Information processing system, information processing device and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing apparatus, and a program for promoting the circulation of games and electronic commerce services.SOLUTION: A method employing the information processing system includes: a receiving step of receiving input by a user for instructing a settlement procedure using first settlement means; a settlement processing step of performing the settlement for an accounting object provided in a game and the settlement for an electronic commerce service that provides a service that cannot be used in the game, in accordance with the input; and a granting step of granting a first benefit usable in the game to the user based on the settlement for the first settlement means. In a benefit processing step, processing in the electronic commerce service is performed based on a second benefit granted in the game.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for an electronic commerce system in which the profits obtained vary depending on the output results of a computer game. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-112794 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There may be a desire to promote the use of both gaming and e-commerce services.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure aims to promote the circulation of games and e-commerce services. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing system is provided. In a receiving step in the information processing system, input from a user to instruct a payment procedure using a first payment method is received. In a payment processing step, payment for billable objects provided in the game and payment for an e-commerce service that provides services not available in the game are executed in response to the input. In a granting step, a first benefit that can be used in the game is granted to the user based on the payment using the first payment method. In a benefit processing step, processing in the e-commerce service is executed based on a second benefit granted in the game.

[0007] According to this embodiment, it is possible to promote browsing of games and e-commerce services. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a game system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a control unit of each device. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing executed by the game system 1. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing executed by the game system 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen related to billing. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen for selecting a charge target. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen for selecting a payment method. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual currency purchase screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an item purchase screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual currency purchase screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an item purchase screen through in-app billing. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a common gacha execution screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a service screen of an EC site. 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 Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a game system 1 according to this embodiment. In the game system 1 shown in Fig. 1, a game management device 2, an application distribution device 5, an EC management device 6, multiple game devices 3, and multiple user devices 7 are communicably connected to one another via a communication network 11, a game is executed on the game devices 3, and a process of providing services on an EC site (EC: Electronic Commerce) is executed on the user devices 7. Each device connected to the game system 1 is an information processing device.

[0014] The game according to this embodiment is an online game executed by the game system 1. In this game, a user of the game device 3 causes one or more player characters to act in a virtual game space, and causes the player characters to fight against enemy characters that are non-player characters (NPCs). A character is an example of an object.

[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), or an electronic device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal.

[0016] 2. Overview of Game System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 is made up of a game management device 2, an application distribution device 5, an EC management device 6, multiple game devices 3, and multiple user devices 7. The game management device 2 stores game programs and game data, and manages the game data of the game devices 3 (for each account information described below). The game management device 2 is made up of, for example, a server. Each of the multiple game devices 3 has the same configuration. Note that in this embodiment, a system is made up of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, the game management device 2 or a game device 3 described below alone can also be an example of the game system 1.

[0017] 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 game management 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 game management device 2 at the time of login, and is used for user authentication in the game management device 2.

[0018] After user authentication, mutual communication between the game management device 2 and the game device 3 becomes possible. After logging in, the game device 3 receives data necessary for game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the game management device 2, and progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and speaker 4b based on user operations. The game management device 2 is operated by game maker A.

[0019] The application distribution device 5 is a device that distributes application programs (hereinafter referred to as "applications"). A game program executed by the game device 3 is one type of application, and is distributed by the application distribution device 5. The game device 3 runs the application on a platform such as an OS (Operating System) that provides a common operating environment. The application distribution device 5 is operated by provider company B, which provides the platform. The application distribution device 5 is provided with a payment method used for payments related to applications.

[0020] The EC management device 6 is a device that manages an EC site and provides e-commerce services via the EC site. An e-commerce service is a service that enables commercial transactions to be conducted electronically without having a physical store. The EC management device 6 is equipped with a payment method used to pay for the e-commerce service. The EC site provided by the EC management device 6 can be used from both the game device 3 and the user device 7.

[0021] Each of the multiple user devices 7 is a device that executes information processing, such as a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc. Based on a user's operation, the user device 7 executes, for example, a browser program to display an EC site in the form of a web page, or executes a dedicated app for browsing the EC site to display the EC site.

[0022] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware component of the game system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0023] <Game Management Device 2> 1, the game management device 2 has 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.

[0024] 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 game management 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 game management device 2 via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the game device 3 has received the game program, information regarding game media obtained through gacha, etc.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] Control unit 23 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of game management device 2, which is its own device. In particular, control unit 23 realizes various functions related to game management device 2, which is its own device, by reading out predetermined programs stored in storage unit 22. That is, information processing by software stored in storage unit 22 is specifically realized by control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and multiple control units 23 may be provided for each function. A combination of these may also be used.

[0028] 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.

[0029] To further expand on the above, "game media" refers to electronic data representing elements related to a game, such as the name of a character used as a player character and items (weapons, armor, tools) used by the player character in the virtual game space. Users can obtain game media through direct purchase, quest completion, or a lottery system known as gacha. The obtained game media is stored and managed in a user DB in association with the identification information of the user who has acquired the game media. Furthermore, "gacha" refers to a method in which the game management device 2 randomly selects game media from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection rate. The selected game media is then granted to the user's game device 3. The phrase "granting the game media selected through gacha to the user / owning the user" is synonymous with "associating the game media selected through the lottery process with / being associated with the identification information identifying the user."

[0030] <Application distribution device 5, EC management device 6> The hardware configurations of the application distribution device 5 and the EC management device 6 are basically the same as those of the game management device 2, although there are differences in specifications and performance. However, the hardware configurations corresponding to the control unit 23 of the application distribution device 5 and the EC management device 6 (referred to as control unit 53 and control unit 63) execute information processing different from that of the game management device 2. Details of this information processing will be described later.

[0031] <Game Device 3> A display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c are externally connected or built into the game device 3. The game device 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.

[0032] 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 game management 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 game management device 2 in response to download request information, information on game media selected by lottery processing, etc.

[0033] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 32 stores game data downloaded from the game management device 2, various programs including a portion of the game program, account information for the game device 3 itself, user information, etc. The user information is at least a portion of the information in a user DB stored in the storage unit 22 of the game management 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 portion of the information in this master that is distributed from the game management device 2.

[0034] 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.

[0035] In particular, the control unit 33 is configured to execute a game in accordance with inputs made by a user of the game apparatus 3 via the input device 4c. 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 game management 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 control the display of the display 4a and the audio output of the speaker 4b in accordance with operations by the user of the game apparatus 3, which is the game apparatus 3, when executing a game.

[0036] The graphics processing unit 34a renders game images, including characters and various objects related to the virtual game space, in a moving image format in accordance with game image information output from the control unit 33. The graphics processing unit 34a is connected to the display 4a, which may be, for example, a liquid crystal display, and the rendered game images are displayed on the display 4a as a game screen. The audio processing unit 34b is connected to the 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 the input device 4c and transmits and receives data related to operation inputs to and from the input device 4c. The user inputs operation signals to the game apparatus 3 via the input device 4c. The input device 4c is a general term for a touch panel integrated with the display 4a, an external game pad, a mouse, a keyboard, etc.

[0037] <User device 7> The hardware configuration of the user device 7 is basically the same as that of the game device 3, although there are differences in specifications and performance. However, the hardware configuration corresponding to the control unit 33 of the user device 7 (hereinafter referred to as the control unit 73) executes information processing different from that of the game device 3. Details of this information processing will be described later.

[0038] 2.2 Functional Configuration This section describes the functional configuration of this embodiment. As described above, information processing by software stored in the storage unit of each device is specifically realized by a control unit, which is an example of hardware, so that each functional unit included in the control unit can be executed.

[0039] 2 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the control unit of each device. The control unit 23 of the game management device 2 includes a game progress processing unit 201, a charge object presentation unit 202, a payment method presentation unit 203, a payment request unit 204, a billing processing unit 205, and a bonus processing unit 206. The control unit 53 of the application distribution device 5 includes an application presentation unit 501, a payment processing unit 502, and an application distribution unit 503. The control unit 63 of the EC management device 6 includes a service presentation unit 601, a charge object presentation unit 602, a payment processing unit 603, a service processing unit 604, and a bonus processing unit 605.

[0040] The control unit 33 of the game device 3 includes application processing units 301-1, 301-2, and so on (referred to as "application processing units 301" when not distinguished) and application operation reception units 302-1, 302-2, and so on (referred to as "application operation reception units 302" when not distinguished). The control unit 73 of the user device 7 includes EC processing units 701-1, 701-2, and so on (referred to as "EC processing units 701" when not distinguished) and EC operation reception units 702-1, 702-2, and so on (referred to as "EC operation reception units 702" when not distinguished).

[0041] The game progress processing unit 201 of the game management device 2 executes processing related to the progress of the game (hereinafter referred to as "game progress processing"). In this embodiment, it is assumed that a game is played in which the overall story progresses as characters participate in quests and fight battles. The game progress processing unit 201 executes, for example, processing related to characters, processing related to quests, processing related to battles, and processing related to the progress of the story. Note that the game progress processing unit 201 may also include processing units necessary for the progress of the game in addition to those described here.

[0042] The charge object presentation unit 202 presents charge objects in the game to the user via the game device 3. Charge objects in the game are items that can be used in the game, such as paid virtual currency, paid items, paid characters, and paid quest unlocks. Note that while some virtual currency, items, characters, and quest unlocks can be obtained free of charge as the game progresses, others can only be obtained for a fee, or obtaining them for a fee can significantly shorten the game progress.

