Information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide technology to provide a user with more interesting experiences.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes at least one device. The information processing system includes at least one processor capable of executing a program so that the following steps can be performed. In a first reception step, position information on a specific user that is at least one of a plurality of users is received from the specific user. The position information is included in a region based on a predetermined section. On the predetermined section, transaction information on a transaction performed by a plurality of users is managed on a block chain. In an update step, a virtual space corresponding to the region is updated on the basis of the position information received from the specific user. In an imparting step, a reward is imparted to at least one of the plurality of users on the basis of the transaction information when the position information is received or the virtual space is updated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a video game processing program. In this video game processing program, when the progress of a video game is controlled using a virtual space corresponding to a real-world map and position information of a user terminal, the positions of objects appearing in the video game are registered in association with the user. The object associated with the user is displayed in the virtual space when selected by the user. When the object associated with the user is selected by the user, an event corresponding to the object occurs. When the user satisfies a predetermined condition related to an object located in the virtual space, points are awarded to the user. An event corresponding to the object occurs in exchange for consuming points owned by the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-10974 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is still room for improvement in the known techniques.

[0005] 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]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing system including at least one device. The information processing system includes at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform the following steps: In a first receiving step, location information of a specific user, which is at least one of a plurality of users, is received from the specific user. The location information is included in an area based on a predetermined section. Transaction information of transactions performed by the multiple users with respect to the predetermined section is managed on a blockchain. In an updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information received from the specific user. In an awarding step, when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated, a reward is awarded to at least one of the multiple users based on the transaction information.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a first information processing device 2a according to an embodiment. FIG. [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] 4 shows an example of an AR game played by the first information processing device 2a, and in particular, FIG. 4A shows manholes 51 and 52 included in the imaging data IM, and FIG. 4B shows an aspect in which AR information IF4 is superimposed. [Figure 5] This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 6] This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 7]This shows an example of the user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a city-building game progressed by a first information processing device 2a. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0010] Incidentally, the program for realizing the software appearing in one embodiment may be provided as a non-transitory computer-readable medium, or may be provided so that it can be downloaded from an external server, or may be provided so that the program is started on an external computer and its functions are realized on a client terminal (so-called cloud computing).

[0011] In one embodiment, a "unit" may 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 one embodiment, various information is handled, and this information is represented, for example, by physical values ​​of signal values ​​representing voltage and current, 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 can be performed on a circuit in the broad sense.

[0012] In addition, a circuit in the broad sense is a circuit realized by at least appropriately combining a circuit, circuitry, a processor, a memory, etc. That is, it includes an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)), etc.

[0013] 1. Game Description Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information processing system 1 according to one embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 1, a plurality of information processing devices 2 and a plurality of user terminals 3 are communicably connected to each other via a communication network 11, and a game is executed on the user terminals 3. That is, the information processing system 1 is made up of at least one device.

[0014] A game according to one embodiment is an online game executed by the information processing system 1. In this game, a user of a user terminal 3 controls one or more player characters to act in a virtual game space, and pits the player characters against enemy characters, which are non-player characters. A character is an example of an object.

[0015] The above-described game is executed using a user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 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, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. Preferably, the user terminal 3 is a smartphone having a camera function and a GPS (Global Positioning System) function. The camera function captures external world information as an image. The GPS function determines position information IF1 (e.g., latitude and longitude information IF1a, etc.) of the user terminal 3 in real space.

[0016] 2. Overview of Information Processing System 1 As shown in FIG. 1, an information processing system 1 is composed of multiple information processing devices 2 and multiple user terminals 3. Of the multiple information processing devices 2, a first information processing device 2a stores game programs and game data and manages game data (for each account information described below) of the user terminals 3. The information processing device 2 is composed of, for example, a server. In particular, each of the user terminals 3 for playing a game has the same configuration. Note that in one embodiment, a system is composed of one or more devices or components. Therefore, for example, even an information processing device 2 or a user terminal 3 described below alone can be an example of the information processing system 1.

[0017] The user terminal 3 executes a predetermined game based on the user's operation. To do so, the user terminal 3 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 user terminal 3. This account information is transmitted from the user terminal 3 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.

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

[0019] 2.1 Hardware Configuration Hereinafter, each hardware configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0020] <Information processing device 2> 1, the information processing device 2 includes a first information processing device 2a that is primarily managed by a game creator, and a second information processing device 2b that is primarily managed by a provider of a digital twin environment (a virtual space VS that includes an open environment or a closed environment), both of which have substantially the same configuration. In other words, the first information processing device 2a is a game server, and the second information processing device 2b is a server that manages the virtual space VS. 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.

[0021] The communication unit 21 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to each user terminal 3 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 user terminal 3 has received the game program, information regarding game media obtained through gacha, etc.

[0022] The storage unit 22 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and solid state drive (SSD), etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs including a part of the game program according to one embodiment, various data related to the game, etc.

[0023] 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 (account information) of a user playing a game, information such as a user name, a user rank, status information regarding the player character operated by the user, the amount of consumable media usable in the virtual game space, information regarding parameters, and the like, in association with each other. The lottery list is used for a lottery process generally called gacha, and includes multiple pieces of information regarding game media to be selected. The lottery list associates information regarding game media (such as name, ability parameters, rarity, and level) with a 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.

[0024] 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 of the functional units described below can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being single, and multiple control units 23 may be provided for each function. A combination of these may also be used. In other words, the information processing system 1 includes at least one processor capable of executing programs that cause each of the units described below to function.

[0025] 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 user terminal 3. The gacha lottery selection process is a process in which, in response to a gacha lottery request, one or more game media are selected by lottery from a lottery list based on the selection probability for each game medium. According to the gacha lottery selection process, information about the selected game media and the identification information of the user who performed the operation that sent the lottery request are associated in the user DB, and the user is thereby awarded the game media that they won as a result of their own gacha draw.

[0026] To further expand on the above, "game media" refers to electronic data representing elements related to a game, such as the name of a character used as a player character and items (weapons, armor, tools) used by the player character in the virtual game space. Users can acquire game media through direct purchase, quest completion, or a lottery system known as gacha. The acquired game media is stored and managed in a user DB in association with the identification information of the user who will own the game media. Furthermore, "gacha" refers to a method in which the information processing device 2 randomly selects game media from a lottery list based on a predetermined selection ratio. The selected game media is granted to the user terminal 3 (stored in association with account information). The phrase "granting the game media selected through gacha to the user / owning the user" is synonymous with "associating the game media selected through the lottery process with / being associated with the identification information of the user."

