Server system and program

Abstract

To provide a server system and the like capable of activating a match game within each league and enhancing interest of the game while correcting an unequal competition environment between leagues when determining ranking of a whole plurality of players by dividing the plurality of players into leagues and executing matches within each league.SOLUTION: A server device 10 has a configuration which performs matches among players belonging to the same league every league generated, opens each generated league in a common open form, has each match game of each league executed in the common game form, updates parameters for ranking on the basis of adjustment value of each player set based on league information in accordance with a match result of the match game in each player while adjusting the parameters, determines ranking of players anew on the basis of the updated ranking parameter of each player, and generates a league anew when ranking of the players is newly determined.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a server system, a program, and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a game in which leagues are formed by a predetermined number of teams, and within each league, the teams compete for the league ranking by playing a predetermined game within a predetermined period.

[0003] In particular, recently, there is known a game in which a league is formed by teams having the same level among the teams participating in the game, a battle game between the teams is executed, and the team level of each team is changed according to the league ranking, and a game system for executing the same (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the game system described in Patent Document 1 above, there are often level differences between leagues, and the difference may become large depending on the situation. Even if the ranking or team level within the league is changed in the state with such a level difference, it is difficult to adjust with other leagues and to unify the battle environment of the games with other leagues, and it is often difficult to determine a unified level among all the teams participating in the game or to determine the ranking among all the participating teams.

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a server system that can improve the enjoyment of the game by revitalizing the competitive games within each league while correcting the unequal competitive environment between leagues when multiple players are divided into multiple leagues and each player competes within each league. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is A server system that provides terminal devices with information about a competitive game played by multiple players, A management means for managing specific parameters related to each player, A ranking determination means that performs a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of the plurality of players based on the aforementioned parameters, League generation means that performs a league generation process to generate leagues by grouping the plurality of players into a plurality of groups based on the ranking of each player determined above, When the aforementioned league is generated, a game control means is provided to have players belonging to the same league compete against each other within the generated league, and to hold each of the generated leagues as a league tournament based on a common format, while executing each match in each league tournament using a common game format. A means for providing game information relating to the aforementioned competitive game to the terminal device, Equipped with, The league generation means, The league generation process includes a configuration in which, based on the determined ranking of each player, the multiple players are grouped into multiple groups with an equal number of players each, and a league is generated.

[0008] This configuration allows the present invention to easily standardize league hosting methods, such as generating leagues with an equal number of players and ensuring the same number of matches in each league. This rectifies unequal competitive environments between leagues, and by assigning multiple players to each league based on their rankings, it is possible to avoid pairing players with significant differences in skill or level, resulting in exciting matches.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to conduct a league tournament in which accurate evaluations such as the ranking of each player can be made without having all players compete against each other, and it is also possible to revitalize the matches within each league (i.e., the league tournament) and improve the enjoyment of the game.

[0010] Note that "specific parameters related to the player" include, for example, (A1) A parameter calculated by aggregating the results of games played against other players within the same league for games that have already been completed (hereinafter referred to as the "game result parameter"). (A2) An index that shows performance determined by the game situation during each match, and is calculated by accumulating the total performance from matches that have already been completed (hereinafter referred to as the "total performance parameter"). (A3) Parameters that quantify the flow (progress) and progress of each game (hereinafter referred to as "Game Progression Quantification Parameters"), (A4) Performance values ​​of the game medium used in the competitive game by each player, This includes one or more variable parameters (which may be a combination of (A1) to (A4)).

[0011] Furthermore, "each league will be held as a league competition based on a common format" means that the format of each league competition will be the same, for example, the duration of the league, the number of players belonging to each league, the number of matches in each league, and the type of competition and match format for the matches played in each league.

[0012] Furthermore, "each match in each league will be conducted using a common game format" means that each match will be conducted using a common game format, not only within the same league but also in different leagues. For example, this means that the duration of each match, such as the match time, and the rules, such as the match format, will be the same.

[0013] In addition to the above, the "league generation process" includes, for example, (B1) By grouping the ranked players into multiple groups with an equal number of players, in order from highest to lowest, and, (B2) From the ranked players, multiple groups of a predetermined number of players are generated in descending order of rank, and the players in each group are further allocated equally to constitute each league by drawing lots or other means. This involves generating multiple groups of players so that the number of players belonging to each league is equal, from highest to lowest.

[0014] Furthermore, "ranking determination processing" refers to a process that is repeatedly executed at predetermined intervals, and which changes the ranking of each player according to parameters.

[0015] Furthermore, as for the "ranking determination process," for example, if it is not possible to generate leagues with an equal number of players based on the number of players from multiple players, a CPU player that is instructed by a computer program may be used.

[0016] (2) Furthermore, the present invention is The system further includes an update processing means that performs an update process to update the parameters of each player, using adjustment values ​​set based on league information relating to the league to which each player belongs, in accordance with the match results of the match game for each player. The aforementioned ranking determination means, Execute the ranking determination process for newly determining the rankings of the plurality of players based on the parameters of each player updated by the update process. The league generation means When the rankings of a plurality of players are newly determined by the ranking determination process, it has a configuration that executes the league generation process for newly generating the league.

[0017] With this configuration, the present invention can adjust parameters when determining rankings based on league information such as the number of leagues and the number of players in each league. Therefore, while executing a对战 game with players of a similar level of strength, it is possible to accurately determine the rankings that match the strength and level of each player.

[0018] For example, in the present invention, the higher the player belongs to the upper league, the larger the value of a specific parameter obtained based on the game results and game achievements in the league battle. Even if the game results and game achievements in the upper league are worse than those in the lower league, the ranking of the player belonging to the upper league can be raised.

[0019] Also, for example, in the present invention, if the value of the parameter of a player with overwhelming strength in the lower league is increased, it is also possible to make the player belong to the upper league in the next league battle.

[0020] Therefore, the present invention provides motivation for each player to participate in the upper league by raising their rankings while realizing a对战 game in which extreme differences in strength and level do not occur through league battles, or can make the game interesting without fear of demotion to the lower league in the case of continuous losses in battles with no difference in strength, thus improving the interest of the game.

[0021] Note that the "league information" includes (C1) The number of leagues, (C2) Number of players belonging to each league, (C3) Ranking of each player within each league, (C4) League level, and (C5) Number of leagues within the league level, This includes the following. However, instead of, or in addition to, this league information may also include the league format (including not only round-robin tournaments within the same league, but also irregular tournament formats), the type of game played (sports games such as baseball and soccer, shooting games, or battle royale games), the duration of the league, the duration of each game, the number of games played in the league, and other game specifications.

[0022] (3) Furthermore, the present invention is The update processing means, (D1) A game result aggregation parameter calculated by aggregating the results of games played against other players within the same league for games that have already been completed. (D2) An indicator that shows performance determined by the game situation during each match, and is a cumulative performance parameter calculated by accumulating the results from matches that have already been completed. (D3) Parameters that quantify the progress of each match, or (D4)(D1)~(D3) 2 or more combinations, The configuration uses the above-mentioned parameters.

[0023] This configuration allows the present invention to accurately reflect differences in skill and level among players within the same league in its parameters.

[0024] The "Game Result Summary Parameters" include win rate (or loss rate or draw rate), number of wins (or number of losses or draws), points, goal difference, points earned, winning streak, losing streak, and combinations of two or more of these.

[0025] In particular, when there are two or more combinations of game result aggregation parameters, it is preferable to use one parameter as the main parameter and the other parameters as elements for adding or subtracting points, for example, by making the win rate or points the main parameter, while adding or subtracting points based on the number of consecutive wins or losses, or by adding a bonus to the winning player and subtracting points from the losing player when the goal difference is large.

[0026] Furthermore, for example, the "Cumulative Performance Parameters" may include team and individual statistics in sports games (such as baseball statistics like runs scored, runs allowed, earned run average, batting average, home runs, hits, fielding percentage, error rate, and number of fine plays; soccer and basketball statistics like ball possession and shots on goal; tennis statistics like total games won and winners; or statistics for various sports matches like set percentage and close loss rate); specific statistics defined for each type of competitive game (such as the number of enemy characters defeated, the number of items or in-game currency acquired, or the time taken to complete a task); or combinations of two or more of these.

[0027] In particular, when there are two or more combinations of cumulative performance parameters, it is preferable to use one parameter as the main one and the other parameters as elements for adding or subtracting points, similar to the game result aggregation parameters.

[0028] Furthermore, for example, the "quantified game progression parameters" include parameters that quantify elements that make a match exciting, such as seesaw games, dramatic comebacks or ties in the final stages, high-scoring games, walk-off games, extra innings, pitcher duels, penalty shootouts, or final sets, as well as combinations of two or more of these elements.

[0029] (4) Furthermore, the present invention is The update processing means, The system has a configuration in which an adjustment value is set according to the number of leagues generated by the league generation process, or the number of players belonging to each league, and the update process is executed using the set adjustment value.

[0030] This configuration makes it easier for players to change their rankings with players directly above or below them when their rankings are re-determined, thereby revitalizing the league competition and providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues. It is possible.

[0031] (5) Furthermore, the present invention is The update processing means, The system has a configuration in which adjustment values ​​are set to be more advantageous to players with higher rankings within each league, and the update process is executed using these set adjustment values.

[0032] This configuration allows the present invention to adjust the adjustment values ​​so that players with higher rankings in the league experience greater changes in their rankings.

[0033] Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to significantly change the rankings of players at the same level when re-determining the rankings of each player, thereby revitalizing the league competition and providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues.

[0034] (6) Furthermore, the present invention is The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, the league generation process is executed to generate each league, setting the level to which each league belongs from among a plurality of pre-set different levels. The update processing means, The system has a configuration in which the adjustment value is set according to the level to which each league belongs, and the update process is executed using the set adjustment value.

[0035] With this configuration, the present invention can accurately re-determine the ranking of each player, for example by decreasing the adjustment value when the level is high and increasing the adjustment value when the level is low, and can also accurately re-determine the ranking of players according to their level.