[0043] The payment method presentation unit 203 presents to the user, via the game device 3, payment methods to be used for payment to purchase a chargeable object. In the game system 1, at least two payment methods are selectable. One of the two payment methods is the payment method used by the EC management device 6 described above, and is hereinafter referred to as the "first payment method." The other is the payment method used by the application distribution device 5, and is hereinafter referred to as the "second payment method." Both the first payment method and the second payment method can be used for payment when purchasing a chargeable object in a game, and are presented to the user by the payment method presentation unit 203.

[0044] When the second payment method is selected for payment for purchasing the chargeable object, the payment request unit 204 requests the application distribution apparatus 5 to make payment via the second payment method. When the chargeable object is purchased by making payment via the first payment method or the second payment method, the billing processing unit 205 executes processing related to the purchased chargeable object. The processing related to the chargeable object is, for example, processing to grant the chargeable object to the user.

[0045] The reward processing unit 206 performs processing related to rewards provided to users who play the game. Processing related to rewards includes, for example, processing to determine whether a reward provision condition for providing a reward to a user has been met, and processing to grant a reward to a user. One of the conditions for providing a reward is met, for example, by purchasing a predetermined chargeable object. The reward processing unit 206 stores the chargeable object and the reward whose provision condition is met when the chargeable object is purchased, in association with each other.

[0046] The application presenting unit 501 of the application distribution device 5 presents the application to be distributed to the user. When a paid application is presented and the user purchases the application, the payment processing unit 502 performs a payment process to pay the cost of the application from the user's savings or the like. The payment processing unit 502 also performs a similar payment process for the above-mentioned game charges. In other words, the payment processing unit 502 is a second payment means provided in the application distribution device 5. Note that the payment processing may be performed by the payment processing unit 503, which controls a payment system external to the application distribution device 5 as the second payment means. The application distribution unit 503 distributes the application selected by the user to the game device 3.

[0047] The service presentation unit 601 of the EC management device 6 presents to the user the e-commerce services offered on the EC site. The e-commerce services offered on the EC site include, for example, sales services for game-related goods and other products. However, the e-commerce services referred to here are services that cannot be used in the game and are provided to the user. In contrast, the charge object presentation unit 602 presents to the user services that can be used in the game. Specifically, the charge object presentation unit 602 presents the charge objects for the game provided by the game management device 2.

[0048] The payment processing unit 603 performs payment processing to pay the fees incurred when a user uses the e-commerce service presented by the service presentation unit 601 from the user's savings, etc. The payment processing unit 603 also performs similar payment processing for the charge object presented by the charge object presentation unit 602. In other words, the payment processing unit 603 is a first payment means provided in the EC management device 6. Note that the payment processing unit 603 may also execute processing to control a payment system external to the EC management device 6 as the first payment means.

[0049] When a payment process is performed based on the use of an e-commerce service, the service processing unit 604 executes a process related to the used e-commerce service. The process related to the e-commerce service is, for example, a process of shipping the purchased product to the user.

[0050] The reward processing unit 605 performs processing related to rewards provided to users who use the e-commerce service. The processing related to rewards is the same as the processing performed by the reward processing unit 206 described above. Therefore, the reward processing unit 605 stores a charge object and a reward whose provision condition is satisfied when the charge object is purchased, in association with each other. The reward processing unit 605 also stores a product provided in the e-commerce service and a reward whose provision condition is satisfied when the product is purchased, in association with each other.

[0051] The application processing unit 301 of the game device 3 executes processing related to the application distributed from the application distribution device 5. For example, if the application is a game, the processing related to the application includes processing for progressing the game and processing related to payment of billable items provided in the game. The application operation receiving unit 302 receives user operations related to the application.

[0052] The EC processing unit 701 of the user device 7 executes processing related to the e-commerce service provided by the EC management device 6. For example, when the EC management device 6 provides a product sales service, the processing related to the service includes a process of presenting an item for sale and a payment process for paying for the selected item for sale. The EC operation receiving unit 702 receives, as operations related to the e-commerce service by the user, for example, an operation of selecting an item for purchase and a payment operation for paying for the selected item for purchase.

[0053] 3. Operational flow of game system 1 This section describes the flow of operations of the above-mentioned game system 1. As an example of a preferred embodiment, a game in which a user controls a character and progresses through a quest while acquiring items and the like will be described.

[0054] 3.1 Overview of Information Processing The flow of information processing will be outlined below with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 explains the information processing that is performed when a user playing a game purchases a billable item. Figure 4 explains the information processing that is performed when a user uses an e-commerce service on an EC site.

[0055] 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing executed by the game system 1. First, at A11, the game progress processing unit 201 of the game management device 2 and the application processing unit 301 of the game device 3 cooperate to execute game progress processing based on a user operation accepted by the application operation accepting unit 302 of the game device 3. Specifically, the game management device 2 causes the game progress processing unit 201 to generate screen data showing game screens that change as the game progresses, and transmits the screen data to the game device 3. The game device 3 causes the application processing unit 301 to display the game screen shown by the received screen data.

[0056] As the game progresses, charges may be incurred for items that can be used in the game, such as virtual currency, items, or characters. In this case, the game management device 2 causes the charge object presentation unit 202 to generate screen data showing a game screen for selecting a charge object and transmits the screen data to the game device 3. Furthermore, the game management device 2 causes the payment method presentation unit 203 to generate screen data showing a game screen for selecting either a first payment method provided by the EC management device 6 or a second payment method provided by the application distribution device 5 and transmits the screen data to the game device 3.

[0057] The game device 3 displays the game screen indicated by the received screen data via the application processing unit 301. In this way, the charge object presentation unit 202 presents the charge object in the game being played by the user on the game screen. Furthermore, the payment method presentation unit 203 presents the payment method for the payment of the charge made by the user for the game on the game screen. At A12, the game device 3 accepts an operation to select the charge object and the payment method via the application operation acceptance unit 302.

[0058] When an operation to select the first payment method is performed at A12, the game device 3 transmits charge object data indicating the selected charge object to the EC management device 6. At A21, the EC management device 6 causes the charge object presentation unit 602 to generate screen data indicating a purchase screen for purchasing the charge object indicated by the received charge object data. In this embodiment, the charge object presentation unit 602 reads out the stored benefits associated with the charge object from the benefit processing unit 605, and generates screen data indicating the charge object and the benefit in association with each other. The charge object presentation unit 602 transmits the generated screen data to the game device 3.

[0059] At A22, the game device 3 causes the application processing unit 301 to display a purchase screen indicated by the transmitted screen data. The purchase screen thus displayed is a screen of the EC site provided by the EC management device 6. The purchase screen of the EC site displays billable items (hereinafter also referred to as "purchase items") and benefits, and includes operation images that allow the user to select the chargeable items and confirm the purchase. At A23, the game device 3 causes the application operation receiving unit 302 to receive operations on the operation images as input by the user to confirm the purchase item, and then transmits purchase data indicating the confirmed purchase item to the EC management device 6.

[0060] At A24, the EC management device 6 receives a payment instruction from the user to pay for the purchase item indicated by the received purchase data via the charge object presentation unit 602. At A25, the EC management device 6 executes a payment process to pay for the purchase item from the user's savings or the like based on the received user instruction via the payment processing unit 603 (first payment means). In this way, the charge object presentation unit 602 functions as a reception unit that receives user input to instruct the payment procedure using the first payment means by displaying the purchase screen of the EC site on the game device 3.

[0061] When payment processing is executed by the first payment means of A25, the EC management device 6 executes a benefit granting process in A31 by the benefit processing unit 605 to grant a benefit to the user. The benefit granted by the benefit processing unit 605 in A31 is hereinafter referred to as "benefit B1."

[0062] In this embodiment, the benefit B1 includes a benefit B11 and a benefit B12. The benefit B11 is a point (hereinafter referred to as "point C1") that can be used in the game, and can be used to purchase items, etc., exchange them for virtual currency, use gacha, etc. using the points C1. The benefit B12 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stones D1") that can be used in the game, and can be used to purchase items, etc., and use gacha, etc., paying with the free stones D1. Thus, in this embodiment, the benefit B1 (benefit B11 and benefit B12) are both benefits that can be used only in the game.

[0063] As described above, the bonus processing unit 605 functions as an awarding unit that awards a first bonus (bonus B1 is an example) that can be used in a game to a user based on a payment made to the payment processing unit 603 (first payment means). The bonus processing unit 605 awards bonus B1 to a user by, for example, generating bonus information E1 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom bonus B1 is to be awarded, the details of the payment made by the first payment means, and the details of bonus B1.

[0064] When the EC management device 6 completes the payment and grants the benefit B1, the payment processing unit 603 and the benefit processing unit 605 generate notification data indicative of the billing object for which the payment processing has been completed and the benefit information E1 described above, at A32, and transmit the notification data to the game management device 2. The benefit processing unit 605 notifies the game management device 2 of the granted benefit B1 by transmitting this notification data. At A33, the game management device 2 stores the benefit information E1 indicated by the received notification data using the benefit processing unit 206.

[0065] Next, in A34, the game management device 2 causes the charging processing unit 205 to execute a granting process to grant the user the charge object indicated in the received notification data, i.e., the charge object for which payment processing has been completed. The charging processing unit 205 grants the charge object to the user, for example, by generating charge purchase information that associates identification information of the user who purchased the charge object with identification information of the purchased charge object. The charging processing unit 205 grants the user, for example, paid virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "paid stones F1") purchased through payment by the first payment means as the charge object. Note that the processes of A33 and A34 may be performed in either order, or may be performed in parallel.

[0066] Next, at A35, the game management device 2, in cooperation with the application processing unit 301 of the game device 3, causes the game progression processing unit 201 to execute game progression processing for progressing the game using the chargeable object granted to the user. When an operation using the chargeable object is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references the generated charge purchase information and executes game progression processing using the chargeable object (such as purchasing an item by consuming paid stones F1). When an operation using a bonus B1 is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references bonus information E1 stored in the bonus processing unit 206 and executes game progression processing using the bonus B1 (such as gacha using points C1 or free stones D1).

