Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of providing an experience higher in amusement property to a user.SOLUTION: There is provided an information processing method. The information processing method includes steps as mentioned below. In a reception step, an input for issuing access information is received from a first user that distributes first content on a game. The access information is information associated with the first user on access to a platform of a second user viewing the distribution of the first content The platform is configured to provide second content different from the game itself and a web medium by which the first content is distributed, and different from the first content. In a granting step, a privilege related to the game or the first user is granted to at least one of the first user and the second user when a condition is satisfied. The condition includes a fact that the second content is provided to the second user through access information issued according to an input and disclosed through the distribution.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

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 information providing system that provides a sharing service for content such as videos, and that provides a function equivalent to giving gifts or presents to content performers.

[0003] This information provision system includes a display control module that processes a display screen on a communication terminal, the display screen including a content display area for displaying content distributed from a content server and a background area other than the content display area, and an item management module that manages items purchased by viewers of the content in association with the content, and the display control module processes all items managed in association with the content on the display screen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-120098 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is still room for improvement in the functions of the above-mentioned known techniques.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure provides a technology that can provide a more interesting experience to a user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing method. The information processing method includes the following steps: In the receiving step, an input for issuing access information is received from a first user who distributes first content related to a game. The access information is information regarding access to a platform by a second user associated with the first user and viewing the distribution of the first content. The platform is configured to provide second content that is different from the game itself and the web medium through which the first content is distributed and different from the first content. In the granting step, a benefit related to the game or the first user is granted to at least one of the first user and the second user when a condition is met. The condition includes that the second content has been provided to the second user via the access information issued in response to the input and made public through the distribution.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a highly interesting experience can be provided 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 the functional configuration of a first information processing device 2a according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a game screen 5a. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a game screen 5b. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a game screen 5c. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a game screen 5d. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a game screen 5e. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a distribution screen 6. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a platform screen 7. 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 multiple terminals 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the terminals 3, particularly on a first terminal 3a. 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 in the information processing system 1. In this game, users of terminals 3, particularly a first user using first terminal 3a, make one or more player characters move around in a virtual game space and make the player characters fight against enemy characters, which are non-player characters. The characters are an example of objects.

[0016] The above-mentioned games are played using a first terminal 3a, 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 composed of a plurality of information processing devices 2 (including, in particular, a first information processing device 2a) and a plurality of terminals 3 (including, in particular, the first terminal 3a). Of the plurality of information processing devices 2, the first information processing device 2a stores game programs and game data and manages the game data of the first terminal 3a (for each account information described below). The information processing device 2 is composed of, for example, a server. Of the plurality of terminals 3, the first terminals 3a, in particular, used to play games, each have the same configuration. Note that in this embodiment, a system is composed of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, even the information processing device 2 or terminal 3 described below alone can be an example of the information processing system 1.

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

[0019] After user authentication, the first information processing device 2a and the first terminal 3a can communicate with each other. After logging in, the first terminal 3a receives data necessary for the game progress (data related to the game progress status) from the first information processing device 2a, and then progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 4a and speaker 4b based on the user's 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 first information processing device 2a managed primarily by a game developer, a second information processing device 2b managed primarily by a provider of a comprehensive game-related platform PF, and a third information processing device 2c managed primarily by a provider of video streaming services, all of which have substantially the same configuration. In other words, the first information processing device 2a is a game server, the second information processing device 2b is a server for the platform PF, and the third information processing device 2c is a server for the video streaming site SS. 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 terminal 3, such as the first terminal 3a, via a communication network 11, such as the Internet and a LAN. Main information that the first information processing device 2a of the information processing devices 2 receives via the communication unit 21 includes download request information for a game program, 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 first information processing device 2a transmits via the communication unit 21 includes information for confirming that the first terminal 3a 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 of the first information processing device 2a 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 a user name, a user rank, and the status of the player character operated by the user, the amount of consumable media usable in the virtual game space, information on parameters, and the like, in association with each other. The lottery list is used for a lottery process generally known as gacha, and includes multiple pieces of information about game media to be selected. The lottery list associates information about the game media (such as name, ability parameters, rarity, and level) with the selection rate in the lottery. Furthermore, the ability parameters include, for example, combat power, HP, attack power, defense power, intelligence, and speed when the game media is a player character.

[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 first terminal 3a. 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 database in association with the identification information of the user who has acquired the game media. Furthermore, "gacha" refers to a method in which the information processing device 2 randomly selects game media from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection ratio. The selected game media is then provided to the user's first terminal 3a. The phrase "providing the game media selected through gacha to the user / having the user own it" is synonymous with "associating the game media selected through the lottery process with / being associated with the identification information identifying the user."

[0028] <Terminal 3> As shown in FIG. 1, the terminal 3 includes a first terminal 3a used by a first user who primarily broadcasts gameplay videos using a video distribution service, and a second terminal 3b used by a second user who primarily watches gameplay videos provided by the first user via the video distribution service, both of which have substantially the same configuration. In other words, the first user is the broadcaster, and the second user is the viewer. The terminal 3 is externally connected to or has built-in a display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c. The terminal 3 also includes a communication unit 31, a memory 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 memory 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 terminal 3 and the information processing device 2. Examples of main information that the terminals 3, particularly the first terminal 3a, receive via the communication unit 31 include account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, a quest execution request, etc. Examples of main information that the terminals 3, particularly the first terminal 3a, transmit via the communication unit 31 include 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 first information processing device 2a, various programs including part of the game program, account information for the first terminal 3a, which is the device 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 first information processing device 2a. The user DB manages a master of the user information, and the storage unit 32 of the first terminal 3a stores at least a part of the information in this master that is distributed from the first information processing device 2a.