[0036] (7) Furthermore, the present invention is The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, the league generation process is executed to generate each league, setting the level to which each league belongs from among a plurality of pre-set different levels. The update processing means, The system has a configuration in which the adjustment value is set according to the number of leagues belonging to the same level, and the update process is executed using the set adjustment value.

[0037] With this configuration, the present invention can adjust the adjustment value so that ranking changes occur more as the number of leagues increases, for example, by reducing the number of leagues at the level to which higher-ranked leagues belong and increasing the number of leagues at the level to which each league belongs as you go down to lower leagues.

[0038] Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to significantly change the rankings of players at the same level when re-determining the rankings of each player, thereby revitalizing the league competition and providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues.

[0039] (8) Furthermore, the present invention is The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, a set of several different levels are set in advance. From among them, the league generation process is executed to generate each league while setting the level to which each league belongs. The update processing means, The system has a configuration in which, when a given condition is met for each player, the parameters of the player who meets the condition are set to an adjustment value that makes the ranking higher than the parameters of players belonging to a league at a higher level than the league to which the player belongs, and the update process is executed using the set adjustment value.

[0040] With this configuration, the present invention can, for example, determine whether or not a rank change will occur with a player in the level directly above or below it, and if it is determined that no rank change will occur, set an adjustment value to cause a rank change between the lowest-ranked player in the level directly above and the highest-ranked player in that level.

[0041] Therefore, the present invention makes it easier to cause changes in rankings between players at the level directly above or below each player when re-determining each player's ranking, thereby revitalizing the league competition and providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues.

[0042] Furthermore, "when a level is set for each league" means, for example, that the same level is set for multiple leagues, or that different levels are set for each league.

[0043] Furthermore, "given conditions" include conditions for determining whether or not a player will be swapped with a player belonging to a higher level, such as being a player with a predetermined rank within the league (a certain rank such as the top rank or the upper middle ranks), or that the player's parameters are not higher than those of a player with a predetermined rank (a certain rank such as the bottom rank or the lower middle ranks) belonging to the league directly above the update process.

[0044] (9) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned management means As the aforementioned parameters, the performance values ​​of the game medium used in the competitive game by each player are managed, The aforementioned ranking determination means, Based on the performance values ​​of the game medium for each player, the ranking determination process is executed to newly determine the rankings of the multiple players. The league generation means, The system has a configuration in which, once the rankings of multiple players are newly determined by the ranking determination process, the league generation process that generates a new league is executed.

[0045] With this configuration, the present invention can be realized as a competitive game using a game medium such as game cards.

[0046] The term "game medium" refers to, for example, a card used in a game that defines the player character, item, or the abilities (performance) of such character or item that the player controls or instructs (i.e., an electronically provided game card). However, it may also refer to the player character, item, or ability (performance) itself.

[0047] Furthermore, "performance values" include, for example, levels defined in the game medium, parameters that define various abilities such as attack power, defense power, agility, and hit points, or parameters that define game progress such as experience points.

[0048] (10) Furthermore, the present invention is The system further includes an update processing means that performs an update process to update the performance value of the game medium of each player according to the match results of the competitive game for each player, The aforementioned ranking determination means, The system has a configuration that executes the ranking determination process to newly determine the ranking of the multiple players based on the performance values ​​of each player's game medium that have been updated by the update process.

[0049] With this configuration, the present invention can use parameter changes as a highly compatible game element, for example, in a competitive game, by leveling up game cards, players can step up to higher ranks. Therefore, even in games using game cards, the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

[0050] (11) Furthermore, the present invention is The aforementioned ranking determination means, The system has a configuration in which, each time a league is generated and each league match in that league is completed, the ranking determination process is executed to newly determine the rankings of the multiple players based on the parameters.

[0051] With this configuration, the present invention can obtain match results that fairly reflect the abilities of each player only after all matches within the same league, which are predetermined as league matches, have been completed in each league. Therefore, even when using league matches where players compete against specific players, it is possible to determine the accurate ranking of each player among multiple players.

[0052] (12) Furthermore, the present invention is A receiving processing means for receiving operation instructions for a manually operated player that are manually executed via the terminal device, Automatic operation control means for controlling an automatic operation player that automatically issues operation instructions based on a predetermined program, Furthermore, The league generation means, If it is determined that it is not possible to generate multiple leagues with equal numbers of players based on the number of players operated by the manual players, the system has a configuration that adds one or more of the automatic players to execute the league generation process to generate multiple leagues with equal numbers of players.

[0053] With this configuration, even if it is not possible to generate multiple equal leagues based on the number of manually controlled players participating in a competitive game, the present invention can generate multiple equal leagues by adding automatically controlled players such as CPU players, and thus the league matches for each league can be held in a common format.

[0054] (13) In addition, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention A program that provides information about a competitive game played by multiple players to a terminal device, A management means for managing specific parameters related to each player. Rank determination means that performs a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of the plurality of players based on the aforementioned parameters, League generation means that performs a league generation process to generate a league by grouping the multiple players into multiple groups based on the ranking of each player determined above. When the aforementioned league is created, for each of the created leagues, players belonging to the same league A game control means that allows players to compete against each other, and to hold the generated leagues as league matches based on a common format, while executing each match in each league match using a common game format. A means for providing game information relating to the aforementioned competitive game to the terminal device. To make the computer function as, The league generation means, The league generation process includes a configuration in which, based on the determined ranking of each player, the multiple players are grouped into multiple groups with an equal number of players each, and a league is generated.

[0055] This configuration allows the present invention to easily standardize league hosting methods, such as generating leagues with an equal number of players and ensuring the same number of matches in each league. This rectifies unequal competitive environments between leagues, and by assigning multiple players to each league based on their rankings, it is possible to avoid pairing players with significant differences in skill or level, resulting in exciting matches. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0056] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a system configuration illustrating the structure of a game system in one embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the functional block of a server device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the functional block of a terminal device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram (part 1) illustrating the game control process for a competitive game using a league format in which players are replaced, as in one embodiment of the game. [Figure 5] This is a diagram (part 2) illustrating the game control process for a competitive game using a league format in which players are replaced, as in one embodiment of the game. [Figure 6] This is a diagram (part 1) illustrating the league generation process in one embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram (part 2) illustrating the league generation process in one embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram (part 3) illustrating the league generation process in one embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram (part 4) illustrating the league generation process in one embodiment. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows the operation of a league generation process, which includes a ranking determination process and a ranking parameter update process, that are repeatedly executed at predetermined timings by a server device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0057] The following describes this embodiment. Note that the embodiment described below does not unduly limit the scope of the present invention as described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in this embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0058] [1] Game System First, the overview and general configuration of the game system 1 of this embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the game system 1 of this embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Figure 1, the game system 1 of this embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 that provides game services and terminal devices 20 (for example, terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C) can connect to the Internet (an example of a network).

[0060] Users can access the server device 10 from the terminal device 20 to play games transmitted from the server device 10 via the internet. Furthermore, by accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20, users can interact with other users. It is now possible to communicate with each other.

[0061] The server device 10 is an information processing device capable of providing a service that allows users to play games using terminal devices 20 connected via the Internet. The server device 10 may also function as an SNS server providing communication-type services. Here, an SNS server may be an information processing device that provides services enabling communication among multiple users.

[0062] Furthermore, if the server device 10 functions as an SNS server, for example, it can provide games called social games that are executed using the SNS operating environment (API (Application Programming Interface), platform, etc.) it provides.

[0063] In particular, the server device 10 is capable of providing games on the web browser of the terminal device 20, such as browser games created in various languages ​​including HTML, FLASH, CGI, PHP, Shockwave, Java® Applet, and JavaScript® (games that start simply by opening the installation site in a web browser).

[0064] Social games, unlike existing online games, include games that do not require dedicated client software and can be used with only a web browser and an SNS account. Furthermore, the server device 10 has a configuration that allows it to connect with other users' terminals (smartphones, PCs, game consoles, etc.) via a network and provide online games that allow simultaneous online sharing of the same game progress.

[0065] On the other hand, the server device 10 may consist of one (device, processor) or multiple (devices, processors).

[0066] Furthermore, information such as billing information and game information stored in the storage area of ​​the server device 10 (storage unit 140 described later) may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or internet). Alternatively, when functioning as an SNS server, information such as player information storage unit 146 stored in the storage area may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (intranet or internet).

[0067] Specifically, the server device 10 in this embodiment receives input information based on the operation of the user (i.e., the player running the game) of the terminal device 20, and performs game processing based on the received input information. The server device 10 then transmits the game processing results to the terminal device 20, and the terminal device 20 performs various processes to provide the game processing results received from the server device 10 to the terminal device 20 in a viewable format for the user.

[0068] The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a smartphone, mobile phone, PHS, computer, game device, PDA, portable game console, or image generation device, and is capable of connecting to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN. The communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

[0069] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 is equipped with a web browser capable of viewing web pages (data in HTML format). In other words, the terminal device 20 has a communication control function for communicating with the server device 10, and performs display control using data received from the server device 10 (web data, data created in HTML format, etc.), and also processes user operation data on the server. The terminal device 20 is equipped with a web browser function and other features that it transmits to the device 10, and performs various processes to provide the game screen to the user, allowing the user to run the game. However, the terminal device 20 may also obtain game control information provided by the server device 10, execute predetermined game processes, and run the game based on those processes.

[0070] Specifically, when the terminal device 20 requests the server device 10 to play a predetermined game, it connects to the game site of the server device 10 and the game starts. In particular, the terminal device 20 has a configuration that allows it to execute the game by using an API as needed to cause the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, to perform predetermined processing, or by obtaining the player information storage unit 146 managed by the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server.

[0071] [2] Server equipment Next, the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the functional blocks of the server device 10 of this embodiment. Furthermore, the server device 10 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each part) in Figure 2 are omitted.

