Information processing systems, information processing methods, and programs

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program capable of improving user experience in the distribution and viewing of a game moving image.SOLUTION: There is provided an information processing system. The information processing system is configured so as to execute the following steps. In a progressing step, a game is progressed in a virtual space on the basis of a game operation by a player. In an output step, first distribution data for distributing a moving image indicating a game screen where a game is progressed is output to a moving image distribution site. In an acquisition step, a contribution for the moving image is acquired from a contributor from the moving image distribution site. In a display step, the contribution is displayed in the virtual space of the game distributed as a moving image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a communication system and a communication method have been disclosed (Patent Document 1) in which while content is being distributed from a distributor to a user, the user who is viewing the content and the distributor can communicate with each other.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, in the video distribution of games, there has been a problem that a game player who is a distributor cannot confirm a contribution posted from a viewer on the game screen. Further, since the contribution to the game video is simply displayed on the video viewing screen, there is a lack of two-way communication between the viewer and the game, so there is room for improving the interest in the game video viewing experience.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present disclosure aims to provide a technology for improving the user experience in game video distribution and viewing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing system is provided. This information processing system is configured to perform the following steps: In the progress step, the game is advanced in a virtual space based on game operations by the player. In the output step, first distribution data is output to a video distribution site for distributing a video showing the game screen in which the game is in progress. In the acquisition step, posts from uploaders to the video are acquired from the video distribution site. In the display step, the posts are displayed in the virtual space of the game which is distributed as a video.

[0007] This disclosure provides technology that improves the user experience in the distribution and viewing of game videos. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the hardware configuration of server device 2. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows the functions implemented by the control unit 23 in the server device 2 according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of game device 5. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows the functions realized by the control unit 56 in the game device 5 according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the information processing flow performed by Information Processing System 1. [Figure 7] This is an example of the video viewing screen 7 displayed on viewing device 4. [Figure 8] This is an example of the video viewing screen 8 displayed on viewing device 4. [Figure 9] This is an example of the video viewing screen 9 displayed on viewing device 4. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the information processing flow performed by Information Processing System 1. [Figure 11] This is an example of a video viewing screen 10 displayed on viewing device 4. [Figure 12] This is an example of a video viewing screen 11 displayed on viewing device 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] [Embodiment] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The various features shown in the embodiments below are interchangeable.

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

[0011] Furthermore, in this embodiment, "part" may include, for example, hardware resources implemented by circuits in a broad sense, and the information processing of software that can be specifically realized by these hardware resources. In addition, various types of information are handled in this embodiment, and these types of information can be represented, for example, by the physical values ​​of signal values ​​representing voltage and current, the high or low values ​​of signal values ​​as a set of binary bits composed of 0s or 1s, or by quantum superposition (so-called qubits), and communication and calculations can be performed on circuits in a broad sense.

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

[0013] 1. Game description FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1, a server device 2, a video distribution site 3, a plurality of viewing terminals 4, and a game device 5 are connected to each other via a communication network 6 so as to be communicable, and a game is executed in the game device 5.

[0014] The game according to the present embodiment is an online game executed in the information processing system 1. In this game, a player P of the game device 5 activates one or more player characters PC in the virtual space of the game, or makes the player character PC fight against an enemy character which is a non-player character.

[0015] The game as described above is executed using a game device 5 which is an electronic device such as a home game console like PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console like Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), or a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet, etc. Hereinafter, the case where the game device 5 is a home game console will be exemplified.

[0016] 2. Outline of information processing system 1 As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes a server device 2, a video distribution site 3, a plurality of viewing terminals 4, and a game device 5, which are connected through a communication network 6. These components will be further described. Here, the system exemplified by the information processing system 1 consists of one or more devices or components. Therefore, even the server device 2 alone can be an example of the system.

[0017] The server device 2 stores a game program and game data, and manages the game data (for each of the following game account information) of the game device 5.

[0018] The video distribution site 3 is installed and managed by an operator of a video distribution service, and provides various services related to video distribution to distributors and viewers (hereinafter collectively referred to as "service users") via a dedicated application or a website.

[0019] The viewing terminal 4 is a terminal operated by a viewer and can display videos distributed from the video distribution site 3. Also, a viewer using the viewing terminal 4 can make a post C such as a message M for the video distributed from the video distribution site 3. Hereinafter, a viewer who has made a post C will be referred to as a "poster S". In FIG. 1, the viewing terminal 4 used by the poster S1 is represented as the viewing terminal 4a, the viewing terminal 4 used by the poster S2 is represented as the viewing terminal 4b, and the viewing terminal 4 used by the poster S3 is represented as the viewing terminal 4c.

[0020] The game device 5 executes a predetermined game based on the game operation of the player P. For this purpose, the game device 5 receives (specifically, downloads and installs) a game program and game data from the server device 2 via the communication network 6. Game account information including identification information and a password is assigned to each player P in association with the game device 5. This game account information is transmitted from the game device 5 to the server device 2 and used for authentication processing in the server device 2.

[0021] After the authentication process, communication between the server device 2 and the game device 5 becomes possible. After the authentication process, the game device 5 receives the data necessary for game progression (data related to the game progress) from the server device 2, and proceeds with the game while outputting game images and sounds to the display 61 and speaker 62 based on the game operations of player P.

[0022] Furthermore, Player P can upload a video showing the game screen of the game being played by their own gameplay to the video distribution site 3 via the server device 2 or the game device 5. The video distribution site 3 can distribute the video uploaded by Player P, the broadcaster, to multiple viewing terminals 4 as appropriate.

[0023] 2.1 Hardware Configuration The hardware configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 4. Note that each of the multiple viewing terminals 4 has the same configuration.

[0024] <Server device 2> As shown in Figure 2, the server device 2 has a network interface 21, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 23. The network interface 21 and the storage unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a bus 29.