[0031] The control unit 33 is configured with a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the first terminal 3a, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit 33 realizes various functions related to the first terminal 3a, which is the device 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 functional unit described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 33 is not limited to being single, 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 the operation of the input device 4c by the user of the first terminal 3a, which is the device itself. 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 first information processing device 2a. The game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 34a, and the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 4a. In other words, the control unit 33 is configured to control the display of the display 4a and the audio output of the speaker 4b in accordance with the operation of the user of the first terminal 3a, which is the device itself, 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 audio in accordance with instructions from the control unit 33, and outputs the audio 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 first terminal 3a 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 first information processing device 2a 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 first information processing device 2a according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the control unit 23 (processor) executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22, thereby functioning as a reception unit 231, an acquisition unit 232, a calculation unit 233, an assignment unit 234, and a game control unit 235. In other words, information processing by the 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 reception unit 231 is configured to receive various types of information. As an example, the reception unit 231 receives user account information, game data, input from the user, and the like from the storage unit 22, the first terminal 3a, or another external device. In this embodiment, the various types of information received by the reception unit 231 are described as being stored in the storage unit 22. Preferably, in the reception step, the reception unit 231 receives input for issuing a bonus code CD from the first user who distributes the game play video C1. This will be described in detail later.

[0037] The acquisition unit 232 is configured to receive various types of information. Preferably, in the acquisition step, the acquisition unit 232 acquires information related to the viewing history of the second user on the video distribution site SS. Details will be described later.

[0038] The calculation unit 233 is configured to execute various information processing calculations related to the first information processing device 2a.

[0039] The granting unit 234 is configured to grant various benefits to at least one of the first user and the second user as the granting step. Examples of the benefits will be described as appropriate in Section 3 and subsequent sections.

[0040] The game control unit 235 controls the progress of various games as a game control step. In particular, as a display step, the game control unit 235 displays various information stored in the storage unit 32 or screens containing such information on the display 4a of the first terminal 3a in a visible manner. As an example, the game control unit 235 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 the display 4a and transmit this information. Preferably, as a game control step, the game control unit 235 controls the progress of the game played by the first user, and a gameplay video C1 of the game progressed here is distributed via a video distribution site SS. Details will be described later.

[0041] 3. Overview of Information Processing 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1. Below, the flow of information processing will be outlined with reference to this sequence diagram.

[0042] As described above in the hardware configuration, in this embodiment, the first information processing device 2a is a game server, the second information processing device 2b is a server of the platform PF, and the third information processing device 2c is a server of the video distribution site SS. Furthermore, the users are assumed to be a first user who operates the first terminal 3a and distributes gameplay videos C1, and a second user who operates the second terminal 3b and views the gameplay videos C1. Furthermore, the second user is assumed to be a person who has not purchased the game being played by the first user.

[0043] First, as a preparation for starting distribution of the gameplay video C1, the first terminal 3a of the first user operates the game (step S001). In other words, the first information processing device 2a and the first terminal 3a cooperate with each other to control the progress of the game. For example, the first terminal 3a controls a game screen 5 (see FIGS. 4 to 8 described later) that is the display content of the display 4a for the user based on a signal transmitted from the first information processing device 2a as the game control unit 235. For example, a game screen 5a (see FIG. 4 described later) that is the top screen is displayed.

[0044] Subsequently, as part of step S001, the game control unit 235 in the first information processing device 2a displays the game screen 5b (see FIG. 5), which is a setting screen, on the display 4a of the first terminal 3a (step S002).

[0045] Next, in a receiving step, the receiving unit 231 receives an input for issuing a bonus code CD (an example of access information) from a first user who distributes a gameplay video C1 (an example of first content related to a game). That is, the first user operates the game screen 5b to input an input that serves as a request for issuing the bonus code CD, and the first terminal 3a of the first user transmits a signal including the request to the first information processing device 2a (step S003). As a result, the calculation unit 233 in the first information processing device 2a generates the bonus code CD based on a predetermined algorithm, and the bonus code CD is subsequently visibly included on the game screen 5 on which the first user plays (step S004).

[0046] Next, the first user who is the distributor operates the first terminal 3a to distribute the gameplay video C1 of the first user. More specifically, the game control unit 235 controls the progress of the game by the first user as a game control step. In other words, the first information processing device 2a and the first terminal 3a cooperate with each other to control the progress of the main game (step S005).

[0047] Next, data including the gameplay video C1 is transmitted to the third information processing device 2c that provides the video distribution site SS as a service (step S006), and the control unit 23 of the third information processing device 2c performs streaming distribution of the gameplay video C1 via the communication unit 21 and the communication network 11 so that the gameplay video C1 can be viewed from the terminal 3 connected to the communication network 11. In this way, the gameplay video C1 of the game progressed in step S005 is distributed via the video distribution site SS to online terminals 3, including the second terminal 3b of the second user who is the viewer (step S007).

