Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide a more excellent technique, for example.SOLUTION: An information processing method executed by an information processing system is provided. The information processing method includes the following steps. In a game control step, the progress of a first game is controlled in response to a user's operation. The first game is configured to execute a first game content corresponding to a first content object among at least one first game content executable in the first game, on the basis of a positional relationship between a first user object that can move in a first virtual space in response to a user's operation and a first content object arranged in the first virtual space. The first game content includes a first content and a second content. The first content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space. The second content is configured to be executable by a user who has executed first billing processing based on payment of a price corresponding to the second content, among users who can access the first virtual space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an incentive granting method, a client terminal, and an incentive granting program that can grant incentives between different applications.

[0003] When a predetermined operation related to a second application is performed on the client terminal, the client terminal according to the technology sends an incentive request including a second user identifier that identifies the user in the second application to a server, and receives from the server, based on the incentive request, an incentive in the first application for a user identified by a first user identifier that identifies the user in the first application and corresponds to the second user identifier. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-148552 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is still room for improvement in the above technology.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a superior technique. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing method executed by an information processing system. The information processing method includes the following steps: In the game control step, progress of a first game is controlled in accordance with a user's operation. Here, the first game is configured to execute first game content corresponding to a first content object among at least one first game content executable in the first game, based on a positional relationship between a first user object that can move within a first virtual space in accordance with a user's operation and a first content object placed within the first virtual space. The first game content includes first content and second content. The first content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space. The second content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space and has executed a first charging process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the second content.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a more interesting experience to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an information processing device 2 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is an activity diagram showing an overview of information processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first virtual space VS1 related to a first game G1 and a second virtual space VS2 related to a second game G2. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a first screen IM1 which is a play screen for a first content C1. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second screen IM2 which is one play screen of the second content C2. [Figure 7]10 is a diagram showing an example of first visual information 5 that visually expresses a first granting condition. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of second visual information 6 that visually expresses a second granting condition. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [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.

[0011] 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).

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] 1. Game Description Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1, an information processing device 2 and a plurality of game devices 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the game devices 3. In other words, the information processing system 1 is made up of at least one device.

[0015] The game according to this embodiment is an online game executed by the information processing system 1. In this game, a user of the game device 3 controls one or more player characters to act in a virtual game space, and controls the player characters to fight against enemy characters, which are non-player characters. The characters are an example of objects.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 2. Overview of Information Processing System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 is made up of an information processing device 2 and multiple game devices 3. The information processing 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 information processing 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 information processing device 2 or game device 3 described below alone can also be an example of the information processing system 1.

[0018] The game device 3 executes a predetermined game based on user operations. To do so, the game device 3 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the information processing device 2 via the communication network 11. Each user is assigned account information, including identification information and a password, in association with the game device 3. This account information is transmitted from the game device 3 to the information processing device 2 at the time of login, and is used for user authentication on the information processing device 2.

[0019] After user authentication, mutual communication becomes possible between the information processing device 2 and the game device 3. After logging in, the game device 3 receives data necessary for game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the information processing device 2, and then progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and speaker 4b based on user operations.

[0020] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0021] <Information processing device 2> 1, the information processing device 2 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The communication unit 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a communication bus 20.

[0022] 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 that the information processing device 2 receives 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, a request to start / end autoplay, account information, game data, etc. Main information that the information processing device 2 transmits via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the game device 3 has received the game program, information about game media obtained through gacha, etc.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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 called 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, if the game media is a player character, the ability parameters include, for example, combat power, HP, attack power, defense power, intelligence, or speed.

[0025] The control unit 23 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the information processing device 2, which is its own device. In particular, the control unit 23 realizes various functions related to the information processing device 2, which is its own device, by reading out predetermined programs stored in the storage unit 22. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and each functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and it may be implemented with multiple control units 23 for each function. It may also be a combination of these.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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 acquire game media through direct purchase, quest completion, or a lottery system known as gacha. The acquired game media is stored and managed in a user DB in association with the identification information of the user who will own the game media. Furthermore, "gacha" refers to a method in which an information processing device 2 randomly selects game media from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection rate. The selected game media is then granted to the user's game device 3. The phrase "granting the game media selected through gacha to a 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."

[0028] <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.

[0029] The communication unit 31 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to the communication network 11 in order to transmit and receive various data between the game device 3 and the information processing device 2. Main information that the game device 3 receives via the communication unit 31 includes account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, a quest execution request, etc. Main information that the game device 3 transmits via the communication unit 31 includes new game data sent from the information processing device 2 in response to download request information, information on game media selected by lottery processing, etc.

[0030] The storage unit 32 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 32 stores game data downloaded from the information processing device 2, various programs including a part of the game program, account information of the game device 3 itself, user information, etc. The user information is at least a part of the information in a user DB stored in the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2. The user DB manages a master of the user information, and the storage unit 32 of the game device 3 stores at least a part of the information in this master that is distributed from the information processing device 2.

[0031] 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.

[0032] In particular, the control unit 33 is configured to execute a game in accordance with operations of the input device 4c by the user of the game apparatus 3, which is the own apparatus. Specifically, the control unit 33 reads data such as virtual game space objects and textures included in the game data from the storage unit 32, or generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information using data received from the information processing device 2. The game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 34a, and the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 4a. In other words, the control unit 33 is configured to perform display control of the display 4a and audio output control of the speaker 4b in accordance with operations, etc., by the user of the game apparatus 3, which is the own apparatus, when executing a game.