[0072] The server device 10 includes an input unit 120 for administrator and other inputs, a display unit 130 for displaying predetermined information, an information storage medium 180 for storing predetermined information, a communication unit 196 for communicating with terminal devices 20 and others, a processing unit 100 for mainly performing processing related to the games provided, and a storage unit 140 for mainly storing various data used for games.

[0073] The input unit 120 is used by system administrators and others to input game-related settings and other necessary settings and data. For example, the input unit 120 in this embodiment is composed of a mouse, keyboard, etc.

[0074] The display unit 130 displays an operation screen for the system administrator. For example, the display unit 130 in this embodiment is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like.

[0075] The information storage medium 180 (a medium readable by a computer) stores programs, data, etc., and its function is comprised of optical discs (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical discs (MOs), magnetic discs, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

[0076] The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with external parties (e.g., terminals, other servers, or other network systems), and its functions are comprised of hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, as well as programs.

[0077] The memory unit 140 serves as the work area for the processing unit 100 and the communication unit 196, and its functions are comprised of RAM (VRAM), etc. The information stored in the memory unit 140 may be managed by a database.

[0078] Furthermore, in addition to the main memory unit 142, the storage unit 140 of this embodiment includes a game data storage unit 144 in which game information relating to the game is stored, and a player information storage unit 146 in which player information relating to each player and information relating to the player's game (hereinafter referred to as "player-related information") is stored.

[0079] The game data storage unit 144 stores information about the game field where the game is played, condition information used for various judgments, map information that makes up the game field, format of league matches, game format of competitive games, information about objects formed on the game field, specifications of each object, various table information, and play information held by each player. Information about the character is stored.

[0080] The player information storage unit 146 stores information for each player. (A1) The player's nickname, player ID, and, if they belong to a team, the name of the team and its ID (hereinafter referred to as "affiliation information"), (A2) Parameters for determining the ranking of each player, such as parameters related to the results of the match, parameters related to the performance in the match, or parameters that quantify the progress of the game (hereinafter referred to as "ranking parameters"), Parameters other than the ranking parameters in (A3) and (A2), including information on individual and team performance such as score, experience points, energy parameter values ​​(life energy value, stamina value, and power value), rewards earned, or game time (hereinafter also referred to as "performance information"), (A4) Information on the characteristics and attributes of the player character owned by each player (if a player has multiple player characters, information on the characteristics and attributes of each character), (A5) Information regarding billing, such as billing history and billing amount, and, (A6) Information on items acquired by the player character (hereinafter referred to as "item information") This is stored in memory.

[0081] The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 142 within the storage unit 140 as the work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.) or by programs.

[0082] The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores programs that cause the computer to function as each part of this embodiment (programs that cause the computer to execute the processing of each part).

[0083] For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on the program stored in the information storage medium, and also performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between each unit. Furthermore, it performs processes to provide various services in response to requests from the terminal device 20.

[0084] Specifically, the processing unit 100 of this embodiment includes at least a communication control unit 101, a Web processing unit 102, a game management unit 103, a player management unit 104, a parameter management unit 105, a league management unit 106, a ranking management unit 107, a CPU player control unit 108, a timer management unit 110, and an information provision unit 111.

[0085] For example, in this embodiment, the communication control unit 101 constitutes the reception processing means of the present invention, and the game management unit 103 constitutes the game control means of the present invention. Also, for example, the parameter management unit 105 constitutes the management means and update processing means of the present invention, the league management unit 106 constitutes the league generation means of the present invention, and the ranking management unit 107 constitutes the ranking determination means of the present invention. Furthermore, for example, in this embodiment, the CPU player control unit 108 constitutes the automatic operation control means of the present invention, and the information provision unit 111 constitutes the provision means of the present invention.

[0086] The communication control unit 101 performs processing to send and receive data with the terminal device 20 via the network. In other words, the server device 10 performs various processing based on the information received from the terminal device 20, etc., by the communication control unit 101.

[0087] In particular, the communication control unit 101 of this embodiment is based on a request from the player's terminal device 20. Then, the process of sending the game screen to the player's terminal device 20 is performed.

[0088] Furthermore, the communication control unit 101 performs various processes to receive player operation instructions input to the terminal device 20.

[0089] The Web processing unit 102 functions as a Web server. For example, the Web processing unit 102 performs the process of sending data in response to a request from a Web browser 211 installed on the terminal device 20 via a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), and the process of receiving data sent by the Web browser 211 on the terminal device 20.

[0090] In this embodiment, the example is given where the server device 10 also functions as an SNS server, but the server device 10 may be configured separately as a server for games and a server for SNS. Also, the game processing in this embodiment may be partially or entirely performed by the server device 10, or partially performed by the terminal device 20.

[0091] The game management unit 103 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 and, in the game space as a virtual space, executes various game processes related to various multiplayer competitive games such as sports games, shooting games, action games, RPGs, music games, or battle games involving combat or fighting (including elements of other game categories such as shooting games and RPG elements) based on player inputs from the terminal device 20.

[0092] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 executes various game processes based on the player's operation instructions transmitted from the terminal device 20.

[0093] In particular, the game management unit 103 manages matches (i.e., league matches) in each league, which is composed of multiple players grouped into multiple groups.

[0094] Specifically, the game management unit 103 receives operation instructions from each player who has manually executed the player (hereinafter also referred to as "manual operation player"), or operation instructions from a CPU player that has been automatically generated based on a predetermined program (hereinafter also referred to as "automatic operation player"), which are entered into the terminal device 20.

[0095] Then, the game management unit 103 executes various game processes, including the movement of various characters (including player characters and NPCs) and various objects, in response to these received inputs, to allow players belonging to the same league (including CPU players) to compete against each other.

[0096] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 will hold each league as a league tournament based on a common format, and will execute each match in each league tournament using a common game format.

[0097] The game management unit 103 may perform various game processes for a single player character based on operation instructions from one player, or it may perform various game processes for a team consisting of multiple player characters.

[0098] Meanwhile, Game Management Unit 103 states that in competitive games such as battle games, action games, or shooting games, players can move freely through the game world / space from a third-person perspective following the player character, and fight using weapons or bare hands in TPS (Third-Person Shooter) games (Third-Person Shooter), or player character perspective You can move freely within the game world / space and play FPS (First-Person Shooter) games, etc., using weapons or bare hands to fight.

[0099] The player management unit 104 manages the operation control for each player, as well as player information, including information about the player character operated by each player.

[0100] In particular, the player management unit 104 also performs control over the player character set by the player during the game, the deck (team) that sets it up, or both.

[0101] The parameter management unit 105 manages ranking parameters for determining the ranking of multiple players participating in a competitive game.

[0102] The league management unit 106 groups ranked players into multiple groups to generate multiple leagues, and manages each of the generated leagues.

[0103] The ranking management unit 107 performs a ranking determination process at predetermined intervals, such as the end of a league match, to determine the ranking of the previous number of players based on ranking parameters.

[0104] The CPU player control unit 108 automatically issues control instructions to NPCs based on a predetermined program if there is an insufficient equal number of players in each league due to the number of players participating in the competitive game.

[0105] The timer management unit 110 has a timer function and is used to manage the progress of the game. In particular, the timer management unit 110 works in conjunction with the game management unit 103 and outputs the current time and a preset time to each unit. The timer management unit 110 is also used to synchronize with each terminal device.

[0106] The information provision unit 111 generates various game information (including information regarding the game field after the field configuration change process) and provides it to the terminal device 20 in order to allow the terminal device 20 to process the game.

[0107] In particular, the information provision unit 111 provides the terminal device 20 with information for displaying a mission on the terminal device 20 at a given timing, as game information.

[0108] [3] Terminal device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the functional blocks of the terminal device 20 of this embodiment. Furthermore, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each part) of Figure 2 are omitted.

[0109] The input unit 260 is a device for receiving input information from the player and outputs the player's input information to the processing unit 200. In this embodiment, the input unit 260 includes a detection unit 262 that detects the player's input information (input signal). The input unit 260 can be, for example, a lever, button, steering wheel, microphone, touch panel display, keyboard, mouse, etc.

[0110] The memory unit 270 serves as the work area for the processing unit 200 and the communication unit 296, and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM) or the like. In this embodiment, the memory unit 270 includes a main memory unit 271 used as the work area and an image buffer 272 where the final display image and the like are stored. Note that some of these components may be omitted.

[0111] The information storage medium 280 (a medium readable by a computer) stores programs, data, etc., and its function can be realized by optical discs (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical discs (MOs), magnetic discs, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

[0112] The processing unit 200 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 280. The information storage medium 280 can store programs for causing the computer to function as each part of this embodiment (programs for causing the computer to execute the processing of each part).

[0113] In this embodiment, the server device 10 receives programs and game data stored in its information storage medium 180 and storage unit 140, which are used to make the computer function as each component of this embodiment, via the network, and stores the received programs and data in the information storage medium 280. The programs and data received from the server device 10 may also be stored in the storage unit 270. The case in which the network system functions by receiving programs and data in this manner is also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0114] The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, or HMD (head-mounted display). The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker or headphones.

[0115] The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communication with external devices (e.g., other terminals, servers), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, or by programs.

[0116] The processing unit 200 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, display control, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on game-related information obtained from the server device 10 via the communication unit 296, input information from the input unit 260, or programs.

[0117] This processing unit 200 performs various processes using the main memory unit 271 within the storage unit 270 as the work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

[0118] The processing unit 200 includes a communication control unit 210, a web browser 211, a game processing unit 212, a display control unit 213, an input reception processing unit 214, a drawing unit 220, and a sound processing unit 230. Some of these units may be omitted.

[0119] The communication control unit 210 performs data transmission and reception with each of the server devices 10. The communication control unit 210 also performs data storage in the storage unit 270, data analysis, and other control processing related to data transmission and reception.

[0120] Furthermore, the communication control unit 210 may store and manage the server's destination information (IP address, port number) in the information storage medium 280. The communication control unit 210 may also communicate with the server device 10 when it receives communication start input information from the player.

[0121] In particular, the communication control unit 210 transmits player identification information and operation information to the server device 10. Then, the system processes the reception of game-related information (player information, game card information, player's web page, and game screen, etc.) from the server device 10.