[0027] <User terminal 3> 1, a display 4a, a speaker 4b, and an input device 4c are externally connected or built into the user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 also has a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, a graphics processing unit 34a, an audio processing unit 34b, and an operation unit 34c. The communication unit 31, the storage unit 32, the graphics processing unit 34a, the audio processing unit 34b, and the operation unit 34c are electrically connected to the control unit 33 via a communication bus 30.

[0028] The communication unit 31 is a so-called network interface that is communicatively connected to the communication network 11 to transmit and receive various data between the user terminal 3 and the information processing device 2. Main information received by the user terminal 3 via the communication unit 31 includes account information, download request information for new game data, a gacha execution request, and a quest execution request. Main information transmitted by the user terminal 3 via the communication unit 31 includes new game data sent from the information processing device 2 in response to the download request information, information regarding game content selected by lottery processing, and the like. In particular, the communication unit 31 is configured to acquire latitude and longitude information IF1a (an example of location information IF1) through a GPS function. Note that GPS is a system consisting of multiple GPS satellites 12 and a terrestrial receiver. The communication unit 31 is an example of a terrestrial GPS receiver. The communication unit 31 receives signals from at least four GPS satellites 12 and measures the delay of each signal from the GPS satellite 12. Using this delay information, latitude and longitude information IF1a, which indicates the current location of the user holding the user terminal 3, is acquired.

[0029] 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 of the user terminal 3 which is the device itself, user information, etc. The user information is at least a part of the information in the 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 user terminal 3 stores at least a part of the information in this master that is distributed from the first information processing device 2a.

[0030] The control unit 33 is configured by a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the user terminal 3, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit 33 realizes various functions related to the user terminal 3, 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 the device may be implemented with multiple control units 33 for each function. A combination of these may also be used.

[0031] 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 user terminal 3, which is the user's own device. 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 user terminal 3, which is the user's own device, when executing a game.

[0032] 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 a display 4a, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), and the rendered game images are displayed on the display 4a as a game screen. The audio processing unit 34b is connected to a speaker 4b and plays and synthesizes game audio in accordance with instructions from the control unit 33, outputting the audio from the speaker 4b. The operation unit 34c is connected to an 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 user terminal 3 by operating the input device 4c. The input device 4c is a collective term for a touch panel integrated with the display 4a, an external game pad, a mouse, a keyboard, etc. As described above, in a preferred embodiment, the user terminal 3 is a smartphone with a camera function, and the input device 4c includes a built-in camera 41 capable of capturing images of information about the external world.

[0033] <Blockchain BC> Blockchain BC is a system in which transaction data showing the history of past processing is divided into blocks of a certain capacity and these blocks are arranged and linked in order. Each block in blockchain BC has a hash value of the previous block, and is managed in a distributed manner by multiple user terminals 3 that act as nodes. This improves tamper resistance. A P2P network to which these multiple user terminals 3 are connected is a network that shares blockchain BC.

[0034] Furthermore, through these blockchains BC, there exist DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) formed with a common purpose. Multiple users belong to the DAO, and transaction information IF2 based on rules agreed upon among the users is managed on the blockchain BC as, for example, smart contract information IF2a. In other words, the transaction information IF2 is smart contract information IF2a that is automatically executed based on rules agreed upon within the DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) to which multiple users belong. This type of implementation allows for reliable management of autonomous initiatives for the development of the virtual space VS, which will be described later.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a first information processing device 2a according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, a control unit 23 (processor) executes various programs stored in a storage unit 22 to function as a reception unit 231, a game control unit 232, a calculation unit 233, an update unit 234, an assignment unit 235, and a display control unit 236. 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 can be executed as each functional unit included in the control unit 23.

[0037] The receiving unit 231 is configured to receive various information as a first or second receiving step. For example, the receiving unit 231 receives user account information, game data, input from the user, etc. from the storage unit 22, the user terminal 3, or another external device. For example, as a first receiving step, the receiving unit 231 receives location information IF1 (e.g., latitude and longitude information IF1a) of a specific user who is at least one of the multiple users from the specific user. Details will be described later.

[0038] The game control unit 232 is configured to control the progress of various games as a game control step. For example, as a game control step, the game control unit 232 progresses a game played by multiple users. Details will be described later.

[0039] The calculation unit 233 is configured to execute calculations or processes relating to various information processes as calculation steps.

[0040] As an update step, the update unit 234 updates various information managed by the device itself, or causes an external device to update information managed by the external device. For example, as an update step, the update unit 234 updates the virtual space VS corresponding to the area based on position information IF1 received from a specific user. Details will be described later.

[0041] The granting unit 235 is configured to grant various rewards to the user as a granting step. A reward is any benefit or privilege that the user can enjoy in real space or virtual space. It is not limited to objects or media, but also includes advantageous effects and rights granted to the user. Benefits 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 spaces. A right is, for example, the right to participate in a lottery called gacha. Virtual spaces that differ from the real world include game spaces, digital twins, metaverse spaces, and the like, and are spaces where avatars and the like are active in virtual worlds. The advantageous effects granted to the user 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, and adding vibrations to the input device 4c.

[0042] The display control unit 236 is configured to execute, as a first display step or a second display step, a process for displaying various pieces of information stored in the storage unit 32 or screens containing such information in a visible manner on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. As an example, the display control unit 236 may generate visual information itself generated in a human-visible manner, such as a screen, an image (e.g., a still image or a video), an icon, or text, or may generate rendering information for displaying the visual information on the display 4a and transmit the information.

[0043] 3. Overview of Information Processing An information processing system 1 according to one embodiment includes at least one device. The first information processing device 2a is a game server, and the second information processing device 2b is a server that manages the virtual space VS. The blockchain BC is a system in which multiple users' user terminals 3 are used as nodes and are managed in a distributed manner. Each user has a game account provided by the first information processing device 2a and belongs to a DAO that supports a predetermined real-world area. Here, the predetermined area refers to a specific local government (hereinafter, "local government"). Local governments include ordinary local governments and special local governments. The virtual space VS managed by the second information processing device 2b is a so-called digital twin environment. In other words, at least some of the buildings, facilities, infrastructure, etc. in the real world are also reproduced in the virtual space VS. The virtual space VS includes the digital twin environment of the specific local government supported by the user.