[0033] 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 by operating 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.

[0034] 2.2 Functional Configuration Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 2 of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0035] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the control unit 23 (processor) executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22 to function as an acquisition unit 231, a game control unit 232, an allowance unit 233, and an assignment unit 234. In other words, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, and can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 23.

[0036] The acquisition unit 231 is configured to acquire various information and inputs as an acquisition step. For example, the acquisition unit 231 acquires information such as user information and game-related inputs from users from the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2, or acquires the information from the game device 3 or another external device via the communication network 11. In the present embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the various information received by the acquisition unit 231 is stored in the storage unit 22.

[0037] The game control unit 232 is configured to determine, as a game control step, various judgments and processing execution modes based on various information.

[0038] The permission unit 233 is configured to, as a permission step, permit the provision of various game-related contents to the user.

[0039] The granting unit 234 is configured to grant various pieces of privilege information to the user as various granting steps such as a first granting step, a second granting step, and a third granting step.

[0040] Note that control unit 23 may function as a display processing unit. As a display step, the display processing unit displays various pieces of information stored in storage unit 22 or storage unit 32 or screens containing such information on display 4a of game device 3 in a visible manner. Specifically, the display processing unit may generate visual information itself, such as a screen, an image (e.g., a still image or a video), an icon, or text, generated in a manner visible to humans, or may generate rendering information for displaying the visual information on display 4a and transmit the rendering information to game device 3 via communication network 11.

[0041] 3. Explanation of various information and terms In this section, various information and terms handled by the information processing system 1 will be explained.

[0042] <First Game G1> The first game G1 is a multiplayer game in which multiple users can log in to a first virtual space VS1. Various objects, including a first user object U1 and a first content object Ob1, are placed within the first virtual space VS1. The first user object U1 is configured to be movable within the first virtual space VS1 in response to a user's operation and functions as the user's avatar within the first virtual space VS1. The first content object Ob1 is associated with at least one first game content GC1 that can be executed in the first game G1. The first game G1 is configured to execute a first game content GC1 that corresponds to the first content object Ob1, out of the at least one first game content GC1, based on the positional relationship between the first user object U1 and the first content object Ob1. For example, the first game G1 is configured to accept a request as to whether or not to execute the first game content GC1 corresponding to the first content object Ob1 when the first user object U1 moves into a predetermined area based on the first content object Ob1, and to execute the first game content GC1 in accordance with the request.

[0043] <Contents> Content refers to the elements that make up a game, such as the first game G1. Content includes various pieces of information that make up the game's content. For example, content may include elements such as a story that defines the main flow of the game, characters that appear in the story, the relationships between the characters, and quests that define how the game progresses.

[0044] <First game content GC1> The first game content GC1 is content that can be executed in the first game G1. The first game content GC1 includes, for example, a first content C1 and a second content C2. In this embodiment, the first game content GC1 includes one first content C1 and multiple second contents C2.

[0045] The first content C1 is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space VS1. For example, the first content C1 is configured to be executable without requiring an additional charge from a user who has purchased the first game G1. The first content C1 is, for example, new content that has never been provided before.

[0046] The second content C2 is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space VS1 and who has executed a first billing process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the second content C2. For example, the second content C2 is so-called additional content that can be played by a user who has purchased the first game G1 in exchange for an additional fee.

[0047] <2nd Game G2> The second game G2 is a multiplayer game in which multiple users can log in to a second virtual space VS2. The second virtual space VS2 is configured to be immovable from the first virtual space VS1 during the game progress of the first game G1. For example, the second virtual space VS2 is isolated from the first virtual space VS1. Various objects, including a second user object U2 and a second content object Ob2, are arranged within the second virtual space VS2. The second user object U2 is configured to be movable within the second virtual space VS2 in response to a user's operation and functions as the user's avatar within the second virtual space VS2. The first content object Ob1 is associated with at least one second game content GC2 executable in the second game G2. The second game G2 is configured to execute, based on the positional relationship between the second user object U2 and the second content object Ob2, at least one second game content GC2 corresponding to the second content object Ob2. This positional relationship can be defined in the same way as the positional relationship between the first user object U1 and the first game content GC1, for example.

[0048] <Second game content GC2> The second game content GC2 is content that can be executed in the second game G2. The second game content GC2 includes, for example, a third content C3 and a fourth content C4.

[0049] The third content C3 is configured to be executable by a user who can access the second virtual space VS2. For example, the third content C3 is configured to be executable without requiring an additional charge from a user who has purchased the second game G2. The third content C3 is, for example, new content that has never been provided before. Furthermore, the third content C3 may be content independent of the first content C1.

[0050] The fourth content C4 is configured to be executable by users who can access the second virtual space VS2 and who have executed the second billing process based on payment of the fee corresponding to the fourth content C4. For example, the fourth content C4 is so-called additional content that can be played by users who have purchased the second game G2 in exchange for an additional fee. The fourth content C4 may include content of games that were provided before the second game G2 was released, such as content of previous versions of the third content C3.

[0051] <Common Content> Common content is content that is common between a certain content and another content. Whether or not content is common may be determined based on the presence or absence of similarities and differences in the story. The similarities and differences in the story may be determined based on a comparison of elements between a portion of the content of one game and a portion of the content of another game. Examples of such elements include the story title, setting name, chronological order, characters appearing, the amount of text information, and the amount of graphic information. Note that the presence or absence of differences in the story may be set in advance by the creator of the content. For example, common content may be content in which the content of a certain game is a remake of content from a game released in the past (a so-called legacy game) and in which almost no changes are made to the content of the legacy game.