[0122] The communication control unit 210 may perform data transmission and reception with the server device 10 at predetermined intervals, or it may perform data transmission and reception with the server device 10 when it receives input information from the input unit 260. In particular, the communication control unit 210 in this embodiment performs processing to receive the game screen from the server device 10.

[0123] The web browser 211 is an application program for viewing web pages (game screens). It downloads HTML files, image files, etc., from the web server (server device 10), analyzes the layout, and controls the display. The web browser 211 also sends data to the web server (server device 10) using input forms (links, buttons, text boxes, etc.).

[0124] The Web browser 211 of this embodiment can implement browser games. For example, the Web browser 211 may execute programs written in JavaScript®, FLASH, Java®, etc., that are received from a Web server (server device 10).

[0125] The terminal device 20 can display information from a web server specified by a URL via the internet using its web browser 211. For example, the terminal device 20 can display a game screen (data such as HTML) received from the server device 10 using its web browser 211.

[0126] The game processing unit 212 performs various game calculations. For example, it performs processes to start the game when the game start conditions are met, processes to advance the game, and processes to terminate the game when the game end conditions are met.

[0127] The game processing unit 212 may also perform the process of placing various objects (objects composed of primitives such as polygons, freeform surfaces, or subdivision surfaces) that represent display elements such as player characters, buildings, stadiums, cars, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain) into the object space.

[0128] Here, object space refers to a virtual space that includes both 2D and 3D spaces. 2D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 2D coordinates (X,Y), while 3D space is, for example, the space in which objects are placed in 3D coordinates (X,Y,Z).

[0129] In addition to setting the game card as deck data, the game processing unit 212 controls the sending and receiving of various information during login, executes game processing based on player operations when the game is run in real time in conjunction with the server device 10, and performs game processing including playback of received automatic calculation data when the game is run by automatic calculation.

[0130] Furthermore, the display control unit 213 performs the processing to display on the display unit 290. For example, the display control unit 213 may use a web browser 211 for display.

[0131] The input receiving processing unit 214 performs recognition processing of input information entered by the player from the input unit 260. Specifically, the input receiving processing unit 214 in this embodiment receives instructions for operation of the player character and instructions regarding various settings.

[0132] The drawing unit 220 performs drawing processing based on various processes (for example, game processing) performed by the processing unit 200, thereby generating an image, which is then output to the display unit 290 by the display control unit 213. The image generated by the drawing unit 220 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a so-called three-dimensional image.

[0133] The sound processing unit 230 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200, generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and outputs them to the sound output unit 292.

[0134] [4] The method of this embodiment [4.1] Overview Next, using Figure 4, we will explain the outline of the method of this embodiment (game control processing for a competitive game using a league format in which players are replaced).

[0135] Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams illustrating the game control process for a competitive game using a league format in which players are replaced, as described in this embodiment.

[0136] The server device 10 of this embodiment works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 and provides the terminal device 20 with game information such as player characters and other characters, the game space or a part thereof, game parameters, BGM, and game scenarios for each player. Based on the operations of each player input via the terminal device 20, the server device 10 is configured to execute battle games such as combat games and fighting games, action games, RPGs, music games, or sports games.

[0137] Furthermore, the server device 10 constitutes a server system that performs game control to run a given game on terminal devices 20, which are connected via a network and operated by a player.

[0138] For example, the server device 10 has a configuration that uses leagues, which group multiple ranked players into multiple groups, to execute competitive games (for example, competitive games in sports such as baseball, soccer, or basketball) using the player characters of each player.

[0139] Furthermore, for example, the server device 10 has a configuration that allows players belonging to the same league to compete against each other in a league tournament, and that allows each league to hold a league tournament based on a common format, while executing each match in each league tournament using a common game format.

[0140] In particular, the server device 10 has a configuration that, as a league generation process, groups multiple players into multiple groups with an equal number of players based on the ranking of each player, and generates each league.

[0141] And the server device 10, (A1) To create leagues with an equal number of players and to easily standardize the league format, such as by making the number of matches in each league the same, thereby correcting the unequal competitive environment between leagues; (A2) To assign multiple players to each league based on their rankings, thereby avoiding matches between players with significant differences in skill or level, and to create exciting matches that revitalize the games within each league (i.e., league matches); and (A3) By correcting the unequal competitive environment between leagues, it is possible to accurately evaluate each player's ranking and other factors without having to play against all players in league matches. It has a configuration that makes this possible.

[0142] Specifically, the server device 10 of this embodiment has a configuration that performs a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of multiple players based on specific parameters related to each player, such as parameters indicating the results of a competitive game (i.e., ranking parameters), and then performs a league generation process to group the multiple players into multiple groups with an equal number of players each, based on the determined ranking of each player, and generate each league.

[0143] Then, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the server device 10 generates multiple leagues based on the players' rankings through the league generation process. (B1) For each generated league, players belonging to the same league will compete against each other, and each generated league will be held as a league tournament based on a common format, and each match in each league tournament will be played using a common game format. (B2) Based on the match results of each player's games, an update process is executed to update each player's ranking parameters, using adjustment values ​​that adjust the values ​​in each player's ranking parameters, which are set based on league information related to the league to which each player belongs. (B3) Provide the terminal device 20 with game information related to the competitive game, including information on the determined rankings and information on the generated leagues. It has a structure.

[0144] For example, the server device 10 has a configuration that allows it to rank higher even if the game results and performance in higher leagues are worse than those in lower leagues, by increasing the value of the ranking parameter obtained based on the game results and performance in league matches the higher the league it belongs to.

[0145] Furthermore, for example, the server device 10 has a configuration that allows players who are overwhelmingly skilled in a lower league to be placed in a higher league in the next league match if their parameter values ​​are increased.

[0146] The server device 10 then executes a ranking determination process again to newly determine the rankings of multiple players based on the ranking parameters of each player that have been updated by the update process. Once the rankings of multiple players have been newly determined by this ranking determination process, it executes a league generation process to generate a new league.

[0147] Figure 4 shows an example of how league generation processes, such as the TOP League, BN1 League, BN2 League, and BN3 League, are executed according to rankings based on ranking parameters (victory points) for players A to S, as well as the league matches (TOP League pairings) and the update process after the league ends (how to calculate the ranking parameters for player A).

[0148] Furthermore, Figure 5 shows an example of a ranking determination process in which the ranking of each player is newly determined based on the ranking parameters updated based on the example in Figure 4, and a league generation process that is executed based on the newly determined ranking of each player.

[0149] This configuration makes it easy to standardize the league format, such as generating leagues with an equal number of players and ensuring the same number of matches in each league. This rectifies the unequal competitive environment between leagues and allows for exciting matches by avoiding pairing players with significant differences in skill or level.

[0150] Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is possible to conduct a league tournament that allows for accurate evaluation of each player's ranking without having them compete against all other players, and it is also possible to revitalize the matches within each league (i.e., the league tournament) and improve the enjoyment of the game.

[0151] In particular, in this embodiment, it is possible to adjust the parameters used to determine rankings based on league information such as the number of leagues and the number of players in each league. This makes it possible to accurately determine rankings that match the skill level of each player, even when playing against players of similar ability and skill level.

[0152] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the league system allows for competitive games where extreme differences in skill or level do not occur for each player, while also providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues, or to make the game more enjoyable without fear of relegation to a lower league if they keep losing matches even if there is no difference in skill level. Thus, the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

[0153] In this embodiment, the explanation will use a sports match, such as baseball, which is played by controlling player characters, as the example game.

[0154] [4.2] Rank determination process Next, the ranking determination process of this embodiment will be described.

[0155] The ranking management unit 107 executes a ranking determination process to determine the rankings of multiple players based on ranking parameters managed for each player.

[0156] Then, each time a league is generated and each league match in that league is completed, the ranking management unit 107 executes a ranking determination process to newly determine the rankings of multiple players based on ranking parameters.

[0157] In other words, the ranking management unit 107 obtains match results that fairly reflect the abilities of each player only after all matches within the same league, which are predetermined as league matches in each league, have been completed, and determines a new ranking for each player based on the ranking parameters managed for each player at the aforementioned timing in order to determine an accurate ranking for each player.

[0158] In particular, the ranking management unit 107 uses the following parameters for ranking: (A1) A parameter calculated by aggregating the results of games played against other players within the same league for games that have already been completed (hereinafter referred to as the "game result parameter"). (A2) An index that shows performance determined by the game situation during each match, and is calculated by accumulating the total performance across matches that have already been completed (hereinafter referred to as the "total performance parameter"), or (A3) Parameters that quantify the flow (progress) and progress of each game (hereinafter referred to as "Game Progression Quantification Parameters"), Use this.

[0159] For example, the ranking management unit 107 may use the following as game result aggregation parameters: win rate (or loss rate or draw rate), number of wins (or number of losses or draws), points, goal difference, points earned, consecutive wins, consecutive losses, and two or more combinations thereof.

[0160] In particular, when using two or more combinations of game result aggregation parameters, it is preferable for the ranking management unit 107 to use one parameter as the main parameter and the other parameters as elements for adding or subtracting points, for example, by using the win rate or points as the main parameter, while adding or subtracting points based on the number of consecutive wins or losses, or by adding a bonus to the winning player and subtracting points from the losing player when the goal difference is large.

[0161] Furthermore, for example, the ranking management unit 107 may use, as cumulative performance parameters, team stats or individual stats in sports games (stats related to baseball such as runs scored, runs allowed, earned run average, batting average, home runs, hits, fielding percentage, error rate, and number of fine plays; stats related to soccer and basketball such as ball possession and shots on goal; stats related to tennis such as total games won and winners; or stats related to various sports matches such as set percentage and close loss rate); specific performance metrics defined for each type of competitive game (such as the number of enemy characters defeated, the number of items or in-game currency acquired, or the time taken to complete a task); or a combination of two or more of these.