[0048] At this time, the gameplay video C1 being distributed is accompanied by the aforementioned bonus code CD, and the second user, upon viewing the bonus code CD through the distribution screen 6 (see FIG. 9 described later), can have a camera (not shown) mounted on the second terminal 3b owned by the second user read the bonus code CD (step S008). When the bonus code CD is read, a signal including a request for accessing a comprehensive platform PF related to games is transmitted to the second information processing device 2b, which manages the platform PF, via the communication network 11 (step S009). As a result, a platform screen 7 (see FIG. 10 described later), which is a screen of the platform PF, is displayed on the display 4a of the second terminal 3b owned by the second user (step S010). This platform screen 7 may be associated with the first user who is the distributor of the gameplay video C1.

[0049] In other words, the access information exemplified by the bonus code CD is information related to access to the platform PF by a second user who is associated with the first user and who is watching the gameplay video C1. The second user can access the platform PF by reading the bonus code CD using a camera (not shown) mounted on the second terminal 3b owned by the second user. The platform PF is configured to provide second content C2 that is different from the game itself and the video distribution site SS (an example of a web medium) on which the gameplay video C1 is distributed and that is different from the first content. It is particularly preferable that the platform PF is a platform that can provide a game as the second content C2.

[0050] The second terminal 3b of the second user performs operations such as movement and input within the platform PF, and screen transitions are performed as appropriate (step S011), and a platform screen 7 on which the game being played by the first user can be purchased is displayed on the display 4a of the second terminal 3b. As described above, the second user is a person who has not purchased the game, and can purchase the game via the platform screen 7. In other words, a signal including a request to purchase the game is transmitted from the second terminal 3b to the second information processing device 2b via the communication network 11 (step S012). This request may include personal information about the second user, such as the name, address, and payment method.

[0051] Next, the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b transmits the request received in step S012 to the first information processing device 2a via the communication unit 21 and the communication network 11 (step S013). This notifies the game developer managing the first information processing device 2a that the second user has purchased the game. Furthermore, the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b transmits data related to the game stored in the storage unit 22 to the second terminal 3b, and the control unit 33 of the second terminal 3b stores the received data related to the game in the storage unit 32. This allows the second user to acquire the game so that it can be played (step S014).

[0052] When the purchase of the game is completed, information about the second user is added to a user database managed by the first information processing device 2a. Also, because the gameplay video C1 distributed by the first user triggered the second user to purchase the game, the first user is given a bonus such as points related to the game (step S015). In other words, information about the second user and information about the bonus for the first user are stored in the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a.

[0053] The second user can also acquire second content C2 other than the game itself via the platform screen 7. For example, the second content C2 may include in-game virtual currency, points equivalent to in-game virtual currency, items usable in the game, effects that enhance the game's appeal, mini-games, etc. Furthermore, it is assumed that the second user is a fan of the first user. Preferably, the second content C2 is not limited to content related to the game, but may also include content related to the first user who distributes the game. That is, the second content C2 may be an example of a benefit for the second user. Furthermore, as a benefit for the first user, points related to the game may be granted to the first user through a charge by the second user. In return, the second user may obtain the right to send a direct message to the first user (an example of second content C2 that is a benefit for the second user). A signal including a request for such a benefit for the first user or the second user is transmitted from the second terminal 3b to the second information processing device 2b via the communication network 11 (step S016).

[0054] Next, the control unit 23 in the second information processing device 2b transmits the request received in step S016 to the first information processing device 2a via the communication unit 21 and the communication network 11 (step S017). After that, the granting unit 234 in the first information processing device 2a grants a benefit to the first user or the second user (step S018). In other words, in the granting step, the granting unit 234 grants a benefit related to a game or the first user to at least one of the first user and the second user when a condition is met, and this condition can be said to include the provision of second content C2 to the second user via a benefit code CD (an example of access information) issued in response to an input and made public through distribution. The granted benefit may be configured to be visible to the first user or the second user via their respective terminals 3.

[0055] That is, the information processing system 1 executes the information processing outlined above.

[0056] To summarize the above, the information processing method according to this embodiment includes the following steps. In the receiving step, an input for issuing a bonus code CD (an example of access information) is received from a first user who distributes a gameplay video C1 (an example of first content related to a game). The access information exemplified by the bonus code CD is information associated with the first user and related to access to the platform PF by a second user who watches the distribution of the gameplay video C1. The platform PF is configured to provide second content C2 that is different from the game itself and the video distribution site SS (an example of an online medium) where the gameplay video C1 is distributed and different from the first content. In the granting step, a bonus related to the game or the first user is granted to at least one of the first user and the second user when conditions are met. The conditions include that the second content C2 has been provided to the second user via a bonus code CD (an example of access information) issued in response to the input and made public through distribution. The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment also includes at least one processor, exemplified by the control unit 23, capable of executing programs to perform each of the steps of the information processing method. Furthermore, this program causes at least one computer to execute the steps of the information processing method. According to such a method or aspect, it is possible to provide a more interesting experience to the user.

[0057] In particular, as mentioned above, although the platform PF can provide the game itself, the platform PF (see FIG. 10) is different from the game itself and from the video distribution site SS (an example of a web medium) where the gameplay video C1 is distributed. In other words, it is possible to promote interaction between the first user and the second user and provide a highly interesting experience through a comprehensive platform for game-related content that is different from the game itself and the web medium for distribution.

[0058] In particular, the granting unit 234 grants a reward to the second user when the condition that the second user has purchased the game is satisfied, as the granting step. According to this method, the second user can be encouraged to purchase the game by using the reward as motivation, thereby bringing profits to the seller of the game.