[0025] The network interface 21 is connected to the video streaming site 3 and the game device 5 via a communication network 6 such as the Internet and a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0026] The storage unit 22 consists of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs, including a part of the game program according to this embodiment, and various data related to the game.

[0027] The control unit 23 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the server device 2, which is itself. In particular, the control unit 23 realizes various functions related to the server device 2 by reading predetermined programs stored in the storage unit 22. That is, information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is concretely realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware, so that the means described later can be executed. Note that the control unit 23 is not limited to being a single unit, and may be implemented with multiple control units 23 for each function, or a combination thereof.

[0028] <Video Streaming Site 3> Video streaming site 3 has a network interface, a storage unit, and a control unit. The network interface and the storage unit are electrically connected to the control unit via a bus.

[0029] The network interface is connected to the server device 2 and multiple viewing terminals 4 via a communication network 6 such as the Internet and a LAN.

[0030] The storage unit consists of HDD, RAM, ROM, and SSD, among others. Specifically, the storage unit stores account information of service users who use the video streaming service (hereinafter also simply referred to as "service account information"), service user login history, a video database, and various programs necessary for running the video streaming service.

[0031] The control unit consists of a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the video distribution site 3, which is the device itself. In particular, the control unit realizes various functions related to the video distribution site 3 by reading predetermined programs stored in the memory unit 22. Here, various functions include various functions related to video distribution, such as a service user management function, a video upload management function from distributors, and a video distribution function to viewers. Note that the control unit is not limited to being a single unit, and may be implemented with multiple control units for each function, or a combination thereof.

[0032] <Viewing device 4> The viewing terminal 4 has a network interface, a storage unit, a control unit, a display unit, and an input unit, and these components are electrically connected via a bus inside the viewing terminal 4. The description of the storage unit and the control unit is substantially the same as that of the storage unit 22 and the control unit 23 in the server device 2, so it is omitted.

[0033] The network interface is connected to the video streaming site 3 via a communication network 6 such as the Internet and LAN.

[0034] The display unit may be, for example, included in the housing of the viewing terminal 4, or it may be an external unit. The display unit displays a graphical user interface (GUI) screen that can be operated by the viewer. Such a display unit preferably uses display devices such as a CRT display, liquid crystal display, organic EL display, and plasma display, depending on the type of viewing terminal 4. Here, the display unit will be described as being included in the housing of the viewing terminal 4.

[0035] The input unit may be included in the housing of the viewing terminal 4, or it may be an external unit. For example, the input unit may be integrated with the display unit and implemented as a touch panel. If it is a touch panel, the viewer can input tap operations, swipe operations, etc. Of course, a switch button, mouse, QWERTY keyboard, etc. may be used instead of a touch panel. In other words, the input unit receives operation input made by the viewer. This input is transmitted as a command signal to the control unit via the bus, and the control unit can perform predetermined controls and calculations as needed.

[0036] <Game device 5> As shown in Figure 4, the game device 5 has a display 61, speakers 62, and a controller 63 that are either externally connected or built-in. The game device 5 also has a network interface 51, a graphics processing unit 52, an audio processing unit 53, an operation unit 54, a storage unit 55, and a control unit 56. The network interface 51, graphics processing unit 52, audio processing unit 53, operation unit 54, and storage unit 55 are electrically connected to the control unit 56 via a bus 59.

[0037] The network interface 51 is connected to the communication network 6 in a communicative manner in order to send and receive various data between the game device 5 and the server device 2.

[0038] The graphics processing unit 52 renders game images, including characters and various objects related to the virtual game space, in video format according to the game image information output from the control unit 56. The graphics processing unit 52 is connected to a display 61, for example, an LCD type, and the game images rendered in video format are displayed on the display 61 as a game screen.

[0039] The audio processing unit 53 is connected to the speaker 62 and, following instructions from the control unit 56, plays and synthesizes game audio, which is then output from the speaker 62.

[0040] The control unit 54 is connected to the controller 63 and transmits and receives data related to operation inputs to and from the controller 63. For example, player P inputs operation signals to the game device 5 by pressing various buttons on the controller 63.

[0041] The storage unit 55 consists of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The storage unit 55 stores game data downloaded from the server device 2, various programs including parts of the game program, and game account information for the game device 5, which is the device itself.

[0042] The control unit 56 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the game device 5, which is itself. In particular, the control unit 56 realizes various functions related to the game device 5 by reading predetermined programs stored in the memory unit 55. That is, information processing by software stored in the memory unit 55 is concretely realized by the control unit 56, which is an example of hardware, so that the means described later can be executed. Note that the control unit 56 is not limited to being a single unit, and may be implemented with multiple control units 56 for each function, or a combination thereof.

[0043] 2.2 Functional Configuration Next, the functional configurations of the information processing system 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 3 and 5.

[0044] <Server device 2> The functional configuration of the server device 2 according to this embodiment will now be described. As mentioned above, various functions relating to the server device 2 can be executed by each means included in the control unit 23, where information processing by software stored in the storage unit 22 is specifically realized by the control unit 23, which is an example of hardware.

[0045] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the functions realized by the control unit 23 in the server device 2 according to this embodiment. Specifically, the server device 2, which is an example of the information processing system 1, includes information processing means 231, matching means 232, receiving means 233, acquisition means 234, progress means 235, display means 236, setting means 237, output means 238, and game control means 239.

[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the storage unit 22 stores the game user DB 221. The game user DB 221 stores, in association with each game account information, which includes identification information such as the player P's identification number, the player's name, player rank, information about the status of the player character PC operated by player P, the amount of consumable media usable in the game's virtual space, and information about parameters.

[0047] The information processing means 231 sends and receives various data between the game device 5 and the video distribution site 3. The main data that the information processing means 231 receives from the game device 5 includes information on game program download requests, game execution requests, autoplay execution / termination requests, game account information, and game data. The main data that the information processing means 231 transmits to the game device 5 includes information to confirm that the game device 5 has received the game program. In addition, the information processing means 231 executes processing to settle charges based on requests received from the game device 5 via the network interface 21, which are charges for recovering a predetermined amount of parameters (hereinafter also simply referred to as "charge requests").

