Information processing system and program

Abstract

To provide a game system that viewers of game distribution can enjoy more easily.SOLUTION: Operation information acquisition means 61 acquires distributor operation information transmitted from a distributor terminal 2. Reproduction code issuing means 63 issues a reproduction code. Reproduction code input information acquisition means 64 acquires the reproduction code input information transmitted from a viewer terminal 3. Viewer progress reproduction information generating means 65 generates viewer progress reproduction information necessary to reproduce the progress of a game of a distributor at the time of code issuance. Viewer game result information generating means 66 generates viewer game result information necessary to reproduce play contents of the game by the distributor after the code is issued. Viewer information transmission control means 67 transmits the viewer progress reproduction information and the viewer game result information to the viewer terminal 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of network environments, it has become common for users to send images of the games they are playing to other users, so-called game distribution and game spectating, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a technology that allows a second user watching the game images of a first user to give advice to the first user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-018324 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In this regard, most of the prior art, including the technology described in Patent Document 1 above, has primarily aimed to improve game playing skills, such as by sending advice on game play. However, in recent years, game streaming has also become an important element for enjoying the entertainment value of the stream itself, and for streamers and viewers to enjoy the stream together.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a game system that allows viewers of game broadcasts and the like to enjoy the game more easily.

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present invention is operation information acquisition means for acquiring operation information relating to an operation of a first user playing a game; a progress status reproduction information generating means for generating progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce the progress status of the first user at a predetermined time point in the game; a game result information acquisition means for acquiring game result information relating to the progress of the game of the first user after the predetermined time point based on the operation information; a game status sharing means for presenting the progress status reproduction information and the game result information to the second user; The information processing system includes:

[0007] In addition, in the first aspect, the information processing system further includes an identification information generating means for generating predetermined identification information and associating the identification information with the progress status reproduction information, The game status sharing means can present the progress status reproduction information and the game result information to the second user who inputs the identification information.

[0008] In addition, in the first aspect, the identification information generating means may further have a function of setting a time limit for the identification information to be valid or a limit on the number of times the identification information can be input.

[0009] In addition, in the first aspect, the game situation sharing means can display the progress situation reproduction information and the game result information in the same virtual space as the second user.

[0010] In addition, in the first aspect, the game situation sharing means can display the progress situation reproduction information and the game result information in an area different from an area displaying the game image of the second user.

[0011] In addition, in the first aspect, the game status sharing means can present to the second user information including any of time, score, and win / loss information for each predetermined unit in the game.

[0012] In addition, in the first aspect, the game status sharing means may further include a function of presenting the game play status of the second user to another second user or the first user.

[0013] In addition, in the first aspect, the game status sharing means may further have a function of presenting to the first user or the second user the ranking of the results of the game processing for each predetermined unit.

[0014] In addition, in the first aspect, the game device may further comprise a first reward granting means for granting a reward to the first user when a first condition regarding the second user is satisfied.

[0015] In addition, in the first aspect, the game system may further include a second reward granting means for granting a reward to the second user who has satisfied a second condition when the second user's play of the game satisfies the second condition.

[0016] The second aspect of the present invention is An information processing device operation information acquisition means for acquiring operation information relating to an operation of a first user playing a game; a progress status reproduction information generating means for generating progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce the progress status of the first user at a predetermined time point in the game; a game result information acquisition means for acquiring game result information relating to the progress of the game of the first user after the predetermined time point based on the operation information; a game status sharing means for presenting the progress status reproduction information and the game result information to the second user; It is a program that functions as a