[0052] <Difference content> Differential content is content that is not included in the other content, such as downloadable content (DLC) or content that is only available as a bonus for a certain game. Differential content refers to content that is newly added to the content of a certain game that is a remake of content from a game previously released (a so-called previous game). Examples of differential content include content related to a story that was added to a previous game, and content related to a special mode that allows the content of a previous game to be played in a different game mode (for example, a game mode with a higher difficulty level or a stronger new game).

[0053] 4. Overview of Information Processing This section provides an overview of the flow of the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. 3 is an activity diagram showing an overview of the information processing executed by the information processing system 1. The results of the processing in each activity included in the information processing described below may be output in a manner that is recognizable to the user, using the display 4a of the game device 3, etc., as appropriate. Note that the information processing may include any exception processing not shown. Exception processing includes the interruption of the information processing or the omission of each process. The selection or input performed in the information processing may be based on a user operation or may be performed automatically without relying on a user operation.

[0054] [Activity A1] First, in activity A1, the acquisition unit 231 acquires user information in response to input from the user, etc. The user information may include various information about the user, such as the user's login history, the user's billing history, games that the user can play or their content, the play history of the first game G1, and the play history of the second game G2.

[0055] [Activity A2] Next, in activity A2, the control unit 23 receives a request to play the first game G1 from the user. The acquisition unit 231 acquires the request to play the first game G1 in response to an operation from the user.

[0056] [Activity A3] When a play request from the first game G1 is acquired, in activity A3, the game control unit 232 controls the progress of the first game G1 in response to a user operation, allowing the user to move the first user object U1 and play the desired first game content GC1.

[0057] [Activity A4] Next, in activity A4, the acquisition unit 231 acquires the play history of the first game G1. The play history of the first game G1 may include the user's play history of each of the first game contents GC1, such as the play history of the first content C1 and the play history of each of the second contents C2.

[0058] [Activity A5] Next, in activity A5, the control unit 23 identifies a satisfied first achievement condition from among a plurality of predetermined first achievement conditions based on the play history of the first game G1. Each of the plurality of first achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on the play history of the corresponding second content C2. The first achievement condition may include, for example, a condition that can be achieved by playing the second content C2 regardless of the progress level of the second content C2 (e.g., "playing the second content C2"). This allows a user who has performed the first charging process to play the second content C2 to achieve the first achievement condition simply by playing the second content C2. Therefore, by providing the user with the benefit of performing the first charging process early, it is possible to give the user a sense of value for the first charging process. Furthermore, the first achievement condition may include, for example, a condition that can be achieved depending on the progress level of the second content C2 (e.g., "clearing all stories included in the second content C2"). This can motivate the user to progress through the second content C2 purchased through the first charging process, thereby increasing the interest of the second content C2. Note that the first achievement condition may include a condition that can be achieved based on a play history of multiple second contents C2 (for example, "play two or more second contents C2").

[0059] [Activity A6] Next, in activity A6, as a first granting step, the granting unit 234 grants the first benefit information to the user depending on the achievement status of the first granting condition. With this configuration, the user can be encouraged to play a combination of multiple second contents C2 so as to satisfy the first granting condition. This increases the opportunities for the user to play a wider variety of second contents C2, further increasing the interest of the first game G1.

[0060] The first benefit information is configured to, for example, enable the first game G1 to progress more advantageously. Specific examples of the first benefit information include the granting of a title such as a trophy, the unlocking of new content in the first game G1, and the enabling of first game content GC1 (for example, first content C1 that is content unique to the first game G1) with priority over other users (for example, issuing a fast pass), and are arbitrary.

[0061] The first granting condition is defined by at least a combination of a plurality of first achievement conditions. For example, the first granting condition can be achieved by the user playing all of a series of works provided as each of a plurality of second contents C2. The first granting condition will be described in detail in the next section.

[0062] [Activity A7] Next, in activity A7, the acquisition unit 231 acquires the play history of the second game G2 by the user. The play history of the second game G2 includes the play history of each of the second game contents GC2 by the user. The play history of the second game G2 is linked to the user information acquired in activity A1. Therefore, the acquisition unit 231 can acquire the play history of the second game G2 by, for example, referring to the user information.

[0063] [Activity A8] Next, in activity A8, the control unit 23 identifies a second achievement condition that has been satisfied from among a plurality of predetermined second achievement conditions based on the play history of the second game G2. Each of the plurality of second achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on the play history of the corresponding fourth content C4. The relationship between the second achievement condition and the fourth content C4 can be defined in the same way as the relationship between the first achievement condition and the second content C2 described above.

[0064] [Activity A9] Next, in activity A9, the granting unit 234 grants second bonus information to the user in accordance with the achievement status of the second bonus condition as a second granting step. With this configuration, the user can enjoy the benefit of the second billing process in the second game G2 in the first game G1 by achieving the second achievement condition. The second billing condition becomes more likely to be satisfied by achieving the second achievement condition. This encourages the user to perform the billing process in both the first game G1 and the second game G2, making it easier to provide a variety of game content to more users. The relationship between the second bonus information and the second game G2 can be defined in the same way as the relationship between the first bonus information and the first game G1 described above.