[0044] The information constituting the virtual space VS can be updated by providing materials from users. The user captures images of existing buildings or infrastructure facilities (examples of external world information) in a given municipality using the built-in camera 41 of their user terminal 3 and directly or indirectly transmits the captured image data IM along with latitude and longitude information IF1a obtained using the GPS function of the user terminal 3 to the second information processing device 2b, thereby updating the information in the virtual space VS corresponding to the external world information. Updating the information in the virtual space VS not only involves updating the information constituting the virtual space VS itself but also includes changing a flag indicating the inclusion of new information from 0 to 1. In summary, the following description assumes a scenario in which multiple users, motivated by a shared desire to support a given municipality, engage in voluntary activities such as moving their feet, resulting in the development of a digital twin environment corresponding to the municipality. In particular, since the virtual space VS is a digital twin environment, this embodiment can further popularize and develop digital twin environments in society.

[0045] 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1. Below, the flow of a series of information processing will be outlined with reference to this sequence diagram.

[0046] First, assume that a new user joins a DAO to support a specific local government (step S001). Specifically, the new user is issued a governance token of the DAO.

[0047] Next, transaction information IF2, including rules within the DAO for the specified local government, is defined or updated (step S002). Specifically, various information such as the name, address, age, and game account of a new user may be added to the blockchain BC as information on the members of the DAO supporting the specified local government. Transaction information IF2 may be updated not only when a new user joins, but also whenever new rules are defined. In other words, transaction information IF2 of transactions executed by multiple users for a predetermined area (here, the specified local area itself) is managed on the blockchain BC.

[0048] Next, within the DAO, a task ticket is issued for updating information in the virtual space VS for a specific local government (step S003). Then, this task ticket is assigned to at least one user constituting the DAO (step S004). Hereinafter, the user to whom the task is assigned will be referred to as a specific user. The content of the task included in the task ticket may be determined based on the opinions of multiple users constituting the DAO. In other words, the task ticket is an example of task information IF3 that manages tasks agreed upon by multiple users constituting the DAO. Task information IF3 is further managed on the blockchain BC.

[0049] Next, the specific user performs the task specified in the task ticket. This task requires the specific user to actually visit a building or other existing structure in a specific municipality and capture the building or other structure as a landscape (an example of external world information). That is, the specific user captures the specified landscape using the built-in camera 41 of the user's user terminal 3, and the captured image data IM is stored in the storage unit 32. The captured image data IM may be still image data or video data. The specific user's actions are based on the desire to support or promote the specific municipality, and the specific user does not necessarily need to be a resident of the specific municipality. A specific user can simply be a user who has registered the local municipality corresponding to the location information IF1 in their account. According to this embodiment, a specific user who wants to support a local municipality can develop the local municipality even if they are not a resident. Preferably, each user belonging to the DAO is assigned an activity level based on the number of actions or comments made within the DAO. The type, number, and timing of task tickets that can be acquired may vary depending on the level. This approach can increase activity within the DAO.

[0050] Furthermore, following the image capture in step S005, without leaving the location, the specific user shares the captured image data IM with an external device to update the virtual space VS. In one embodiment, the user terminal 3 transmits the image data IM to the first information processing device 2a, which is a game server, and the information is also shared with the second information processing device 2b, which manages the virtual space VS, via the first information processing device 2a. At this time, the user terminal 3 transmits the image data IM and location information IF1 relating to the current location to the first information processing device 2a via the communication unit 31 and the communication network 11 (step S006). In other words, this location information IF1 is included in an area based on a predetermined district (a predetermined local area itself).

[0051] In other words, as a first receiving step, the receiving unit 231 receives location information IF1 (e.g., latitude and longitude information IF1a) of a specific user, who is at least one of the multiple users, from the specific user. The receiving unit 231 also receives image data IM including external world information captured by the specific user. This ensures the authenticity of the transmitted image data IM, that is, that the image was captured by the specific user himself / herself. More specifically, the receiving unit 231 receives location information IF1 corresponding to task information IF3 from the specific user. Since the authenticity of the task information IF3 is guaranteed on the blockchain BC, it is possible to prevent fraud, such as tampering with tasks. According to this aspect, autonomous initiatives can be managed with high reliability for the development of the virtual space VS.

[0052] Next, when the first information processing device 2a receives the location information IF1 and the imaging data IM from the user terminal 3, a game for which the specific user has an account is progressed (step S007). The specific user then experiences the progress of the game via the user terminal 3 (step S008). The content of the game is not limited, but it is preferably a game in which multiple users belonging to a DAO are players. In other words, the game control unit 232 progresses a game played by multiple users as a game control step. The game here may also be one that provides users with an augmented reality experience (a so-called AR game), and during the game progress, a virtual object (an example of AR information IF4) may be superimposed on at least a portion of the imaging data IM captured by the specific user. This will be described in more detail later.

[0053] Subsequently, the first information processing device 2a further transmits the position information IF1 and the imaging data IM shared in step S006 to the second information processing device 2b via the communication unit 21 and the communication network 11 (step S009).

[0054] Next, the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b updates the information of the virtual space VS stored in the storage unit 22 based on the information shared in step S009 (step S010). That is, the relevant location in the virtual space VS is updated to correspond to the external world information captured by the specific user. In other words, as an update step, the update unit 234 of the first information processing device 2a causes the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b to update the relevant location (the virtual space VS corresponding to the area) based on the location information IF1 and image data IM received from the specific user. According to this embodiment, multiple users who wish to support an area based on a predetermined section can develop the virtual space VS based on the image data IM captured by each of them. Thereafter, the fact that the relevant location in the virtual space VS has been updated is registered on the blockchain BC (step S011).

[0055] Next, smart contract information IF2a, which is one of the transaction information IF2 previously managed in the blockchain BC, is activated. A smart contract is an automated contract based on blockchain technology. Smart contract information IF2a is written as program code and is automatically executed when predefined conditions are met. Because smart contract information IF2a is stored on the blockchain BC, its contents are transparent and difficult to tamper with. By adopting such technology, it is possible to eliminate centralized intermediaries and reduce transaction costs, although a fee (so-called gas fee) is incurred. In one embodiment, smart contract information IF2a is information that automates a contract that, when the virtual space VS is updated, a specific user who captured the image data IM that contributed to the update of the corresponding part is awarded a predetermined reward. In other words, the activation of smart contract information IF2a in step S012 awards a reward to the specific user.