[0048] The main data that the information processing means 231 receives from the video distribution site 3 includes a distribution address for player P to upload videos as a broadcaster, a post C from poster S, identification information to identify poster S, and optional information attached to post C. The main data that the information processing means 231 transmits to the video distribution site 3 includes player P's service account information and distribution data for distributing a video showing the game screen of the game being played by player P.

[0049] The matching means 232 is configured to perform authentication processing using the player P's game account information received from the game device 5. Furthermore, the matching means 232 is configured to link the game account information with the service account information. Details will be described later.

[0050] The reception means 233 is configured to receive various types of information. An example of the first reception means, reception means 233, is configured, as a first reception step, to receive a game operation from player P specifying at least one object O or post C displayed in the virtual space. An example of the second reception means, reception means 233, is configured, as a second reception step, to receive a game operation specifying an object O on which a second virtual camera is set. Further details will be described later.

[0051] The acquisition means 234 is configured to acquire various types of information. For example, as an acquisition step, the acquisition means 234 is configured to acquire a post C from a poster S for a video from the video distribution site 3. For example, as an acquisition step, the acquisition means 234 is configured to further acquire identification information that identifies the poster S of post C, in association with post C. For example, as an acquisition step, the acquisition means 234 is configured to further acquire optional information associated with post C. Details will be described later.

[0052] The progression means 235 is configured to advance the game from the start to the end. For example, as a progression step, the progression means 235 is configured to advance the game in the virtual space based on game operations by player P. Further details will be described later.

[0053] The display means 236 is configured to display various information in the virtual space of the game. For example, the display means 236 is configured to display post C in the virtual space of the game, which is distributed as a video, as a display step. For example, the display means 236 is configured to display post C in association with object O by associating identification information with object O as a display step. For example, the display means 236 is configured to determine the display mode of post C based on optional information as a display step. Details will be described later.

[0054] The setting means 237 is configured to set various types of information. For example, as a setting step, the setting means 237 is configured to set a second virtual camera, different from the first virtual camera used to provide the game screen to player P, to object O in the virtual space, if the option information satisfies predetermined conditions. Details will be described later.

[0055] The output means 238 is configured to output various types of information. For example, as an output step, the output means 238 is configured to output first distribution data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video showing the game screen in which the game is in progress. For example, as an output step, the output means 238 is configured to output effect data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video with special effects to a poster S identified based on identification information associated with a specified object O or post C. For example, as an output step, the output means 238 is configured to output second distribution data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video showing the game screen based on a second virtual camera to a poster S identified by identification information associated with post C. For example, as an output step, the output means 238 is configured to output third distribution data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video showing the game screen based on a first virtual camera instead of the game screen based on a second virtual camera to a poster S in response to a game operation received in the second reception step. Details will be described later.

[0056] The game control means 239 is configured to read data such as object O included in the game data from the storage unit 22 according to the player P's operations and the game's progress, and to execute the game in the game execution environment. Further details will be described later.

[0057] <Game device 5> The functional configuration of the game device 5 according to this embodiment will now be described. As mentioned above, various functions related to the game device 5 can be executed by each means included in the control unit 56, where information processing by software stored in the storage unit 55 is specifically realized by the control unit 56, which is an example of hardware.

[0058] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functions realized by the control unit 56 in the game device 5 according to this embodiment. Specifically, the game device 5 includes a communication means 561, a game execution means 562, and a notification control means 563.

[0059] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the storage unit 55 stores game user information. The game user information is at least a portion of the information in the game user DB 221 stored in the storage unit 22 of the server device 2. The game user DB 221 manages a master of game user information, and the storage unit 55 of the game device 5 receives and stores at least a portion of this master information distributed from the server device 2.

[0060] The communication means 561 is configured to communicate with the server device 2 via the network interface 51. The communication means 561 is configured to generate and transmit information that the server device 2 can understand in response to various operation signals received by the operation unit 54 from the controller 63. For example, the communication means 561 transmits game account information, new game data download request information, etc., to the server device 2. The communication means 561 also receives new game data, etc., sent from the server device 2 in response to the download request information.

[0061] The game execution means 562 is configured to execute a game according to the game operations of the controller 63 by the player P using the game device 5, which is the game device itself. Specifically, the game execution means 562 generates two-dimensional or three-dimensional game image information while executing a game program, using data of objects included in the game data read from the storage unit 55 or data received from the server device 2. As the game image information is processed by the graphics processing unit 52, the processed game images are sequentially displayed on the display 61.

[0062] The game execution means 562 then places characters on the game image according to the game operations of player P, who is using the game device 5, and controls the actions of the characters in the virtual space according to the game operations of player P and the progress of the game. The game execution means 562 also causes the player character PC to use items selected by player P in response to the game operations. For example, in autoplay mode, the game execution means 562 places characters and controls the actions of characters based on game data (operation data) without input from player P.

[0063] The notification control means 563 is configured to control the display on the display 61 and the audio output of the speaker 62 in accordance with the game operations of the player P using the game device 5, which is the device itself, when the game is being played.

[0064] 3. Operational flow of Information Processing System 1 This section describes the information processing method of the aforementioned information processing system 1.

[0065] Furthermore, the figures referenced in this section are as follows: Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing flow performed by the information processing system 1. Figure 7 is an example of the video viewing screen 7 displayed on the viewing terminal 4.

[0066] The following will explain the flow of information processing performed by the information processing system 1, following the flowchart in Figure 6. For the sake of explanation, it will be assumed that player P has already created an account for the video distribution service provided by video distribution site 3, and that player P's service account information is stored in the memory of video distribution site 3.

[0067] First, player P powers on the game device 5 to start it up. After the game device 5 starts up, the communication means 561 transmits game account information to the server device 2 via the network interface 51 and the communication network 6. The information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the game account information via the network interface 21. Then, the verification means 232 performs authentication by comparing the received game account information with the game account information managed in the game user DB 221 of the storage unit 22 (step S001).