[0017] A program according to an aspect of the present invention is also provided as a program corresponding to an information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, a game system is provided that allows viewers of game broadcasts and the like to enjoy the game more easily. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a server in an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server of FIG. 2, the distributor terminal of FIG. 1, and the viewer terminal of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the viewer terminal of FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the viewer terminal of FIG. 3, which is different from the example of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 4 is an arrow chart illustrating the flow of a game situation sharing process executed by the server, the broadcaster terminal, and the viewer terminal in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the viewer terminal of FIG. 3, which is different from the examples of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] [Embodiment] An information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "this system") will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0021] Before explaining Figure 1, we will explain the services to which this system applies (hereinafter referred to as "this service"). This service is provided in connection with the distribution of games, etc., and can be roughly divided into the following first and second services. The first service is a game status sharing service that saves the game progress status at a specified point in time in response to a request from a game broadcast player (hereinafter referred to as the "broadcaster") and shares that game progress status on the information processing terminals used by players watching the game broadcast (hereinafter referred to as the "viewers"). The second service is a gameplay sharing service that stores the content of a streamer's gameplay from a predetermined point on the first service and reproduces the streamer's gameplay on the viewer's game screen. This service provides a combination of the first and second services. Specifically, in response to a request from a broadcaster, server 1 of this system issues any identification information (hereinafter referred to as a "reproduction code") linked to the broadcaster's current playing status. When a viewer who has received the reproduction code by any method inputs the reproduction code, server 1 generates information for reproducing the broadcaster's game playing status (hereinafter referred to as "viewer progress reproduction information") and information for reproducing the broadcaster's game play content from the time the reproduction code was issued (hereinafter referred to as "viewer game result information"), and transmits this information to viewer terminal 3 of this system. Here, the current playing status of the broadcaster includes, for example, the position of the character controlled by the broadcaster, the position status of the character controlled by the broadcaster (various in-game parameters), the game media owned, the in-game currency owned (including paid or free), the positions of other player characters, the status of other player characters, the positions of NPCs (Non Player Characters), the status of NPCs, the progress of the event, the elapsed time (remaining time), the score, etc. The viewer terminal 3 then reproduces the game play status of the distributor at the time the reproduction code was issued, based on the acquired viewer progress status reproduction information. Furthermore, the viewer terminal 3 displays, based on the viewer game result information, the game play content of the game from the time the distributor issued the reproduction code, superimposed on the viewer's game screen, for the viewer playing the game from the reproduced play status. That is, viewers who receive this system can play the game while checking (comparing) the content of the streamer's gameplay from any progress state designated by the streamer by inputting the reproduction code into the viewer terminal 3. This allows viewers to play the game with a greater sense of affinity to the streamer. Furthermore, replay codes can be shared not only with one viewer, but also with multiple viewers, allowing viewers to feel a sense of solidarity with not only the streamer but also other viewers as they play the game.

[0022] The game to which this system is applicable (hereinafter referred to as "this game") is, for example, an action game that progresses in real time. This type of game is sometimes called a belt-scrolling action game. In this game, players progress by defeating enemies that appear one after another using martial arts (attack commands, special moves, etc.), with the goal of ultimately clearing the game. In this game, a powerful boss character is set for each predetermined unit called an area. The time it takes for the player to defeat the boss character and the score are recorded and displayed as needed. These times and scores are an evaluation of the player's gameplay, and can be used for various purposes, such as understanding the relative evaluation of one's own play by comparing it with other players.

[0023] <Summary> FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of this system. As shown in Fig. 1, this system includes a server 1, a distributor terminal 2, and viewer terminals 3-1 to 3-n (n is an arbitrary integer value equal to or greater than 1). The server 1, distributor terminal 2, and viewer terminals 3-1 to 3-n are interconnected via a network N such as the Internet. However, the network N is not an essential component, and for example, NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), LAN (Local Area Network), etc. may be used. When there is no need to particularly distinguish between the viewer terminals 3-1 to 3-n, they will be collectively referred to as "viewer terminal 3."

[0024] Here, the server 1 is managed by an administrator of the system, etc. The server 1 executes various server-side processes in the game situation reproduction process described below. The server 1 also executes the storage and management of information required for the progress of the game on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3.

[0025] The broadcaster terminal 2 is used by the broadcaster of the game. The broadcaster terminal 2 executes various processes on the broadcaster terminal side in the game situation reproduction process, which will be described later.

[0026] The viewer terminal 3 is used by a viewer of the broadcast, and executes various processes on the viewer terminal side in the game situation reproduction process described later. Furthermore, the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 communicate with other hardware and execute various processes required for the progress of the game as needed.

[0027] <Hardware configuration> FIG. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the server 1 in this system.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the server 1 includes a control unit 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0029] The control unit 11 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU, a GPU, a semiconductor memory, etc. The control unit 11 executes various processes according to a program recorded in a ROM 12 or a program loaded from a storage unit 18 to a RAM 13. The RAM 13 also stores information necessary for the control unit 11 to execute various processes as needed.

[0030] The control unit 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are connected to one another via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. An output unit 16, an input unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0031] The output unit 16 outputs image information, audio information, etc. to a display, a speaker, etc. The image information and audio information output by the output unit 16 are output from the display, the speaker, etc. in a form that can be recognized by a person as an image or audio.

[0032] The input unit 17 is composed of a mouse, keyboard, etc., and inputs various information in response to input operations by the administrator of the system, etc.

[0033] The storage unit 18 is configured with a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc., and stores various information. For example, the storage unit 18 stores various game programs, save data, account information, etc., which are necessary for progressing through the game.

[0034] The communication unit 19 controls mutual communications with other hardware and the like via a network N including the Internet.

[0035] The drive 20 is provided as needed. Removable media 31, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, is appropriately attached to the drive 20. Various programs for executing the game are stored in the removable media 31. The programs read from the removable media 31 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. Furthermore, the removable medium 31 can also store various types of information stored in the storage unit 18 in the same manner as the storage unit 18.

