentation, experience point presentation, and treasure chest presentation, which will be described later. However, the [Skip] icon does not need to be displayed on all screens subsequent to FIG. 9(C). For example, the [Skip] icon does not need to be displayed on presentation screens overlaid on the main screen.

[0058] Next, if the "Skip" icon in FIG. 9(C) is not tapped (S13: No), the game result display means 150 executes a rank-up effect (S14). The rank-up effect is an effect that displays the rank of the player 20A's proficiency in the primary content on the play terminal 20A. The player 20A's proficiency in the primary content is a value determined by taking into consideration the wins and losses in the primary content, the player 20A's ranking in the primary content, the acquired score, whether or not there is a winning streak, etc. When the proficiency exceeds a threshold, the player 20A's rank increases. For example, the game result display means 150 displays a screen (FIG. 10(A)) showing the player 20A's proficiency, and when the rank increases, superimposes a rank-up effect screen (FIG. 10(B)), and then returns to the screen of FIG. 10(A). However, specific examples of the rank-up effect are not limited to the example of FIG. 10.

[0059] Next, if the "Skip" icon in FIG. 10(A) is not tapped (S15: No), the game result display means 150 executes an experience point effect (S16). The experience point effect is an effect that displays, on the play terminal 20A, the experience points that have been granted to the player 20A by playing the primary content. For example, the game result display means 150 displays a screen (FIG. 11(A)) showing the experience points that have been granted to the player 20A, and when the player 20A levels up, superimposes a level-up effect screen (FIG. 11(B)) and then returns to the screen of FIG. 11(A). However, specific examples of the experience point effect are not limited to the example of FIG. 11.

[0060] Next, if the "Skip" icon in FIG. 11(A) is not tapped (S17: No), the game result display means 150 executes a treasure chest effect (S18). The treasure chest effect is an effect that displays on the play terminal 20A a benefit (e.g., an item, coins, chips, etc.) that has been granted to the player 20A as a result of playing the main content. For example, the game result display means 150 displays a screen (FIG. 12(A)) showing the benefit granted to the player 20A, and if a special (e.g., rare) benefit has been granted, superimposes a rare effect screen (FIG. 12(B)), and then returns to the screen of FIG. 12(A). However, specific examples of the treasure chest effect are not limited to the example of FIG. 12.

[0061] Then, the game result display means 150 ends the display of the game result when the treasure chest effect ends. Note that specific examples of game results are not limited to the examples of S11, S12, S14, S16, and S18. Also, the display order of multiple game results is not limited to the example of FIG. 7. Furthermore, specific examples of game results that prohibit skipping and game results that allow skipping are not limited to the example of FIG. 7.

[0062] On the other hand, when the [Skip] icon is tapped (S13: Yes / S15: Yes / S17: Yes), the game result display means 150 skips displaying the subsequent game results. That is, when the [Skip] icon is tapped (S13: Yes / S15: Yes / S17: Yes), the game result display means 150 ends displaying the game results.

[0063] Then, when the [Skip] icon is tapped (S13: Yes / S15: Yes / S17: Yes), the simplified display means 160 displays the summary screen shown in FIG. 13(A) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A (S19). The summary screen is a screen that simply displays a summary of the game results that were skipped. For example, when the rank-up effect is skipped, it simply displays that the player has been "promoted to rank gold," when the experience point effect is skipped, it simply displays that the player has "leveled up," and when the treasure chest effect is skipped, it simply displays that the player has "earned a badge." In other words, the content displayed on the summary screen changes depending on when the [Skip] icon is tapped.

[0064] Next, when the display of the game results has finished (when all game results have been displayed or when the display of some game results has been skipped), the confirmation means 170 displays the confirmation screen shown in FIG. 13(B) on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A (S20). The confirmation screen is a screen that confirms with the player 20A whether or not to re-execute the primary content (play the primary content again) on the play terminal 20A. The confirmation screen includes a "Retry" icon and a "Home" icon.