[0068] If the authentication process is successful, the game control means 239 sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the menu screen be displayed on the display 61 of the game device 5. The information processing means 231 then sends this menu screen display request to the game device 5 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6. The menu screen display request is received by the communication means 561 via the network interface 51. Next, the game execution means 562 generates game image information related to the menu screen based on the received request. This game image information is processed by the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52, and the menu screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 61 (step S002).

[0069] Next, player P selects a game to play using the controller 63 of the game device 5 on the menu screen (not shown) and requests video streaming of the game. Subsequently, the operation unit 54 receives an operation signal from the controller 63, and the communication means 561 transmits this signal to the server device 2 as a video streaming execution request via the network interface 51 and the communication network 6. The information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the video streaming execution request via the network interface 21, and then the receiving means 233 accepts the video streaming execution request (step S002).

[0070] After the reception means 233 receives a video distribution execution request, the game control means 240 sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that an input screen for entering service account information be displayed on the display 61 of the game device 5. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 transmits this input screen display request to the game device 5 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6. The input screen display request is received by the communication means 561 via the network interface 51. Next, the game execution means 562 generates game image information related to the input screen based on the received request. This game image information is processed by the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52, and the input screen (not shown) is displayed on the display 61 (step S003).

[0071] When player P inputs service account information, such as a username and password, the operation unit 54 receives an operation signal, and the communication means 561 transmits the service account information to the server device 2 via the network interface 51 and the communication network 6. The information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the service account information via the network interface 21. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 transmits the service account information to the video distribution site 3 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6. (Step S003).

[0072] Subsequently, at the video distribution site 3, the control unit compares the received service account information with the service account information managed in the video distribution site 3's memory unit and performs authentication. If the authentication process is successful, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 determines the distribution address for player P to upload videos as a distributor. Next, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 transmits the distribution address to the server device 2 via the network interface and communication network 6 (step S003).

[0073] Next, the information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the distribution address via the network interface 21. Subsequently, the matching means 232 updates the player P information managed in the game user DB 221 to perform account linking and registration of the distribution address. In detail, the matching means 232 performs the process of associating the service account information and the distribution address with the game account information of player P (step S003).

[0074] After the matching means 232 has linked the account and registered the distribution address, the progress means 235 sends a signal to the game control means 239 requesting that the game be started. The game control means 239 then sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the game screen be displayed on the display 61 of the game device 5. The information processing means 231 then sends this game screen display request to the game device 5 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6. The game screen display request is received by the communication means 561 via the network interface 51. The game execution means 562 then generates game image information related to the game screen based on the received request. This game image information is processed by the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52, and the game screen is displayed on the display 61 (step S004).

[0075] After the game starts, each time the reception means 233 receives a game operation from player P, the progress means 235 transmits a signal to the game control means 239 to control the progress of the game. The game control means 239 transmits this signal to the game execution means 562 via the information processing means 231, network interface 21, communication network 6, network interface 51, and communication means 561. After receiving the signal from the game control means 239, the game execution means 562 updates the game image information. Then, the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52 process the updated game image information, and the game progresses while the game screen is updated. That is, as a progress step, the progress means 235 advances the game in the virtual space based on the game operation by player P (step S004).

[0076] The game screen showing the game in progress after the game has started, displayed on the display 61 of the game device 5, is transmitted by the communication means 561 to the server device 2 via the network interface 51 and the communication network 6. The information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the game screen via the network interface 21. Subsequently, the output means 238 outputs first distribution data to the video distribution site 3 as an output step, for distributing a video showing the game screen. In detail, the output means 238 generates the first distribution data by, for example, converting the game screen into video data, and sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the first distribution data be sent to the distribution address registered in step S003. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 sends the first distribution data to the distribution address of the video distribution site 3 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6 (step S005).

[0077] Subsequently, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 distributes a video showing the game screen of the game being played by player P, based on the received first distribution data, associating it with a viewing address, such as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). By accessing the viewing address using the viewing terminal 4, the viewer can display the video viewing screen 7 (Figure 7) on the display unit of the viewing terminal 4 and watch the video (step S005).

[0078] Figure 7 is an example of a video viewing screen 7 displayed on the viewing terminal 4. The video viewing screen 7 shown in Figure 7 includes a video display area VA that displays a video showing the game screen of a game being played by player P, a play / pause button PS, a volume icon SV, a display area for posting C, and a text box TB and a stamp icon SI for posting C. In the video viewing screen 7 of Figure 7, if the viewer has already created an account for the video distribution service provided by the video distribution site 3, they can post C as poster S. In detail, as poster S, the viewer can, for example, enter a message M in the text box TB, or select and enter an appropriate stamp ST from the list of available stamps ST displayed by selecting the stamp icon SI (step S006).

[0079] The input information, such as the message M and stamp ST entered by poster S, is received by the video distribution site 3, and the control unit of the video distribution site 3 performs a process to associate it with the service account information of poster S stored in the memory unit. Next, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 manages the received input information as post C, together with information representing poster S, such as poster S's username UN and profile icon PI. The information representing poster S is either information included in the service account information or information managed in association with the service account information. For example, the username UN is information included in the service account information, and the profile icon PI is information managed in association with the service account information. Subsequently, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 performs a process to display post C on the video viewing screen 7 (Figure 7) (step S006).

[0080] Furthermore, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 transmits post C to the server device 2 via the network interface and the communication network 6. Post C is received by the information processing means 231 of the server device 2 via the network interface 21, and then acquired by the acquisition means 234. That is, as an acquisition step, the acquisition means 234 acquires post C from the uploader S for a video showing the game screen in which the game is in progress from the video distribution site 3 (step S006).