[0036] Here, the hardware configuration of the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 can be basically the same, so a description thereof will be omitted. However, the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 differ in that, for example, each output unit is configured with a game controller or the like. The cooperation of such various hardware and software enables the server 1, the distributor terminal 2, and the viewer terminal 3 to execute various processes described below.

[0037] FIG. 3 shows an example of the functional configuration of the server 1, the distributor terminal 2, and the viewer terminal 3. First, the functional configuration of the server 1 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 11 of the server 1 executes various programs, etc., to cause a game information management means 60, an operation information acquisition means 61, a reproduction code issuance request information acquisition means 62, a reproduction code issuance means 63, a reproduction code input information acquisition means 64, a viewer progress status reproduction information generation means 65, a viewer game result information generation means 66, and a viewer information transmission control means 67 to function.

[0038] The game information management means 60 manages various information required for the progress of the game by each information processing terminal (for example, the broadcaster terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3), and transmits and receives the necessary information as appropriate. For example, the game information management means 60 stores and manages the progress of the game on each information processing terminal, and performs authentication of account information, etc.

[0039] The operation information acquisition means 61 acquires, via the communication unit 19, information relating to input operations of the game by the broadcaster transmitted from the broadcaster terminal 2 (hereinafter referred to as "broadcaster operation information"). Furthermore, the operation information acquisition means 61 stores the acquired distributor operation information in a database (not shown) or the like. The distributor operation information includes information on the type of input operation performed by the distributor and information on the time when the input operation was performed.

[0040] The reproduction code issuance request information acquisition means 62 acquires information relating to the distributor's request for issuance of a reproduction code (hereinafter referred to as "reproduction code issuance request information") via the communication unit 19. The reproduction code issuance request information includes, for example, information indicating that the distributor wishes to issue a reproduction code (described later) and information relating to the time when the request for issuance of a reproduction code was entered.

[0041] The reproduction code issuing means 63 issues a reproduction code when the reproduction code issuance request information acquiring means 62 acquires the reproduction code issuance request information. For example, a reproduction code is an arbitrary eight-digit number or symbol linked to various information indicating the progress of the game at the time the request for reproduction code is input (hereinafter referred to as the "time of code issuance"), such as the state within the virtual space, the position information of each character, the score, and the remaining time in the game. In other words, when reproduction code issuance request information is acquired by the reproduction code issuance request information acquisition means 62, the reproduction code issuance means 63 stores various information indicating the progress of the game at the time the code is issued, and issues an arbitrary identifier (8-digit number or symbol) linked to that information. Furthermore, the reproduction code issuing means 63 transmits information relating to the issued reproduction code to the distributor terminal 2 as reproduction code information.

[0042] The reproduction code input information acquisition means 64 acquires the reproduction code input information transmitted from the viewer terminal 3 via the communication unit 19 . Here, we will briefly explain an example of the process by which a viewer enters a reproduction code. For example, a viewer checks the reproduction code displayed in the broadcast (video) by the broadcaster and starts the game on their own viewer terminal 3. Then, the viewer enters the reproduction code they have just checked into the reproduction code input field prepared in advance. The information on the reproduction code entered by the viewer in this way is the reproduction code input information.

[0043] When the reproduction code input information acquisition means 64 acquires the reproduction code input information, the viewer progress status reproduction information generation means 65 generates viewer progress status reproduction information required to reproduce the progress status of the distributor's game at the time the code was issued on the viewer terminal 3. In other words, the viewer progress status reproduction information generation means 65 acquires various information linked to the input reproduction code and generates viewer progress status reproduction information.

[0044] The viewer game result information generating means 66 generates viewer game result information required for the viewer terminal 3 to reproduce the play details of the game played by the distributor after the code issuance. That is, the viewer game result information generating means 66 acquires distributor operation information from the time of input onward, and generates viewer game result information.

[0045] The viewer information transmission control means 67 transmits the viewer progress status reproduction information and the viewer game result information to the viewer terminal 3.

[0046] Next, the functional configuration of the distributor terminal 2 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 of the distributor terminal 2 functions as a game processing execution means 140, an input operation receiving means 141, a reproduction code issuance request receiving means 142, a reproduction code management means 143, and an output control means 144.

[0047] The game processing execution means 140 executes various processes related to the game. Specifically, the game processing execution means 140 reads virtual game space objects and textures included in the game information from a storage unit (not shown) in accordance with various input operations by the distributor, and generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional images, sounds, etc. related to the game while executing the game program. In other words, the game processing execution means 140 controls the progress of the game by generating and managing the results of the user's operation instructions. In addition, the game processing execution means 140 appropriately acquires various information, etc. necessary for the progress of the game from the server 1, etc.

[0048] The input operation receiving means 141 receives input operations for the game performed by the distributor, and transmits the information to the server 1 as distributor operation information.