[0056] The contract contents of the smart contract information IF2a are not particularly limited as long as they are determined among multiple users belonging to the DAO, and a predefined condition other than the update of the virtual space VS may be a predefined condition. For example, the transmission of the imaging data IM and transaction information IF2 to the first information processing device 2a in step S006 may be a predefined condition. Furthermore, the predefined condition may include a condition in which a reward is granted to a user other than the specific user. In other words, in the granting step, the granting unit 235 may grant a reward to at least one of the multiple users (e.g., a specific user) based on the smart contract information IF2a (an example of transaction information IF2) when the location information IF1 is received or the virtual space VS is updated.

[0057] In one embodiment, the granting unit 235 grants a reward related to the game. For example, a reward related to the game progressed in step S007 is granted as a reward. That is, information processing related to the granting of the reward is executed in the first information processing device 2a (step S013). Specifically, the calculation unit 233 of the first information processing device 2a that manages the game associates the reward related to the game with the account of the specific user and stores it in the storage unit 22. Furthermore, if necessary, the specific user can check the content of the granted reward via the display 4a of his / her user terminal 3 (step S014).

[0058] To summarize the above, an information processing method according to one embodiment includes the following steps: In the receiving step, location information IF1 of a specific user, which is at least one of a plurality of users, is received from the specific user. The location information IF1 is included in an area based on a predetermined section. Regarding the location information IF1, transaction information IF2 of transactions executed by a plurality of users with respect to the predetermined section is managed on a blockchain BC. In the updating step, a virtual space VS corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information IF1 received from the specific user. In the granting step, when the location information IF1 is received or the virtual space VS is updated, a reward is granted to at least one of the plurality of users based on the transaction information IF2. Furthermore, a program for executing each of the above steps may be provided to at least one computer. According to this aspect, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0059] For example, economic effects such as increased attention to a given local government and an increase in the actual population can be realized. This leads to regional revitalization, such as attracting people to local areas, increasing the income of local people, and promoting the appeal of local areas. It also allows various users to experience the appeal of places other than tourist destinations and to benefit from the health benefits of walking. Furthermore, by outsourcing the collection of local data, the administrator of the first information processing device 2a can reduce the cost of managing and maintaining information on the virtual space VS and improve the quality of the virtual space VS.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 4.1 AR games FIG. 4 shows an example of an AR game played by the first information processing device 2a. In particular, FIG. 4A shows manholes 51 and 52 included in imaging data IM, and FIG. 4B shows the state in which AR information IF4 is superimposed. Both manholes 51 and 52 are under the jurisdiction of a specific local government and may be included in the outside world information specified as a task. When a specific user holds the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3 over the manholes 51 and 52, a screen 6 shown in FIG. 4B is displayed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. In addition to the physically existing manholes 51 and 52, characters 61 and 62 and text information 61a, 62a, and 63, which are AR information IF4, are superimposed on the screen 6.

[0062] In one embodiment, the storage unit 22 of the first information processing device 2a stores image data of objects (external world information) such as manholes 51 and 52, latitude and longitude information IF1a of the objects, and AR information IF4 to be superimposed, in association with each other in advance. For example, when the external world information visually recognized through the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3 and the latitude and longitude information IF1a match information previously stored in the storage unit 22, the display control unit 236 of the first information processing device 2a may display the AR information IF4 superimposed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. Of course, the condition need not require a match in the latitude and longitude information IF1a.

[0063] Furthermore, different AR information IF4 may be added depending on the combination of multiple objects stored as outside world information in the storage unit 22. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, both a manhole 51 and a manhole 52 are reflected in the screen 6. In this case, not only is the AR information IF4 corresponding to the manhole 51 (e.g., a character 61 and text information 61a) and the AR information IF4 corresponding to the manhole 52 (e.g., a character 62 and text information 62a) rendered, but text information 63 containing the word "VS" is also rendered. A battle game between the characters 61 and 62 may then be started. In other words, the receiving unit 231 receives at least one piece of imaging data IM including multiple different pieces of outside world information from a specific user. The AR information is determined differently depending on the combination of the multiple pieces of outside world information. This embodiment allows the user to experience a variety of augmented reality sensations.

[0064] More preferably, the user playing such an AR game is a user who has completed the above-mentioned task. The AR game may be progressed in step S007 of FIG. 3. Furthermore, AR information IF4 may be added to the actual captured image data IM after the fact. For example, in the example of FIG. 4, manholes 51 and 52 are depicted on the same screen 6, but they may be acquired as separate image data IM, and the user may specify these image data IM to add AR information IF4 corresponding to the combination. In other words, as a first display step, after capturing the image data IM, the display control unit 236 superimposes AR information different from the external world information on the external world information included in the image data IM and displays it. According to this embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user when the user transmits the image data IM.

[0065] Note that manholes 51 and 52 are infrastructure components, and the purpose of investigating the degree of deterioration of such infrastructure components can also be achieved. Manholes 51 and 52 are just examples, and other possible examples include utility poles, electric wires, signs, gas facilities, water facilities, roads, railroad networks, and playground equipment. The AR information IF4 of characters 61 and 62, etc., is just an example, and images or videos of 3D model objects, celebrities, popular YouTubers, or other real people may be added as AR information IF4, or game music, etc. may be played.

[0066] 4.2 DAO 5 to 7 show an example of a user interface (screen 7) of a community tool based on a DAO operated by multiple users. For example, Discord (registered trademark) may be used to operate the DAO. Referring to FIG. 5, screen 7a (one of screens 7) includes areas 701 to 704 and buttons 705 to 707.

[0067] Area 701 depicts text information "User ID: Ai." Area 702 depicts an icon associated with Ai. For example, if "Lin Tropical Fish Village" exists as a local public body (local government) in Japan, area 703 depicts text information "Lin Tropical Fish Village" as the local government in which the user is registered. In other words, a user with user ID Ai supports the local government called Lin Tropical Fish Village.