[0065] Then, when the [Retry] icon is tapped (S21: Retry), the confirmation means 170 displays the matching screen (FIG. 5(B)) after waiting for the participation of other players and starts the main content again (S22). On the other hand, when the [Home] icon is tapped (S21: Home), the confirmation means 170 displays the home screen (FIG. 5(A)) without re-executing the main content (S23).

[0066] [Game result processing for viewers] The viewer game result processing will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 is a flowchart of the viewer game result processing. Fig. 15 shows examples of a viewing bonus screen (A) displayed together with the experience point effect, a viewing bonus screen (B) when the experience point effect is skipped, and a prediction acceptance screen (C). The viewer game result processing is processing for displaying a result image on the viewing terminal 20B. The viewer game result processing is executed in parallel with the player game result processing.

[0067] First, distribution means 130 displays a result image of play terminal 20A in viewing area A1 of monitor 31 of viewing terminal 20B (S31). That is, in viewing area A1 of viewing terminal 20B, a result image showing the various effects (S11, S12, S14, S16, S18, S19) displayed on monitor 31 of play terminal 20A is displayed in synchronization with the effects.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 15(A), when a result image showing an experience point effect is displayed in the viewing area A1 (i.e., the [Skip] icon is not tapped before the experience point effect) (S32: Yes), the information display means 180 displays a viewing bonus (15 EXP, 5 pt) in the UI area A2 together with the result image showing the experience point effect (S33). The experience points shown in the experience point effect are an example of a specific result among multiple game results. However, specific examples of the specific result are not limited to this.

[0069] The result image continues to be displayed in the viewing area A1 of the viewing terminal 20B (S31) until all game results are displayed on the playing terminal 20A or until the "Skip" icon is tapped midway (S34: No). Then, after the result image has finished, the distribution means 130 displays a standby image in the viewing area A1 of the viewing terminal 20B. Then, when the result image has finished (S34: Yes), the information display means 180 determines whether or not a viewing bonus has been displayed (S35). In other words, the information display means 180 determines whether or not the experience point presentation has been skipped.

[0070] Next, when it is determined that the viewing privilege has not yet been displayed (i.e., the display of the specified result has been skipped) (S35: No), the information display means 180 displays the viewing privilege on the viewing terminal 20B after the result image has been skipped (S36). More specifically, as shown in FIG. 15(B), the information display means 180 displays the viewing privilege in the UI area A2 together with the standby image of the confirmation screen displayed in the viewing area A1. In addition, the information display means 180 displays a [Rank Prediction] icon in the UI area A2 together with the viewing privilege.

[0071] Next, when the [Rank Prediction] icon is tapped while the standby image showing the confirmation screen is displayed in the viewing area A1 (S37: Yes), the prediction accepting means 190 displays a prediction accepting screen in the UI area A2 together with the standby image of the confirmation screen displayed in the viewing area A1 (S38), as shown in FIG. 15(C). Then, the prediction accepting means 190 accepts the player 20A's ranking prediction for the main content to be played subsequently (for example, by tapping the [1st place] icon, the [2nd to 6th place] icon, or the [7th to 12th place] icon) through the prediction accepting screen. The result of the ranking prediction accepted by the prediction accepting means 190 may, for example, be taken into account in the next viewing benefit.

[0072] On the other hand, if the [Rank Prediction] icon is not tapped while the standby image showing the confirmation screen is displayed in the viewing area A1 (S37: No), the prediction accepting means 190 does not display the prediction accepting screen. Furthermore, if the information display means 180 determines that the viewing privilege has already been displayed (i.e., the display of the identified result has not been skipped) (S35: Yes), it skips the processing of step S36. Furthermore, if the processing of step S36 is skipped, the prediction accepting means 190 displays the prediction accepting screen in the UI area A2 together with the standby image of the confirmation screen displayed in the viewing area A1, as shown in FIG. 15(C), regardless of whether the [Rank Prediction] icon has been tapped (S38).

[0073] That is, when at least a part of the game result is skipped at the play terminal 20A, the distribution means 130 causes the viewing terminal 20B to skip the result image while leaving the information for the viewer included in the information on the game result.