[0049] The reproduction code issuance request receiving means 142 receives a request from a distributor to issue a reproduction code. Furthermore, the reproduction code issuance request receiving means 142 transmits to the server 1 reproduction code issuance request information relating to the received request for issuance of a reproduction code.

[0050] The reproduction code management means 143 acquires the reproduction code information transmitted from the server 1 and presents the reproduction code to the distributor, etc. The distributor then presents the presented reproduction code to each viewer in a manner of their choice.

[0051] The output control means 144 executes control for outputting various images (game images, etc.), sounds, etc. to the output unit 120, etc.

[0052] Next, the functional configuration of the viewer terminal 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 160 of the viewer terminal 3 functions as a game processing execution means 200, an input operation receiving means 201, a viewer information acquisition means 202, a viewer game image generation means 203, and an output control means 204.

[0053] The game processing execution means 200 executes various processes related to the game. Specifically, the game processing execution means 200 reads virtual game space objects and textures included in game information from a storage unit (not shown) in accordance with various input operations by the distributor, and generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional images, sounds, etc. related to the game while executing the game program. In other words, the game processing execution means 200 controls the progress of the game by generating and managing the results of operation instructions by the user. In addition, the game processing execution means 200 appropriately acquires various information, etc. required for the progress of the game from the server 1, etc.

[0054] The input operation receiving means 201 receives input operations for the game by the viewer. For example, the input operation receiving means 201 receives an input of a reproduction code by the viewer, and transmits the information to the server 1 as reproduction code input information.

[0055] The viewer information acquisition means 202 acquires the viewer progress status reproduction information and the viewer game result information transmitted from the server 1 via the communication unit 170.

[0056] The viewer game image generation means 203 generates a viewer game image (hereinafter referred to as "viewer game image") to be presented to the viewer who inputs the reproduction code based on the game image stored in a database (not shown), viewer progress reproduction information and viewer game result information acquired by the viewer information acquisition means 202. Here, the viewer game image generating means 203 is provided with a reproduction image generating means 210 and a distributor play image generating means 211. The reproduction image generation means 210 generates a game image (hereinafter referred to as the "reproduction image") that reproduces the game image at the time the distributor inputs the code, based on the game image stored in a database (not shown) and progress reproduction information for viewers. The broadcaster play image generation means 211 generates a game image (hereinafter referred to as a "broadcaster play image") that reproduces the game play content from the time the broadcaster inputs the code based on the game images and viewer game result information stored in a database not shown. Then, the viewer game image generating means 203 generates a viewer game image based on the reproduction image and the distributor play image.

[0057] The output control means 204 executes control for outputting various images (game images, etc.), sounds, etc. to the output unit 180, etc. For example, the output control means 204 outputs the viewer game image generated by the viewer game image generation means 203 to the output unit 180.

[0058] Next, the viewer game image will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 each show an example of a viewer game image displayed on the viewer terminal 3. FIG.

[0059] Figure 4 shows an example of a viewer game image that is displayed immediately after the viewer enters the reproduction code. For example, display area 400 in Figure 4 displays display area 410, display area 420, display area 430, display area 440, character C1, character H1, boss character B1, and boss character HB1. In the example of Fig. 4, character C1 and boss character B1 represent the game character and boss character actually controlled by the viewer. On the other hand, character H1 and boss character HB1 represent the game character and boss character controlled by the broadcaster. That is, in the example of Fig. 4, the broadcaster's game situation (characters, etc.) is displayed superimposed on the viewer's game image in the same virtual space. Below, each display area will be briefly explained. The display area 410 displays the current game scores (evaluation points) of the broadcaster and the viewer. In the example of Fig. 4, the scores of the broadcaster and the viewer are both 50 points. The score increases or decreases depending on the game contents acquired by the player, the type of technique used (e.g., combos), the time remaining at the time of completion, etc. The time limit (in seconds) until the game is cleared is displayed in display area 420. In the example of Fig. 4, the remaining time limit is 60 seconds. Display area 430 displays the current HP (hit points) of the broadcaster and viewers. HP is a parameter that indicates whether a player can continue playing the game. HP decreases due to various factors during the game, such as the player being attacked by an enemy. If the player's HP falls below a certain value, the player will be unable to continue playing the game (hereinafter referred to as an "incapable of fighting state"). The current HP of the boss character B1 and the boss character HB1 is displayed in the display area 440. Note that the boss character is a powerful enemy character. The image shown in Figure 4 is the image that is presented immediately after the reproduction code is entered. In other words, the image of Figure 4 shows the game progress status of the game image presented to the viewer, which indicates the game progress status at the time the streamer inputs the code issuance request. 4, the score (display area 410), remaining time (display area 420), HP of the playable character (display area 430), and HP of the boss character (display area 440) are all displayed identically for both the viewer and the broadcaster. In this way, the viewer can start the game from a situation that reproduces the same progress as the broadcaster.