[0081] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit of the video distribution site 3 transmits identification information that identifies the poster S of post C, along with post C, to the server device 2. Here, the identification information can be any information that uniquely identifies the poster S of post C. The identification information may be, for example, a username UN included in the service account information, or an email address managed in association with the service account information, or a terminal address that identifies the viewing terminal 4, including the IP address and MAC address. When the identification information that identifies the poster S of post C is transmitted to the server device 2, the acquisition means 234 further acquires the identification information in association with post C as an acquisition step (step S006).

[0082] After the acquisition means 234 acquires post C and identification information identifying the poster S of post C, the storage unit 22 associates post C with the identification information and stores it at least temporarily. Subsequently, the display means 236 determines the object O to which post C is associated with the identification information, and then sends a signal to the game control means 239 requesting that post C be displayed in association with object O in the virtual space of the game, which is distributed as a video. Note that object O includes anything that can be placed in the virtual space of the game. For example, object O may include characters, items used or equipped by characters, buildings such as towers, interiors such as walls, floors, and ceilings, furniture, electrical appliances, civil engineering structures such as railways, roads, and bridges, advertisements such as signs, posters, and bulletin boards, and natural objects such as mountains, rocks, flowers, trees, and clouds (step S007).

[0083] Next, the game control means 239 sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that post C be displayed in association with object O. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 transmits this post display request to the game device 5 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6. The post display request is received by the communication means 561 via the network interface 51. Next, the game execution means 562 generates game image information relating to the display of post C associated with object O based on the received request. This game image information is processed by the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52, so that post C is displayed in association with object O in the virtual space represented on the game screen displayed on the display 61 (step S007).

[0084] In other words, the display means 236, as a display step, displays the post C in the virtual space of the game, which is distributed as a video. Preferably, the display means 236 associates the post C with object O by associating identification information that identifies the poster S of the post C with object O, thereby displaying the post C in association with object O. With this configuration, it is possible to display the post C of poster S without disrupting the atmosphere or worldview of the game's virtual space, and thus provide viewers, including player P and poster S, with a new kind of experience in which poster S is participating in the game in a different way than player P (step S007).

[0085] The game screen, including the display of post C associated with object O, is distributed as a video by the video distribution site 3 through the same information processing as in step S005, and is displayed in the video display area VA of the video viewing screen 7 (Figure 7) displayed on the display unit of the viewing terminal 4 (step S007).

[0086] Here, referring to the video viewing screen 7 in Figure 7, a specific example will be given to explain the display of posts C associated with object O. In the video display area VA, post C1 by poster S1 is displayed inside object O1 representing clouds, and post C2 by poster S2 is displayed inside object O2 representing clouds. Post C1 also includes a profile icon PI and username UN representing poster S1, and a message M. Post C2 includes a profile icon PI and username UN representing poster S2, a message M, and a stamp ST. In this way, post C includes information representing poster S. With this configuration, poster S is explicitly shown in the virtual space of the game along with the content of post C, making it possible to distribute user-friendly game videos for both players P and viewers including poster S (step S007).

[0087] In summary, the information processing method of this embodiment comprises a progress step, an output step, an acquisition step, and a display step. In the progress step, the game is advanced in the virtual space based on game operations by player P. In the output step, first distribution data for distributing a video showing the game screen in progress is output to the video distribution site 3. In the acquisition step, a post C from uploader S for the video is acquired from the video distribution site 3. In the display step, the post C is displayed in the virtual space of the game that is distributed as a video.

[0088] According to this embodiment, the user experience in the distribution and viewing of game videos can be improved.

[0089] 4. Variations Although this disclosure has been described based on the embodiments described above, this disclosure is not limited to those embodiments. The following modifications are also included in this disclosure. This section describes the modifications, but the description of configurations and functions that are substantially the same as those of the embodiments described above will be omitted.

[0090] Furthermore, this section refers to Figures 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. Figure 8 is an example of a video viewing screen 8 displayed on the viewing terminal 4. Figure 9 is an example of a video viewing screen 9 displayed on the viewing terminal 4. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing flow performed by the information processing system 1. Figure 11 is an example of a video viewing screen 10 displayed on the viewing terminal 4. Figure 12 is an example of a video viewing screen 11 displayed on the viewing terminal 4.

[0091] [First variation] After step S007 of the above embodiment, the first receiving means 233 may, as a first receiving step, receive a game operation from player P specifying at least one object O or post C displayed in the virtual space. In this embodiment, as an output step, the output means 238 outputs effect-granting data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video with special effects to a poster S identified based on identification information associated with the specified object O or post C.

[0092] Here, we will explain this embodiment with a specific example, referring to the video viewing screen 8 in Figure 8. As shown in the video viewing screen 8 in Figure 8, suppose player P uses controller 63 to perform game operations so that player character PC shoots object O4 with a message C4 containing the message M "You're terrible!". The operation signal for this game operation is received by the operation unit 54 from controller 63, and then transmitted by the communication means 561 to the server device 2 via the network interface 51 and the communication network 6. Next, the information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the operation signal via the network interface 21, and then the receiving means 233 accepts the operation signal.

[0093] After the receiving means 233 receives the operation signal, the output means 238 generates effect data to distribute a video with special effects to the poster S3, who is identified based on the identification information associated with object O4. Next, the output means 238 sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the effect data be sent to the distribution address registered in step S003 of the above embodiment. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 sends the effect data to the distribution address of the video distribution site 3 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6.

[0094] Subsequently, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 identifies the terminal address of the viewing terminal 4c used by the uploader S3 by comparing the uploader S3 identification information contained in the received effect-adding data with the uploader S3 information stored and managed in the memory unit. As described in the above embodiment, the identification information itself may be the terminal address. Next, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 distributes a video with special effects applied to the game screen of the game being played by player P to the terminal address of the viewing terminal 4c based on the first distribution data and the effect-adding data. As a result, the video viewing screen 9 (Figure 9) is displayed on the display unit of the viewing terminal 4c used by the uploader S3. Here, as shown in the video viewing screen 9 of Figure 9, the special effects applied to the video include, for example, covering the entire virtual space shown on the game screen with a message such as "Please wait a moment."