[0065] The second granting condition is determined by the combination of first and second achievement conditions that are achieved among the plurality of first and second achievement conditions. For example, the second granting condition is determined by the combination of corresponding games in which at least one of the first and second achievement conditions is achieved. With this configuration, the user can fulfill the first achievement condition by playing at least one of the second content C2 and the fourth content C4, which include the shared content portion. This encourages the user to perform at least one of the first and second billing processes, making it easier to provide a variety of content. The second granting condition will be described in detail in the next section.

[0066] One of the predetermined second contents C2 and one of the predetermined fourth contents C4 may be associated in advance as a corresponding game. The method of setting the corresponding game is arbitrary, but for example, the second contents C2 and the fourth contents C4 including common content that is content common to each other may be associated in advance as a corresponding game. Furthermore, at least one of the second contents C2 may include common content that is common to one of the fourth contents C4 and differential content that is not included in the fourth content C4. With this configuration, even if the second content C2 provided in the first game G1 and the fourth content C4 provided in the second game G2 share at least a portion in common, the user can enjoy the differential content by performing the first charging process in the first game G1. This encourages users who have performed the second charging process to perform the first charging process, making it easier to provide a wider variety of content.

[0067] After activity A9, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the user has issued an instruction to end the first game G1. If no instruction to end the first game G1 has been issued, the process returns to activity A3, and the game control unit 232 continues to control the progress of the first game G1.

[0068] [Activity A10] On the other hand, if an end instruction has been given, the game control unit 232 ends the first game G1 in activity A10, and this information processing ends.

[0069] In summary, the information processing method executed by the information processing system 1 includes the following steps. In the game control step, progress of a first game G1 is controlled in response to a user's operation. Here, the first game G1 is configured to execute, based on the positional relationship between a first user object U1 that can move within a first virtual space VS1 in response to a user's operation and a first content object Ob1 that is placed within the first virtual space VS1, a first game content GC1 that corresponds to the first content object Ob1, among at least one first game content GC1 that can be executed in the first game G1. The first game content GC1 includes a first content C1 and a second content C2. The first content C1 is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space VS1. The second content C2 is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space VS1 and has executed a first charging process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the second content C2.

[0070] With this configuration, a user who enjoys the first content C1 in the first virtual space VS1 can be prompted to perform the first billing process so that the user can enjoy the second content C2 based on their own will. Therefore, a more interesting first game G1 can be provided that matches the tastes and financial capabilities of each individual user.

[0071] 5. Details of data processing In this section, we will use diagrams to explain the details of the information processing outlined in the previous section.

[0072] 5.1. Example of the configuration of the first virtual space VS1 and the second virtual space VS2 FIG. 4 shows an example configuration of a first virtual space VS1 for a first game G1 and a second virtual space VS2 for a second game G2. The first virtual space VS1 is represented by three-dimensional graphics that mimic an amusement facility such as a game arcade in real space. A plurality of first user objects U1 and a first content object Ob1 may be placed in the first virtual space VS1. Each of the plurality of first user objects U1 is configured to be able to move freely within the first virtual space VS1 in response to an operation by the corresponding user. Each of the plurality of first content objects Ob1 is configured to be able to play one of the first game contents GC1 and is represented by three-dimensional graphics that mimic, for example, the cabinets of a game arcade in real space.

[0073] At least one (four in this embodiment) of the first content objects Ob1 is associated with a first content C1 as the first game content GC1. The first content C1 is content related to a competitive game between multiple users, and can be played when a predetermined number of users (e.g., two) wish to play. Therefore, when the game control unit 232 receives play requests from more than the predetermined number of users for the first content object Ob1 corresponding to the first content C1, it matches the users and starts playing the first content C1. The play request is made, for example, when a user is located in a predetermined area (e.g., an area corresponding to a seat located near the console) relative to the first content object Ob1 corresponding to the first content C1.

[0074] Furthermore, at least one of the first content objects Ob1 is associated with one of a plurality of second contents C2. In this embodiment, the first game content GC1 includes three types of second contents C2. Two first content objects Ob1, two first content objects Ob1, and four first content objects Ob1 are associated with each of the three types of second contents C2. When the first user object U1 moves to a predetermined area based on these first content objects Ob1, the user can play the second content C2 associated with the first content object Ob1.

[0075] Here, various types of second content C2 are configured to be playable by users who have access to the first virtual space VS1 and have completed a first charging process for the second content C2. Therefore, when a first user object U1 of a user who has not completed the first charging process approaches a first content object Ob1 corresponding to the second content C2, the control unit 23 may present visual information to the user prompting the user to complete the first charging process. Furthermore, the visual information may be generated, for example, as one of the objects within the first virtual space VS1. In this case, the visual information may be configured to be visible only to the user who is the target of the first charging process.

[0076] Like the first virtual space VS1, the second virtual space VS2 is represented by three-dimensional graphics that mimic an amusement facility such as a game center in real space. The second virtual space VS2 may include a plurality of second user objects U2 and second content objects Ob2. The second user object U2 corresponds to the first user object U1 in the first virtual space VS1, and the second content object Ob2 corresponds to the second content object Ob2 in the first virtual space VS1. Each of the second content objects Ob2 is associated with one of the second game contents GC2. At least one of the second content objects Ob2 is associated with the third content C3. In this embodiment, the third content C3 in the second game G2 corresponds to the first content C1 in the first game G1. Note that the first content C1 and the third content C3 have different contents. At least one of the second content objects Ob2 is associated with the fourth content C4. The fourth content C4 in the second game G2 corresponds to the second content C2 in the first game G1. Note that in order to play the fourth content C4, it is necessary to carry out a second billing process.