[0060] In contrast to this, the example in FIG. 5 shows a game image at the point when the viewer independently progresses through the game from the progress state in FIG. 4 and there are 20 seconds left in the time limit. For example, in display area 510 of Figure 5, the broadcaster's score is 250 points, while the viewer's score is 100 points. Similarly, in display area 530, the broadcaster's HP remains at about 30%, while the viewer's HP has decreased to about 10%. Furthermore, in display area 540, the broadcaster's boss character HB1's HP has decreased to about 30%, while the viewer's boss character B1's HP remains at about 60%. That is, the example in FIG. 5 is an example of a case where the viewer is struggling with the boss character when there are 20 seconds remaining, in comparison with the progress of the broadcaster. In this way, viewers can start the game from the same progress as the streamer at the time the code was entered, and then play the game while checking the streamer's gameplay from the time the code was entered (compared to their own gameplay).

[0061] FIG. 6 shows the flow of the game situation sharing process executed by the server 1, the broadcaster terminal 2, and the viewer terminal 3.

[0062] In step S21, the reproduction code issuance request receiving means 142 of the distributor terminal 2 receives a request from the distributor to issue a reproduction code.

[0063] In step S22, the reproduction code issuance request receiving means 142 of the distributor terminal 2 transmits to the server 1 reproduction code issuance request information relating to the received reproduction code issuance request.

[0064] In step S1, the reproduction code issuance request information acquisition means 62 of the server 1 acquires the reproduction code issuance request information transmitted from the distributor terminal 2 via the communication unit 19.

[0065] In step S2, when the reproduction code issuance request information acquisition means 62 acquires the reproduction code issuance request information, the reproduction code issuance means 63 of the server 1 issues a reproduction code.

[0066] In step S3, the reproduction code issuing means 63 of the server 1 transmits information about the issued reproduction code to the distributor terminal 2 as reproduction code information.

[0067] In step S23, the reproduction code management means 143 of the distributor terminal 2 acquires the reproduction code information transmitted from the server 1, and presents the reproduction code to the distributor or the like. Here, the method by which the distributor presents the reproduction code to the viewer is arbitrary, but this system, for example, displays the reproduction code on the distributor's game screen (distribution screen), and the viewer can confirm the reproduction code by viewing the game screen (distribution screen).

[0068] In step S41, the input operation accepting means 201 of the viewer terminal 3 accepts the input of the reproduction code by the viewer and transmits the information as reproduction code input information to the server 1. Note that, in step S41, if the input operation accepting means 201 does not accept the input of the reproduction code by the viewer, the game situation sharing process ends immediately.

[0069] In step S42, the input operation accepting means 201 of the viewer terminal 3 transmits to the server 1 reproduction code input information relating to the accepted input of the reproduction code.

[0070] In step S 4 , the reproduction code input information acquisition means 64 of the server 1 acquires the reproduction code input information transmitted from the viewer terminal 3 via the communication unit 19 .

[0071] In step S5, when the reproduction code input information is acquired by the reproduction code input information acquisition means 64, the viewer progress reproduction information generation means 65 of the server 1 generates viewer progress reproduction information necessary to reproduce the progress of the distributor's game at the time the code was issued on the viewer terminal 3.

[0072] In step S6, the viewer game result information generating means 66 of the server 1 generates viewer game result information required for the viewer terminal 3 to reproduce the play details of the distributor's game from the time the code was issued.

[0073] In step S7, the viewer information transmission control means 67 of the server 1 transmits the viewer progress status reproduction information and the viewer game result information to the viewer terminal 3.

[0074] In step S43, the viewer information acquisition means 202 of the viewer terminal 3 acquires the viewer progress status reproduction information and viewer game result information transmitted from the server 1 via the communication unit 170.

[0075] In step S44, the reproduction image generation means 210 generates a reproduction image that reproduces the game image at the time the distributor inputs the code, based on the game image and progress reproduction information for viewers stored in a database (not shown) or the like.

[0076] In step S45, the broadcaster play image generation means 211 generates a broadcaster play image that reproduces the game play content from the time the broadcaster inputs the code based on the game images and viewer game result information stored in a database not shown.

[0077] In step S46, the viewer game image generating means 203 generates a viewer game image based on the reproduction image and the distributor play image.

[0078] In step S47, the output control means 204 of the viewer terminal 3 outputs the viewer game image generated by the viewer game image generation means 203 to the output unit 180. This completes the game situation sharing process.