[0095] While the video viewing screen 8 in Figure 8 specifically explained the case where a post C that player P finds offensive, such as defamation, is made, the first receiving means 233 may receive game operations from player P in response to a positive post C directed at player P, and the output means 238 may output effect-granting data that includes the display of a thank-you message as a special effect. Alternatively, the output means 238 may output effect-granting data that includes the display of an advertisement as a special effect.

[0096] According to this embodiment, player P can, of their own volition, provide feedback to poster S about what they felt after viewing post C, thereby enabling interaction between player P and poster S.

[0097] [Second variation] The following will explain the flow of information processing performed by the information processing system 1, following the flowchart in Figure 10. Since steps S101 to S105 in this embodiment shown in Figure 10 are the same as steps S001 to S005 in the above embodiment, only steps S106 onwards will be explained below.

[0098] In step S106 of this embodiment, which corresponds to step S006 of the above embodiment, the acquisition means 234 further acquires optional information attached to the post C as an acquisition step. Here, optional information is information indicating the usage status of the poster S regarding the functions and services provided by the video distribution service. In this embodiment, in step S107, the display means 236 determines the display mode of the post C based on the optional information as a display step. Here, the display mode includes the type, size, position in the virtual space and speed of movement in the virtual space of the object O associated with the identification information linked to the post C, the time for displaying the post C, the font, style, size and color of the message M included in the post C, the size of the profile icon PI included in the post C, etc. According to this embodiment, the usage status of the poster S regarding the functions and services provided by the video distribution service can be reflected in the display of the post C in the virtual space of the game (steps S106 and S107).

[0099] Optional information may include, for example, information regarding whether the poster S has registered the video streamer, Player P, in a list associated with the poster S. For example, this could include information regarding whether the poster S follows or adds Player P, the video streamer, as a friend, or information regarding whether the poster S is subscribed to Player P's channel. Preferably, the optional information also includes information regarding payments made by the poster S to Player P. In this configuration, posts C from poster S with higher payment amounts AC are displayed more prominently, thereby giving preferential treatment to the poster S and encouraging them to make payments, thus supporting the monetization of Player P's video streaming (steps S106 and S107).

[0100] Here, we will explain with a specific example, referring to the video viewing screen 10 in Figure 11. Note that there are two methods for charging player P by uploader S: a subscription, where a predetermined fee is charged to player P's channel at predetermined intervals, and so-called "tipping," where charges are made individually during player P's video streaming. In the following explanation, we will use the latter as an example. First, let's assume that uploader S2 makes upload C6 with a charge of 1,000 yen AC, as shown in the video viewing screen 10 in Figure 11. The option information, which is information related to the charge including the charge amount AC, is received by the video streaming site 3 along with input information such as message M, in the same way as in step S006 of the above embodiment. Subsequently, the control unit of the video streaming site 3 manages the option information in association with upload C6 and executes a process to display upload C6 and the charge amount AC included in the option information on the video viewing screen 10 (Figure 11) (step S106).

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 transmits the post C6, identification information identifying the poster S2 of post C6, and optional information to the server device 2 via the network interface and communication network 6. The information processing means 231 of the server device 2 receives the post C6, the identification information, and the optional information via the network interface 21, and then the acquisition means 234 acquires them (step S106).

[0102] After the acquisition means 234 acquires the post C6, its identification information, and the optional information, the storage unit 22 associates the post C6 and the optional information with the identification information and stores them at least temporarily. Subsequently, the display means 236 determines the display method of the post C6 based on the optional information. Specifically, the display means 236 determines, based on the optional information, the type and size of the object O associated with the identification information linked to the post C6, the size of the characters representing the message M and the charge amount AC, the size of the profile icon PI, etc. (step S107).

[0103] Here, the determination of the display mode of post C by the display means 236 will be explained by comparing post C6, which involves a charge, with post C5, which does not involve a charge. For example, as shown in the video viewing screen 10 of Figure 11, for post C5, which does not include charge information in the accompanying optional information, the display means 236 determines that the object O associated with the identification information is a small object O5. On the other hand, for post C6, which includes the charge amount AC as optional information, the display means 236 determines that the object O associated with the identification information is a large object O6. Furthermore, the display means 236 also determines that the size of the characters representing the message M and the charge amount AC, and the size of the profile icon PI, are larger for post C6 compared to post C5 (step S107).

[0104] After the display means 236 determines the display mode of the post C6, the post C6 and the charge amount AC included in the option information are associated with object O6 and displayed in the virtual space represented on the game screen displayed on the display 61 in the display mode determined by the display means 236, through information processing similar to step S007 of the above embodiment. Furthermore, the game screen including the display of the post C6 and charge amount AC associated with object O6 is distributed as a video by the video distribution site 3 and displayed in the video display area VA of the video viewing screen 10 (Figure 11) displayed on the display unit of the viewing terminal 4 (step S107).

[0105] [Third variation] In step S106 of the second modified example described above, if the optional information associated with post C, acquired by the acquisition means 234, satisfies predetermined conditions, the setting means 237 may, as a setting step, set a second virtual camera, different from the first virtual camera for providing the game screen to player P, to object O in the virtual space. In this embodiment, as an output step, the output means 238 outputs second distribution data to the video distribution site 3 for distributing a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera to poster S, who is identified by the identification information associated with post C. According to this embodiment, by distributing a special game screen that is not normally viewable to poster S who have paid a large amount AC, it is possible to encourage poster S to pay and support the monetization of player P's video distribution (steps S108 to S110).

[0106] Here, following the flowchart in Figure 10, and referring to the video viewing screen 10 in Figure 11 and the video viewing screen 11 in Figure 12, we will explain using the same specific example as in the second modified example described above. As explained in the second modified example above, the optional information attached to post C6 by poster S2 includes the information that the charge amount AC is 1,000 yen. Here, if the condition that the setting means 237 uses as a criterion is that the optional information attached to post C includes a charge amount AC of 500 yen or more, then the optional information attached to post C6 satisfies that condition. Therefore, the setting means 237 sets a second virtual camera, different from the first virtual camera for providing the game screen to player P, to object O6 in the virtual space (steps S108 and S109).