[0067] The chargeable items used in the game progression process include a first-class virtual currency that can be used in the game. The first-class virtual currency is, for example, a paid virtual currency, such as paid stones F1. The first-class virtual currency can only be acquired by paying for it by making a payment on the virtual currency purchase screen described above. On the other hand, the first benefit includes a second-class virtual currency that can be used in the game. The second-class virtual currency is, for example, a non-paid virtual currency, such as non-paid stones D1.

[0068] The second type of virtual currency may be granted to a user as a benefit as described above, but may also be granted to a user based on the progress of a game without making a payment. In the game system 1, the second type of virtual currency granted to a user as a first benefit and the second type of virtual currency granted to a user based on the progress of a game without making a payment can be used interchangeably in the game. This embodiment makes it easier to use the second type of virtual currency in the game than when the second type of virtual currency cannot be used interchangeably, thereby promoting the game.

[0069] When the specific game progression process is executed in A35, the game management device 2 executes, by the bonus processing unit 206, bonus granting process in A36, for granting a bonus to the user. The specific game progression process is, for example, a process for purchasing items and the like, a process for executing gacha, etc., which are performed when paid virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "paid stones F1") granted through payment by the first payment means is used in the game. In addition, the specific game progression process may also be, for example, a process for progressing a specific story in the game, a process for generating a specific event, a process for acquiring a specific item or character, etc.

[0070] The benefit granted by the benefit processing unit 206 in A36 will be referred to below as "benefit B2." In this embodiment, benefit B2 includes benefit B21 and benefit B22. Benefit B21 is points (hereinafter referred to as "points C2") that can be used in e-commerce services, and can be used to receive, for example, discounts equivalent to the points or exchange for products in the e-commerce services. In this embodiment, a benefit granted in a game and usable in an e-commerce service, such as benefit B21, will be referred to as a "second benefit."

[0071] The bonus B22 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stone D2") that can be used in the game, just like the free stone D1. By using the bonus B22, you can purchase items and use gacha according to the number of free stone D2 consumed.

[0072] In this way, the benefit B2 includes a benefit that can be used only in the e-commerce service (benefit B21) and a benefit that can be used only in the game (benefit B22). The benefit processing unit 206 grants the benefit B2 to the user by, for example, generating benefit information E2 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom the benefit B2 is granted and the content of the benefit B2.

[0073] When the bonus B22 (free stones D2) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 returns to A33 to store the bonus information E2, and in A35 executes a game progress process using the bonus B22.

[0074] When the bonus B21 (points C2) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 generates notification data notifying bonus information E2 and transmits it to the EC management device 6. By transmitting this notification data, the bonus processing unit 206 notifies the EC management device 6 of the awarded bonus B2. At A37, the bonus processing unit 605 stores the bonus information E2 indicated by the received notification data.

[0075] Then, when an operation to use the benefit B21 is performed, the EC management device 6, at A38, causes the service processing unit 604 to refer to the benefit information E2 stored in the benefit processing unit 605 and execute service processing using the benefit B21 (such as discount processing of e-commerce services using points C2).

[0076] Furthermore, when service processing using benefit B21 is executed in A38, benefit processing unit 605 further grants a benefit to the user. The benefit granted to the user by benefit processing unit 605 in A38 is hereinafter referred to as "benefit B3." Benefit B3 is, for example, points (hereinafter referred to as "points C3") that can be used in an e-commerce service. In this embodiment, a benefit that is granted based on the use of a second benefit (benefit B21 is an example) in an e-commerce service and that can be used in that e-commerce service, such as benefit B3, is referred to as a "third benefit."

[0077] As described above, the second benefit is a benefit granted in the game, and is therefore granted to game users. By providing the third benefit to game users, the use of the second benefit in the e-commerce service is promoted compared to when the third benefit is not provided, and as a result, it is possible to encourage game users to use the e-commerce service.

[0078] When an operation to select the second payment method is performed at A12, the game device 3 transmits charge object data indicating the selected charge object to the game management device 2. At A41, the game management device 2 causes the game progression processing unit 201 to generate screen data indicating a purchase screen for purchasing the charge object indicated by the received charge object data. In this embodiment, the game progression processing unit 201 reads out from the bonus processing unit 206 the bonus stored in association with the charge object, and generates screen data indicating the charge object and bonus in association with each other. The game progression processing unit 201 transmits the screen data thus generated to the game device 3.

[0079] At A42, the game device 3 causes the application processing unit 301 to display a purchase screen indicated by the transmitted screen data. The purchase screen thus displayed is one of the screens displayed within the game provided by the game management device 2. The in-game purchase screen displays billable items (also referred to as purchase items) and benefits, and includes an operation image for the user to select the billable item and confirm the purchase. At A43, the game device 3 causes the application operation receiving unit 302 to receive an operation on the displayed operation image as a user input to confirm the purchase item, and then transmits purchase data indicating the confirmed purchase item to the game management device 2.

[0080] At A44, the game management device 2 receives, via the game progress processing unit 201, a user instruction to pay for the purchase item indicated by the received purchase data, and causes the payment request unit 204 to generate request data requesting the instructed payment, and transmits the request data to the application distribution device 5. At A45, the application distribution device 5 executes, via the payment processing unit 502 (second payment means), a payment process for the payment for the purchase item indicated by the transmitted request data.

[0081] The payment processing unit 502 executes payment processing for the purchase item in the same manner as payment processing for payment for app distribution. At this time, the game progress processing unit 201 displays the same payment screen as when the payment processing unit 502 executes payment processing for payment for app distribution. This payment screen is the same screen for all apps, allowing the user to make payments for the game in the same manner as payments for other apps used on the game device 3.

[0082] At A46, the application distribution device 5 causes the payment processing unit 502 to generate completion data indicating that the payment processing for the billable object has been completed, and transmits the generated completion data to the game management device 2. When the game management device 2 receives the completion data, i.e., when the payment processing by the second payment means at A46 has been executed, the game management device 2 causes the bonus processing unit 206 to execute bonus granting processing to grant a bonus to the user at A51.

[0083] The benefit granted by the benefit processing unit 206 in A51 will be referred to below as "benefit B4." In this embodiment, benefit B4 includes benefit B41 and benefit B42. Benefit B41 is a point (hereinafter referred to as "point C4") that can be used in e-commerce services, and a discount equivalent to the points can be received in the e-commerce services. Benefit B41, like benefit B21, is a benefit that is granted in a game and can be used in the e-commerce services, and is therefore an example of a "second benefit."

[0084] The bonus B42 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stones D4") that can be used in the game, just like the free stones D1. By using the bonus B42, it is possible to purchase items and use gacha according to the number of free stones D4 consumed. In this embodiment, a bonus that is granted to a user when payment is made using the second payment means, such as the bonus B42, and that can be used in the game is referred to as a "fourth bonus."

[0085] In this way, the benefit B4 includes a benefit that can be used only in the e-commerce service (benefit B41) and a benefit that can be used only in the game (benefit B42). The benefit processing unit 206 grants the benefit B4 to the user by, for example, generating benefit information E4 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom the benefit B4 is granted and the content of the benefit B4.

[0086] When the bonus B41 (points C4) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 generates notification data notifying bonus information E4 and transmits it to the EC management device 6. By transmitting this notification data, the bonus processing unit 206 notifies the EC management device 6 of the awarded bonus B4. At A52, the bonus processing unit 605 stores the bonus information E4 indicated by the received notification data.

[0087] Then, when an operation to use the benefit B41 is performed, the EC management device 6 causes the service processing unit 604 to refer to the benefit information E4 stored in the benefit processing unit 605 at A53 and executes service processing using the benefit B41 (such as discount processing of e-commerce services using points C4).

[0088] Furthermore, when service processing using benefit B41 is executed in A53, benefit processing unit 605 further grants a benefit to the user. The benefit granted to the user by benefit processing unit 605 in A53 is hereinafter referred to as "benefit B5." Benefit B5 is, for example, points (hereinafter referred to as "points C5") that can be used in an e-commerce service. Benefit B5 is granted based on the use of a second benefit (benefit B41 is an example) in the e-commerce service, and is a benefit that can be used in the e-commerce service, and is an example of the "third benefit" described above. This third benefit can also encourage game users to use the e-commerce service.

[0089] After A51, the game management device 2 executes, in A54, a granting process in which the billing processing unit 205 grants the user the billing object indicated in the notification data transmitted from the application distribution device 5, i.e., the billing object for which payment processing has been completed. The billing processing unit 205 grants the billing object to the user, for example, by generating billing purchase information that associates identification information of the user who purchased the billing object with identification information of the purchased billing object. Note that the processes of A51 and A54 may be performed in either order, or may be performed in parallel.

[0090] Next, at A55, the game management device 2, in cooperation with the application processing unit 301 of the game device 3, causes the game progression processing unit 201 to execute game progression processing for progressing the game using the charge object granted to the user. When an operation using the charge object is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references the generated charge purchase information and executes game progression processing using the charge object. Furthermore, when an operation using the benefit B42 (free stones D4) is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references the benefit information E4 stored in the benefit processing unit 206 and executes game progression processing using the benefit B42.

[0091] When a specific game progression process is executed in A55, the game management device 2 executes a bonus granting process in A56, similar to the case of A36, by the bonus processing unit 206 to grant a bonus to the user. The bonus granted by the bonus processing unit 206 in A56 is hereinafter referred to as "bonus B6." In this embodiment, bonus B6 includes bonus B61 and bonus B62.