[0079] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0080] <Other embodiments> Here, with reference to FIG. 7, an example in which this system is applied to a racing game will be described. In the example of Figure 7, character C2 operated by the player (viewer) and character C3 operated by another player in front of it are displayed in solid lines. Furthermore, character H2 indicating the game play results of the broadcaster is displayed in dotted lines (hash). In this way, players (viewers) can check the play results of the broadcaster (position at the same time, etc.) on the same game screen, so they can play the game while more strongly realizing that they are experiencing the same situation as the broadcaster, etc. In the example of FIG. 7, the items displayed on the game screen for the viewer include the viewer's current ranking, elapsed time, and the like.

[0081] In the above embodiment, the reproduction code is presented to the viewer via the distributor, but this is not limited to this. The system may be configured such that the distributor terminal 2 transmits the reproduction code information to the viewer terminal 3, or, for example, the server 1 transmits the reproduction code information to the viewer terminal 3. Furthermore, the reproduction code does not necessarily have to be presented via a network or the like; for example, the viewer may confirm the content of the reproduction code by directly seeing or hearing the reproduction code.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the system has been described as displaying the content of the streamer's gameplay after the reproduction code is issued superimposed on the viewer's virtual space, but this is not limited to this. For example, the system may display the content of the streamer's gameplay as a separate image (displayed as a separate screen, pop-up, etc.) in an area different from the area displaying the viewer's game image.

[0083] Although not described in the above embodiment, the system may also set a limit on the validity period of the reproduction code or the number of times the reproduction code can be entered, allowing the distributor or the system administrator to arbitrarily adjust the scope of application of the various services described above.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the items displayed on the viewer game image are explained as being score, time limit, character status, etc., but are not limited thereto. The system may display a wide variety of items in the viewer game image depending on the type of game, viewer attributes, etc. For example, in the case of a racing game, the system may present to the viewer a viewer image including the time to the finish line, the score (evaluation), the outcome of the race (ranking), etc.

[0085] Furthermore, although not described in the above embodiment, the present system may have a function for sharing the game play details and results of a given viewer with other viewers, the broadcaster, etc. For example, by sharing a viewer's game score, clear time, etc. with other viewers, each viewer can enjoy playing the game more by comparing their game results with each other's. Furthermore, the system may have a function to compile the game play results (score, clear time, etc.) of each viewer and broadcaster and share them with each viewer and broadcaster in the form of rankings, etc.

[0086] Although not described in the above embodiment, the system may also have a function of awarding rewards to the broadcaster or the viewer depending on the content of the viewer's game play. For example, the system may award a reward to a viewer whose game play results satisfy a predetermined condition (e.g., achieving a certain score or higher). Furthermore, the system may award a reward to the broadcaster when the viewer's game play results satisfy a predetermined condition (e.g., 100 or more viewers participate). When a reward is awarded to a viewer, the system may also have a function of, for example, setting the reward to be awarded from the broadcaster and receiving a message to the viewer.

[0087] Also, although not explained in the above embodiment, the system may present viewers with different game images depending on whether the streamer is continuing to stream or has ended. For example, when a broadcaster is continuing to broadcast, the system may present viewers with gameplay details of the broadcaster's game, as in the above-described embodiment, and when the broadcaster has finished broadcasting, the system may present viewers with exemplary gameplay details of a game that has been created in advance. This allows viewers to play the game while emphasizing a sense of solidarity with the broadcaster, etc., if they are watching the broadcast by the broadcaster in real time, and allows viewers to play the game while emphasizing improving their game-playing skills if the broadcast has ended.

[0088] Although not described in the above embodiment, the system may also have a function for issuing a reproduction code in response to a viewer's request. This allows the broadcaster to flexibly respond to requests from a specific viewer, such as "I can't complete this game, so I want other viewers or broadcasters to try it out."

[0089] Although not described in the above embodiment, the system may also have a support function for when the viewer who inputs the reproduction code does not own the game. For example, the system may provide an environment in which a viewer who does not own the game can play only a part of the game when the viewer inputs a reproduction code. Also, for example, the system may not allow a viewer who does not own the game to input a reproduction code in the first place. In the above embodiment, the reproduction code is described as an arbitrary eight-digit number or symbol, but the format of the reproduction code is not limited. For example, it may be an identifier of any type, such as a QR code (registered trademark).

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of the flow when a viewer inputs a reproduction code has been described, but the method by which the system allows the viewer to input the reproduction code is arbitrary and not limited. For example, the system may display the reproduction code input screen after the viewer logs in to the game, or may display the reproduction code input screen before logging in (immediately after the game is launched). For example, if the reproduction code is a QR code (registered trademark) or the like, the system may adopt a specification in which the viewer scans the code and is automatically transitioned to the game via a browser or the like.

[0091] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the information processing terminal on which the viewer watches the broadcast, the information processing terminal on which the viewer inputs the input code, and the information processing terminal on which the viewer plays the game are all described as being the same information processing terminal, but this is not limited to this. For example, a viewer may view the broadcast of the broadcaster on a different information processing terminal (such as a PC) and play the game by inputting the reproduction code on another information processing terminal (such as a mobile terminal). For example, a viewer may watch the broadcast on the same information processing terminal (such as a mobile terminal), switch applications on the same information processing terminal, and input the reproduction code to play the game.