[0107] In detail, the setting means 237 sends a signal to the game control means 239 requesting that the second virtual camera be set to object O6. The game control means 239 transmits the signal to the game execution means 562 via the information processing means 231, network interface 21, communication network 6, network interface 51, and communication means 561. After receiving the signal from the game control means 239, the game execution means 562 generates game image information based on the second virtual camera. Then, the notification control means 563 and the graphics processing unit 52 process the generated game image information to generate a game screen based on the second virtual camera (step S109).

[0108] The game screen based on the second virtual camera is received by the information processing means 231 of the server device 2 via the network interface 21. Subsequently, the output means 238, as an output step, outputs second distribution data to the video distribution site 3 for the distribution of a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera to the poster S2 identified by the identification information associated with post C6. In detail, the output means 238 generates the second distribution data by, for example, converting the game screen into video data, and sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the second distribution data be sent to the distribution address registered in step S103. Subsequently, the information processing means 231 sends the second distribution data to the distribution address of the video distribution site 3 via the network interface 21 and the communication network 6 (step S110).

[0109] Subsequently, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 identifies the terminal address of the viewing terminal 4b used by the uploader S2 by comparing the uploader S2 identification information contained in the received second distribution data with the uploader S2 information stored and managed in the memory unit. As described in the above embodiment, the identification information itself may be the terminal address. Next, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 distributes a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera to the terminal address of the viewing terminal 4b based on the second distribution data. As a result, the video viewing screen 11 (Figure 12) is displayed on the display unit of the viewing terminal 4b used by the uploader S2 (Step S110).

[0110] Here, referring to the video viewing screen 10 in Figure 11 and the video viewing screen 11 in Figure 12, the difference between the game screen based on the first virtual camera and the game screen based on the second virtual camera will be explained. The video viewing screen 10 in Figure 11 is the game screen based on the first virtual camera. Since the first virtual camera is set above and behind the player character PC, the player character PC is displayed from behind in the video display area VA of Figure 11. On the other hand, the video viewing screen 11 in Figure 12 is the game screen based on the second virtual camera. Since the second virtual camera is set to object O6, the player character PC is displayed with its gaze directed towards object O6 in the video display area VA of Figure 12 (step S110).

[0111] After a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera is distributed, the second receiving means 233 may, as a second receiving step, accept a game operation specifying the object O6 on which the second virtual camera is set. After the second receiving means 233 accepts the game operation, the setting means 237 sends a signal to the game control means 239 requesting that the setting of the second virtual camera for object O6 be canceled. The game control means 239 transmits the signal to the game execution means 562 via the information processing means 231, network interface 21, communication network 6, network interface 51, and communication means 561. After receiving the signal from the game control means 239, the game execution means 562 stops generating game image information based on the second virtual camera (steps S111 and S112).

[0112] After the setting means 237 cancels the setting of the second virtual camera for object O6, the output means 238 generates third distribution data from the identification information of poster S2 and the first distribution data, and sends a signal to the information processing means 231 requesting that the third distribution data be sent to the distribution address registered in step S103. That is, as an output step, the output means 238 outputs third distribution data to the video distribution site 3 in order to distribute a video showing the game screen based on the first virtual camera instead of the game screen based on the second virtual camera to poster S2, in response to the game operation received in the second reception step (step S113).

[0113] Subsequently, through information processing similar to that in step S110 described above, a video showing the game screen based on the first virtual camera is delivered to the terminal address of the viewing terminal 4b. With this configuration, the player P can decide to return to normal video delivery, so that the poster S can receive a video of the game screen based on an appropriate field of view that matches the progress of the game (step S113).

[0114] [others] In the above embodiment and modified examples, the case where video streaming is performed almost simultaneously with the start of the game is shown. However, a video streaming request may be received from player P during the game (steps S002 and S102), and after account linking and streaming address registration (steps S003 and S103), video streaming may be started (steps S005 and S105).

[0115] In the above embodiment and its modifications, the case in which one post C is associated with one object O is shown for display. However, multiple posts C may be associated with one object O for display. That is, the display means 236 may, as a display step, display multiple posts C associated with one object O (steps S007 and S107).

[0116] If the number of posts C acquired by the acquisition means 234 exceeds a predetermined number (steps S006 and S106), the display means 236 may, as a display step, select posts C to be displayed in the virtual space of the game distributed as a video, based on predetermined criteria (steps S007 and S107). Here, the predetermined criteria may be criteria relating to optional information attached to the posts C (step S107).

[0117] The video distribution site 3 may store game programs and various game-related data in its memory unit. In this embodiment, the control unit of the video distribution site 3 may use the first distribution data, second distribution data, or third distribution data received from the server device 2 to execute the game program and generate and update two-dimensional or three-dimensional game images, thereby distributing a video showing the game screen. That is, in the above embodiment and its modifications, the first distribution data, second distribution data, or third distribution data was data obtained by converting the game screen into video data, but in this embodiment, it does not need to be video data, and may include data on game operations by player P, data related to object O and post C, data related to the settings of the first virtual camera or second virtual camera, etc.

[0118] The above embodiments and modified forms may also be programs. These programs cause a computer to execute each step of the information processing system 1.

[0119] In the above embodiments and modifications, the example given is that the game device 5 is a home game console, but the game device 5 may also be an amusement machine provided to arcades, etc. The above-mentioned games may be action games, shooting games, role-playing games, simulation games, board games, puzzle games, etc., and can be applied to various types of games.