[0092] The bonus B61 is points (hereinafter referred to as "points C6") that can be used in e-commerce services, and discounts equivalent to the points can be received in e-commerce services. The bonus B62 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stones D6") that can be used in the game, just like the free stones D1. By using the bonus B62, it is possible to purchase items and use gacha according to the number of free stones D6 consumed.

[0093] In this way, the benefit B6 includes a benefit (benefit B61) that can be used only in the e-commerce service and a benefit (benefit B62) that can be used only in the game, similar to the benefit B2. The benefit processing unit 206 grants the benefit B6 to the user by, for example, generating benefit information E6 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom the benefit B6 is granted and the content of the benefit B6.

[0094] When the bonus B61 (points C6) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 generates notification data notifying bonus information E6 and transmits it to the EC management device 6. In this case, the EC management device 6 performs the operations A52 and A53 described in the explanation of bonus B4 and bonus B5. When the bonus processing unit 206 has awarded bonus B62 (free stones D6), the bonus processing unit 206 returns to A51 to store bonus information E6, and in A55 executes game progress processing using bonus B62.

[0095] As described above, the bonus processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 awards bonus B21 (point C2), bonus B41 (point C4), and bonus B61 (point C6) in the game for A36, A51, and A56. The service processing unit 604 of the EC management device 6 functions as a bonus processing unit that executes processing in the e-commerce service based on the second bonuses (examples of which are bonus B21, bonus B41, and bonus B61) awarded in the game. In this embodiment, all of these second bonuses can be used in the e-commerce service but cannot be used in the game. This aspect makes it easier for the second bonuses to be used in the e-commerce service.

[0096] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of information processing executed by the game system 1. First, the user device 7 receives, at A61, an operation to display an EC site (such as an operation to select a link to an EC site) through the EC operation receiving unit 702. The EC operation receiving unit 702 transmits request data requesting the display of the EC site to the EC management device 6. Upon receiving the request data, the EC management device 6 generates, at A62, screen data showing a screen of the EC site.

[0097] When accessed from the game management device 2 as in the example of Fig. 3, the EC management device 6 initially displays a purchase screen for purchasing billable items that can be used in the game. However, when accessed from any other device, the EC management device 6 typically first displays the top screen of the e-commerce service. Then, in response to a user operation, the EC management device 6 displays a service screen showing the e-commerce service to be provided. At A62, the service presentation unit 601 of the EC management device 6 generates screen data showing the top screen of the e-commerce service or each service screen as the screen of the requested EC site.

[0098] In this embodiment, the service presentation unit 601 reads out the stored benefits associated with the products provided through the e-commerce service from the benefit processing unit 605, and generates screen data showing the products and benefits in association with each other. The service presentation unit 601 transmits the generated screen data to the user device 7. At A63, the user device 7 displays a service screen shown by the received screen data via the EC processing unit 701. The displayed service screen shows products available for e-commerce in association with the benefits.

[0099] When the user performs an operation to confirm the purchase item on the service screen, the user device 7, at A64, receives the operation via the EC operation receiving unit 702 and transmits purchase data indicating the confirmed product to the EC management device 6. At A65, the EC management device 6, at the service presentation unit 601, receives a payment instruction from the user to pay the price of the purchase item indicated by the received purchase data.

[0100] At A66, the EC management device 6 executes a payment process in which the payment processing unit 603 (first payment means) pays the price of the purchased item from the user's savings or the like based on the accepted instruction from the user. In this way, the service presentation unit 601 functions as a reception unit that accepts input from the user to instruct the payment procedure using the first payment means, by displaying the purchase screen of the EC site on the user device 7, similar to the charge object presentation unit 602 in the example of Fig. 3.

[0101] When the payment process is executed by the first payment means in A66, the EC management device 6 executes a benefit granting process in A71 in which the benefit processing unit 605 grants a benefit to the user. The benefit granted by the benefit processing unit 605 in A71 is hereinafter referred to as "benefit B7."

[0102] In this embodiment, the benefit B7 includes a benefit B71 and a benefit B72. The benefit B71 is a point (hereinafter referred to as "point C7") that can be used in the game, and can be used to purchase items, etc., exchange them for virtual currency, use gacha, etc. using the points C7. The benefit B72 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stones D7") that can be used in the game, and can be used to purchase items, etc., and use gacha, etc., paying with the free stones D7. Thus, in this embodiment, the benefit B7 (benefit B71 and benefit B72) are both benefits that can be used only in the game.

[0103] As described above, the bonus processing unit 605 functions as an awarding unit that awards a first bonus (bonus B7 is an example) that can be used in the game to a user based on a payment made to the payment processing unit 603 (first payment means), similar to the example in Fig. 3. The bonus processing unit 605 awards bonus B7 to a user by, for example, generating bonus information E7 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom bonus B7 will be awarded, the details of the payment made by the first payment means, and the details of bonus B7.

[0104] When the EC management device 6 completes the payment and provides the benefit B7, the payment processing unit 603 and the benefit processing unit 605 generate notification data indicative of the billable object for which the payment processing has been completed and the benefit information E7 described above, at A72, and transmit the notification data to the game management device 2. The benefit processing unit 605 notifies the game management device 2 of the provided benefit B7 by transmitting this notification data. At A73, the game management device 2 stores the benefit information E7 indicated by the received notification data, at the benefit processing unit 206.

[0105] Next, in A74, the game management device 2 causes the charging processing unit 205 to execute a granting process for granting to the user the charge object indicated in the received notification data, i.e., the charge object for which the payment process has been completed. The charging processing unit 205 grants the charge object to the user, for example, by generating charge purchase information that associates the identification information of the user who purchased the charge object with the identification information of the purchased charge object. The charging processing unit 205 grants to the user, for example, paid virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "paid stones F7") purchased through payment by the first payment means as the charge object. Note that the processes of A73 and A74 may be performed in either order, or may be performed in parallel.

[0106] Next, at A75, the game management device 2, in cooperation with the application processing unit 301 of the game device 3, causes the game progression processing unit 201 to execute game progression processing for progressing the game using the charge object granted to the user. When an operation using the charge object is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references the generated charge purchase information and executes game progression processing using the charge object. When an operation using the benefit B7 is performed, the game progression processing unit 201 references benefit information E7 stored in the benefit processing unit 206 and executes game progression processing using the benefit B7.

[0107] When a specific game progression process is executed at A75, the game management device 2 causes the bonus processing unit 206 to execute bonus granting process at A76, in which a bonus is granted to the user. The bonus granted by the bonus processing unit 206 at A76 is hereinafter referred to as "bonus B8." In this embodiment, bonus B8 includes bonus B81 and bonus B82. Bonus B81 is a point (hereinafter referred to as "point C8") that can be used in e-commerce services. Like bonus B21, bonus B81 is a bonus that is granted in the game and can be used in e-commerce services, and is therefore an example of a "second bonus."

[0108] The benefit B82 is a free virtual currency (hereinafter referred to as "free stones D8") that can be used in the game, similar to the free stones D1. Thus, the benefit B8 includes a benefit that can be used only in the e-commerce service (benefit B81) and a benefit that can be used only in the game (benefit B82). The benefit processing unit 206 grants the benefit B8 to the user by, for example, generating benefit information E8 that indicates the identification information of the user to whom the benefit B8 is granted and the content of the benefit B8.

[0109] When the bonus B82 (free stone D8) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 returns to A73 to store the bonus information E8, and in A75 executes a game progress process using the bonus B82.

[0110] When the bonus B81 (points C8) has been awarded, the bonus processing unit 206 generates notification data notifying bonus information E8 and transmits it to the EC management device 6. By transmitting this notification data, the bonus processing unit 206 notifies the EC management device 6 of the awarded bonus B8. At A77, the bonus processing unit 605 stores the bonus information E8 indicated by the received notification data.

[0111] Then, when an operation to use the benefit B81 is performed, the EC management device 6 causes the service processing unit 604 to refer to the benefit information E8 stored in the benefit processing unit 605 at A78 and executes service processing to use the benefit B81.

[0112] Furthermore, when service processing using benefit B81 is executed in A78, benefit processing unit 605 further grants a benefit to the user. The benefit granted to the user by benefit processing unit 605 in A78 is hereinafter referred to as "benefit B9." Benefit B9 is, for example, points (hereinafter referred to as "points C9") that can be used in an e-commerce service. Benefit B9 is granted based on the use of a second benefit (benefit B81 is an example) in the e-commerce service, and is a benefit that can be used in the e-commerce service, and is an example of the above-mentioned "third benefit." This third benefit can also encourage game users to use the e-commerce service.

[0113] In summary, the game system 1 according to this embodiment includes the following components: The service presentation unit 601 and the charge object presentation unit 602 accept user input to instruct a payment procedure using a first payment method (A24 in FIG. 3 and A65 in FIG. 4). The payment processing unit 603 executes payment for charge objects provided in the game and payment for an e-commerce service that provides services unavailable in the game, in response to the user input (A25 in FIG. 3 and A66 in FIG. 4). The bonus processing unit 605 grants the user a first bonus that can be used in the game, based on the payment via the first payment method (A31 in FIG. 3 and A71 in FIG. 4). The bonus processing unit 605 also executes processing in the e-commerce service based on the second bonus granted in the game (A38 and A53 in FIG. 3).

[0114] According to this embodiment, it is possible to promote browsing of games and e-commerce services.

[0115] 3.2 Details of information processing Next, the details of the information processing outlined above will be described. <Screen transition> First, the transition of the screen displayed by the game device 3 based on the screen data transmitted from the game management device 2 and the EC management device 6 when a charge is incurred will be described with reference to FIG. 5 and subsequent figures.