[0059] 4. Details of data processing In this section, the details of the information processing outlined in the previous section will be explained using additional diagrams, etc.

[0060] 4.1 Game Screen 5 4 to 8 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the game screen 5. The game screen 5 is displayed, for example, on the display 4a of the first terminal 3a running the game.

[0061] 4 is a top screen of the game screen 5, and includes at least areas 501 and 502 and buttons 503 to 507. Area 501 is an area where the user ID of the game is drawn, and for example, "Rockyman," which is the user ID of the first user, is visibly drawn. Area 502 is an area where an avatar AB, which is set by the first user himself or randomly, is drawn.

[0062] The button 503 labeled "Gacha" is a button for conducting a lottery called gacha, as described in

[0024] above, and pressing it transitions the game screen 5a to another screen within the game screen 5. The button 504 labeled "Organization" is a button for organizing characters, and pressing it transitions the game screen 5a to another screen within the game screen 5. Note that organization here may include selecting characters to use in the game from the game characters owned by the first user, their placement, and the order in which they are used. The button 505 labeled "Quest" is a button for playing a quest, which is one of the in-game events, and pressing it transitions the game screen 5a to another screen within the game screen 5. Note that a quest here is a stage, which is a constituent unit of the game, and each quest has its own set of tasks, goals, and completion conditions. It is preferable that a clearing reward be awarded to the user when the tasks set for the quest are accomplished. The button 506 labeled "Shop" is a button for using a shop where items to be used in the game can be purchased, and pressing this button transitions the game screen 5a to a game screen 5d, which is another screen of the game screen 5. The game screen 5d will be described in detail separately using FIG. 7.

[0063] The button 507 labeled "Settings" is a button for updating or changing various settings related to the game, and pressing it transitions the game screen 5a to another screen of the game screen 5. Various settings can be assumed for the game, but in particular, settings related to the distribution of the gameplay video C1 via the video distribution site SS can be made on the game screen 5b. The game screen 5b will be described in detail later using FIG. 5.

[0064] Game screen 5b shown in FIG. 5 is a setting screen for distributing gameplay video C1 via video distribution site SS, among other game screens 5, and includes at least an input field 508, an area 509, and a button 510. Input field 508 is a field for inputting information about video distribution site SS that will distribute this game as gameplay video C1. On typical video distribution sites SS, a hashed URL is assigned when preparing for distribution, and the assigned URL can be entered into input field 508. FIG. 5A shows the state before input into input field 508, and FIG. 5B shows the state after input.

[0065] Area 509 is an area for displaying the bonus code CD. After a URL is entered in input field 508, pressing button 510 labeled "Issue" renders the bonus code CD in area 509. The dashed-dotted lines in the figure are used to illustrate the area and, like the leader lines or symbols, are not visible to the first user viewing game screen 5a. The same applies to dashed-dotted lines that will appear hereinafter. The bonus code CD is an example of access information related to access to platform PF. For example, it may be a two-dimensional barcode such as a QR code (registered trademark), a string of alphanumeric characters, or a one-dimensional barcode. FIG. 5A shows the state before button 510 is pressed, and FIG. 5B shows the state after it is pressed. While FIG. 5B illustrates a QR code (registered trademark) and the string of numbers "7460515," the present invention is not limited to these examples. Furthermore, it is preferable that the bonus code CD be superimposed on the game screen 5c of the game to be played after pressing the button 510. The game screen 5c will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

[0066] 6 is a screen in which the main part of the game is being played out within the game screen 5, and depicts, as an example, a scene in which player characters PC consisting of a party of four are battling enemy characters EC, which are monsters. A bonus code CD issued using the game screen 5b is superimposed on an area 511 of the game screen 5.

[0067] Game screen 5d shown in Fig. 7 is a screen transitioned to by pressing button 506 on game screen 5a shown in Fig. 4, and includes at least buttons 512 to 514, 517, and areas 515 and 516. Area 516 depicts various contents that can be purchased on game screen 5d and the number of points required to purchase each content. Points will be described later. Selection input is made for each content in area 516, and then various payment methods shown on buttons 512 to 514 are selected, thereby associating various contents with the account of the first user.

[0068] Specifically, button 512 labeled "Purchase with virtual currency" is a button for making payments with pseudo-currency used in the game, and pressing it causes game screen 5a to transition to another screen within game screen 5. Button 513 labeled "Purchase with in-game coins" is a button for making payments with a cumulative medium other than the pseudo-currency used in the game, and pressing it causes game screen 5a to transition to another screen within game screen 5. Coins are one example, and medals or stones may also be used. Button 514 labeled "Purchase with points" is a button for making payments with points accumulated in connection with the distribution of gameplay video C1 on video distribution site SS, and pressing it causes game screen 5a to transition to another screen within game screen 5.

[0069] Points are an example of second content C2 as a benefit for the first user, and are granted to the first user, for example, through step S015 or step S018 shown in FIG. 3. Area 515 visibly displays the points held by the first user, and it is preferable that how the points have been accumulated can be confirmed via game screen 5e, which is transitioned to by pressing button 517 labeled "Check details." Game screen 5e will be described in detail separately using FIG. 8.

[0070] Referring again to area 516, the purchasable content displayed includes "weapons," "support items," "unlocking special story," "changing camera viewpoint," and "authority to adjust difficulty level." It also indicates that "unlocking special story," "changing camera viewpoint," and "authority to adjust difficulty level" can only be purchased with points. In this way, the availability of limited purchasable content through distribution of the gameplay video C1 on the video distribution site SS can increase the first user's motivation to distribute the gameplay video C1.

