Game management device, program

Abstract

To allow players to easily select the crane game machine they want to play with in online crane games. [Solution] The game management device includes: an image acquisition means for acquiring a cabinet image taken of each of a plurality of game devices, including a crane arm provided on the game device and a prize stage on which prizes are placed; a first list display means for outputting a plurality of cabinet images taken of each of the plurality of game devices to an electronic device and displaying a cabinet image list on the electronic device that displays the plurality of cabinet images on one screen; and a control means for operating the crane arm of the game device corresponding to the cabinet image selected in the cabinet image list by transmitting data input by operation on the electronic device to the game device. The second display means displays the cabinet image enlarged to a size greater than the size for displaying the prize image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game management device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a game service (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an online crane game) that allows a crane game device to be used through a network has been provided. In this type of game service, an image of the crane game device is provided to an electronic device such as a personal computer or a smartphone used by a player through a network. Then, the player can send an operation instruction to the crane game device that is the imaging target through the network and control the crane arm by performing a predetermined input operation on the electronic device while viewing the image. Thereby, the player can use the crane game device installed at a remote location through the network.

[0003] A large number of crane game devices are prepared for the online crane game, and prizes are placed in each housing. A large number of types of prizes are placed in the crane game device, and the same prize may be placed in each housing by changing the form of placing the prize in the housing. As forms of placing prizes in the housing, various forms are prepared according to differences in the operation of the crane arm for moving the prize to the prize drop hole, such as "direct placement" on a plane, "bridge placement" on two bars, "hanging", "front drop", etc.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Traditionally, players using online crane games could select a desired prize from a prize list menu, thereby choosing the crane game machine containing that prize as their target. When selecting a crane game machine, players would check the condition of the prize inside the machine, i.e., whether it was easy to win, before making their selection. To do this, players had to select a prize from the prize list menu and then switch to a screen displaying video footage of the crane game machine. Therefore, to select a crane game machine from multiple machines, players had to repeatedly select a prize from the prize list menu and check the video footage. As a result, players could not easily select the crane game machine they wanted to play.

[0006] This invention has been made in consideration of the circumstances described above, and its purpose is to provide a game management device and program that allows players to easily select the crane game machine to be played in an online crane game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the game management device of the present invention includes: an image acquisition means for acquiring a cabinet image taken for each of a plurality of game machines, including a crane arm provided on the game machine and a prize stage on which prizes are placed; a first list display means for outputting a plurality of cabinet images taken for each of the plurality of game machines to an electronic device and displaying a cabinet image list on the electronic device that displays the plurality of cabinet images on one screen; and a control means for operating the crane arm of the game machine corresponding to the cabinet image selected in the cabinet image list by transmitting data input by operation on the electronic device to the game machine. The second display means displays the cabinet image enlarged to a size larger than the size for displaying the prize image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, players can easily select the crane game device they want to play with in an online crane game. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing the system configuration in this embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game management system in this embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the external configuration of the game device in this embodiment. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device in this embodiment. [Figure 5] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 6 in this embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of game console management data stored in the memory of a game management system. [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the game management system 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 8] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the menu screen display of the game management system 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a prize list menu and a cabinet image list menu in this embodiment. [Figure 10] This diagram shows an example of an enclosure image displayed in the enclosure image list menu. [Figure 11] This diagram shows an example of an enclosure image displayed in the enclosure image list menu. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of a prize list menu and a cabinet image list menu in this embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of a prize list menu and a cabinet image list menu in this embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of a prize list menu and a cabinet image list menu in this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the system configuration in this embodiment. The game management system 1 and game system 5 shown in Figure 1 are systems for providing game services to electronic devices 2 (2-1, ..., 2-m) connected via a network 4 including the Internet. The electronic devices 2 are used by players who utilize the game service, such as personal computers, smartphones, tablet devices, and televisions.

[0011] The game system 5 includes a game server 6, a video distribution server 7, and at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-n). The video distribution server 7 may be implemented in the game management system 1 rather than being located within the game system 5.

[0012] The game server 6 is connected to the network 4 and transmits and receives data with the game management system 1 and the electronic devices 2. The game server 6 is also connected to at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-n) installed within the facility via a network 8 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), and performs operation control and data transmission / reception of the game device 10. Furthermore, the game server 6 performs control for recording video of the game device 10 while it is running to the video distribution server 7, and for transmitting (distributing) the video recorded on the video distribution server 7 to the electronic devices 2.