[0116] Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen related to charging. A gacha button H11 and a charge button H12 are displayed on the game screen G1 shown in Figure 5. When these buttons are pressed, a game screen for selecting a charge target is displayed.

[0117] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen for selecting a payment target. A virtual currency purchase button H21 and an item purchase button H22 are displayed on the game screen G2 shown in Fig. 6. When these buttons are pressed, a game screen for selecting a payment method is displayed.

[0118] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen for selecting a payment method. The game screen G3 shown in FIG. 7 displays an out-of-app payment selection button H31 and an in-app payment selection button H32. The payment selection button H31 displays a message saying "*Jump to external EC site" and a message saying "*Benefits are more advantageous than in-app payments!" about preferential treatment for benefits offered by the first payment method. Details of the preferential treatment for benefits will be explained later. The payment selection button H31 is a button for selecting a first payment method provided by the EC management device 6. The payment selection button H32 is a button for selecting a second payment method provided by the application distribution device 5.

[0119] The party making the request for payment using the first payment method is the operator of the EC management device 6, which in this embodiment is game maker A, which provides the game. The party making the request for payment using the second payment method is platform provider B, which operates the application distribution device 5. This platform is the platform for the applications distributed by the application distribution device 5, and is also the platform for the games provided by the game system 1. In other words, payment for the billable object can also be made using the second payment method used on the platform that provides the game.

[0120] Hereinafter, payment using the first payment means will also be referred to as “payment A,” and payment using the second payment means will also be referred to as “payment B.” Note that the operator of EC management device 6 may be a party different from platform provider company B that operates application distribution device 5, and may be game maker A, platform provider company C that operates another application distribution device 5, or the like.

[0121] When Payment B is executed, the payment amount minus a specified fee is paid to Game Maker A. On the other hand, when Payment A is executed to Game Maker A, the amount based on the payment is paid to Game Maker A without the specified fee of platform provider B being deducted from the payment amount. Also, if Payment A is executed to a party other than Game Maker A or platform provider B, when Payment A is executed to that party, the payment amount minus a specified fee paid to that party is paid to Game Maker A. Therefore, it is advantageous for Game Maker A if the fee paid to that party is lower than the fee paid to platform provider B.

[0122] Figure 8 shows the purchase screen provided by the EC management device 6 and displayed by the game device 3 as an EC site screen at A22 in Figure 3 when the charge button H12 in Figure 4, the virtual currency purchase button H21 in Figure 6, and the first payment method payment selection button H31 in Figure 7 are operated in sequence. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual currency purchase screen. The purchase screen G4 shown in Fig. 8 displays a charge target K4, a benefit B1, special offer information M4, price information L4, and a purchase button H22.

[0123] The billable item K4 indicates that the paid virtual currency "Paid Stones F1" can be purchased in five different quantities (10, 20, 30, 40, 50). The reward B1 indicates that as a reward for each quantity of paid stones F1, a reward B11 called "Points C1" is provided in the corresponding quantities (20pt, 40pt, 60pt, 80pt, 100pt: pt = points), and a reward B12 called "Free Stones D1" is provided in the corresponding quantities (20pt, 40pt, 60pt, 80pt, 100pt).

[0124] Paid stone F1, benefit B1, point C1, and free stone D1 are symbols used to distinguish between the paid stone, benefit, point, and free stone that are the subject of each process shown in Figures 3 and 4, and the user does not need to make such detailed distinctions. However, in this embodiment, to make it easier to understand the correspondence with Figures 3 and 4, the above-mentioned distinguishing symbols will also be used on the screens displayed on the game device 3 or the user device 7. Note that, as long as the above distinction is made internally in the game system 1, the names of the displayed paid stones, etc. may be given different symbols (e.g., paid stone A, paid stone B, etc.), or may not even be given symbols at all.

[0125] The special offer information M4 displays the text "Benefits are better than in-app purchases!", informing users that the benefit B1 granted based on payment with the first payment method is more advantageous than the benefit granted based on in-app purchases, i.e., payments with the second payment method. The specific details of the preferential treatment for the first payment method will be explained with reference to the following figure.

[0126] The price information L4 indicates the prices (100 yen, 200 yen, 300 yen, 400 yen, and 500 yen) determined for five different quantities of paid stones F1. The purchase button H22 is a button for purchasing each quantity of paid stones F1. For example, suppose that the game device 3 accepts a user's operation on the purchase button H22 to purchase 30 paid stones F1. In this case, on the condition that a payment of 300 yen is made to the first payment means provided by the EC management device 6, the billing processing unit 205 and the bonus processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 grant the user the purchased 30 paid stones F1 and the bonus of 60 points C1 and 60 free stones D1.

[0127] The paid stone F1 is an example of a chargeable object for which payment is made by the first payment means at A25 shown in Fig. 3. The points C1 and the free stone D1 are an example of a first benefit given to the user by the EC management device 6 based on payment made by the first payment means for the purchase of the paid stone F1 at A26 shown in Fig. 3.

[0128] Next, when the charge button H12 in Figure 4, the item purchase button H22 in Figure 6, and the first payment method payment selection button H31 in Figure 7 are operated in sequence, Figure 9 shows the purchase screen provided by the EC management device 6 and displayed by the game device 3 as the EC site screen at A22 in Figure 3. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an item purchase screen. The purchase screen G5 shown in FIG. 9 displays a charge target K5, a benefit B1, discount information M5, price information L5, and a purchase button H5.

[0129] The billable item K5 indicates that 500 "paid stones F1" are available for purchase as a billable item. The benefit B1 indicates that the benefits of 500 paid stones F1 include the benefit B11 of "100 points" of "points C1," the benefit B12 of "700 free stones D1," and the benefit B13 of "recovery" of "200 points." Although the paid stones F1 and free stones D1 are virtual currencies, on the purchase screen G5 they are treated as items that can be used to purchase other items in the game. The 200 points of recovery is a recovery item that restores a specified number of status points related to the user or character in the game. In this way, the billable item K5 and benefit B1 indicate a set of paid and free items.

[0130] Similar to the discount information M4 shown in Fig. 8, the discount information M5 displays the text "Benefits are better value than in-app purchases!", informing users that the benefit B1 is more advantageous than benefits granted based on in-app purchases, i.e., payments made with the second payment method. The specific details of the preferential treatment for the first payment method will be described later with reference to the figures.

[0131] Price information L5 indicates the price (5,000 yen) determined for the charge object indicated by charge object K5. Purchase button H5 is a button for purchasing charge object K5. When game device 3 accepts a user's operation on purchase button H5, the charge processing unit 205 and benefit processing unit 206 of game management device 2 grant the user the set of items shown in FIG. 9 on the condition that a payment of 5,000 yen is made to the first payment means provided in EC management device 6. In this way, when charge object K5 is purchased by the user, charge object K5 and benefit B1 are provided to the user.

[0132] The paid stone F1 is an example of a chargeable object for which payment is made by the first payment means at A25 shown in Fig. 3, similar to the example of Fig. 8. The benefit B11 (points C1), the benefit B12 (free stone D1), and the recovery benefit B13 are examples of a first benefit granted to the user by the EC management device 6 based on payment made to the first payment means for the purchase of the paid stone F1 at A26 shown in Fig. 3.

[0133] Figure 10 shows a purchase screen provided by the game management device 2 and displayed by the game device 3 as a game screen at A42 in Figure 3 when the charge button H12 in Figure 4, the virtual currency purchase button H21 in Figure 6, and the second payment method payment selection button H32 in Figure 7 are operated in sequence. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual currency purchase screen. The purchase screen G6 shown in Fig. 10 displays a charge target K6, a benefit B4, price information L6, and a purchase button H6.

[0134] Chargeable object K6 indicates that paid virtual currency "Paid Stone F4" can be purchased in five different quantities (10, 20, 30, 40, 50). Benefit B4 indicates that as a benefit for each quantity of paid stone F4, benefit B41 "Points C4" is provided in the corresponding quantities (10pt, 20pt, 30pt, 40pt, 50pt), and benefit B42 "Free Stone D4" is provided in the corresponding quantities (10pt, 20pt, 30pt, 40pt, 50pt).

[0135] Price information L6 indicates the price of paid stones F4. In the example of FIG. 10, the quantity and price of paid stones F4 are determined to be the same as those of paid stones F1 shown in FIG. 8. The purchase button H22 is a button for purchasing each quantity of paid stones F4. For example, assume that the game device 3 accepts a user's operation on the purchase button H6 for 30 paid stones F4. In this case, on the condition that a payment of 300 yen is made to the second payment means provided by the application distribution device 5, the billing processing unit 205 and the bonus processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 grant the user the purchased 30 paid stones F4 and the bonus of 30 points C4 and 30 free stones D4.

[0136] Paid stone F4 is an example of a chargeable object for which payment is made by the second payment means in A45 shown in Fig. 3. Points C4 are an example of a second benefit granted to a user by the benefit processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 based on payment made to the second payment means for the purchase of paid stone F4 in A46 shown in Fig. 3. Furthermore, unpaid stone D4 is an example of a fourth benefit granted to a user by the benefit processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 based on payment made to the second payment means for the purchase of paid stone F4 in A46.

[0137] Figure 11 shows a purchase screen provided by the game management device 2 and displayed by the game device 3 as a game screen at A42 in Figure 3 when the charge button H12 in Figure 4, the item purchase button H22 in Figure 6, and the second payment method payment selection button H32 in Figure 7 are operated in sequence. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a purchase screen for an item through in-app billing. The purchase screen G7 shown in FIG. 11 displays a benefit B4, price information L7, and a purchase button H7.