[0068] In area 704, text information such as "Photographing the Silver Star Club" and "Photographing the Reminiscence Heroine Ranch" is displayed as tasks assigned to the user. That is, task information IF3 such as "Photographing the Silver Star Club" and "Photographing the interior of the Reminiscence Heroine Ranch" is assigned to a user with a user ID of Ai. Execution of these tasks corresponds to step S005 in FIG. 3.

[0069] The buttons 705 to 707 are configured to receive a user's pressing operation. The pressing operation is, for example, a tap operation or a click operation. When the user presses one of the buttons 705 to 707, the screen transitions to another screen associated with the button 705 to 707, respectively. For example, when the button 705, which displays the text information "Interact in the Guild," is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a community tool screen (not shown) that allows users to exchange information with other users who belong to the same DAO via chat, voice, or the like. When the button 706, which displays the text information "New Task," is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a screen 7b shown in FIG. 6. When the button 707, which displays the text information "Completed Task," is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7a to a screen 7c shown in FIG. 7.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 6, screen 7b (one of screens 7) includes areas 701-703 and 708 and buttons 709a-709d and 710. Elements common to screen 7a will not be described. Area 708 displays text information for new tasks currently being recruited: "Photographing New Moon Hall," "Photographing Cafe de Twinkle," "Photographing Aitoma Junior High School," and "Photographing Midnight Angel Drive." These tasks (task information IF3) are not assigned to any users belonging to the DAO, and the DAO is seeking users to complete them. To the right of each task are buttons 709a-709d, each displaying the text "Apply." Pressing one of the buttons 709a-709d requests the issuance of a corresponding task ticket. The task ticket may be issued immediately or after some form of approval. When the button 710 on which the text information "Back" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7b back to the screen 7a shown in FIG.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 7, screen 7c (one of screens 7) includes areas 701-703, 711, a button 710, and attention indicators 712a and 712b. Descriptions of elements common to screens 7a and 7b are omitted. Area 711 displays text information indicating the user's completed tasks: "Photographing Tremolo Community Center," "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery," and "Photographing Skyscraper Museum." This confirms that these tasks have been completed by a user with a user ID of Ai. To the right of each of the tasks, "Photographing Tremolo Community Center" and "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery," are displayed attention indicators 712a and 712b, each displaying the text information "Rewarded." This allows the user to easily understand that the rewards for "Photographing Tremolo Community Center" and "Photographing Catwalk Cemetery" (corresponding to step S013 in FIG. 3) have been awarded. On the other hand, although "photographing the skyscraper museum" has been completed, the user can easily understand that the reward has not yet been given to the user. When the button 710 on which the text information "Back" is drawn is pressed, the display control unit 236 transitions the currently displayed screen 7c back to the screen 7a shown in FIG.

[0072] 4.3 City-building games FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a city-building game played by the first information processing device 2a. The screen 8 is displayed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3 and shows the layout of a city. The screen 8 includes building objects 81-84 and a road object 85. The building objects 81-84 are arranged to correspond to buildings of a specific local government that actually exist. The road object 85 is arranged to correspond to a road of the specific local government that actually exists. Preferably, the data for this city is the same as that for the virtual space VS managed by the second information processing device 2b. In other words, the game played by the first information processing device 2a is a game related to infrastructure or city-building in the virtual space VS for an area based on a predetermined division (e.g., a specific local government). This aspect ensures consistency between the content of the game and the motivation to support the specific local government, creating an environment in which users actively participate in the game.

[0073] On the other hand, the virtual space VS (so-called digital twin) managed by the second information processing device 2b and the game-specific town may exist independently. In such a case, the game-specific town may be managed by the first information processing device 2a rather than the second information processing device 2b. According to this embodiment, the virtual space VS, which has high social utility as infrastructure, and the game-specific town, which is primarily intended to appeal to users, can coexist without confusion. Furthermore, the game-specific town may not be a digital twin, but may be a deformed version based on some concept. Examples include a town with the atmosphere of a medieval-themed RPG game, a town with a near-future atmosphere, or a town inhabited by non-human races.

[0074] Furthermore, the degree of progress of the game may vary depending on the number of users participating in the game. For example, if the users belonging to the DAO and the users participating in the game are the same, an increase in the number of users participating in the game means an increase in the number of users supporting a specific local government. In other words, the game control unit 232 variably controls the degree of progress of the game depending on the number of multiple users. According to this embodiment, it is possible to attract more users who support a specific local government, and to provide an environment in which a local government that has attracted many users is praised.

[0075] Specifically, for example, the aforementioned game town may exist independently, and be more highly developed than a specific local government in the real world or a specific local government in the virtual world VS (the so-called digital twin). Specifically, linear motor train stations may be constructed, and flying car taxi services may be provided within the game. Furthermore, the size of a city does not necessarily have to be the same as that of a real-world city; the city may develop appropriately based on activities within the DAO or the game. For example, the capital in the game may be set to Tropical Fish Village instead of Tokyo, or a battle for supremacy may be held in imitation of the Warring States period. This can further revitalize local communities.

[0076] Conversely, infrastructure standards for a game town may be set stricter than those of a given local government in the real world or a given local government in the virtual world VS, so that the original infrastructure environment cannot be achieved unless a certain number of users participate in the game. Specifically, restrictions may be imposed, such as no electricity, no running water, or no roads being built in the game town unless a certain number of users participate in the game. For example, a task in the DAO is completed when one person completes it, and this is reflected in the information in the virtual world VS accordingly, but multiple users may be required to complete the same task in order to reflect it in the game. The number of people may be a fixed number, such as 10, or may be determined based on the number of people in the DAO or the population of the local government.

[0077] [others] The information processing system 1 according to an embodiment may adopt the following aspects.

[0078] 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 may be installed outside Japan. Similarly, a user may access various information processing devices 2 from outside Japan using his or her own user terminal 3. According to such an embodiment, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user through various management modes.

[0079] In one embodiment, the reception unit 231, the game control unit 232, the calculation unit 233, the update unit 234, the granting unit 235, and the display control unit 236 are described as functional units implemented by the control unit 23 of the first information processing device 2a. However, at least some of these may be implemented as functional units implemented by the control unit 23 of the second information processing device 2b. Alternatively, they may be implemented as functional units implemented by the control unit 33 of the user terminal 3. 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 first information processing device 2a but also in other external devices. In such a case, distributed ledger management based on a blockchain BC or the like may be performed.