[0162] In particular, when there are two or more combinations of cumulative performance parameters, for example, the ranking management unit 107 preferably uses one parameter as the main parameter and the other parameters as elements for adding or subtracting points, similar to the game result aggregation parameters.

[0163] Furthermore, for example, the ranking management unit 107 may use parameters that quantify the content of the game, such as a seesaw game, a dramatic comeback or tie in the final stages of the match, a large number of goals scored, a walk-off game, extra innings, a pitcher's duel, a penalty shootout, or a final set, as well as parameters that quantify two or more combinations of these.

[0164] The ranking management unit 107 may also use two or more combinations of the above (A1) to (A3) as ranking parameters.

[0165] On the other hand, the ranking management unit 107 determines the ranking of each player based on the updated ranking parameters, including the adjustment values ​​described later, after each league match has concluded.

[0166] In other words, the ranking management unit 107 is executed repeatedly at predetermined timings, and the ranking of each player changes according to the parameters.

[0167] In this embodiment, the ranking parameters may be used not only to rank players but also to grant in-game benefits.

[0168] [4.3] League generation process Next, the league generation process of this embodiment will be explained using Figures 6 to 9. Figures 6 to 9 are diagrams used to explain the league generation process of this embodiment.

[0169] (Basic principle) The league management unit 106 executes a league generation process that generates leagues by grouping multiple players into multiple groups based on the rankings of each player determined by the ranking determination process as described above.

[0170] In particular, the league management department 106, in order to easily standardize the league format, such as making the number of matches in each league the same, determines the rankings through the ranking determination process as part of the league generation process. Based on the ranking of each player, the multiple players participating in the competitive game are grouped into multiple groups with an equal number of players to generate each league.

[0171] Specifically, the league management unit 106 generates each league by grouping the ranked players into multiple groups with an equal number of players, in descending order of rank.

[0172] For example, in a game that simulates a baseball game with 30 players participating (hereinafter referred to as the "baseball game"), if the goal is to generate leagues of six players each (i.e., six teams) from the top players, the league management unit 106 will group the players from 1st place to 30th place (Figure 4 shows up to 19th place) into five leagues of six, from the TOP league to the BN4 league (similarly, Figure 4 shows up to the BN3 league), as shown in Figure 4 above, and generate five leagues.

[0173] In other words, in this case, the league management unit 106 generates the TOP league with players ranked 1st to 6th, the BN1 league with players ranked 7th to 12th, the BN2 league with players ranked 13th to 18th, the BN3 league with players ranked 19th to 24th, and the BN4 league with players ranked 25th to 30th.

[0174] Alternatively, the league management unit 106 may, instead of the above, generate multiple groups of a predetermined number of players from the ranked players in order from highest to lowest, and then assign each player in each group evenly to constitute each league, thereby generating groups in which the number of players belonging to each league is equal (equal) from the highest ranked players upward.

[0175] For example, consider a baseball game with 36 players participating. In this game, six groups (i.e., six teams) are created from the top six players. One player from each group is then assigned to one of six leagues (TOP League and BN1 League to BN5 League) by lottery or according to predetermined rules.

[0176] In this case, as shown in Figure 6, the league management unit 106 assigns one player from each of the Group A players to the TOP League and the BN1 League to BN5 League by drawing lots or other means to generate six leagues.

[0177] (League generation process due to the addition of CPU players) If the league management unit 106 cannot generate leagues with an equal number of players based on the number of players of multiple players participating in a competitive game, it may use a computer as a player (i.e., a CPU player) to perform the league generation process.

[0178] In other words, the league management unit 106 has a configuration that allows it to generate multiple leagues with an equal number of players by adding CPU players, even if it is not possible to generate multiple leagues with an equal number of players based on the number of players who actually perform the operations to participate in the competitive game (i.e., manually operated players).

[0179] Specifically, if the league management unit 106 determines that it cannot generate multiple equal leagues based on the number of manually operated players, it will execute a league generation process to generate multiple equal leagues by adding one or more CPU players (automatically operated players).

[0180] For example, as shown in Figure 7, in the case of a baseball game that simulates a baseball match with 14 players, even if leagues are created with 3 players (i.e., 3 teams) or 4 players (i.e., 4 teams) from the top players, it is not possible to create leagues with an equal number of players.

[0181] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the league management unit 106 adds two CPU players and executes a league generation process to generate four leagues with an equal number of players (four each).

[0182] Figure 7 shows an example where CPU Player 1 and CPU Player 2, each assigned appropriate ranking parameters, are added to the 15th and 16th place positions, resulting in the creation of four leagues, including the TOP league.

[0183] At this time, the game management unit 103 also receives operation instructions from the manual player, which are executed manually via the terminal device 20, and controls the CPU player, which automatically issues operation instructions based on a predetermined program.

[0184] (League generation process based on league level) The league management unit 106 may, in the league generation process, generate each league by setting the level to which each league belongs (hereinafter referred to as "league level") from among several pre-set different levels based on the ranking of each determined player.

[0185] In particular, in this case, the league management unit 106 is configured to set up each league using league levels in order to appropriately set adjustment values ​​used to determine the accurate ranking of each player in the league matches.

[0186] Specifically, when the league management unit 106 generates groups in which the number of players belonging to each league is equal, starting with the top-ranked players, it sets the league levels in order from the group to which the top-ranked players belong.

[0187] For example, as shown in Figure 8, if the league management unit 106 groups players from 1st place to 30th place into five leagues, from TOP League to BN4 League, with six players in each group, the unit will set TOP League to league level 5, BN1 League to league level 4, BN2 League to league level 3, BN3 League to league level 2, and BN4 League to league level 1.

[0188] On the other hand, when a competitive game is first offered or when many beginner-level players such as casual players are participating, the league management unit 106 may, as one method of determining the appropriate ranking of players, instead of setting league levels as described above, generate each league in such a way as illustrated in Figure 9, by reducing the number of leagues in the league level to which higher-ranked leagues belong, and increasing the number of leagues in the league level to which each league belongs as you go down to the lower leagues.

[0189] Figure 9 shows the cases where the top two leagues are set to league level 5 or 4, the third BN2 league and the fourth BN3 league are set to league level 3, and the fifth BN4 league through the seventh BN6 league and the eighth BN7 league through the tenth BN9 league are set to league level 2 or league level 1.

[0190] On the other hand, the league management department 106, for example, when many high-level players are participating, one way to determine the appropriate ranking of players is as described above, league level Instead of setting the rank, you may generate each league in such a way that lower-ranked leagues belong to fewer leagues at their league level, and higher-ranked leagues belong to more leagues at their league level.

[0191] Furthermore, in cases where a wide range of players from advanced to beginner levels are participating, the league management unit 106 may, as one method for determining the appropriate ranking of players, instead of setting league levels as described above, reduce the number of leagues in the league level to which the higher and lower ranked leagues belong, increase the number of leagues in the league level to which each league belongs as the ranking approaches the middle, and generate each league such that the league level to which the player with the middle ranking belongs has the largest number of leagues.

[0192] [4.4] Competitive Games (League Matches) Next, the competitive game (league format) of this embodiment will be described. The competitive game of this embodiment will be explained using a baseball league format.

[0193] When each league is generated, the game management unit 103 arranges for players belonging to the same league to compete against each other, and holds each of the generated leagues as a league tournament based on a common format, while executing each match in each league tournament using a common game format.

[0194] Specifically, the Game Management Department 103 is responsible for executing each league tournament, which has a common format including the duration of the league, the number of players in each league, the number of matches in each league, and the type of competition and match format for the matches played in each league.

[0195] In particular, the game management unit 103 executes each match using a common game format, not only within the same league but also in different leagues, and ensures that each match is executed according to common rules, such as the duration of the match and the match format.

[0196] For example, when running a baseball game (type of competition) as a competitive game, if each league has 6 players (6 teams), the game management unit 103 will run a total of 5 round-robin matches (match format) with 6 players (i.e., 6 teams) in each league during the league season in January.

[0197] Since the baseball game in this embodiment is the same as the conventional game format, its explanation will be omitted.

[0198] [4.5] Parameter update process Next, the parameter update process for the ranking parameters in this embodiment will be described.

[0199] (Basic principles of parameter update processing) The parameter management unit 105 performs an update process to update the ranking parameters for each player, using adjustment values ​​set based on league information related to the league to which each player belongs, according to the match results of the match games for each player.

[0200] In particular, the parameter management unit 105 sets adjustment values ​​to adjust the ranking parameters for each player based on league information relating to the league to which each player belongs, according to the match results of the match games played by each player. For each player, it adds the set adjustment values ​​to the ranking parameters at that time and updates each player's ranking parameters.

[0201] Specifically, the parameter management unit 105 uses league information as follows: (A1) Number of leagues, (A2) Number of players belonging to each league, (A3) The ranking of each player within each league, (A4) League level, or (A5) Number of leagues within a league level, Use the following methods to set the adjustment values.

[0202] The parameter management unit 105 may, in place of the league information described above, or in addition to the league information described above, set adjustment values ​​for each player using the league format (including not only round-robin tournaments within the same league, but also irregular tournament formats), the type of game played (sports games such as baseball and soccer, shooting games, or battle royale games), the duration of the league, the duration of each game played, the number of games played in the league, and other game specifications.

[0203] Furthermore, in this embodiment, instead of the parameter management unit 105 setting adjustment values ​​based on league information, values ​​calculated by the terminal device 20 or other server devices (not shown) based on league information may be obtained and used in the update process.

[0204] (Setting adjustment values ​​based on the number of leagues or players) The parameter management unit 105 sets adjustment values ​​as league information according to the number of leagues generated by the league generation process, and executes the update process using the set adjustment values.

[0205] For example, if the number of players participating in a competitive game is small, a large adjustment value can lead to less change in rankings. This can result in a decrease in motivation for both advanced and beginner players to improve their ranking or maintain a high ranking, potentially leading to a lack of excitement in the game.