[0138] Chargeable item K5 indicates that 500 "paid stones F4" can be purchased as a chargeable item. Benefit B4 indicates that the benefits of 500 paid stones F4 include benefit B41 of "50 points" "points C4," benefit B42 of "350" "free stones D4," and benefit B43 of "recovery" of "100 points." In this way, chargeable item K7 and benefit B4 indicate a set of paid and free items.

[0139] Price information L5 indicates the price (5,000 yen) determined for the charge object indicated by charge object K5. Purchase button H5 is a button for purchasing charge object K5. When the game device 3 accepts an operation on purchase button H5 by a user, the game management device 2 grants the user the set of items shown in FIG. 11 on the condition that a payment of 5,000 yen is made to the second payment means provided in the application distribution device 5. In this way, when charge object K7 is purchased by the user, charge object K7 and benefit B4 are provided to the user.

[0140] As described in the explanation of Fig. 3, when payment is made for a chargeable object by a first payment means (Payment A in this embodiment) at A25, the benefit processing unit 605 of the EC management device 6 grants a first benefit that can be used in the game to the user based on Payment A at A26. In the examples of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, when Payment A is made for paid stone F1, the benefit processing unit 605 grants the corresponding benefit B1 to the user.

[0141] In A45, payment by the second payment method (payment B in this embodiment) may be executed for a chargeable object that is the same as or corresponds to the chargeable object paid by this first payment method. Examples of the same or corresponding chargeable object include the paid stone F1 shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. 9 and the paid stone F4 shown in FIG. 10 or FIG. 11. In this embodiment, the paid stone F1 and the paid stone F4 are essentially the same virtual currency, since each has the same value and the same number of stones can be used to purchase items of the same value. Note that corresponding chargeable objects refer to, for example, cases where 10 paid stones F1 and 20 paid stones F4 are each chargeable and are equivalent (not identical but of equal value).

[0142] When payment A and payment B are respectively made for the same or corresponding billing object, the benefit processing unit 605 makes at least a portion of the first benefit granted to the user based on payment A available under restricted conditions when payment B is made.

[0143] For example, in the example of Fig. 8, the benefit processing unit 605 grants 20 free stones D1 (an example of a first benefit) to the user based on the payment of 10 paid stones F1. In contrast, in the example of Fig. 10, 10 free stones D4 (an example of a fourth benefit) are granted to the user as a benefit based on the payment of 10 paid stones F4. Here, if the free stones D1 and D4 are equivalent, when payment B is executed, the quantitative conditions of the benefit granted to the user will be more limited than when payment A is executed.

[0144] In addition, in the example of Fig. 9, the benefit processing unit 605 grants the user 700 free stones D1 (an example of a first benefit) based on the payment of 500 paid stones F1. In contrast, in the example of Fig. 11, the user is granted 350 free stones D4 (an example of a fourth benefit) as a benefit based on the payment of 500 paid stones F4. In this case, too, when payment B is executed, the quantitative conditions of the benefit granted to the user are more limited than when payment A is executed.

[0145] Note that the restricted conditions are not limited to quantitative conditions. For example, if the benefit has a time-related condition, such as an expiration date, the time-related condition may be restricted, for example, by shortening the expiration date. Furthermore, the conditions for the scope of the benefit may be restricted, for example, by reducing the types of game processes in which the benefit can be used. Furthermore, when payment B is executed as described above, the benefit processing unit 605 may not grant at least a portion of the first benefit to the user, rather than restricting the conditions. In the example of FIG. 10, the free stones D4 may be excluded from benefit B4. In either case, payment using the first payment method can be promoted compared to payment using a second payment method, in which the conditions for the benefit are restricted or no benefit is granted at all.

[0146] As described above, in the game system 1, when payment A and payment B are executed for the same or corresponding billable items, the first benefit granted based on payment A (one example is benefit B1) is treated more favorably than the fourth benefit granted based on payment B (one example is benefit B42). Specifically, when benefit B12 (free stones D1) included in benefit B1 is compared with benefit B42 (free stones D4), if free stones D1 and D4 are assumed to be equivalent as described above, benefit B12 has a greater number of free stones and is therefore more valuable. The information regarding the preferential treatment of the first payment method described in the explanations of Figures 7, 8, and 9 indicates the preferential treatment of the first benefit over this fourth benefit.

[0147] In the example of Fig. 7, the payment method presentation unit 203 of the game management device 2 functions as a display unit that displays in a recognizable manner that the benefit (first benefit) granted to the user when payment A is made (when an out-of-app purchase is made) is more favorable than the benefit (fourth benefit) granted to the user when payment B is made (when an in-app purchase is made). Similarly, in the examples of Figs. 8 and 9, the charge target presentation unit 602 of the EC management device 6 functions as a display unit that displays in a recognizable manner that the first benefit is more favorable than the fourth benefit. According to this embodiment, the first payment method, which offers a more favorable benefit than the second payment method, can be more likely to be selected.

[0148] Figure 12 shows the game screen provided by the game management device 2 and displayed by the game device 3 at A42 in Figure 3 when the gacha button H11 in Figure 4 and the payment selection button H32 for the second payment method in Figure 7 are operated in sequence. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a common gacha execution screen. The execution screen G8 shown in FIG. 12 shows consecutive gacha buttons K81, K82, K83, and K84.

[0149] The continuous gacha button is a button for consuming a required amount of virtual currency or points to execute gacha a predetermined number of times (11 times in the example of FIG. 12). When the operation of these gacha buttons is accepted, the game progress processing unit 201 performs a process of consuming the required amount of virtual currency or points and granting the user a character selected by lottery from a plurality of characters.

[0150] The consecutive gacha button K81 indicates that a "large acquisition" of a special benefit B21 called "point C2" can be achieved. The consecutive gacha button K82 indicates that a "medium acquisition" of a special benefit B41 called "point C4" can be achieved. The consecutive gacha button K83 indicates that a "small acquisition" of a special benefit B21 called "point C2" can be achieved. When performing these consecutive gachas, the number of points that can be acquired is in the following relationship: "large acquisition" > "medium acquisition" > "small acquisition." Note that the consecutive gacha button K84 indicates that no special benefit can be acquired.

[0151] When the consecutive gacha button K81 is operated, paid stones F1 granted based on payment using the first payment method are consumed, and points C2 are granted in the process of A36 shown in FIG. 3. When the consecutive gacha button K82 is operated, paid stones F4 granted as a charge based on payment using the second payment method are consumed, and points C6 are granted in the process of A56 shown in FIG. 3. When the consecutive gacha button K83 is operated, unpaid stones D4 granted as a bonus based on payment using the second payment method are consumed, and points C6 are granted in the process of A56 shown in FIG. 3. Points C2 and C6 are both examples of the second bonus.

[0152] In the example of Fig. 12, the bonus processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 varies the conditions for the bonus to be awarded depending on the type of virtual currency and points consumed or used when executing gacha. For example, the bonus processing unit 206 awards a larger number of bonuses when paid stones are consumed than when free stones are consumed. Furthermore, the bonus processing unit 206 awards a bonus when paid stones and free stones are consumed, but does not award a bonus when points are consumed.

[0153] More specifically, when the same or corresponding paid stones are consumed, the bonus processing unit 206 varies the quantity of bonuses granted depending on the payment method used to purchase those paid stones. In the example of FIG. 12, paid stones F1, which are the subject of a charge paid for using a first payment method, and paid stones F4, which are the subject of a charge paid for using a second payment method, are used in the game as the same or corresponding virtual currencies (the same 200 units of virtual currency). The bonus processing unit 206 grants a larger second bonus (points C2 in the example of FIG. 12) to the user based on the use of paid stones F1 than the second bonus (points C6 in the example of FIG. 12) to the user based on the use of paid stones F4. This embodiment can guide users to use specific payment methods and also guide users to acquire specific charged items.

[0154] FIG. 13 shows the screen of the EC site provided by the EC management device 6 and displayed on the user device 7 at A63 in FIG. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a service screen of an EC site. The service screen G9 shown in Fig. 13 displays an e-commerce service menu H91 and a game charge menu H92.

[0155] The e-commerce service menu H91 is a menu for presenting to the user e-commerce services offered on the EC site. These e-commerce services are services that cannot be used in games. When the e-commerce service menu H91 is selected, the service presentation unit 601 of the EC management device 6 displays a purchase screen for products, such as game-related goods. This purchase screen displays the products and the benefits that will be awarded by purchasing the products (for example, points C7 and free stones D7 awarded at A71 shown in FIG. 3).

[0156] On the other hand, the game charge menu H92 is a menu for presenting the game charge objects provided by the game management device 2 as services that can be used in the game. When the game charge menu H92 is selected, the charge object presentation unit 602 of the EC management device 6 displays, for example, a virtual currency purchase screen shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. When virtual currency is purchased on this purchase screen, the purchased virtual currency is granted to the user as a charge object in A74 shown in FIG. 4, even if the user is not currently playing a game, and a benefit corresponding to that virtual currency is granted to the user in A71. Then, the next time the game is played, the granted virtual currency and benefit can be used in the game.

[0157] The game charge menu H92 displays the text "Chance to earn points!" The points referred to here are the first benefit that are awarded based on payment A and can be used in the game. This display can motivate users to purchase game items on the EC site. The game charge menu H92 also displays the text "Receive special benefits by using points earned in the game!" The points earned in the game are the above-mentioned points C2, C4, and C6 (second benefit), and the benefit refers to discounts and the like that can be obtained using points. This display makes it easier for the second benefit to be used to purchase game items than if this display were not present, thereby strengthening the motivation to play the game.