[0071] In particular, to add a supplement to the "special story unlocking" step, the benefit provided in this embodiment includes story data C3 (an example of third content) that constitutes a special story in the game. In the granting step, the granting unit 234 grants the story data C3 to the first user as a benefit, thereby enabling the first user to play the special story. According to this method, the first user can play the special story that can only be obtained as a benefit and distribute further gameplay videos C1, thereby providing a more interesting experience not only to the first user who is the distributor but also to the second user who is the viewer.

[0072] Similarly, by using the "change camera viewpoint" function, the first user can provide a gameplay video C1 from a more interesting angle. By using the "difficulty level adjustment authority," the first user can contribute to providing various gameplay videos C1 tailored to the first user's needs, such as lowering the difficulty level to explain the story in an easy-to-understand manner or raising the difficulty level to demonstrate advanced techniques. In other words, the privilege includes game setting authority. In the granting step, the granting unit 234 grants the setting authority to the first user as a privilege, thereby enabling the first user to create a gameplay video C1 by changing the game settings and playing the game. This method can contribute to the creation of gameplay videos C1 tailored to the first user's various needs.

[0073] Game screen 5e shown in FIG. 8 is a screen transitioned to by pressing button 517 on game screen 5d shown in FIG. 7, and includes at least areas 518 and 519 and buttons 520 and 521. Area 518 depicts a list of second users who contributed to the awarding of points to the first user as "supporting users." Area 519 depicts the number of points awarded to the first user to the right of each second user's username, as an example of a position corresponding to each second user. In other words, as a game control step, game control unit 235 displays information regarding the breakdown of the benefits awarded to the first user on game screen 5e (an example of a first screen of a game) for each second user who contributed to the benefits in a manner that allows the first user to grasp the information.

[0074] The button 520 labeled "DM" allows a first user to send a direct message to a second user. Pressing this button causes the game screen 5e to transition to another screen within the game screen 5, allowing the first user to send a direct message to the corresponding second user. The button 521 labeled "Friend" allows a first user to send a request called a friend request to a second user. Pressing this button causes the game screen 5e to transition to another screen within the game screen 5, allowing the first user to send a friend request to the corresponding second user. A friend is a list of other users who play the same game, managed in association with each user, for purposes such as multiplayer and communication. When the second user accepts the friend request from the first user, the second user and the first user are recorded in the friend lists of the first user and the second user, establishing a friend relationship. Note that a follow relationship may be used instead of a friend relationship. In this case, the second user is recorded in a list associated with the first user, establishing a follow relationship, without the second user needing to approve the first user's request. The second user is assumed to be a fan of the first user, and sending a direct message or friend request from the first user to the second user brings joy and pleasure to the second user. In other words, the game control unit 235 sends each second user an action in return for the contribution of the benefit, in response to the first user's input on the game screen 5e (an example of the first screen of the game). This method allows the first user to take an individual interest in the second user, which in turn promotes further interaction between the first user and the second user and provides a highly enjoyable experience.

[0075] In the example shown in FIG. 8 , the reward actions are differentiated or graded depending on the number of points. For example, buttons 520 and 521 are drawn for second users "Gale" and "Ryo" who contributed to the acquisition of 200 points or more. Button 520 is drawn but button 521 is not drawn for second users "John Lee" and "Edmond Toyota" who contributed to the acquisition of 100 points or more but less than 200 points. Furthermore, neither button 520 nor button 521 is drawn for second users "Biga," "Zengaf," "Python," "Blanco," and "Kane" who contributed to the acquisition of less than 100 points. In other words, in the granting step, the granting unit 234 grants a benefit to the first user according to information based on the number of second users to whom the second content C2 has been provided or the charges for the second content C2 by the second users. According to this method, a difference or gradient is provided, which creates a sense of competition in the charges from the second users to the first users, and can further increase interest. Furthermore, for example, it is also possible to adopt a mode in which bonus points are awarded when the number of second users who support the first user exceeds a certain number.

[0076] 4.2 Distribution screen 6 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a distribution screen 6. The distribution screen 6 is displayed, for example, on the display 4a of the second terminal 3b of the second user. In other words, the distribution screen 6 shown in FIG. 9 is viewed by the second user accessing a specific URL of the video distribution site SS. The distribution screen 6 has at least areas 61 to 63.

[0077] The area 61 is an area where a gameplay video C1 of a game played by a first user is drawn. For example, the gameplay video C1 is distributed live, and the gameplay video C1 is displayed in the area 61 from the game screen 5c (see FIG. 6) visible to the first user playing the game with a certain delay time related to the streaming process. As described above, a bonus code CD is superimposed on the gameplay video C1, and a second user can access the platform PF using the bonus code CD. The video distribution site SS is equipped with a comment function, and the area 62 depicts various comments posted by the second user, who is a viewer. The area 63 depicts explanatory text and the like input in advance by the first user in preparation for distribution. Preferably, a description regarding the bonus code CD is included.

[0078] 4.3 Platform Screen 7 FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a platform screen 7. The platform screen 7 is displayed, for example, on the display 4a of the second terminal 3b of the second user. That is, the platform screen 7 shown in FIG. 10 is viewed by the second user who reads the bonus code CD attached to the distribution screen 6 using the second terminal 3b. The platform screen 7 has at least areas 71 to 75 and buttons 76 and 77. Furthermore, the platform screen 7 shown in FIG. 10A is in a state before the second user purchases the game, and the platform screen 7 shown in FIG. 10B is in a state after the second user purchases the game.