[0206] Therefore, the parameter management unit 105 of this embodiment has a configuration that sets adjustment values ​​according to the number of leagues, for example, setting larger adjustment values ​​the more leagues there are, in order to prevent a decrease in motivation to play the game and to revitalize the game, whether the player is an advanced player or a beginner player.

[0207] Specifically, when using victory points awarded for each victory in a competitive game as the game result aggregation parameter for ranking, the parameter management unit 105 will: (B1) If there are 10 leagues, the adjustment value awarded each time a player defeats another player in each league match will be set to "500 points". (B2) If there are 5 leagues, the adjustment value awarded each time a player defeats another player in each league match will be set to "200 points". (B3) If there are 3 leagues, the adjustment value awarded each time a player defeats another player in each league match will be set to "100 points".

[0208] Then, when each match in the league matches of each league is completed, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by adding the above victory points as an adjustment value to each player's ranking parameter.

[0209] For example, in the above case, the parameter management unit 105 will, for example, if there are 10 leagues out of a total of 5 league matches, award 1000 victory points to players who have won 2 matches at the end of the league match, and if there are 3 leagues, award 1000 victory points to players who have won 3 matches. For Ya, 300 points will be awarded as victory points.

[0210] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league are completed, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from highest to lowest point based on the victory points, which are parameters for ranking each player, including adjustment values.

[0211] On the other hand, when using the number of hits counted in a competitive game as the cumulative performance parameter for ranking, the parameter management unit 105 will: (C1) If the number of leagues is 10, set the adjustment value to "10" to be added to the number of hits actually counted in each match of each league. (C2) If the number of leagues is 5, set the adjustment value to "5" to be added to the number of hits actually counted in each match of each league. (C3) If the number of leagues is 3, set the adjustment value to "2" to be added to the number of hits actually counted in each match of each league.

[0212] Then, when each match in the league matches of each league is completed, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by adding the above adjustment value to the number of hits actually counted in the match and adding it to the ranking parameter for each player.

[0213] For example, in the above case, the parameter management unit 105, for example, of the five league matches, (D1) If there are 10 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 10 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game. (D2) If there are 5 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 5 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game. (D3) If there are 3 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 2 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game.

[0214] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league have concluded, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from highest to lowest based on the number of hits awarded to and added to each player as a ranking parameter in matches against other players in each league match.

[0215] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league are completed, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from the top in points based on the number of hits, which are used as a ranking parameter for each player, including adjustments.

[0216] Furthermore, for the same reasons as in the case of the number of leagues, the parameter management unit 105 may, instead of the number of leagues, set an adjustment value according to the number of players belonging to each league generated by the league generation process, and then perform the update process using the set adjustment value.

[0217] In this case, the parameter management unit 105 may, for example, set an adjustment value for the victory points awarded each time a player defeats another player in a league match, or set an adjustment value to be added to the number of hits counted in a match, depending on the number of players.

[0218] Then, when each match in the league matches of each league is completed, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by adding the above adjustment value to the number of hits actually counted in the match and adding it to the ranking parameter for each player.

[0219] For example, in the above example, the parameter management unit 105 will, for example, manage all 5 league matches. home, (E1) If there are 10 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 50 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game. (E2) If there are 5 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 25 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game. (E3) If there are 5 leagues, for each player, at the end of the league season, an adjustment value of 10 will be added to the total number of hits actually counted in each game.

[0220] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league are completed, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from the top in points based on the number of hits, which are used as a ranking parameter for each player, including adjustments.

[0221] (Setting adjustment values ​​based on rankings within each league) The parameter management unit 105 may, instead of or in addition to the above, set adjustment values ​​that are more advantageous to players with higher rankings within each league, and then perform the update process using these set adjustment values.

[0222] In other words, when the parameter management unit 105 re-determines the ranking of each player, it has a configuration that adjusts adjustment values ​​so that the ranking changes are greater for players with higher rankings in the league, thereby revitalizing the league matches and providing each player with the motivation to improve their ranking and participate in higher leagues.

[0223] Specifically, when using victory points awarded for each victory in a match as a ranking parameter for game result aggregation, the parameter management unit 105, if there are 6 players in each league, awards 300 points for each victory, and at the end of the league, (F1) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the top-ranked player in each league is set to 700 points. (F2) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the second-placed player in each league is set to 500 points. (F3) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the third-placed player in each league is set to 300 points. (F4) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the 4th place player in each league is set to 200 points. (F5) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the 5th place player in each league is set to 100 points. (F6) Set the adjustment value awarded as bonus points to 0 points for the 5th place player in each league.

[0224] Then, when each match in the league matches of each league is completed, the parameter management unit 105 adds an adjustment value as a bonus point to the victory points of the ranking parameter for the winning player and updates that value.

[0225] For example, in the above case, the parameter management unit 105 would, for instance, award 1900 points (win points and bonus points) to the first-place player who won all five matches in each league out of a total of five league matches, and award 1400 points (win points and bonus points) to the second-place player who won three matches, at the end of that league match.

[0226] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league are completed, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from highest to lowest point based on the victory points, which are parameters for ranking each player, including adjustment values.

[0227] On the other hand, when the number of hits in a competitive game is used as the cumulative performance parameter for ranking, the parameter management unit 105, (G1) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the top-ranked player in each league is set to 30. (G2) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the second-place player in each league is set to 20 points. (G3) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the third-placed player in each league is set to 10 points. (G4) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the 4th place player in each league is set to 7 points. (G5) The adjustment value to be awarded as bonus points to the 5th place player in each league is set to 5 points. (G6) The adjustment value that is awarded as bonus points to the 5th place player in each league will be set to 0 points.

[0228] Then, when each match in the league matches of each league is completed, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by adding the above adjustment value to the number of hits actually counted in the match and adding it to the ranking parameter for each player.

[0229] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league are completed, the ranking management unit 107 determines the rankings from highest to lowest point based on the number of hits, which are parameters for ranking each player, including adjustment values.

[0230] (Setting adjustment values ​​based on league level) The parameter management unit 105 may, instead of or in addition to the above, set adjustment values ​​to adjust the values ​​in the ranking parameters for each player based on the league level, and then perform the update process for each player's ranking parameters using the set adjustment values.

[0231] In particular, in this case, it is assumed that the league generation process of the league management unit 106 has set the league level to which each league belongs from among several different levels that have been predetermined based on the ranking of each determined player.

[0232] Specifically, the parameter management unit 105 sets adjustment values ​​to be changed for each league level, which is set in order from the league to which the top-ranked players belong.

[0233] For example, consider a scenario where victory points awarded for each win in a match are used as the ranking parameter for game result aggregation, and five leagues are generated by grouping players from 1st place to 30th place into groups of six, from TOP League to BN4 League, and as shown in Figure 8 above, TOP League is set to league level 5, BN1 League to league level 4, BN2 League to league level 3, BN3 League to league level 2, and BN4 League to league level 1.

[0234] In this case, the parameter management unit 105 will (H1) In the TOP League league matches, the adjustment value awarded each time a player defeats another player is set to "500 points". (H2) In the BN1 league matches, the adjustment points awarded to a player each time they defeat another player are set to "380 points". Set the adjustment value given each time a player wins against another player in the league games of the (H3) BN2 league to "270 points". Set the adjustment value given each time a player wins against another player in the league games of the (H4) BN3 league to "200 points". Set the adjustment value given each time a player wins against another player in the league games of the (H5) BN4 league to "100 points".

[0235] And when each match in the league games of each league ends, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by awarding the above victory points as an adjustment value to the winning player and adding it to the ranking parameter of each player.

[0236] For example, in the case of the above example, the parameter management unit 105, for example, in the TOP league out of a total of 5 league games, for a player who has won 2 games, at the end of the league games, awards 1000 points as victory points, and in the BN4 league, for a player who has won 3 games, awards 300 points as victory points.

[0237] Note that when the league games of each league end, the ranking management unit 107 determines the ranking from the top based on the victory points as the ranking parameter of each player in each league game.

[0238] On the other hand, for example, when the number of hits in the battle game is used as the cumulative score parameter of the ranking parameter, and when grouping 6 players each from the 1st ranked player to the 30th ranked player into groups from the TOP league to the BN4 league to generate 5 leagues, assume a case where the TOP league is set as league level 5, the BN1 league is set as league level 4, the BN2 league is set as league level 3, the BN3 league is set as league level 2, and the BN4 league is set as league level 1.

[0239] In this case, the parameter management unit 105 In the J1 TOP League matches, an adjustment value of "10" is set to be added to the actual number of hits counted in each match. In the (J2) BN1 league matches, an adjustment value of "7" is set to be added to the actual number of hits counted in each match. In the (J3) BN2 league matches, an adjustment value of "5" is set to be added to the actual number of hits counted in each match. In the (J4) BN3 league matches, an adjustment value of "3" is set to be added to the actual number of hits counted in each match. In the (J5) BN4 league matches, the adjustment value to be added to the actual number of hits counted in each match will be set to "0".

[0240] Then, when each match in each league's league matches is completed, the parameter management unit 105 updates the value by adding the adjustment value for each league to the actual number of hits counted in the match and adding it to the ranking parameter for each player.

[0241] For example, in the above example, the parameter management unit 105, for example, of the five league matches, For each player in the (K1) TOP League, at the end of the league season, 50 will be added to the actual number of hits counted during the league season. (K2) For each player in the BN1 league, at the end of the league season, the players who have competed in the league season are... Add 35 to the number of hits counted at that time. For each player in the (K3)BN2 league, at the end of the league season, 25 will be added to the number of hits actually counted during the league season. For each player in the (K4)BN3 league, at the end of the league season, 15 will be added to the number of hits actually counted during the league season. For each player in the (K5)BN4 league, 0 will be added to the number of hits actually counted during the league season at the end of that season.

[0242] Furthermore, once the league matches for each league have concluded, the ranking management unit 107 uses the number of hits for each player, including adjustment values ​​for each league match, as a ranking parameter to determine the rankings from the players with the highest number of hits.