[0158] [others] An expiration date may be set for a benefit given to a user in the game system 1. In this case, for example, the benefit processing unit 206 and the benefit processing unit 605 add the expiration date of the benefit when generating benefit information, and periodically determine whether the expiration date has arrived, and restrict the use of the benefit if it is determined that the expiration date has arrived.

[0159] Restricting the use of a benefit may mean stopping the use of the benefit or reducing the benefit of the benefit. For example, reducing the benefit of a benefit means that if the benefit is worth 100 points, only 10 points can be used after the expiration date. This embodiment can encourage the use of the benefit before the expiration date, compared to when there is no expiration date.

[0160] Furthermore, when an expiration date is set for a benefit including the first benefit or the second benefit, the benefit processing unit 206 and the benefit processing unit 605 may grant a benefit of a value according to the period until the expiration date. A case will be described in which the benefit processing unit 605 grants a first benefit. For example, the benefit processing unit 605 grants a first benefit whose value increases as the period until the expiration date shortens. For example, in the case of points, the benefit processing unit 605 grants points with usage conditions set so that the points can be used at 50% of their value immediately after being granted, their value increases by 10% every week thereafter, and they can be used at 100% of their value one week before the expiration date. In this case, the first benefit is more likely to be used if it is waited until the very last minute before the expiration date.

[0161] Furthermore, the bonus processing unit 605 grants a first bonus whose value decreases as the time until the expiration date shortens. For example, in the case of points, the bonus processing unit 605 grants points with usage conditions set so that the points can be used at 100% value immediately after being granted, but the value decreases by 10% every week thereafter, and the points can only be used at 50% value in the week before the expiration date. In this case, the first bonus is likely to be used as early as possible. In this way, according to the above-mentioned aspect, it is possible to control the time when the bonus is likely to be used.

[0162] In the embodiment, the bonus processing unit 605 of the EC management device 6 executes the service process using the second bonus (points C2, C4, and C6) but does not execute the service process using the first bonus (point C1). However, the bonus processing unit 605 may execute the service process in the e-commerce service based on the first bonus. In this case, the bonus processing unit 605 transmits the generated bonus information E1 to the game management device 2 at A31 shown in FIG. 3 and also stores it in its own device. Then, at A38, the bonus processing unit 605 executes the service process using bonus B1 (an example of the first bonus) by referring to the stored bonus information E1.

[0163] According to this aspect, the first benefit can be more user-friendly than when it cannot be used in the e-commerce service. By intentionally making the first benefit unusable in the e-commerce service as in the embodiment, the first benefit can be more effectively used to attract users to the game than when it can be used in the e-commerce service.

[0164] If the first benefit can be used in both a game and an e-commerce service, the expiration date may be different depending on whether the benefit is used in the game or the e-commerce service. In this case, the first benefit is set with a first expiration date and a second expiration date that is shorter than the first expiration date. The benefit processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 then restricts the use of the first benefit in the game based on the first expiration date. Furthermore, the benefit processing unit 605 of the EC management device 6 restricts the use of the first benefit in the e-commerce service based on the second expiration date.

[0165] The usage restriction based on the first expiration date and the usage restriction based on the second expiration date may be the same or different. According to this embodiment, after the second expiration date, the first benefit is restricted from use in the e-commerce service but not in the game, which can increase the effect of encouraging users to play the game compared to when the expiration date of the first benefit is the same for the e-commerce service and the game.

[0166] If the first benefit is available in the e-commerce service as described above, the benefit processing unit 605 of the EC management device 6 may execute processing in the e-commerce service by using the first benefit and the second benefit together in the e-commerce service. In this case, the benefit processing unit 605 executes benefit processing, for example, by referring to benefit information E1 stored in A31 and benefit information E2, E4, or E6 notified from the game management device 2, and subtracting the total of points C1 (an example of the first benefit) and points C2, C4, or C6 from the price of the service. This embodiment improves the usability of both the first benefit and the second benefit compared to when the first benefit and the second benefit cannot be used together.

[0167] In the embodiment, the second benefits (points C2, C4, C6) awarded in the game were all benefits that could be used in e-commerce services but could not be used in the game, but they may also be benefits that can be used not only in e-commerce services but also in the game.

[0168] In this case, the bonus processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 transmits the generated bonus information E2, E4, and E6 to the EC management device 6 at A36, A51, and A56 shown in FIG. 3 and also stores it in its own device. Then, at A35 and A55, the bonus processing unit 206 references the stored bonus information E2, E4, and E6 and executes service processing that uses bonuses B21, B41, and B61 (examples of second bonuses). This embodiment makes it possible to improve the usability of the second bonus compared to when the second bonus is available only for e-commerce services.

[0169] Furthermore, if the second benefit is usable in both the e-commerce service and the game, the benefit processing unit 206 may grant the second benefit to the user as a benefit usable in the game under more restrictive conditions than the first benefit. For example, the second benefit may have more quantitative restrictions than the first benefit. Specifically, for example, if 100 points C2 are awarded, all 100 points can be used in the e-commerce service, but only 50 points are used in the game. Furthermore, the second benefit may have more restrictive conditions regarding usability. Specifically, if points C2, C4, and C6 are awarded, the benefit processing unit 605 performs benefit processing by adding them together in the e-commerce service, but the benefit processing unit 206 performs benefit processing in the game only when the points are used individually.

[0170] If the second benefit were available for use in games, there is a risk that it would only be used in games and not for e-commerce services. Therefore, by restricting the terms of use in games, the second benefit is made more likely to be used in e-commerce services, increasing the effectiveness of the second benefit in guiding game users to e-commerce services.

[0171] If the second benefit can be used in both the game and the e-commerce service, the expiration date may be different depending on whether the benefit is used in the game or the e-commerce service. In this case, the second benefit is set with a third expiration date and a fourth expiration date that is shorter than the third expiration date. The benefit processing unit 605 of the EC management device 6 then restricts the use of the second benefit in the e-commerce service based on the third expiration date. The benefit processing unit 206 of the game management device 2 also restricts the use of the second benefit in the game based on the fourth expiration date.

[0172] The usage restriction based on the first expiration date and the usage restriction based on the second expiration date may be the same or different. According to this embodiment, after the fourth expiration date, the second benefit is restricted from use in the game but not in the e-commerce service, which can increase the effect of encouraging users to use the e-commerce service compared to when the expiration date of the second benefit is the same for the e-commerce service and the game.

[0173] In the embodiment, the first type virtual currency (e.g., paid stones) granted to the user could only be used in games, but it may also be made usable in e-commerce services. In this case, the service processing unit 604 of the EC management device 6 provides e-commerce services using one or both of the first type virtual currency granted to the user based on payment A (paid stones F1 is an example) and the first type virtual currency granted to the user based on payment B (paid stones F4 is an example).

[0174] Specifically, the billing processing unit 205 of the game management device 2 notifies the EC management device 6 of the billing purchase information generated in A34 or A54. If the billing object indicated in the notified billing purchase information indicates a first-type virtual currency (paid stone F1 or paid stone F4), the service processing unit 604 of the EC management device 6 executes a discount process for the e-commerce service using the first-type virtual currency. According to this embodiment, if paid stone F1 or paid stone F4 is purchased but has some left over, it can be used in the e-commerce service, thereby encouraging game users to use the e-commerce service.

[0175] In addition, the service processing unit 604 may use the paid stones F1 and paid stones F4 directly for service processing, or, for example, the bonus processing unit 605 may execute a process to exchange the paid stones F1 and paid stones F4 for a second bonus (points C2, C4, C6) that can be used in the e-commerce service, and execute bonus processing for the second bonus, thereby indirectly making the paid stones F1 and paid stones F4 usable in the e-commerce service.

[0176] The benefits (benefits B1 to B9) granted to a user for a game in the game system 1 may be usable in other games. In this case, the benefit processing unit 206 of each game shares benefit information in association with the identification information of the common user, and executes benefit processing based on the shared benefit information. This embodiment further increases the number of ways benefits can be used, thereby increasing convenience.

[0177] In the above example, the chargeable object and the benefit are exchanged for each other, but for example, the benefit may be exchanged for another benefit. For example, when a game progress process such as gacha is executed using points, the points may be exchanged for paid stones or free stones, and the paid stones or free stones may be consumed to execute the game progress process such as gacha.

[0178] The EC management device 6 may grant a benefit to a user at a timing different from that described in the embodiment. For example, a QR code (registered trademark) may be printed on a tag or the like of a product sold through an e-commerce service. The QR code (registered trademark) indicates, for example, a serial number unique to the product, and an inventory management system may associate the product with the serial number and store the associated number. When arranging for delivery of a purchased product, the service processing unit 604 of the EC management device 6 obtains the serial number of the product to be delivered from the inventory management system and stores the serial number in association with the identification information of the purchasing user and the payment information for the product.

[0179] In this example, the game device 3 or the user device 7 is equipped with an imaging means, which is used to read the serial number from the QR code (registered trademark) of the delivered product and transmits it to the EC management device 6. The EC management device 6 then uses the benefit processing unit 605 to grant a benefit based on the payment information identified by the serial number to the user associated with the received serial number. This embodiment increases the number of ways to obtain the first benefit.

[0180] Furthermore, when reading a QR code (registered trademark) as described above, a QR code (registered trademark) indicating product information may be printed. In this case, the game device 3 or the user device 7 may transmit the read product information to the game management device 2, and the game progress processing unit 201 of the game management device 2 may execute game processing corresponding to the transmitted product information. For example, if the product information is a weapon item that appears in the game, the game processing may be processing of a battle using the weapon. Alternatively, if the product information is a figurine of a character in the game, the game processing may be processing of equipping the character with a special skin. This embodiment can strengthen the connection between the use of the e-commerce service and the game, compared to when product information is not used in processing.