[0079] Area 71 displays the account information of the second user who accessed the platform PF. In FIG. 10 , it is assumed that the second user already has an account with the account name "Gale" and a unique user ID "gale19920501" on the platform PF. However, if the second user accesses the platform without an account, area 71 may display a message such as "Please log in or register." Area 72 displays the game name "CAP FANTASY." Area 75, located to the right of area 72, displays the word "Not Purchased" if the second user has not yet purchased CAP FANTASY, and displays the word "Purchased" if the second user has purchased it. The "Purchased" indication may be emphasized using various effects, such as color, font type, font size, and fill. Area 73 displays the word "Rockyman," the name of the broadcaster and the first user. In other words, the bonus code CD, which serves as access information, is associated with information about the first user.

[0080] The area 74 is an area where a list of second content C2 available on the platform PF is displayed. The area 74 displays "Free Bonus" and "Support the Streamer," with buttons 76 and 77 positioned corresponding to the displayed content. As can be seen from comparing FIGS. 10A and 10B, the free bonus can be acquired by a second user who has already purchased the game. If the game has not been purchased, the button 76 displays "Purchase Game," allowing the second user to purchase the game (an example of the second content C2) by pressing the button. If the game has already been purchased, the button 76 displays "Receive," allowing the second user to acquire the free bonus (an example of the second content C2) by pressing the button. In other words, the access information exemplified by the bonus code CD is information for displaying to the second user the platform screen 7 of the platform PF from which the second user can acquire a free bonus, an example of the second content C2, if the second user has purchased the game. This method can encourage the second user to purchase the game by using the opportunity to acquire a free bonus, an example of the second content C2.

[0081] Regarding "Support the Streamer," the button 77 labeled "Pay" is a button for granting points to the first user by the second user paying a fee, as described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. Pressing this button may display a separate screen on which the user can input the number of points to be awarded or the amount of payment. Furthermore, such a fee for awarding points may be charged not only to second users who have already purchased the game, but also to second users who have not yet purchased the game. In other words, in the awarding step, the awarding unit 234 awards a benefit to the first user, provided that the second user pays a fee, if the second user has not purchased the game. This method allows even second users who have not purchased the game to contribute to the awarding of a benefit to the first user, thereby promoting interaction between the first user and the second user and providing a highly engaging experience.

[0082] [others] The information processing system 1 according to the above embodiment may be configured as follows.

[0083] Various restrictions may be imposed when providing the second content C2 using access information exemplified by the bonus code CD. For example, the acquisition unit 232 in the first information processing device 2a may acquire the viewing history of each user's distributed video from the third information processing device 2c via a pre-provided API, and the provision of the second content C2 may be restricted based on the viewing history. In other words, the acquisition unit 232 acquires information about the second user's viewing history on the video distribution site SS (an example of an online medium) in the acquisition step. In the granting step, the granting unit 234 does not grant a bonus to either the first user or the second user, regardless of the conditions, if the information about the viewing history does not include viewing of the distributed gameplay video C1 (an example of the first content). According to this method, access information exemplified by the bonus code CD according to this embodiment is circulated on social networking sites other than the video distribution site SS, thereby preventing users from attempting to obtain the second content C2 without viewing the gameplay video C1.

[0084] In this embodiment, the game screen 5e is configured to allow the first user to identify the second user who contributed to the point allocation. However, instead of a shop function screen like the game screen 5e, the first user may also be identified on the game screen 5c during the gameplay of the main game. Furthermore, by distributing the game screen 5c as a gameplay video C1, at least some of the second users who contributed to the point allocation may also be displayed on the distribution screen 6 distributed via the video distribution site SS. In other words, as a game control step, the game control unit 235 displays, on the second screen of the game in a manner that allows the first user to identify, information about the second user to whom the second content C2 was provided by releasing a bonus code CD (an example of access information) accompanying the distribution, during the distribution of the gameplay video C1 (an example of first content). This method allows the first user to develop an individual interest in the second user, which in turn promotes further interaction between the first user and the second user and provides a highly engaging experience.

[0085] In this embodiment, a gameplay video C1 is exemplified as the first content distributed by the first user, but the first content may be other content related to the game. For example, the first content may be a game review video by the first user, a discussion video, or a promotional video (so-called live commerce). Even with such first content, it is preferable that a bonus code CD, which is an example of access information, be superimposed when the first content is distributed via the video distribution site SS.

[0086] In this embodiment, the in-game virtual currency, coins, and points are described as separate media, as illustrated in Figure 7, but two or more selected from them may be the same media. In other words, the in-game virtual currency, coins, and points may all be implemented as the same media.

[0087] In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the gameplay video C1 is described as being a live broadcast. However, it may be content that is recorded and then broadcast, or content that is continuously broadcast as an archived video after the live broadcast. Furthermore, the benefits given to the first user or the second user may be variable depending on whether the content is a live broadcast or a recorded and then broadcast. For example, if the content is a live broadcast and then continuously broadcast, the points given to the first user in accordance with the charge made by the second user may be multiplied by 1.5, etc., only during the live broadcast time period. Alternatively, the access information exemplified in the bonus code CD may include information regarding a time limit. After the time limit has elapsed, the issued bonus code CD may become invalid.