[0243] (Adjustment values ​​are set according to the number of leagues at each league level.) The parameter management unit 105 may, instead of or in addition to the above, set adjustment values ​​to adjust the values ​​in the ranking parameters for each player according to the number of leagues belonging to the same level, and then perform the update process for the ranking parameters for each player using the set adjustment values.

[0244] In particular, in this case, as described above, it is assumed that in the league generation process of the league management unit 106, the league level to which each league belongs is set from among several different levels that have been set in advance, based on the ranking of each player determined.

[0245] Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 9 above, the parameter management unit 105 sets the adjustment values ​​higher for lower-level leagues (i.e., leagues to which lower-ranked players belong) when there are many leagues with lower league levels.

[0246] For example, in the case of the example in Figure 9, the parameter management unit 105 sets and assigns an adjustment value of 100 as a bonus to the ranking parameters for players belonging to the TOP League to BN3 League, where league levels 5 to 3 are set, while setting and assigning an adjustment value of 300 as a bonus to the ranking parameters for players belonging to the BN4 League to BN9 League, where league levels 2 and 1 are set.

[0247] Furthermore, the parameter management unit 105 may set a higher adjustment value for the central league (i.e., the league to which players ranked near the middle belong) if there are many leagues in the middle of the league level, and set a lower adjustment value for leagues in the higher and lower league levels.

[0248] Furthermore, more specifically, if there are many leagues with high league levels (i.e., leagues to which high-ranking players belong), the parameter management unit 105 may set the adjustment values ​​higher in leagues with higher league levels.

[0249] (Setting other adjustment values) The parameter management unit 105 may, instead of adjusting the above-mentioned setting values, or in addition to doing so, if each league with league levels has been generated and each player meets certain conditions, set an adjustment value to make the ranking parameter of a player who meets those conditions higher than the ranking parameter of a player belonging to a league of a higher level than the league to which that player belongs, and then perform the update process using the set adjustment value.

[0250] Specifically, in this case, the parameter management unit 105, as a given condition, (L1) Determine whether or not a player is in a predetermined position within the league (such as the top rank or the upper middle ranks), or (L2) Determine whether the player in question has higher parameters than a player in the league immediately above them at the time of the update process who is in a predetermined rank (such as last place or lower middle ranks). This process determines whether it is possible to swap players in leagues or rankings with players belonging to higher league levels.

[0251] When the parameter management unit 105 determines that it is possible to exchange players belonging to a higher league level or exchange rankings, it executes an update process without setting an adjustment value. When it determines that such an exchange is not possible, it sets an adjustment value that allows such an exchange and executes an update process.

[0252] For example, when using the victory points awarded each time a player wins a battle game as the game result aggregation parameter for the ranking parameter, assume that the total victory points of the top player in the BN2 league at the end of the league battle is 1500 points, and the total victory points of the bottom player in the BN1 league, which is the league level immediately above the BN2 league, is 1700 points.

[0253] In this case, the parameter management unit 105 determines as a determination process that the exchange of rankings between the top player in the BN2 league and the bottom player in the BN1 league does not occur, sets an adjustment value of 300 points such that the victory points of the top player in the BN2 league are greater than the victory points of the bottom player in the BN1 league, assigns it to the ranking parameter of the corresponding player, and executes the update process.

[0254] Note that when the league battle of each league ends, the ranking management unit 107 determines the ranking from the top in terms of points based on the victory points as the ranking parameter of each player in each league battle.

[0255] On the other hand, instead of or in addition to the above league information, the parameter management unit 105 may use the league format (including not only all-round battles within the same league but also irregular tournament battles, etc.), the type of battle game (sports games such as baseball and soccer, shooting games or battle royale games), the holding period of the league, the game time of each battle game, the number of games as battle games during the league, and other game specifications, etc. to set the adjustment value for each player and execute an update process to update the value of the ranking parameter.

[0256] For example, in the case of a league system where rankings are determined by a tournament within each league, the parameter management unit 105 may award victory points to each player in the league matches, and set adjustment values ​​based on whether or not they won the championship, or the type of stage in which they lost, according to the number of matches until they won the championship.

[0257] In this case, the parameter management unit 105 may, when a player wins, set an adjustment value of 1000 points as a bonus to be awarded in addition to victory points, and perform an update process to update the ranking parameter value of the player in question.

[0258] Furthermore, for example, in competitive games where the match time is unpredictable, such as tennis or baseball, the parameter management unit 105 may increase the adjustment value as the longer the match time, assuming that the game is more exciting.

[0259] On the other hand, the parameter management unit 105 may use numerical parameters for game progress as parameters for ranking each player in each league match, instead of, or in addition to, the league information mentioned above.

[0260] Specifically, the parameter management unit 105 may, in each match within each league, quantify elements that make the match exciting, such as a seesaw game, a dramatic comeback or tie in the final stages of the match, a high-scoring game, a walk-off game, extra innings, a pitcher's duel, a penalty shootout, or a final set, as well as combinations of two or more of these elements, and perform parameter adjustments (such as addition or subtraction) for ranking.

[0261] For example, in this case, the parameter management unit 105, when extracting a scene where the match became exciting using a conventional detection method, controls the parameters in that scene to a predetermined value and provides them to the parameter ranking determination process.

[0262] [4.6] Variant [4.6.1] Modification Example 1 (League generation process and execution control when a player joins mid-game) Next, we will describe a modified example of this embodiment (league generation process and execution control when a player joins mid-game).

[0263] The League Management Department 106 may create a new league if it accepts new players who wish to participate in a game during the period from the start of the league season to the end of the league season (hereinafter also referred to as the "league season period").

[0264] In this case, when the league management unit 106 receives requests from players who wish to join the league midway through the league season, it determines whether the number of such players is equal to the number of players in the ongoing league. If the number of such players is equal to the number of players in the ongoing league, it generates a new league for the players who wish to join midway.

[0265] Furthermore, if, after accepting applications from players wishing to join a league midway through, the number of players wishing to join within a certain period does not equal the number of players in the ongoing league, the league management unit 106 may add CPU players to create a new league where the number of players wishing to join equals the number of players in the ongoing league.

[0266] On the other hand, if a new league is created in the middle of a league tournament by a player who wishes to join midway, the game management unit 103 will, in the same way as other leagues, allow the matches in that new league to continue until the end of the league tournament period in which the player joined.

[0267] Furthermore, in such cases, once the league season ends, the parameter management unit 105 performs parameter update processing for the players in the new league, just as it does for players in other leagues. However, during the update process, the parameter management unit 105 may use adjustment values ​​that differ from those in other leagues, such as using half the adjustment values ​​used in other leagues, or it may choose not to use adjustment values ​​at all and not perform adjustments based on those adjustment values.

[0268] Then, the ranking management unit 107 performs ranking determination processing based on the league results, just like players in other leagues, and the league management unit 106 generates each league in the new league competition based on the results of said ranking determination processing.

[0269] [4.6.2] Variation 2 (League generation process based on cards) Next, we will describe a modified example of this embodiment (a league generation process based on cards).

[0270] (Overview of the card-based league generation process) The server device 10 of this embodiment may execute a competitive game in which players compete against each other in a league tournament using game cards assigned to each player as the game medium.

[0271] In particular, in this case, the server device 10 has a configuration that performs ranking determination processing and league generation processing based on the performance values ​​of the game cards used in the competitive game.

[0272] In this modified example, the game medium is described using cards used in the game (i.e., electronically provided game cards), but it may also be a player character, item, or ability (performance) itself.

[0273] Furthermore, in this modified example, the performance values ​​include, for example, the level specified in the game medium, parameters that define various abilities such as attack power, defense power, agility, and hit points, or parameters that define the progress of the game, such as experience points.

[0274] (Game card) For example, game cards include: (A1) For example, the player character that is the target of the player's operation or instructions, (A2) Items such as weapons and tools equipped to the player character, (A3) Abilities and characteristics added to the player character, This is an electronically provided game card used in a game that has been defined.

[0275] Furthermore, each player is provided with each game card as an initial setup, and during gameplay, (B1) If you win a game against another player, (B2) When a player clears a designated game stage, increases their game level, or completes a designated in-game task (including cases where other conditions such as a designated period of time are present or absent), (B3) If you win in a lottery event such as a gacha, (B4) When a gift is received from another player registered as a friend, or (B5) When you make a payment using in-game currency, points, or items, or when you make a payment for charges or other costs, or when such costs exceed a certain amount, It is now possible to obtain it.

[0276] When a game card is acquired, the player management unit 104 registers the information of the acquired game card in the player information storage unit 146, as a game card usable in the game for each player, and associates it with the corresponding player.

[0277] In particular, the game card is registered as game card information in the player information storage unit 146, for example, as game card information that can be used in the game by the player, for example, by the terminal device 20.

[0278] Furthermore, each player, before the start of the league season (or, if the previous league season has already been played, after the end of that previous league season but before the start of the next league season), sets one or more game cards from the registered game cards into their deck to be used in the next league season.

[0279] Furthermore, while the game cards set in a deck cannot be changed during league matches in principle, it is possible to change them to other game cards if special permission is granted through payment or lottery.

[0280] On the other hand, each game card is associated with a card ID. (C1) Card type information indicating the type of game card, such as the type of player character (hereinafter referred to as "card type"), (C2) Rarity of the game card, and attribute information such as properties determined in the game, such as "red" or "blue," or (C3) Levels specified on the game card, parameters that define various abilities such as attack power, defense power, agility, hit points, etc., or performance values ​​such as experience points that define the progress of the game. This is stipulated.

[0281] (Basic principles of league generation based on game cards) The game management unit 103 of this embodiment may execute a competitive game in which players compete against each other in a league setting using game cards, which serve as the game medium, and which define the player characters, the items and abilities that the player characters possess.

[0282] In this case, before the start of the league match, the player management unit 104 sets one or more game cards from the game cards already registered in the player information storage unit 146 for each player into each player's deck, based on the operation instructions of each player transmitted from each terminal device 20.

[0283] The parameter management unit 105 manages the performance values ​​of the game cards set in the deck for each player.