[0181] In the embodiment, two payment methods are used, but three or more payment methods may be used. In this case, the payment method presentation unit 203 presents the three or more payment methods on the game screen for selecting a payment method, and the game progress processing unit 201 executes game processing related to the billable object paid with the selected payment method. When payment is made with the first payment method, the game progress processing unit 201 executes game processing that is different from when payment is made with a payment method other than the first payment method (considered to be the second payment method). This aspect also makes it possible to make the first payment method more likely to be used than the second payment method.

[0182] The overall configuration shown in Fig. 1 is an example and is not limiting. For example, the game management device 2, the application distribution device 5, and the EC management device 6 may be integrated into one or two devices, or may be distributed among four or more devices. Furthermore, these devices may be replaced by a cloud computing system.

[0183] 2 is also an example and is not limited to this. For example, the functions of the game management device 2 and the EC management device 6 may be realized by a single device, or conversely, the functions of the game management device 2 may be distributed and realized by two or more devices. Furthermore, two functions may be integrated into one function, or one function may be separated into two or more functions. In short, any configuration may be adopted as long as the game system 1 as a whole realizes functions corresponding to the functions shown in FIG. 2.

[0184] The above-described embodiments may be implemented as an information processing device. The information processing device includes the components of an information processing system such as the game system 1. The above-described embodiments may be implemented as an information processing method. The information processing method includes the components of a similar information processing system. The above-described embodiments may be implemented as a program. The program causes a computer to execute the steps of the information processing system.

[0185] <Additional Notes> Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects.

[0186] (2) In the information processing system, the benefit processing step executes processing in the electronic commerce service based on the first benefit.

[0187] According to this aspect, the first benefit can be made more user-friendly.

[0188] (3) In the information processing system, the first benefit is set to a first expiration date and a second expiration date that is shorter than the first expiration date, and the first benefit is restricted in use in the game based on the first expiration date, and is restricted in use in the e-commerce service based on the second expiration date.

[0189] According to this aspect, it is possible to enhance the effect of encouraging users to play the game.

[0190] (4) In the information processing system, the benefit processing step uses the first benefit and the second benefit together in the electronic commerce service to execute processing in the electronic commerce service.

[0191] According to this aspect, it is possible to improve the usability of both the first benefit and the second benefit.

[0192] (5) In the information processing system, the granting step grants the user a third benefit that can be used in the electronic commerce service based on the use of the second benefit in the electronic commerce service.

[0193] According to this embodiment, it is possible to promote the introduction of e-commerce services.

[0194] (6) In the information processing system, the second benefit can also be used in the game.

[0195] According to this aspect, the second benefit can be made more user-friendly.

[0196] (7) In the information processing system, the second benefit is set to a third expiration date and a fourth expiration date that is shorter than the third expiration date, and the second benefit is restricted in use in the e-commerce service based on the third expiration date, and is restricted in use in the game based on the fourth expiration date.

[0197] According to this embodiment, it is possible to increase the effect of inducing users to use e-commerce services.

[0198] (8) In the information processing system, the second benefit is a benefit that can be used in the game under more restrictive conditions than the first benefit, or a benefit that cannot be used in the game.

[0199] According to this embodiment, the second benefit can be easily used in e-commerce services.

[0200] (9) In the information processing system, the chargeable item includes a first type of virtual currency that can be used in the game, the first benefit includes a second type of virtual currency that can be used in the game, the second type of virtual currency is granted to the user based on the progress of the game without the user having to make the payment, and the second type of virtual currency granted to the user as the first benefit and the second type of virtual currency granted to the user based on the progress of the game without the user having to make the payment can be used interchangeably in the game.

[0201] According to this embodiment, it is possible to encourage players to play the game.

[0202] (10) In the information processing system, the payment for the chargeable object can also be made using a second payment means used on the platform that provides the game, and the service is provided using the first type of virtual currency granted to the user based on the payment by the second payment means.

[0203] According to this embodiment, it is possible to promote the introduction of e-commerce services.

[0204] (11) In the information processing system, payment for the chargeable object can also be made using a second payment means used on the platform that provides the game, and in the granting step, when payments are made using the first payment means and the second payment means for the same or corresponding chargeable object, at least a portion of the first benefit granted to the user based on payment using the first payment means is not granted to the user or is made available under restricted conditions when payment is made using the second payment means.

[0205] According to this embodiment, it is possible to promote payment by the first payment means.

[0206] (12) In the information processing system, the display step displays in a recognizable manner that the first benefit granted to the user when payment is made by the first payment means for the same or corresponding chargeable object is more preferential than the fourth benefit granted to the user when payment is made by the second payment means.

[0207] According to this aspect, it is possible to make it easier for the first payment method to be selected.

[0208] (13) In the information processing system, the first benefit or the second benefit has an expiration date set therefor, and in the granting step, a benefit of a value according to the period until the expiration date is granted.

[0209] According to this embodiment, it is possible to control the period when the benefit is most likely to be used.

[0210] (14) An information processing device configured to execute each step of the information processing system.

[0211] (15) A program that causes a computer to execute each step of the information processing system. Of course, this is not the case. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined in any desired manner.

[0212] Finally, although various embodiments according to the present disclosure have been described, 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]

[0213] 1: Game System 2: Game management device 3: Game device 5: Application distribution device 6:EC management device 7: User device 201: Game progress processing section 202: Chargeable item presentation section 203: Payment method presentation unit 204: Payment request section 205: Billing processing unit 206: Bonus Processing Unit 301: Application processing section 302: Application operation reception section 501: App presentation section 502: Payment processing unit 503: App Distribution Department 601: Service Presentation Section 602: Chargeable item presentation section 603: Payment processing unit 604: Service processing unit 605: Bonus Processing Unit 701: EC Processing Department 702: EC Operation Reception

Claims

1. An information processing system, The information processing system, In the receiving step, an input by a user for instructing a payment procedure using the first payment means is received; In the payment processing step, in response to the input, payment is made for billable objects provided in the game and usable in the game, and payment is made for an electronic commerce service that provides a service that cannot be used in the game; In the granting step, a first benefit that can be used in the game is granted to the user based on the payment made to the first payment means; In the benefit processing step, when an operation for using the second benefit granted in the game in the electronic commerce service is performed, a discount or product exchange process is executed in the electronic commerce service, and the second benefit is used as a parameter in the process. Information processing system.

2. An information processing system, The information processing system, In the receiving step, an input by a user for instructing a payment procedure using the first payment means is received; In the payment processing step, in response to the input, payment is made for a charge object provided in the game and payment is made for an electronic commerce service that provides a service that cannot be used in the game; In the granting step, a first benefit that can be used in the game is granted to the user based on the payment made to the first payment means; In the benefit processing step, a process in the electronic commerce service is executed based on the second benefit granted in the game; the second benefit is a benefit that cannot be used in the game but can be used in the e-commerce service; Information processing system.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 1, The information processing system, In the benefit processing step, a process in the electronic commerce service is executed based on the first benefit. Information processing system.

4. 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, The first benefit has a first expiration date and a second expiration date that is shorter than the first expiration date, The first benefit is limited in use in the game based on the first expiration date, 2. Use in the e-commerce service is restricted based on the expiration date. Information processing system.

5. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the first benefit is represented by first points, and the second benefit is represented by second points; The information processing system, In the benefit processing step, the first benefit and the second benefit are used together in the electronic commerce service, and a discount or product exchange process is executed in the electronic commerce service based on a total point of the first points and the second points. Information processing system.

6. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The information processing system, In the granting step, a third benefit that can be used in the electronic commerce service is granted to the user based on the use of the second benefit in the electronic commerce service. Information processing system.

7. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The second benefit can also be used in the game. Information processing system.

8. 8. The information processing system according to claim 7, The second benefit is set with a third expiration date and a fourth expiration date that is shorter than the third expiration date, The second benefit is restricted from use in the electronic commerce service based on the third expiration date, and is restricted from use in the game based on the fourth expiration date. Information processing system.

9. 9. The information processing system according to claim 7, The second benefit is a benefit that can be used in the game under more restrictive conditions than the first benefit. Information processing system.

10. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the chargeable item includes a first type of virtual currency that can be used in the game; the first benefit includes a second type of virtual currency that can be used in the game; the second type virtual currency is granted to the user based on the progress of the game without executing the payment; The second type of virtual currency granted to the user as the first benefit and the second type of virtual currency granted to the user based on the progress of the game without executing the payment can be used in the game without distinction. Information processing system.

11. 11. The information processing system according to claim 10, The payment for the chargeable object can also be made using a second payment method used on the platform that provides the game, The information processing system, providing the service using the first type virtual currency granted to the user based on the payment made by the second payment means; Information processing system.

12. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The payment for the chargeable object can also be made using a second payment method used on the platform that provides the game, the first payment means is used to pay for the electronic commerce service; The information processing system, In the granting step, when payments are made by the first payment means and the second payment means for the same or corresponding chargeable object, at least a part of the first benefit granted to the user based on the payment by the first payment means is not granted to the user or is made available under limited conditions when payment is made by the second payment means. Information processing system.

13. 13. The information processing system according to claim 12, The information processing system, In the display step, a display is made so as to be recognizable that the first benefit granted to the user when payment is made by the first payment means for the same or corresponding chargeable object is more preferential than the fourth benefit granted to the user when payment is made by the second payment means. Information processing system.

14. In the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, an expiration date is set for the first benefit or the second benefit; The information processing system, In the granting step, a benefit having a value corresponding to the period until the expiration date is granted. Information processing system.

15. An information processing device, The information processing system is configured to execute each step of the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14. Information processing device.

16. A program, A computer is caused to execute each step of the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14. program.

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