[0077] Here, one of the fourth contents C4 is associated with one of the second contents C2 as a corresponding game. The second content C2 and the fourth content C4 associated as a corresponding game are associated based on, for example, including common content that they share. In this embodiment, the associated second content C2 and fourth content C4 are content of a game with the same title.

[0078] The first virtual space VS1 and the second virtual space VS2 are configured as isolated spaces so that the first user object U1 and the second user object U2 cannot move freely between them. Therefore, in order for a user to access the first virtual space VS1 via the first user object U1, the user must purchase the first game G1. Similarly, in order for a user to access the second virtual space VS2 via the second user object U2, the user must purchase the second game G2.

[0079] 5.2. Example of gameplay screen for the first game content GC1 5 is a diagram showing an example of a first screen IM1, which is a play screen for a first content C1. The first content C1 in this embodiment is content related to a one-on-one fighting game, and is configured so that the user who first reduces the remaining vitality of the opponent to zero is determined to have won. The first screen IM1 includes two first player objects Ob11, two first vitality gauges Ob12, two drive gauges Ob13, and two EX gauges Ob14.

[0080] The first player object Ob11 is a character object that is operated by each of the two users in the first content C1. Each of the first player objects Ob11 is constructed three-dimensionally using three-dimensional graphics technology.

[0081] The first stamina gauge Ob12 is a gauge-type object that indicates the remaining stamina of the character associated with each first player object Ob11.

[0082] The drive gauge Ob13 is a gauge-like object that indicates the remaining amount of a parameter for determining whether each first player object Ob11 can execute a special action (drive system). When the remaining amount of the drive gauge Ob13 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, for example, zero, the first player object Ob11 is prohibited from executing a special action. The remaining amount of the drive gauge Ob13 recovers over time, for example, and decreases when attacked by the opponent's first player object Ob11.

[0083] The EX gauge Ob14 is a gauge-like object that indicates the accumulation status of parameters consumed when each first player object Ob11 executes a special move. The parameters related to the EX gauge Ob14 are configured to accumulate in response to events related to the progress of the first game G1, such as the passage of time, receiving damage from an attack from the opponent first player object Ob11, inflicting damage on the opponent first player object Ob11, etc.

[0084] 5.3. Example of a play screen of the second content C2 6 is a diagram showing an example of a second screen IM2 which is one play screen of the second content C2. The second content C2 of this embodiment is content related to a fighting game that is a predecessor of the first content C1, and is configured so that the user who first reduces the remaining vitality of the opponent to zero is determined to have won. The second screen IM2 includes two second player objects Ob21 and two second stamina gauges Ob22.

[0085] The second player object Ob21 is a character object that is operated by each of the two users in the second content C2. Each of the first player objects Ob11 is two-dimensionally constructed using a drawing technique related to pixel art on a two-dimensional plane.

[0086] The second stamina gauge Ob22 is a gauge-type object that indicates the remaining stamina of the character associated with each second player object Ob21. Note that the processes related to the drive gauge Ob13 and the EX gauge Ob14 are functions implemented in works in the series after the second content C2 was released, and therefore the second screen IM2 does not include objects corresponding to the drive gauge Ob13 and the EX gauge Ob14.

[0087] 5.4. Example of the first grant condition FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of first visual information 5 visually representing a first grant condition. The first visual information 5 visually represents multiple first grant conditions defined by a combination of multiple first achievement conditions and the achievement status of each first grant condition. The first visual information 5 includes multiple condition display areas 51. Each condition display area 51 corresponds to one of the multiple first achievement conditions. Sets of condition display areas 51 corresponding to a set of first achievement conditions constituting one grant condition are arranged in rows or columns. In this embodiment, each condition display area 51 is rectangular and arranged to define a two-dimensional array of five rows and five columns. In this embodiment, each grant condition is defined by a combination of five different first achievement conditions. The combinations are represented in a so-called bingo format, with the first achievement conditions corresponding to the condition display areas 51 arranged in each row, column, and diagonally in the five-row, five-column tile. In other words, the first visual information 5 is configured so that the combination of first achievement conditions constituting the first grant condition can be visually recognized based on the arrangement of objects corresponding to the first achievement conditions. Furthermore, a first achievement condition included in a certain first granting condition may also correspond to a first achievement condition included in another first granting condition.

[0088] The condition display area 51 corresponding to the first achievement condition that has been satisfied (condition display area 52 in FIG. 7) may be displayed in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from the condition display area 51 corresponding to the first achievement condition that has not been satisfied. For example, the two may be displayed in a manner that allows them to be distinguished by color, outline, etc.

[0089] Furthermore, when a certain first achievement condition can be satisfied to satisfy a certain first granting condition, the condition display area 51 corresponding to that first achievement condition (condition display area 53 in FIG. 7) may be displayed in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from both the condition display area 51 corresponding to the first achievement condition that has not been satisfied and the condition display area 52 corresponding to the first achievement condition that has already been satisfied. This allows the user to grasp at a glance the first achievement condition for which benefit information is more likely to be obtained, further encouraging the first purchase process for the corresponding second content C2. The display manner of the condition display area 53 may be configured to change based on, for example, the number of first granting conditions that are satisfied by satisfying the corresponding first achievement condition.