[0074] [Distribution result processing] The distribution result processing will be described with reference to Figs. 16 to 21. Fig. 16 is a flowchart of the distribution result processing. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of stopping distribution via the home screen. Fig. 18 is an example screen showing a countdown to the end of distribution. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example screen of a distribution result screen (A) and a gift list screen (B). Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example screen of stopping distribution via a confirmation screen. Fig. 21 is an example screen of a toast display indicating the end of distribution (A) and a distribution end notification screen (B). The distribution result processing is processing for displaying the distribution result on play terminal 20A. The distribution result processing is executed in response to the game distribution being stopped on play terminal 20A.

[0075] There may be multiple ways to stop the game distribution on the play terminal 20A. As one example, when the [Distribution Menu] icon on the home screen of FIG. 17(A) is tapped, the distribution menu screen of FIG. 17(B) is displayed superimposed on the home screen. Then, when the [Stop Distribution] icon in the upper right corner of the distribution menu screen is tapped, the game distribution ends. As another example, when the [Stop Distribution] icon in the upper left corner of the confirmation screen of FIG. 20(A) is tapped, the confirmation dialog of FIG. 20(B) is displayed superimposed on the confirmation screen. Then, when the [End] icon in the confirmation dialog is tapped, the game distribution ends. As yet another example, as shown in FIG. 18, the game distribution ends when a predetermined time (e.g., six hours) has elapsed since the start of the game distribution.

[0076] First, when the distribution of game images is stopped, the distribution control means 120 determines whether the game distribution was normal (S41). Normal game distribution, for example, refers to the distribution of game images in which the primary content is played legitimately. On the other hand, abnormal game distribution, for example, refers to the distribution of game images in which the primary content is not played legitimately (for example, abandoned images). The distribution control means 120 may determine whether the game distribution is normal based on the operation state (for example, number of times, period) of the operation device 42 of the play terminal 20A during the game distribution. However, the method of determination in step S41 is not limited to this.

[0077] Next, if the distribution result display means 140 determines that the game distribution was abnormal (S41: No), it does not execute the processes from step S42 onwards and ends the distribution result process. In other words, if the distribution result display means 140 determines that the game distribution was abnormal (S41: No), it does not notify the player 20A of the distribution result, and does not grant the experience points, gifts, etc. that would be granted to the player 20A who distributed the game.

[0078] Next, when it is determined that the game distribution is normal (S41: Yes), the distribution result display means 140 determines whether the game distribution has been stopped via the home screen (S42). As shown in FIG. 17(B), tapping the [Stop Distribution] icon on the distribution menu screen superimposed on the home screen is an example of stopping the game distribution via the home screen. Also, as shown in FIG. 18(A), the passage of a predetermined time while the home screen is displayed on the monitor 31 is another example of stopping the game distribution via the home screen. The home screen is an example of a specific screen. However, specific examples of specific screens are not limited to the home screen.

[0079] Then, when it is determined that the game distribution has been stopped via the home screen (S42: Yes), the distribution result display means 140 causes the distribution result screen shown in FIG. 19(A) to be superimposed on the home screen and displayed on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A (S46). The distribution result screen is a screen that displays the results of distribution of the game image of the play terminal 20A (distribution results). The distribution result screen displays, for example, distribution results tallied by the game server 10 (for example, distribution time, number of viewers by type, number of gifts and cheers received from viewers, distribution acquisition score, etc.).

[0080] Next, in response to a tap on the [Next] icon on the distribution result screen, the distribution result display means 140 determines whether or not a gift was received from a viewer during the game distribution (S47). Then, if the distribution result display means 140 determines that a gift was received from a viewer (S47: Yes), it superimposes the gift list screen shown in Fig. 19(B) on the home screen and displays it on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20A (S48). The gift list screen is a screen that displays a list of viewers who have given gifts to the player 20A who is distributing the game, in descending order of the number of gifts sent.

[0081] Then, when the [Close] icon on the gift list screen is tapped, the delivery result display means 140 returns to the home screen. Also, when it is determined that no gift has been received from the viewer (S47: No), the delivery result display means 140 returns to the home screen without displaying the gift list screen.