[0080] In one embodiment, the imaging data IM is shared with the first information processing device 2a immediately after the imaging data IM is captured, along with the user's location information IF1. However, since there may be areas where LTE or other lines are not available, the imaging data IM may be shared after the fact. In recent years, location information IF1 based on latitude and longitude information IF1a obtained by a GPS function is often added to the imaging data IM as metadata. Therefore, a configuration may be adopted in which the first information processing device 2a or the second information processing device 2b accepts the metadata included in the imaging data IM as location information IF1, thereby transmitting the imaging data IM after the fact.

[0081] An NFT gacha may be used as a reward. For example, when a specific user completes a task related to a task ticket, the specific user is granted the right to draw an NFT gacha. Based on a lottery request, an object (including an NFT image or an object usable in a game or virtual space) is drawn and awarded to the user (associated with the user's account). Preferably, location information IF1 is required when requesting a lottery for such an NFT gacha. The strictness of location information IF1 is not particularly limited. It may be limited to the latitude and longitude information IF1a at which the imaging data IM was captured, or it may be satisfied if the location is within a specified local government (e.g., within Tropical Fish Village). Furthermore, the specific user may be notified at the time of transmitting the imaging data IM whether the above conditions regarding the latitude and longitude information IF1a are met. Furthermore, the user may be required to travel to a location different from the imaging location of the imaging data IM. The association between NFTs and gacha may be one-to-one or one-to-many (multiple lotteries). Multiple lotteries may be associated with a single lottery request, or multiple single lotteries may be performed at different times, such as once a day or once a week. Location information IF1 may also be required for reveals, requiring the user to be in the same location as the previous time or a different location. For example, the imaging data IM may be captured at "Ginsei Club," the imaging data IM may be transmitted at "Cafe de Twinkle," and the gacha results (reveal) may be displayed at "Skyscraper Museum." These locations may be determined randomly or may be selected from locations the user has visited in past tasks. The determined or selected locations are displayed on the display 4a of the user terminal 3. Multiple objects may be drawn from the NFT gacha, and are managed as a lottery list. The probability of each object being drawn (selected) by lottery is set. These lottery lists and probabilities may change depending on the user's activity history within the DAO. For example, the selection probability of an object with a high rarity (low selection probability) may be increased depending on the number of imaging data IM, or a new object may be added to or removed from the lottery list.The lottery method can be a complete lottery, or it can be a box gacha system where once an object is selected, it is removed (cannot be selected) from the next lottery. This makes it easier for rewards to change automatically the more active users are within the DAO. The probability of selecting an object from the lottery list can also be changed, and the object to be selected can be decided by a vote of users within the DAO.

[0082] In other words, the receiving unit 231 receives, as a second receiving step, first location information IF1-1 corresponding to a location different from the location where the imaging data IM was captured after capturing the imaging data IM. The granting unit 235 grants a reward if the first location information IF1-1 and the second location information IF1-2 corresponding to the imaging location satisfy a predetermined condition. More preferably, the reward is a right to enter a lottery. The game control unit 232 executes a lottery following the granting of the right to enter a lottery by the granting unit 235. The receiving unit 231 receives, as a second receiving step, third location information IF1-3 corresponding to a location different from the location where the lottery was held after the lottery is executed. The display control unit 236 displays, as a second display step, the result of the lottery if the third location information IF1-3 satisfies a predetermined condition. This aspect encourages a specific user to visit multiple locations, further promoting support for or attachment to the local government. In particular, by providing the right to draw gacha as a reward, the granting of the right and the display of the gacha lottery results can be separated, further promoting the support or attachment mentioned above.

[0083] The rules managed by the DAO may vary. For example, 100 NFTs are listed for each event, and 100 tickets are issued. To mint them, users acquire tickets and participate in the event. At the event, by collecting material data such as image data (IM) and sending it to the first information processing device 2a, users can obtain an arrow list for purchasing NFTs, which is a reward. Users with an arrow list can mint NFTs for free or for a set price. After a set period of time has passed since minting, the NFT is revealed, and an NFT image can be displayed. The NFT may have various values, such as being able to be sold in secondary distribution, receiving special discounts, or serving as a ticket for admission or participation in an event. For example, the NFT may be an object such as a character or item that can be used in a game. It is also preferable that the image of the NFT is related to the local area itself. In this case, the more tasks within the DAO are completed, the more objects available in the game, giving the user an advantage over other local governments. Additionally, a portion of the revenue from the secondary distribution of NFTs (for example, 10%) could be used as a financial resource for DAO operations or local governments. This would allow local governments to create and trade digital assets (intangible assets) such as NFT objects based on activities within the DAO, in addition to local specialty products and crafts, thereby contributing to regional revitalization.

[0084] The rewards awarded may be transferred to users other than those who belong to the DAO. For example, a DAO user may be an elderly person who actually resides in a specific municipality and transfers the reward to his or her grandchild. This type of arrangement can also effectively promote an area (specific municipality) based on a predetermined district. Furthermore, image data IM captured by users is archived as the scenery at the time of capture, and each image data IM is appropriately preserved as a digital asset of Japan. Furthermore, the user who captured (provided) this image data IM is recorded on the blockchain. This allows the original scenery to be passed on to future generations, and it can also be passed on as a digital asset or a history of the activities of ancestors. Users who are related, such as by blood relationship, may link their wallets or transfer or inherit NFTs. This can spark interest in the local area itself and inspire a desire to visit or contribute to the area.

[0085] In one embodiment, a specific user provides image data IM of a scene (an example of outside world information) designated as a task along with location information IF1. However, it is also possible to provide only location information IF1 without the image data IM. In such a case, for example, the image data IM necessary for constructing the virtual space VS may be prepared in advance by an administrator of the second information processing device 2b. Furthermore, the condition for reflecting information in the virtual space VS may be the provision of location information IF1 by users belonging to a DAO supporting a specific local government. This also allows users belonging to a DAO to contribute in some way to the specific local government. Furthermore, it is also possible to transmit data other than the image data IM as a source of material. Examples include audio data recorded at the site, secondary data generated by applying specific preprocessing to the image data IM, etc.