[0090] 5.5. Example of second grant condition FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of second visual information 6 visually representing second grant conditions. The second visual information 6 visually shows multiple second grant conditions defined by a combination of multiple first achievement conditions or multiple second achievement conditions, and the achievement status of each second grant condition. The second visual information 6 includes multiple condition display areas 61. Each of the condition display areas 61 corresponds to at least one of the multiple first achievement conditions and multiple second achievement conditions. For ease of explanation, the first achievement conditions and the second achievement conditions may be collectively referred to simply as achievement conditions below. The relationship between the arrangement of the condition display area 61 and the second grant conditions is similar to the relationship between the condition display area 51 and the first grant conditions, so a description thereof will be omitted. Here, an example of the relationship between the second grant conditions and each achievement condition will be described.

[0091] In this embodiment, the second granting condition is a combination of multiple achievement conditions, for example, a combination of five achievement conditions. The achievement conditions required to fulfill the second granting condition can be fulfilled in both the first game G1 and the second game G2. The achievement conditions associated with each condition display area 61 may include "playing a certain corresponding game." The achievement condition "playing a corresponding game" is fulfilled by fulfilling at least one of the following: a first achievement condition of playing second content C2 associated with the corresponding game in the first game G1; and a second achievement condition of playing fourth content C4 associated with the corresponding game in the second game G2. In other words, the achievement conditions displayed in the condition display area 61 are configured to be fulfilled according to the progress of content associated with the corresponding game, regardless of whether it is the first game G1 or the second game G2. If the achievement condition is satisfied by playing the second content C2 in the first game G1, the display mode of the condition display area 61 will change to that of the condition display area 62, and the message "Completed at Game 1" will be displayed inside the condition display area 62, indicating that the achievement condition has been satisfied based on the play history of the first game G1. Similarly, if the achievement condition is satisfied by playing the fourth content C4 in the second game G2, the message "Completed at Game 2" will be displayed inside the condition display area 62, indicating that the achievement condition has been satisfied based on the play history of the second game G2.

[0092] In addition, the condition display area 61 (condition display area 63 in Figure 8) corresponding to an achievement condition that, when met, will satisfy a certain second grant condition can be displayed in a manner that is distinguishable from both the condition display area 61 corresponding to an achievement condition that has not been satisfied and the condition display area 62 corresponding to an achievement condition that has already been satisfied, similar to the condition display area 53 in Figure 7.

[0093] When the first granting condition or the second granting condition defined in this way is satisfied, various types of privilege information such as the first privilege information or the second privilege information are granted to the user.

[0094] [others] The information processing system 1 according to the above embodiment may be configured as follows.

[0095] The method of expressing each grant condition is not limited to bingo-style visual information such as the first visual information 5 and the second visual information 6, and may be any method. For example, the grant condition may be expressed by a list of combinations of achievement conditions.

[0096] In the above information processing, when the execution of at least one fourth content C4 is permitted for the user, the permission unit 233 may allow the user to advantageously execute the first charging process for the second content C2, which has common content in relation to the fourth content C4 whose execution is permitted. With this configuration, a user who has executed the second charging process for the fourth content C4 can be prompted to further execute the first charging process for the second content C2, which has a common content portion, thereby making it easier to provide a wider variety of content. For example, the permission unit 233 may at least permit the advantageous execution of the first charging process by reducing the fee required for the first charging process. With this configuration, a user who has executed the second charging process for the fourth content C4 can be more strongly prompted to further execute the first charging process for the second content C2, which has a common content portion. Specifically, the permission unit 233 may perform a so-called discount process, which reduces the fee required for the first charging process, when the user purchases, through the first charging process, the second content C2 that has a common title with the fourth content C4 that the user has already purchased. In addition, when the first charging process is performed, the permission unit 233 may allow the second content C2 to provide differential content corresponding to the fourth content C4 (such as unlocking a new story or game mode, or providing special characters or items).

[0097] Similarly, when a user is permitted to execute at least one of the second contents C2, the permission unit 233 may allow the user to advantageously execute the second billing process for the fourth content C4 that has common content in relation to the second content C2 whose execution is permitted.

[0098] The second content C2 may include content of a game provided before the first game G1 was released. For example, at least one of the second contents C2 is content of a previous game provided before the first game G1 was released. In this case, as a third granting step, the granting unit 234 may grant the user third bonus information usable in the first game G1 depending on whether a third bonus condition defined based on the user's play history of the second content C2 is achieved. With this configuration, the user can relive past games in the first game G1, thereby further increasing the interest of the first game G1. The third bonus information is configured to be usable in content (e.g., the first content C1) provided as content unique to the first game G1, for example. The above processing as the third granting step may be performed similarly to the processing of activity A6, for example. The above processing as the third granting step may be performed as at least a part of the processing of activity A6 as the first granting step.

[0099] Similarly, the granting unit 234 may grant the user fourth benefit information that can be used when playing the second content C2 playable in the first game G1, depending on whether or not the user has achieved a fourth benefit condition that is defined based on the user's play history of the first content C1. This can encourage mutual customer referral between the first content C1 and the second content C2.

[0100] The first grant condition may be implemented as one aspect of the second grant condition. For example, the second grant condition defined as the second line of the second visual information 6 shown in FIG. 8 can also be achieved as the first grant condition by achieving in the first game G1 all of the first achievement conditions (in other words, second achievement conditions) that can be achieved by playing either the first game G1 or the second game G2. In other words, the first grant condition can also be considered a second grant condition that can be achieved by playing the first game content GC1.