[0082] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 20, tapping the "End" icon in the confirmation dialog superimposed on the confirmation screen is an example of stopping the game distribution through a screen other than the home screen. Also, as shown in Fig. 18(B), the passage of a predetermined time while the confirmation screen is displayed on monitor 31 is another example of stopping the game distribution through a screen other than the home screen. However, the "screen other than the home screen" is not limited to the confirmation screen.

[0083] Then, when it is determined through the confirmation screen that the game distribution has been stopped (S42: No), the distribution result display means 140 displays a toast (or a pop-up) message superimposed on the confirmation screen, saying "Distribution has ended" and "Return to the home screen to view the distribution results," as shown in Fig. 21(A) (S43). This distribution end notification screen may be automatically deleted after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0084] Next, the distribution result display means 140 waits to execute the processing from step S45 onwards until the screen transitions to the home screen (S44: No). Next, at the timing of the screen transition to the home screen (S44: Yes), the distribution result display means 140 superimposes the distribution end dialog shown in FIG. 21(B) on the home screen and displays it on the monitor 31 of the play terminal 20 (S45). The distribution end dialog is a screen for notifying the user that the game distribution has been stopped. Then, when the [Close] icon on the distribution end dialog is tapped, the distribution result display means 140 executes the processing from step S46 onwards. That is, when the game distribution is stopped via the confirmation screen (S42: No), the distribution result display means 140 transitions the screen to the home screen (S44: Yes) and then displays the distribution result screen on the monitor 31 (S46).

[0085] [Effects of this embodiment] According to the above embodiment, when the game result is not skipped on the play terminal 20A, the viewing bonus is displayed on the viewing terminal 20B together with the experience point effect. On the other hand, when the experience point effect is skipped on the play terminal 20A, the viewing bonus is displayed on the viewing terminal 20B after the result image is skipped (in other words, together with the standby image following the result image). This allows the viewer 20B to be properly notified that the viewing bonus has been awarded (i.e., information for viewers of the broadcast) even if the player 20A skips an effect that does not interest him / her.

[0086] However, when the game result is not skipped, what is displayed together with the viewing reward on the viewing terminal 20B is not limited to a result image showing an experience value effect. Also, when the game result is skipped, what is displayed together with the viewing reward on the viewing terminal 20B is not limited to a standby image showing a confirmation screen.

[0087] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when the game result is not skipped on the play terminal 20A, a prediction acceptance screen is displayed together with a standby image showing a confirmation screen. On the other hand, when the experience point effect is skipped, the viewing benefit is displayed on the viewing terminal 20B in preference to the prediction acceptance screen. This makes it possible to more appropriately notify the viewer 20B that the viewing benefit has been awarded.

[0088] Furthermore, when the [Rank Prediction] icon displayed together with the viewing privilege is tapped, a prediction acceptance screen is displayed, so that the viewer 20B who has confirmed the viewing privilege can predict the ranking of the next main content. However, the timing of displaying the prediction acceptance screen is not limited to the above example. Also, the acceptance of ranking predictions can be omitted.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, by distinguishing between game results that prohibit skipping and game results that allow skipping, the player 20A can be made aware of game results that maintain motivation for the primary content. However, the game results that prohibit skipping and the game results that allow skipping are not limited to the above examples. Furthermore, skipping of all game results may be allowed.

[0090] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when a game result is skipped, the skipped game results are displayed together in a simplified format. This allows the player 20A, who does not want to watch a long presentation, to be aware of the game result. This allows the player 20A to maintain their motivation for the primary content.

[0091] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when game distribution is stopped via a screen other than the home screen, the distribution result screen is displayed after transitioning to the home screen. This prevents the distribution result screen from being displayed, for example, when waiting to decide whether to continue playing the primary content (FIG. 20) or while playing the primary content. As a result, the player 20A can be made aware of the distribution result without interrupting the play of the primary content.

[0092] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when the screen transition occurs to the home screen after the game distribution is stopped, a distribution end dialog is displayed before the distribution result screen is displayed, thereby allowing the player 20A to check the distribution result without feeling uncomfortable even if a long time has passed since the game distribution was stopped.