[0086] Apart from games related to infrastructure and city development, some kind of game that promotes a specific local government may be provided. For example, it may be a game in which characters related to a specific local government (so-called local mascot characters) are raised. A battle game between such characters may also be provided.

[0087] One embodiment may be implemented independently of games. Because it involves travel and has a means for digitally recording original landscapes in photographs or other formats, it is also well suited to, and can be appropriately combined with, fields such as medicine, healthcare, architecture, civil engineering, urban planning, history, geography, culture, and education. For example, with the cooperation of local communities such as local residents, photography enthusiasts, and local students, photographs (an example of image data IM) covering a variety of landscapes are taken. This not only revitalizes the community but also preserves the landscapes of a wide range of regions as digital assets. In other words, the photographs are organized or stored as a high-quality digital archive. It is preferable that the photographs be stored at high resolution to minimize information loss.

[0088] Resolution requirements may be set for the image data IM shared as raw data. Blockchain technology may be used to record the photographer, date and time of each photo, location information, etc. This ensures the reliability and authenticity of the image data IM and allows accurate information to be passed on to future generations. Digital archives of these image data IM may be made accessible for viewing on online platforms, allowing not only local residents but also people across the country and around the world to appreciate beautiful regional landscapes. A viewing fee may also be charged. Such digital archives may be used in educational programs at schools or community centers. Lessons or workshops on history or the natural environment can convey the charm and importance of regional areas to younger generations. Exhibitions and events may also be held, and the beauty of regional landscapes can be widely disseminated through periodic exhibitions or events. Incorporating them into regional cultural festivals or tourist events will attract many people, potentially attracting more people and attracting more people to regional areas.

[0089] By providing digital licenses for the use of digital assets such as image data (IM) and receiving royalties for the use of photos as part of monetization, the sustainability of DAOs and local governments can be ensured. Furthermore, a portion of this revenue can be used for regional development or the maintenance and management of infrastructure. In this way, one embodiment can function as a comprehensive initiative that not only preserves beautiful local scenery as digital assets and passes it on to future generations, but also contributes to regional revitalization and cultural preservation.

[0090] In one embodiment, DAOs (communities) are not limited to local government areas, but can also be set up as schools, companies, organizations, the whole of Japan, or countries around the world. Furthermore, DAOs are not limited to being reflected in games or virtual spaces (e.g., digital twins), but can also provide valuable data for academic research by recording local landscapes through photographs and passing them on to future generations. For example, in research fields such as geology and ecology, local landscape photographs can be important data that visually record geological changes or changes in the natural environment. Geologists and ecologists can use these photographs to investigate or analyze changes in the local natural environment or ecosystem. In research fields such as urban planning and regional development, local landscape photographs can be valuable materials showing the evolution of urban planning or regional development from the past to the present. Urban planners and regional development researchers can use photographs to study regional development and change and gain ideas for sustainable development. In the field of cultural anthropology, local landscape photographs can be used as a means of visually capturing local culture or lifestyles. Photographs can help us understand cultural changes by studying the daily lives, traditions, and festivals of local residents. In the field of historical research, local landscape photographs can be used to help people study changes in their lifestyles, culture, history, etc. by remembering and utilizing the appearance of past landscapes and buildings. In the field of education or outreach, the results of image data (IM) obtained within the academic research community can be used for local education and outreach activities to disseminate them to the general public. Furthermore, lectures or workshops can be used to widely communicate the history of the region and the importance of nature.

[0091] The above-mentioned latitude and longitude information IF1a is an example of location information IF1, and the location information IF1 may be location information based on a public Wi-Fi connection. Furthermore, the imaging data IM is not limited to images captured by the built-in camera 41 of the user terminal 3, but may also be images captured by an external imaging device connected to the user terminal 3. The method of connecting the user terminal 3 and the external imaging device is not particularly limited, and may be a wired connection such as USB, short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth, or a connection via the communication network 11.

[0092] New users may join a DAO upon request (application), or application and approval conditions may be set for applications. For example, conditions may include being a resident of a specified local government, working for a business located in the specified local government, having a registered domicile in the specified local government, or having personal or family ties to the local government. Proof of these conditions may be required, or tax payment may be a condition. Furthermore, applications may be subject to review, and approval by a majority of the DAO's members may be required.

[0093] Furthermore, a DAO may be merged with another DAO. Conversely, an existing DAO may be separated to form multiple DAOs later. Preferably, the decision to merge or separate may be made by voting within the DAO. When DAOs are merged, the task information IF3 of the merged DAO may be integrated. That is, the merged DAO may be able to accept tasks related to a specific local government supported by the merged DAO. For example, a game space based on the local government supported by the merged DAO may be developed, or virtual game zones may form alliances and guarantee mutual non-infringement. Alternatively, DAOs may not be merged, but the zones may be able to form such alliances within the game. Furthermore, game spaces managed by the first information processing device 2a may be merged or separated.

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

[0095] (1) An information processing system having at least one device, the system having at least one processor capable of executing a program to perform each of the following steps: in a first receiving step, location information of at least one specific user among a plurality of users is received from the specific user, the location information being included in an area based on a predetermined division, and transaction information of transactions executed by the plurality of users with respect to the predetermined division is managed on a blockchain; in an updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the location information received from the specific user; and in an awarding step, when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated, a reward is awarded to at least one of the plurality of users based on the transaction information.

[0096] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience.

[0097] (2) In the information processing system described in (1) above, the first reception step further receives imaging data including outside world information captured by the specific user, and the update step further updates the virtual space related to the area based on the imaging data.

[0098] According to this aspect, a virtual space can be developed by a plurality of users who wish to support an area based on a predetermined section, based on the image data captured by each of them.

[0099] (3) In the information processing system described in (2) above, in the first display step, after capturing the imaging data, AR information different from the external world information is superimposed on the external world information included in the imaging data and displayed.

[0100] According to this aspect, when the user transmits imaging data, a more interesting experience can be provided to the user.

[0101] (4) In the information processing system described in (3) above, in the first reception step, at least one piece of imaging data including a plurality of different pieces of outside world information is received from the specific user, and the AR information is determined differently depending on the combination of the plurality of pieces of outside world information.

[0102] According to this embodiment, the user can experience a variety of augmented realities.