[0101] In the above information processing, control related to the progress of the game (for example, processing of activity A3 performed by the game control unit 232) may be performed by a device (for example, game device 3) other than the control unit 23 of the information processing device 2. In other words, the above information processing does not have to include processing related to the progress of the game.

[0102] Furthermore, the game that is the subject of the above information processing is not limited to a game such as the first game G1, in which the first game content GC1 is played based on the positional relationship between the first user object U1 and the first content object Ob1, but may be any game that can function as a platform on which multiple first game contents GC1 can be played.

[0103] The output destination of information or data (hereinafter referred to as "information, etc.") may be another device, a display, a memory unit (including an internal memory unit and an external memory unit), etc. Acquisition of information, etc. includes acquiring information, etc. transmitted from another device, as well as acquiring information, etc. generated by the device itself. The table associating parameters is not limited to the table shown in the figure, and the number of parameters may be reduced or increased. Furthermore, information, etc. corresponding to parameters may be obtained using a mathematical formula, a conditional formula, etc., without using a table.

[0104] At least one of the devices included in the information processing system 1 may be installed outside Japan.

[0105] The information processing device 2 may be an on-premise type or a cloud type. As the information processing device 2 in the cloud type, the above-mentioned functions and processes may be provided in the form of, for example, SaaS (Software as a Service) or cloud computing.

[0106] In the above embodiment, the information processing device 2 performs various storage and control operations, but multiple external devices may be used instead of the information processing device 2. That is, various information and programs may be distributed and stored in multiple external devices using block chain technology or the like.

[0107] The above-described embodiments may be implemented as an information processing system. The information processing system 1 includes at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method. The above-described embodiments may also be implemented as an information processing method. The information processing method includes each step of the same information processing system. The above-described embodiments may also be implemented as a program. The program causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method.

[0108] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects.

[0109] (1) An information processing method executed by an information processing system, comprising the following steps: in the game control step, the progress of a first game is controlled in accordance with a user's operation; wherein the first game is configured to execute, based on a positional relationship between a first user object that can move within a first virtual space in accordance with the user's operation and a first content object that is placed within the first virtual space, a first game content corresponding to the first content object among at least one first game content that can be executed in the first game; the first game content includes first content and second content; the first content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space; and the second content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space and has executed a first charging process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the second content.

[0110] With this configuration, a user enjoying the first content in the first virtual space can be prompted to perform the first billing process so that the user can enjoy the second content based on their own will, thereby providing a more entertaining first game that suits the preferences and financial resources of each individual user.

[0111] (2) In the information processing method described in (1) above, the first game content includes a plurality of the second contents, and further, in the first granting step, first benefit information is granted to the user depending on the achievement status of a first granting condition, wherein the first granting condition is defined by at least a combination of a plurality of first achievement conditions, and each of the plurality of first achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on the play history of the corresponding second content.

[0112] This configuration can encourage the user to play a combination of multiple second contents so as to satisfy the first granting condition, thereby increasing the opportunities for the user to play a wider variety of second contents and further increasing the interest of the first game.

[0113] (3) In the information processing method described in (1) or (2) above, further, in the acquisition step, a play history of the second game by the user is acquired, and the second game is configured to execute, based on a positional relationship between a second user object that can move within a second virtual space in response to an operation by the user and a second content object placed within the second virtual space, second game content that can be executed in the second game and corresponds to the second content object, the second game content including third content and fourth content, the third content being configured to be executable by a user who can access the second virtual space, and the fourth content being configured to be executable by a user who can access the second virtual space. an information processing method configured to be executable by a user who has executed a second charging process based on payment of a price corresponding to the fourth content, wherein the play history of the second game includes the play history of each of the second game contents by the user, and further wherein, in a second granting step, second benefit information is granted to the user depending on the achievement status of a second granting condition, wherein the second granting condition is defined by a combination of a first achievement condition and a second achievement condition that have been achieved among a plurality of first achievement conditions and a plurality of second achievement conditions, wherein each of the plurality of first achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on the play history of the corresponding second content, and each of the plurality of second achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on the play history of the corresponding fourth content.

[0114] With this configuration, a user can enjoy the benefits of the second charging process in the second game in the first game by fulfilling the second achievement condition. The second granting condition becomes more likely to be fulfilled by fulfilling the second achievement condition. This encourages users to pay for both the first game and the second game, making it easier to provide a variety of game content to more users.

[0115] (4) In the information processing method described in (3) above, one of the predetermined second contents and one of the predetermined fourth contents are pre-associated as corresponding games, and the second granting condition is determined by a combination of the corresponding games in which at least one of the first achievement condition and the second achievement condition is achieved.

[0116] According to this configuration, the user can fulfill the first achievement condition by playing at least one of the second content and the fourth content, which include the common content portion, thereby encouraging the user to perform at least one of the first charging process and the second charging process, making it easier to provide a variety of content.

[0117] (5) In the information processing method described in (3) or (4) above, at least one of the second contents includes common content that is common to one of the fourth contents and differential content that is not included in the fourth content.

[0118] With this configuration, even if the second content provided in the first game and the fourth content provided in the second game share at least a portion in common, the user can enjoy the differential content by performing the first charging process in the first game. This encourages users who have performed the second charging process to perform the first charging process, making it easier to provide a wider variety of content.