[0093] Furthermore, the program according to the present invention is not limited to a single program, but may be a collection of multiple programs. Furthermore, the program according to the present invention is not limited to one executed by a single device, but may be shared and executed by multiple devices. Furthermore, the division of roles between the game server 10 and the user terminal 20 is not limited to the example described above. That is, part of the processing of the game server 10 may be executed by the user terminal 20, or part of the processing of the user terminal 20 may be executed by the game server 10.

[0094] Furthermore, some or all of the means implemented by the program can be implemented by hardware such as an integrated circuit. Furthermore, the program may be provided recorded on a non-transitory recording medium that can be read by a computer. Examples of recording media include hard disks, SD cards, DVDs, and servers on the Internet. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1...system, 2...communication network, 10...game server, 11,21...processor, 12,22...memory, 13,23...storage, 13P...server program, 14...input / output interface, 15,25...communication interface, 19,29...communication bus, 20...user terminal, 23P...terminal program, 31...monitor, 33,34...camera, 35...microphone, 36...speaker, 41...motion sensor, 42...operation device, 110...game progression means, 120...distribution control means, 130...distribution means, 140...distribution result display means, 150...game result display means, 160...simple display means, 170...confirmation means, 180...benefit display means, 190...prediction acceptance means

Claims

1. causing the processor to distribute game images of a game being executed on a first terminal operated by a player to a second terminal operated by a viewer; the game image includes a result image showing information about the result of the game executed on the first terminal, the processor, When the result information is not skipped on the first terminal, a viewing benefit granted as a result of viewing the game image is displayed on the second terminal together with the result image; When at least a part of the result information is skipped on the first terminal, the program causes the second terminal to display the viewing privilege after the result image is skipped.

2. 2. The program according to claim 1, the processor, After displaying the result information on the first terminal, the player is prompted to confirm whether or not to continue playing the game; When the result information is skipped on the first terminal, the program causes the second terminal to display the viewing privilege together with a confirmation image asking whether to continue playing the game.

3. 3. The program according to claim 2, the game is a competitive game in which a plurality of the players compete against each other, a program that causes the processor to accept, via the second terminal, a predicted ranking of the player in the game to be played next while the confirmation image is being displayed.

4. 4. The program according to claim 3, the processor, When at least a part of the result information is skipped on the first terminal, displaying a ranking prediction icon together with the viewing benefit on the second terminal; When the ranking prediction icon is selected, a ranking prediction is accepted through a prediction acceptance screen displayed on the second terminal instead of the viewing privilege.

5. 2. The program according to claim 1, the processor, displaying, in sequence at least on the first terminal, as the information on the results, the performance of the player operating the first terminal and the experience points given to the player; A program that prohibits skipping the display of the player's achievements and allows skipping the display of the experience points given to the player.

6. 2. The program according to claim 1, a program that causes the processor to, when the result information is skipped on the first terminal, collectively display the skipped result information on the first terminal;

7. 2. The program according to claim 1, A program that causes the processor to display a result of the distribution of the game image on the first terminal when the distribution of the game image is stopped.

8. The program according to claim 7, A program that causes the processor to notify the stop of distribution of the game image at the timing of screen transition to the specific screen when distribution of the game image is stopped through a screen different from the specific screen, and then display the distribution result.

9. A system including a distribution means for distributing game images of a game being executed on a first terminal operated by a player to a second terminal operated by a viewer, the game image includes a result image showing information about the result of the game executed on the first terminal, The distribution means When the result information is not skipped on the first terminal, a viewing benefit granted as a result of viewing the game image is displayed on the second terminal together with the result image; When at least a portion of the result information is skipped on the first terminal, the system displays the viewing privilege on the second terminal after the result image is skipped.

10. A method for providing a game system including a distribution step of distributing game images of a game being executed on a first terminal operated by a player to a second terminal operated by a viewer, the game image includes a result image showing information about the result of the game executed on the first terminal, The delivery step includes: When the result information is not skipped on the first terminal, a viewing benefit granted as a result of viewing the game image is displayed on the second terminal together with the result image; When at least a portion of the result information is skipped on the first terminal, the viewing privilege is displayed on the second terminal after the result image is skipped.

Images