[0092] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the system automatically displays the reproduction code on the viewer's game screen (distribution screen), but this is not limited to this. For example, the system may display the reproduction code in response to the distributor's operation. For example, the system may display the reproduction code in a region of the distributor's game screen or on a comment display screen set as a separate screen.

[0093] Although not described in the above embodiment, the system may require the distributor or viewer to pay a fee when issuing or entering a reproduction code. The fee may be in any form, such as a predetermined game medium, in-game currency, or cash. The fee paid by the distributor or viewer may be distributed to an administrator of the system or to the distributor.

[0094] To summarize the above, this system is expected to be used in the following ways in game distribution, etc. (1) For example, this system may be used in a way that allows broadcasters and viewers to compete against each other for rankings such as scores and clear times. (2) For example, this system may be used to compete in real time between a broadcaster and a viewer to see who can complete a game the fastest. (3) For example, this system may be used for a streaming event in which a streamer rewards viewers depending on the number of viewers who enter the reproduction code. (4) For example, this system may be used for a streaming event in which the streamer awards a reward to the first 100 viewers to complete a game.

[0095] Although the present system has been described as being applied to games, it is not limited thereto, and may be applied to general-purpose information processing systems other than games, such as distribution systems for various types of video images.

[0096] Furthermore, the hardware on which the game is run may be, for example, a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), various game consoles designed for commercial use, or electronic devices such as personal computers, smartphones, tablets, etc.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and other embodiments, the game to which the present system is applied has been described as an action game or racing game that progresses in real time, but this is not limited thereto. This system may be applied to any game, such as a role-playing game (RPG), a first-person shooter (FPS), a third-person shooter (TPS), a simulation game, a sports game, a card game, a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA), a music game, a fighting game, or a quiz game.

[0098] Games to which this system is applicable may be provided in a cloud or other format. This system may, for example, be configured so that a game program runs on a server, and the information processing terminals of players (broadcasters and viewers) only display the game screen and perform operational input. In particular, this system can provide an environment in which viewers who do not own the game of the other embodiments described above can play part of the game by entering a reproduction code.

[0099] The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. In other words, the functional configurations in FIG. 3 and the like are merely examples and are not particularly limited. That is, it is sufficient that the information processing system is provided with a function that can execute the above-described series of processes as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not limited to the example in Fig. 3 etc. Furthermore, the location of the functional block is not limited to the example in Fig. 3 etc. and may be arbitrary. Furthermore, one functional block may be configured by hardware alone, by software alone, or by a combination of these.

[0100] Furthermore, the number of various types of hardware or users that make up this system is arbitrary, and this system may be configured arbitrarily to include other hardware, etc.

[0101] Furthermore, when a series of processes is executed by software, the program that constitutes the software may be installed into a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium.

[0102] Furthermore, the various hardware in the above-described embodiments may be freely adopted as any computer, any mobile terminal such as a smartphone, any game console, etc. Furthermore, any combination of types and contents of various input units and various output units may be adopted.

[0103] The computer in the above-described embodiment may be a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware, or may be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs.

[0104] Furthermore, the recording medium containing such a program may not only be constituted by a removable medium (not shown) that is provided separately from the device main body in order to provide the program to the user, etc., but may also be constituted by a recording medium that is provided to the user in a state that it is pre-installed in the device main body.

[0105] In this specification, the steps of writing the program to be recorded on the recording medium may be executed in a time-series manner, or may be executed in parallel or individually. Also, some of the steps described in the above embodiments may be omitted.

[0106] In addition, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall device that is made up of a plurality of devices, a plurality of means, etc.

[0107] The effects of this embodiment can be achieved even when these other embodiments are adopted. Furthermore, this embodiment can be combined with other embodiments, and other embodiments can be combined with each other as appropriate.

[0108] To sum up, the information processing system to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. That is, the information processing system to which the present invention is applied is operation information acquisition means (for example, operation information acquisition means 61) for acquiring operation information relating to the game operation of a first user who plays the game; a progress status reproduction information generating means (for example, a viewer progress status reproduction information generating means 65) for generating progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce the progress status of the first user at a predetermined time point in the game; a game result information acquiring means (for example, a viewer game result information generating means 66) for acquiring game result information relating to the progress of the game of the first user after the predetermined time point based on the operation information; a game status sharing means (for example, a viewer information transmission control means 67) for presenting the progress status reproduction information and the game result information to the second user; Any information processing system having the above is sufficient.