[0119] (6) In the information processing method described in (5) above, the permission step further includes allowing the user, when the user is permitted to execute at least one of the fourth contents, to advantageously execute the first charging process for the second content that has common content with the fourth content whose execution is permitted.

[0120] With this configuration, a user who has performed the second charging process for the fourth content can be prompted to perform the first charging process for the second content that also has a common content portion, making it easier to provide a wider variety of content.

[0121] (7) In the information processing method described in (6) above, the allowing step allows the first charging process to be carried out advantageously by at least reducing the compensation required in the first charging process.

[0122] According to this configuration, it is possible to more strongly urge a user who has performed the second charging process for the fourth content to perform the first charging process for the second content that further includes a common content portion.

[0123] (8) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (7) above, the second content includes content of a game that was provided before the first game was started to be provided, and further, in the third granting step, third bonus information that can be used in the first game is granted to the user depending on the degree to which a third granting condition defined based on the user's play history of the second content is achieved.

[0124] According to this configuration, it is possible to relive past games within the first game, which can further increase the interest of the first game.

[0125] (9) An information processing system consisting of at least one device, the information processing system having at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (8) above.

[0126] With this configuration, it is possible to provide a more entertaining first game that is tailored to the tastes and financial capabilities of each individual user.

[0127] (10) A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to any one of (1) to (8) above.

[0128] With this configuration, it is possible to provide a more entertaining first game that is tailored to the tastes and financial capabilities of each individual user. Of course, this is not the case.

[0129] Finally, while various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, they 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]

[0130] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Network 2: Information processing equipment 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 231: Acquisition Department 232: Game control unit 233: Allowance section 234: Granting section 201: Game processing section 3: Game device 30: Communication bus 31: Communications Department 32: Storage section 33: Control section 34a: Graphics processing unit 34b: Audio processing section 34c: Operation section 4a: Display 4b: Speaker 4c: Input Device 51: Condition display area 52: Condition display area 53: Condition display area 61: Condition display area 62: Condition display area 63: Condition display area C1: First content C2: Second content C3: Third content C4: Fourth Content G1: Game 1 G2: Game 2 GC1: 1st game content GC2: Second game content IM1: 1st screen IM2: 2nd screen Ob1: First content object Ob11: First player object Ob12: 1st Stamina Gauge Ob13: Drive Gauge Ob14: EX Gauge Ob2: Second content object Ob21: Second player object Ob22: Second health gauge U1: First user object U2: Second user object VS1: First Virtual Space VS2: Second Virtual Space

Claims

1. An information processing method executed by an information processing system, comprising: It includes the following steps: the game control step controls progress of the first game in response to an operation by the user; wherein the first game is configured to execute, based on a positional relationship between a first user object that is movable within a first virtual space in response to an operation by the user and a first content object that is placed within the first virtual space, at least one first game content that is executable in the first game, and the first game content that corresponds to the first content object; the first game content includes a first content and a second content; the first content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the first virtual space; the second content is configured to be executable by a user who has access to the first virtual space and who has executed a first charging process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the second content; Furthermore, in the acquisition step, a play history of the second game by the user is acquired; wherein the second game is configured to execute, based on a positional relationship between a second user object that is movable within a second virtual space in response to an operation by the user and a second content object that is placed within the second virtual space, second game content that corresponds to the second content object, among second game contents that can be executed in the second game; the second game content includes a third content and a fourth content, the third content is configured to be executable by a user who can access the second virtual space; the fourth content is configured to be executable by a user who has access to the second virtual space and who has executed a second charging process based on payment of a fee corresponding to the fourth content; the play history of the second game includes a play history of each of the second game contents by the user; Furthermore, in the second granting step, second benefit information is granted to the user according to the achievement status of a second granting condition, wherein the second granting condition is defined by a combination of the first achievement condition and the second achievement condition that have been achieved among a plurality of first achievement conditions and a plurality of second achievement conditions; each of the plurality of first achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on a play history of the corresponding second content; each of the plurality of second achievement conditions is configured to be achievable based on a play history of the corresponding fourth content; one of the predetermined second contents and one of the predetermined fourth contents are associated in advance as a corresponding game; The information processing method, wherein the second awarding condition is defined by a combination of the corresponding games in which at least one of the first achievement condition and the second achievement condition is achieved.

2. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, the first game content includes a plurality of the second content; Furthermore, in the first granting step, first benefit information is granted to the user depending on whether a first benefit condition is met; Here, the first granting condition is defined by at least a combination of the plurality of first achievement conditions.

3. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, An information processing method, wherein at least one of the second contents includes common content that is common to one of the fourth contents, and differential content that is not included in the fourth content.

4. In the information processing method according to claim 3, Furthermore, in the allowing step, if the user is allowed to execute at least one of the fourth contents, the information processing method allows the user to advantageously execute the first billing process for the second content that has common content with the fourth content whose execution is allowed.

5. In the information processing method according to claim 4, In the allowing step, at least a fee required in the first charging process is reduced, thereby allowing the first charging process to be advantageously executed.

6. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, the second content includes content of a game that was provided before the provision of the first game began; Furthermore, in a third granting step, third bonus information that can be used in the first game is granted to the user depending on the degree to which a third granting condition defined based on the user's play history of the second content is achieved.

7. An information processing system comprising at least one device, The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 includes at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method. Information processing system.

8. A program, A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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