[0088] In this embodiment, as illustrated in Fig. 9, the platform PF is accessed by the second user reading the bonus code CD attached to the distribution screen using the second terminal 3b, but this is not limiting, and the second user may directly access the platform PF using the second terminal 3b and input the bonus code CD expressed as a string of numbers or the like, thereby displaying the platform screen 7 as shown in Fig. 10. Furthermore, the bonus code CD may be disclosed by the first user's speech in the first content such as the gameplay video C1, or may be disclosed only in the area 63 that explains the video distribution site SS, without being superimposed in the area 61 in the distribution screen 6 as illustrated in Fig. 9.

[0089] In this embodiment, the second user is described as a user who has not purchased the game, but the second user may be a user who has already purchased the game when reading the bonus code CD and accessing the platform PF. In such a case, the platform screen 7 shown in FIG. 10B may be displayed from the beginning.

[0090] In this embodiment, a platform capable of providing games has been exemplified as the platform PF. However, a platform that does not provide games may also be employed, such as an online shopping site that sells various products. That is, any website that allows users to select and purchase desired media from multiple products may be employed as the platform. This allows users to be provided with products other than the game itself shown in FIG. 10. In this case, by previously associating and managing the website with user information on the game server, benefits related to products purchased by the user on the website can be reflected in the game.

[0091] In this embodiment, the benefit granted to the first or second user may be some kind of reward or benefit that the user can enjoy in real space or virtual space. It is not limited to objects or media, but may also be advantageous effects or rights granted to the user. Benefits may include, for example, digital assets issued as NFTs, virtual currency, game media that can be used in games, and items that can be used in virtual space. Furthermore, advantageous effects granted to users include effects that enhance the user's interest in the virtual space compared to normal times. In other words, advantageous effects include effects that enhance the user's interest in the virtual space through the user's five senses, such as displaying special visual effects on the display 4a, enhancing the image display, generating special background music or sound effects, or adding vibrations to the input device 4c. Furthermore, rights include at least advantageous rights in real space, such as the right to enter a predetermined lottery, the right to hold a predetermined lottery, the right to pre-order, and the right to a special discount.

[0092] At least one of the devices included in the information processing system 1 may be installed outside Japan. For example, the first information processing device 2a may be installed in Japan, and the second information processing device 2b and the third information processing device 2c may be installed outside Japan. Similarly, the first user or the second user may access various information processing devices 2 using their own terminal 3 from outside Japan.

[0093] In this embodiment, the reception unit 231, acquisition unit 232, calculation unit 233, granting unit 234, and game control unit 235 are described as functional units realized by the control unit 23 of the first information processing device 2a, but at least some of them may be implemented as functional units realized by the control unit 33 of the first terminal 3a. Furthermore, the various information described in the above example may be stored in a distributed manner not only in the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 2, but also in other external devices. In such a case, distributed ledger management based on a blockchain or the like may be performed.

[0094] Furthermore, it may be provided in the following aspects.

[0095] (1) An information processing method comprising the following steps: a receiving step receiving input for issuing access information from a first user who distributes first content related to a game, wherein the access information is information regarding access to a platform by a second user associated with the first user and viewing the distribution of the first content, the platform being configured to provide second content that is different from the game itself and the web medium through which the first content is distributed and different from the first content; and a granting step granting a benefit related to the game or the first user to at least one of the first user and the second user when conditions are met, wherein the conditions include that the second content has been provided to the second user via the access information issued in response to the input and made public through the distribution.

[0096] This method can provide a more interesting experience to the user.

[0097] (2) In the information processing method described in (1) above, the platform is a platform capable of providing the game as the second content.

[0098] This method can promote interaction between the first and second users and provide a highly engaging experience through a comprehensive platform for game-related content that is different from either the game screen or a web medium for distribution.

[0099] (3) In the information processing method described in (1) or (2) above, the conditions further include that the second user has purchased the game, and in the granting step, the benefit is granted to the second user when the conditions are met.

[0100] According to this method, the second user can be encouraged to purchase the game by using the opportunity to obtain the benefit as motivation.

[0101] (4) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (3) above, the access information is information for displaying to the second user a screen of the platform on which the second content can be obtained if the second user has purchased the game.

[0102] According to this method, the second user can be encouraged to purchase the game by using the opportunity to acquire the second content as a motivation.

[0103] (5) In the information processing method described in (1) to (4) above, in the granting step, if the second user has not purchased the game, the benefit is granted to the first user, subject to payment by the second user.

[0104] With this method, even a second user who has not purchased the game can contribute to the granting of benefits to the first user, promoting interaction between the first and second users and providing a highly entertaining experience.

[0105] (6) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (5) above, the benefit includes a third content that constitutes a special story in the game, and in the granting step, the third content is granted to the first user as the benefit, thereby enabling the first user to play the special story.

[0106] According to this method, the first user can play a predetermined story that is only available as a benefit, and further first content can be delivered, providing a more interesting experience not only for the first user but also for the second user.

[0107] (7) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (6) above, the benefit includes setting authority for the game, and in the granting step, the setting authority is granted to the first user as the benefit, thereby enabling the first user to create the first content by changing the game settings and playing the game.

[0108] This method can contribute to the production of first content that meets various needs of first users.

[0109] (8) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (7) above, in the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user according to information based on the number of second users to whom the second content has been provided or the charges for the second content by the second users.