[0120] The above embodiments and modifications illustrate a case where the server device 2 executes each step of the information processing system 1, but are not limited thereto. All means of the information processing system 1, namely the information processing means 231, matching means 232, receiving means 233, acquisition means 234, progress means 235, display means 236, setting means 237, output means 238, and game control means 239, may be provided in the server device 2 alone, the game device 5 alone, a separate communication terminal separate from the server device 2 and the game device 5, or two of these devices combined. Furthermore, when the server device 2, the game device 5, and the communication terminal function as a single unit, the functions of each means in each device can also be changed as appropriate.

[0121] The effects and advantages of this embodiment will also be achieved when these other embodiments are adopted. Furthermore, it is possible to combine this embodiment with other embodiments, and other embodiments with each other, as appropriate.

[0122] Furthermore, they may be provided in the following embodiments. In the aforementioned information processing system, the acquisition step further acquires identification information to identify the poster of the post in association with the post, and the display step associates the identification information with the object, thereby displaying the post in association with the object. In the aforementioned information processing system, the post includes information representing the poster. The information processing system is configured to further perform a first reception step, in which the first reception step receives a game operation from the player specifying at least one of the objects or posts displayed in the virtual space, and in the output step outputs effect-granting data to the video distribution site for distributing the video with special effects to the poster identified based on the identification information associated with the specified object or post. In the aforementioned information processing system, the acquisition step further acquires optional information associated with the post, and the display step determines the display method of the post based on the optional information. In the aforementioned information processing system, the optional information includes information relating to charges made by the poster to the player. The information processing system is configured to further perform a setting step, wherein in the acquisition step, identification information identifying the poster of the post is acquired in association with the post; in the display step, the post is displayed in association with the object by associating the identification information with an object placed in the virtual space; in the setting step, if the option information satisfies predetermined conditions, a second virtual camera different from the first virtual camera for providing the game screen to the player is set on the object in the virtual space; and in the output step, second distribution data is output to the video distribution site for distributing a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera to the poster identified by the identification information associated with the post. The information processing system is configured to further execute a second reception step, in which the second reception step receives a game operation that specifies the object on which the second virtual camera is set, and in the output step, in response to the game operation received in the second reception step, a third distribution data is output to the video distribution site to cause the poster to distribute a video showing the game screen based on the first virtual camera instead of the game screen based on the second virtual camera. A program that causes a computer to perform each step of the information processing system described in any one of the above. An information processing method comprising each step of the information processing system described in any one of the above.

[0123] Finally, while various embodiments relating to this disclosure have been described, these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. These novel embodiments can be implemented in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are permitted without departing from the gist of the disclosure. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and gist of the disclosure, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1: Information Processing System 2: Server device 21: Network Interface 22: Storage section 23: Control Unit 221: Game User Database 231: Information processing means 232: Verification means 233: Reception method 234 :Acquisition means 235:Means of progression 236:Display means 237: Setting method 238: Output means 239: Game control means 29: Bus 3: Video streaming sites 4: Viewing device 4a: Viewing device 4b: Viewing device 4c: Viewing device 5: Game device 51: Network Interface 52: Graphics Processing Unit 53: Audio Processing Unit 54:Operation unit 55: Storage section 56: Control Unit 561: Means of communication 562: Game execution method 563: Notification control means 59: Bus 6: Communication Networks 61: Display 62: Speaker 63: Controller 7: Video viewing screen 8: Video viewing screen 9: Video viewing screen 10: Video viewing screen 11: Video viewing screen AC: Amount charged C: Post C1: Post C2: Post C3: Post C4: Post C5: Post C6: Post M: Message O: Object O1: Object O2: Object O3: Object O4: Object O5: Object O6: Object P: Player PC: Player Character PI: Profile Icon PS: Play / Pause button S: Poster S1: Poster S2: Posted by S3: Poster SI: Stamp icon ST: Stamp SV: Volume icon TB: Text box UN: Username VA: Video display area

Claims

1. An information processing system, It is configured to perform the following steps: In the progression step, the game progresses in the virtual space based on the player's game actions. In the output step, first distribution data for distributing a video showing the game screen in which the game is in progress is output to the video distribution site. In the acquisition step, the uploader's submissions for the video are acquired from the video distribution site. In the display step, the post is displayed in the virtual space of the game which is distributed as a video. It is a thing, In the acquisition step, the following are further acquired in association with the post: identification information that identifies the poster of the post and optional information associated with the post. In the display step, the identification information is associated with an object that can be placed as an object in the virtual space, thereby displaying the post inside the object, and the display mode of the post is determined based on the option information. Configured to perform further setup steps, In the acquisition step, identification information is further acquired to identify the poster of the post, in association with the post. In the display step, the post is displayed in association with the object by associating the identification information with the object placed in the virtual space. In the setting step, if the option information satisfies predetermined conditions, a second virtual camera, different from the first virtual camera used to provide the player with the game screen, is set on the object in the virtual space. In the output step, second distribution data is output to the video distribution site for causing the poster, identified by the identification information associated with the post, to distribute a video showing the game screen based on the second virtual camera. thing.

2. In the information processing system described in claim 1, The aforementioned post includes information representing the poster, thing.

3. In the information processing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, It is configured to further execute the first reception step, In the first reception step, the game operation is received from the player, specifying at least one of the objects or posts displayed in the virtual space. In the output step, effect data is output to the video distribution site for distributing the video with special effects to the poster identified based on the identification information associated with the specified object or post. thing.

4. In the information processing system described in claim 1, The aforementioned optional information includes information regarding charges made by the poster to the player, thing.

5. In the information processing system described in claim 1, It is configured to further execute the second reception step, In the second reception step, the game operation is received that specifies the object on which the second virtual camera is set. In the output step, in response to the game operation received in the second reception step, third distribution data is output to the video distribution site to cause the poster to distribute a video showing the game screen based on the first virtual camera instead of the game screen based on the second virtual camera. thing.

6. It is a program, The computer is made to perform each step of the information processing system described in any one of claims 1 to 5. thing.

7. Information processing method, The information processing system comprises each step of any one of claims 1 to 5. method.

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