[0284] In particular, the parameter management unit 105 calculates the performance value of the selected game card (or the sum of the performance values ​​if there are multiple game cards) when one or more game cards are selected by a player before the league matches begin.

[0285] Then, the ranking management unit 107 executes a ranking determination process to determine the players' rankings based on the performance values ​​of the set game cards (or their sum in the case of multiple game cards), and the league management unit 106 generates multiple leagues for running league matches based on the players' rankings determined by the ranking determination process.

[0286] On the other hand, the parameter management unit 105 may, during or at the end of the league tournament, change the performance values ​​of the game cards used by each player in each match, depending on the status of the league tournament, the results of each match, the overall league tournament results, or a combination thereof.

[0287] Furthermore, the player management unit 104 may, based on the player's instructions, swap the game cards set in the deck between the end of a league match and the start of the next league match.

[0288] In this case, the ranking management unit 107 executes a ranking determination process to newly determine the rankings of multiple players based on the performance value (or total value) of each player's game card, and the league management unit 106 executes a league generation process to generate a new league once the rankings of multiple players have been newly determined by the ranking determination process.

[0289] [5] Operation in this embodiment Next, using Figure 10, the server device 10 of this embodiment at a predetermined timing This section describes the operation of the league generation process, which includes the repeatedly executed ranking determination process and the updating of ranking parameters.

[0290] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the league generation process, which includes the ranking determination process and the ranking parameter update process, which are repeatedly executed at predetermined timings by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

[0291] In this operation, it is assumed that multiple players are participating in a competitive game, various information about each player is registered in the player information storage unit 146, and the competitive game is already running.

[0292] Furthermore, in this operation, the player information storage unit 146 appropriately stores ranking parameters for each participating player and updates them as the game progresses.

[0293] Furthermore, this operation is a continuous operation performed by the server device 10 and continues to operate until instructed to stop by an administrator or the like. During operation, various game information is provided to the respective terminal devices 20 by the information provision unit 111 as appropriate.

[0294] First, when the ranking management unit 107 detects the timing for determining the players' rankings, such as when a league match in progress has ended (step S101), it reads the ranking parameters for each player stored in the player information storage unit 146 and executes a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of each player based on the ranking parameters read from each player (step S102).

[0295] Next, the league management unit 106 performs a league generation process to generate multiple leagues by grouping each participating player into multiple groups with an equal number of players, based on the determined ranking of each player and the number of players participating in the game (step S103).

[0296] In this case, if the league management unit 106 cannot generate multiple leagues with an equal number of players using only the players participating in the match, it will add CPU players to ensure that each league has an equal number of players, and will generate multiple leagues including the added CPU players.

[0297] Next, the information provision unit 111 provides the generated league information to the corresponding terminal device 20 (step S104).

[0298] Next, the game management unit 103, in conjunction with the timer management unit 110, detects a predetermined timing for starting a league match, such as a pre-set date and time (0:00 AM on the 1st of each month) (hereinafter referred to as the "league start timing") (step S105), and then starts various game controls to execute the league match in each league (step S106).

[0299] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 updates the ranking parameters for each player stored in the player information storage unit 146 as needed.

[0300] Next, when the game management unit 103 detects a predetermined timing for ending a league match, such as a pre-set date and time (hereinafter referred to as the "league end timing") (step S107), it makes adjustments to each league, each player, or both based on the league information. The system sets values ​​and performs an update process to update the ranking parameters (step S108), then proceeds to the process in step S101 and repeats this operation.

[0301] [6] Others In this embodiment, each game may be provided to the terminal device 20 by a single server device 10, or a server system may be constructed by linking multiple server devices 10 together to provide each game to the terminal device.

[0302] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game provided by the server device 10 is executed by the terminal device 20. However, except for the operation input, the server device 10 may execute each function of the processing unit 200 of the terminal device 20 and the execution of the game program, and the terminal device 20 may realize the game by performing operation input and image display via streaming.

[0303] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the system may be implemented using a single game device equipped with the functions of the server device 10, that is, a standalone device that operates independently without relying on other devices such as a server device.

[0304] Furthermore, in this case, the above processes and operations may be implemented by multiple players using multiple input terminal devices. In this case, it is also possible to connect multiple such game terminal devices via wired or wireless connections, with one game device functioning as a server device 10, and implementing the system using multiple game devices.

[0305] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game system of the present invention is applied to a server device 10 that operates in conjunction with a terminal device 20 via a network, but it can also be applied to tablet-type information terminal devices, personal computers, or game devices installed in amusement parks.

[0306] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous in the specification or drawings may be replaced with broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

[0307] Although this embodiment uses a competitive game as an example, it can also be used in other games such as RPGs or simulation games.

[0308] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially identical to those described in the embodiments (for example, configurations with the same function, method, and result, or configurations with the same purpose and effect). Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations that produce the same effects or achieve the same purpose as those described in the embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention includes configurations that add known technology to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0309] As described above, embodiments of the present invention have been explained in detail, but it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible without substantially departing from the novel aspects and effects of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are included within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0310] 10… Server device 20 … Terminal device 100 ... Processing 101 ... Communication Control Unit 102 … Web Processing 103… Game Management Department 104… Player Management Department 105 ... Parameter Management Unit 106… League Management Department 107 … Ranking Management Department 108 ... CPU Player Control Unit 110 ... Timer Management Department 111 … Information provision department 120 ... Input section 130 … Display section 140 … Storage section 142 … Main memory section 144 ... Game data storage unit 146 … Player Information Storage Unit 180 … Information storage medium 196... Communications Department 200 ... Processing 210 ... Communication Control Unit 211 … Web browser 212 ... Game Processing Unit 213 ... Display Control Unit 214 ... Input reception processing unit 220 ... Drawing section 230 ... Sound Processing Unit 260 ... Input section 262 … Detection unit 270 … Storage section 271 … Main memory section 272 ... Image buffer 280 … Information storage medium 290...Display section 292 ... Audio output section 296 … Communications Department

Claims

1. A server system that provides terminal devices with information about a competitive game played by multiple players using a game medium, A management means for managing the performance values ​​of the game medium as specific parameters for each player, A ranking determination means that performs a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of the plurality of players based on the aforementioned parameters, League generation means that performs a league generation process to generate a league by grouping the plurality of players into a plurality of groups based on the ranking of each player determined above, When the aforementioned league is generated, a game control means is provided to have players belonging to the same league compete against each other within the generated league, and to hold each of the generated leagues as a league tournament based on a common format, while executing each match in each league tournament using a common game format. A means for providing game information relating to the aforementioned competitive game to the terminal device, An update processing means that performs an update process to update the performance value of the game medium as a parameter for each player, using adjustment values ​​set based on league information related to the league to which each player belongs. Equipped with, The aforementioned ranking determination means, Based on the performance values ​​of the game medium for each player updated by the update process, a ranking determination process is executed to determine the ranking of the multiple players. The league generation means, A server system characterized in that, as the league generation process, the plurality of players are grouped into a plurality of groups with an equal number of players each, based on the ranking of each determined player, and each league is generated.

2. In the server system described in Claim 1, The update processing means, The number of leagues generated by the league generation process, or the number of players belonging to each league. A server system that sets the adjustment value according to the number of layers and executes the update process using the set adjustment value.

3. In the server system described in Claim 1, The update processing means, A server system that sets adjustment values ​​that are more advantageous to players with higher rankings within each league, and uses these set adjustment values ​​to perform the update process.

4. In the server system described in Claim 1, The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, the league generation process is executed to generate each league, setting the level to which each league belongs from among a plurality of pre-set different levels. The update processing means, A server system that sets the adjustment value according to the level to which each league belongs, and uses the set adjustment value to execute the update process.

5. In the server system described in Claim 1, The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, the league generation process is executed to generate each league, setting the level to which each league belongs from among a plurality of pre-set different levels. The update processing means, A server system that sets the adjustment value according to the number of leagues belonging to the same level, and uses the set adjustment value to perform the update process.

6. In the server system according to Claim 1, The league generation means, Based on the ranking of each player determined above, the league generation process is executed to generate each league, setting the level to which each league belongs from among a plurality of pre-set different levels. The update processing means, A server system that, when a given condition is met for each player, sets an adjustment value to make the parameter of a player who meets the condition higher in rank than the parameter of a player belonging to a league of a higher level than the league to which the player belongs, and uses the set adjustment value to perform the update process.

7. In the server system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The aforementioned ranking determination means, A server system that, each time a league is generated and each league match in that league is completed, executes the ranking determination process to determine the rankings of the multiple players anew based on the parameters.

8. In the server system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, A receiving processing means for receiving operation instructions for a manually operated player that are manually executed via the terminal device, Automatic operation control means for controlling an automatic operation player that automatically issues operation instructions based on a predetermined program, Furthermore, The league generation means, A server system that, if it is determined that it is not possible to generate multiple leagues with an equal number of players based on the number of players of the manually operated players, executes the league generation process to generate multiple leagues with an equal number of players by adding one or more of the automatically operated players.

9. A program that provides a terminal device with information about a competitive game played by multiple players using a game medium, A management means for managing the performance values ​​of the game medium as specific parameters for each player, Rank determination means that performs a ranking determination process to determine the ranking of the plurality of players based on the aforementioned parameters, League generation means that performs a league generation process to generate a league by grouping the plurality of players into a plurality of groups based on the ranking of each player determined above. When the aforementioned league is generated, a game control means is provided to execute each competitive game for each generated league, in which players belonging to the same league compete against each other, and A means for providing game information relating to the aforementioned competitive game to the terminal device, Update processing means that performs an update process to update the performance values ​​of the game medium as parameters for each player, using adjustment values ​​set based on league information related to the league to which each player belongs. To make the computer function as, The aforementioned ranking determination means, Based on the performance values ​​of the game medium for each player updated by the update process, a ranking determination process is executed to determine the ranking of the multiple players. The league generation means, The program is characterized in that, as the league generation process, it groups the multiple players into multiple groups with an equal number of players each, based on the ranking of each player determined, and generates each league.

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