[0110] According to this method, a sense of competition will emerge in the billing from the second user to the first user, and interest can be further increased.

[0111] (9) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (8) above, the game control step further includes displaying information regarding the breakdown of the benefit granted to the first user on the first screen of the game in a manner that the first user can understand for each second user who contributed to the benefit, and sending an action to each second user in return for the contribution of the benefit in accordance with the input of the first user on the first screen.

[0112] This method allows the first user to individually interest the second user, which in turn promotes further interaction between the first and second users and provides a more engaging experience.

[0113] (10) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (9) above, the acquisition step further acquires information regarding the second user's viewing history of the web medium, and the granting step does not grant the benefit to either the first user or the second user regardless of the conditions if the information regarding the viewing history does not include viewing of the distribution of the first content.

[0114] According to this method, only the access information is circulated on social networking sites and other platforms other than the web media that distributes the content, thereby preventing users from attempting to obtain the second content without viewing the first content.

[0115] (11) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (10) above, the game control step further comprises displaying, on the second screen of the game, information about the second user to whom the second content has been provided by the disclosure of the access information accompanying the distribution during the distribution of the first content in a manner that can be understood by the first user.

[0116] This method allows the first user to individually interest the second user, which in turn promotes further interaction between the first and second users and provides a more engaging experience.

[0117] (12) An information processing system consisting of at least one device, the 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 (11) above.

[0118] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience.

[0119] (13) A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to any one of (1) to (11) above.

[0120] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience. Of course, this is not the case.

[0121] Finally, various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, but these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The embodiments and their modifications are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the disclosure, as well as within the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Network 2: Information processing equipment 2a: First information processing device 2b: Second information processing device 2c: Third information processing device 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 231: Reception 232: Acquisition Department 233: Arithmetic section 234: Granting section 235: Game control unit 3: Terminal 3a: Terminal 1 3b: 2nd terminal 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 5: Game screen 5a: Game screen 5b: Game screen 5c: Game screen 5d: Game screen 5e: Game Screen 501 :Area 502 :Area 503: Button 504: Button 505: Button 506: Button 507: Button 508: Input field 509 :Area 510: Button 511 :Area 512: Button 513: Button 514: Button 515: area 516 :Area 517: Button 518 :Area 519 :Area 520: Button 521: Button 6: Streaming screen 61 :Area 62 :Area 63 :Area 7: Platform screen 71 :Area 72 :Area 73 :Area 74 :Area 75 :Area 76: Button 77: Button AB:Avatar C1: Gameplay video C2: Second content C3: Story Data CD: Bonus code EC: Enemy character PF: Platform SS: Video streaming site

Claims

1. 1. An information processing method executed by a processor, comprising: It includes the following steps: In the receiving step, an input for issuing access information is received from a first user to whom first content related to a game is distributed, The access information is associated with the first user and is information regarding access to a platform; The platform is different from the game itself and the web medium through which the first content is distributed, the platform is configured to provide second content different from the first content; In the granting step, when a condition is satisfied, a benefit related to the game or the first user is granted to at least one of the first user and the second user, wherein the condition includes that the second content has been provided to the second user via the access information issued in response to the input and made public through distribution on the web medium; In the game control step, information regarding the breakdown of the benefits granted to the first user is displayed on the first screen of the game in a manner that can be understood by the first user for each second user who contributed to the benefits.

2. 1. An information processing method executed by a processor, comprising: It includes the following steps: In the receiving step, an input for issuing access information is received from a first user to whom first content related to a game is distributed, The access information is associated with the first user and is information regarding access to a platform; The platform is different from the game itself and the web medium through which the first content is distributed, the platform is configured to provide second content different from the first content; In the granting step, when a condition is satisfied, a benefit related to the game or the first user is granted to at least one of the first user and the second user, wherein the condition includes that the second content has been provided to the second user via the access information issued in response to the input and made public through distribution on the web medium; In the acquisition step, information regarding the viewing history of the web medium of the second user is acquired; In the granting step, if the information regarding the viewing history does not include viewing of the distribution of the first content, the benefit is not granted to either the first user or the second user regardless of the conditions.

3. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The method, wherein the platform is a platform capable of providing the game as the second content.

4. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, the condition further includes the second user having purchased the game; In the granting step, the benefit is granted to the second user when the condition is satisfied.

5. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, A method in which the access information is information for displaying to the second user a screen of the platform on which the second content can be obtained if the second user has purchased the game.

6. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, In the granting step, if the second user has not purchased the game, the benefit is granted to the first user on the condition that the second user pays for the game.

7. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, the benefit includes third content that constitutes a special story in the game; In the granting step, the third content is granted to the first user as the benefit, thereby enabling the first user to play the special story.

8. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The privilege includes the right to configure the game; In the granting step, the setting authority is granted to the first user as the benefit, thereby enabling the first user to create the first content by changing the game settings and playing the game.

9. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, In the granting step, a benefit is granted to the first user according to information based on the number of second users to whom the second content has been provided or the charges for the second content by the second users.

10. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The method includes, in the game control step, sending an action to each of the second users in return for their contribution to the benefit in response to an input from the first user on the first screen.

11. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, In the game control step, during the distribution of the first content, information about the second user to whom the second content has been provided by the disclosure of the access information accompanying the distribution is displayed on the second screen of the game in a manner that can be understood by the first user.

12. An information processing system comprising at least one device, A system comprising at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each step of the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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

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