[0103] (5) In the information processing system described in any one of (2) to (4) above, in the first receiving step, after the imaging data is captured, first location information corresponding to a location different from the imaging location where the imaging data was captured is received, and in the granting step, the reward is granted if the first location information and second location information corresponding to the imaging location satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0104] According to this embodiment, a specific user can be encouraged to visit multiple locations, thereby further promoting support for or attachment to the local government.

[0105] (6) In the information processing system described in (5) above, the reward is the right to enter a lottery, and further, in the game control step, the lottery is executed following the awarding step, and in the second reception step, third location information corresponding to a location different from the location where the lottery was held is accepted after the lottery is executed, and in the second display step, the result of the lottery is displayed if the third location information satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0106] According to this embodiment, the specific user can be encouraged to visit more locations, thereby further promoting support for or attachment to the local government.

[0107] (7) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (6) above, the predetermined area is a local government, and the specific user is a user who has registered the local government corresponding to the location information in his or her account.

[0108] According to this aspect, specific users who wish to support a local government can develop the local government even if they are not residents.

[0109] (8) In the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (7) above, the virtual space is a digital twin environment.

[0110] According to this aspect, a digital twin environment can be developed.

[0111] (9) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (8) above, further, in the game control step, the game played by the multiple users is progressed, and in the awarding step, a benefit related to the game is awarded as the reward.

[0112] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience.

[0113] (10) In the information processing system described in (9) above, the game is a game about infrastructure or city development in the virtual space related to the area.

[0114] According to this embodiment, there is consistency between the content of the game and the motivation to support a specific local government, and an environment can be created in which users actively participate in the game.

[0115] (11) In the information processing system described in (9) or (10) above, in the game control step, the progress of the game is variably controlled according to the number of the plurality of users.

[0116] According to this embodiment, it is possible to attract more users who support a particular local government, and to provide an environment in which the local government that has attracted the most users can be praised.

[0117] (12) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (11) above, task information for managing tasks agreed upon by the multiple users is further managed on the blockchain, and in the first reception step, the location information corresponding to the task information is received from the specific user.

[0118] In this manner, autonomous efforts can be reliably managed for the development of virtual spaces.

[0119] (13) In the information processing system described in any one of (1) to (12) above, the transaction information is smart contract information that is automatically executed based on rules established within a DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) to which the multiple users belong.

[0120] In this manner, autonomous efforts can be reliably managed for the development of virtual spaces.

[0121] (14) In the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (13) above, at least one of the devices is installed outside Japan.

[0122] According to this aspect, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience through various management modes.

[0123] (15) An information processing method, comprising the steps of the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (14) above.

[0124] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience.

[0125] (16) A program that causes at least one computer to execute each step of the information processing system according to any one of (1) to (14) above.

[0126] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with a more interesting experience. Of course, this is not the case.

[0127] 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]

[0128] 1: Information processing system 11: Communication Network 12:GPS satellite 2: Information processing equipment 2a: First information processing device 2b: Second information processing device 20: Communication bus 21: Communications Department 22: Storage section 23: Control section 231: Reception 232: Game control unit 233: Arithmetic section 234: Update section 235: Granting section 236: Display control unit 3: User 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 41: Built-in camera 6: Screen 51: Manhole 52: Manhole 61: Character 61a: Text information 62: Character 62a: Text information 63: Text information 7: Screen 7a: Screen 7b: Screen 7c: Screen 701 :Area 702 :Area 703 :Area 704 :Area 705: Button 706: Button 707: Button 708 :Area 709a: Button 709b: Button 709c: Button 709d: Button 710: Button 711 :Area 712a: Attention display 712b: Attention display 8: Screen 81: Building object 82: Building object 83: Building object 84: Building object 85: Road object BC: Blockchain IF1: Location information IF1a: Latitude and longitude information IF2: Transaction Information IF2a: Smart Contract Information IF3: Task Information IF4:AR Information IM: Imaging data VS: Virtual Space

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising at least one device, At least one processor is provided that can execute a program to perform the following steps: In the receiving step, location information of a specific user is received from the specific user, and the location information is included in an area based on a predetermined section; In the updating step, a virtual space corresponding to the area is updated based on the position information received from the specific user; In the granting step, when the location information is received or the virtual space is updated, a reward is granted to the specific user, which is a right to participate in a lottery, and The lottery is conducted by the specific user, A system in which the results of the lottery are presented to the specific user if the specific user moves after the lottery is held and third location information corresponding to the location to which the specific user moved satisfies a predetermined condition.

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, In the receiving step, imaging data including outside world information captured by the specific user is further received. In the updating step, the system updates the virtual space relating to the region further based on the imaging data.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, In the receiving step, after capturing the imaging data, first position information corresponding to a location different from an imaging location where the imaging data was captured is received, In the granting step, the reward is granted when the first location information and second location information corresponding to the image capturing location satisfy a predetermined condition.

4. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, Furthermore, in the display step, after capturing the imaging data, AR information different from the outside world information included in the imaging data is superimposed on the outside world information and displayed.

5. 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, In the receiving step, at least one piece of the imaging data including a plurality of different pieces of the outside world information is received from the specific user; The AR information is determined differently depending on a combination of the plurality of pieces of outside world information.

6. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, the predetermined area is a local government; The system, wherein the specific user is a user who has registered the local government corresponding to the location information in his or her account.

7. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The system, wherein the virtual space is a digital twin environment.

8. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, Furthermore, in the game control step, a game is progressed that is played by a plurality of users including at least the specific user; In the providing step, a benefit related to the game is provided as the reward.

9. In the information processing system according to claim 8, The system, wherein the game is a game relating to infrastructure or city development in the virtual space relating to the area.

10. In the information processing system according to claim 8, In the game control step, the system variably controls the degree of progress of the game depending on the number of the plurality of users.

11. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, Task information for managing tasks agreed upon by a plurality of users including at least the specific user is managed on a blockchain; In the receiving step, the system receives the position information corresponding to the task information from the specific user.

12. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, Regarding the predetermined section, smart contract information that is automatically executed based on rules determined within a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) to which a plurality of users, including at least the specific user, belong is managed on a blockchain; In the granting step, the system grants the reward to the specific user based on the smart contract information.

13. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The system, wherein at least one of the devices is installed outside Japan.

14. An information processing method, comprising: A method comprising the steps of an information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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

Images