[0109] That is, the operation information acquisition means 61 functions as an operation information acquisition means. The viewer progress status reproduction information generating means 65 functions as progress status reproduction information generating means. The viewer game result information generating means 66 functions as a game result information acquiring means. The viewer information transmission control means 67 and the like function as a game status sharing means. The reproduction code issuing means 63 functions as an identification information generating means.

[0110] <Effects> This allows viewers to enjoy the game themselves while also enjoying the game broadcast or watching the game. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 1 server 11 Control section 60 Game information management means 61 Operation information acquisition means 62 Method of obtaining information on request for reproduction code issuance 63 Method for issuing reproducible code 64 Reproduction code input information acquisition method 65. Means for generating viewer progress reproduction information 66 Means for obtaining game result information for viewers 67 Viewer information transmission control means 2. Streamer terminal 100 control section 140 Game processing execution means 141 Input operation acceptance means 142 Method of accepting requests for reproduction code issuance 143 Reproducible Code Management Methods 144 Output Control Means 3 Viewer terminals 160 control section 200 Game processing execution means 201 Input operation acceptance means 202 Viewer information acquisition means 203 Game image generation means for viewers 204 Output Control Means 210 Image generation means during reproduction 211 Streamer play image generation means

Claims

1. a progress status reproduction information generating means for acquiring progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce a progress status of a first user playing a game at a predetermined time point in the game by displaying the progress status of the first user in a game image of the game or as a part of the game image of the game; a game result information acquisition means for acquiring game result information that can reproduce the play details of the game of the first user from the predetermined time point onward; operation information acquisition means for acquiring operation information relating to an operation of the game by the second user; a game status sharing means for displaying, based on the progress status reproduction information, the game result information, and the operation information, a result of the progress of the game including at least an object operated by the first user after the predetermined time point, superimposed on the same virtual space as the virtual space in which the second user plays the game; Equipped with the game status sharing means presents a play content of the game by the first user when the distribution of the game by the first user is continuing, and presents a pre-created exemplary play content of the game when the distribution of the game by the first user has ended; Information processing system.

2. further comprising an identification information generating means for generating predetermined identification information and associating the identification information with the progress status reproduction information; the game status sharing means presents the progress status reproduction information and the game result information to the second user who inputs the identification information; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. The identification information generating means further has a function of setting a validity period for the identification information or a limit on the number of times the identification information can be input. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. the game status sharing means displays the progress status reproduction information and the game result information in an area different from an area displaying the game image of the second user.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1.

5. the game status sharing means presents information including any one of time, score, and win / loss information for each predetermined unit in the game to the second user; 5. The information processing system according to claim 1.

6. the game status sharing means further has a function of presenting the game play status of the second user to another second user or the first user; 6. An information processing system according to claim 1.

7. the game status sharing means further has a function of presenting to the first user or the second user a ranking of game processing results for each predetermined unit; 7. An information processing system according to claim 1.

8. The system further includes a first reward granting means for granting a reward to the first user when a first condition related to the second user is satisfied.

8. An information processing system according to claim 1.

9. The game system further includes a second reward granting means for granting a reward to the second user who has satisfied a second condition when the content of the game played by the second user satisfies the second condition.

9. An information processing system according to claim 1.

10. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, a progress status reproduction information generation step of acquiring progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce a progress status of a first user playing a game at a predetermined time point in the game by displaying the progress status of the first user in the game as a game image of the game or as a part of the game image of the game; a game result information acquisition step of acquiring game result information that can reproduce the play details of the game of the first user from the predetermined time point onward; an operation information acquisition step of acquiring operation information related to an operation of the game by the second user; a game status sharing step of superimposing and displaying the results of the progress of the game, including at least the objects operated by the first user after the predetermined time point, on the same virtual space as the virtual space in which the second user plays the game, based on the progress status reproduction information, the game result information, and the operation information; Including, the game status sharing step presents a play content of the game by the first user when the distribution of the game by the first user is continuing, and presents a pre-created exemplary play content of the game when the distribution of the game by the first user has ended; Information processing methods.

11. An information processing device a progress status reproduction information generating means for acquiring progress status reproduction information that allows a second user to reproduce a progress status of a first user playing a game at a predetermined time point in the game by displaying the progress status of the first user in a game image of the game or as a part of the game image of the game; a game result information acquisition means for acquiring game result information that can reproduce the play details of the game of the first user from the predetermined time point onward; operation information acquisition means for acquiring operation information relating to an operation of the game by the second user; a game status sharing means for displaying, based on the progress status reproduction information, the game result information, and the operation information, a result of the progress of the game including at least an object operated by the first user after the predetermined time point, superimposed on the same virtual space as the virtual space in which the second user plays the game; It functions as the game status sharing means presents a play content of the game by the first user when the distribution of the game by the first user is continuing, and presents a pre-created exemplary play content of the game when the distribution of the game by the first user has ended; program.

Images