[0013] The game management system 1 provides a game service that enables playing the game device 10 through the network 4 to the electronic device 2 connected through the network 4. The game management system 1 acquires the video (moving image) and intermittently captured images (housing images) of the game device 10 in each of the plurality of game devices 10 provided in the game system 5, and transmits them to the electronic device 2 used by the player who uses the game service. The electronic device 2 can display a menu (housing image list menu) for selecting the game device 10 to be played by the player using the image (housing image) received from the game device 10. Further, when playing the game device 10, the electronic device 2 can display the game viewing video for viewing received from the game device 10 on the game play screen. The video or housing image to be viewed can be targeted not only at the game device 10 in which the game is being executed by other players, but also at the game device 10 in which the game is not being executed.

[0014] When the game management system 1 receives a game execution request from the electronic device 2, it enables the execution of a game by a specific game device 10 selected from the plurality of game devices 10 in response to this game execution request. The game management system 1 transmits the game viewing video for game execution, which has captured the game device 10, to the electronic device 2 that has requested the game execution. The game management system 1 outputs the operation data received from the electronic device 2 to the game device 10 and operates it according to the operation data. The player operating the electronic device 2 can perform an input operation for controlling the game device 10 while checking the operating state of the game device 10 based on the video received from the game server 6.

[0015] In addition, the game management system 1 stores video data or image data obtained by photographing the game device 10 that executes the game in the video distribution server 7, reads it out as necessary, and distributes or downloads it to the electronic device 2 or the like. Further, the game management system 1 can also provide a player-exclusive web page to players who have registered as members. On the player-exclusive web page, the game results of past games by the player, the usage status of the game, coin purchases, etc. are displayed.

[0016] The game device 10 receives operation data corresponding to the input operation of the player on the electronic device 2 through the game server 6, and executes control according to the operation data. In the game system 5 of the present embodiment, the game device 10 is realized as, for example, a crane game device. The crane game device places prizes (prize products) on a prize stage provided inside the housing, and is configured to control the movement of the crane arm (catcher) according to the input operation by the player and pay out the prizes outside the housing (drop them into the prize drop hole).

[0017] A plurality of game devices 10 provided in the game system 5 each have, for example, prizes placed on them, and the states of the prizes placed on the prize stages are different. The player operating the electronic device 2 can check the types and states of the prizes placed on each of the plurality of game devices 10 and arbitrarily select the game device 10 to play. As forms of placing prizes inside the housing, various forms are prepared, such as "direct placement" where the prizes are placed on a flat surface, "bridge placement" where the prizes are placed on two rods, as well as "hanging" and "front drop".

[0018] In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of game devices 10 are configured to communicate with the game management system 1 via the game server 6 and the network 4, but it is also possible for the individual game devices 10 and the game management system 1 to communicate without going through the game server 6.

[0019] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game management system 1 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the game management system 1 includes, for example, a CPU 1a, RAM 1b, storage device 1c, input device 1d, display device 1e, and communication device 1f, which constitute a computer (server).

[0020] The CPU 1a performs various processes based on the programs and data stored in RAM 1b, including overall control of the game management system 1, management of data stored in storage device 1c, processing for providing network game services, and control / management of the game device 10.

[0021] RAM1b stores various programs executed by CPU1a and data executed by various processes. Programs stored in RAM1b include the basic program (OS (Operating System)), a management program for controlling / managing multiple game devices 10, a video management program for acquiring and transmitting video (movies) and images (such as cabinet images) captured by multiple electronic devices 2 to the electronic devices 2, recording video or images to the video distribution server 7, and controlling the playback and distribution of recorded video / images to the electronic devices 2. Processing by the management program can send images of prizes placed on multiple game devices 10 to the electronic devices 2 to display a prize list menu, and send images (such as cabinet images) of game devices 10 with prizes placed on them to the electronic devices 2 to display a cabinet image list menu.

[0022] The prize list menu displays images of the prizes placed on each of the multiple game machines 1, organized by prize. The prize images are pre-prepared for each type of prize to allow for easy identification. Therefore, prizes can be recognized even when they are placed on game machines 1 in boxes or other containers. The same image is generally used for the same prize.

[0023] The cabinet image list menu displays images of the game machine 1 on which the prize is placed, corresponding to the images of the prizes displayed in the prize list menu. Since the cabinet images are photographs of the game machine 1, you can check the current state of the prize, i.e., whether it is easy or difficult to win. If the prize is placed on the game machine 1 in a box or similar container, you can see it in its boxed state.

[0024] The memory device 1c stores various programs and data. The programs and data stored in the memory device 1c are loaded into the CPU 1a and processed by the CPU 1a. The memory device 1c can store video data such as game footage and images of the game devices 10 acquired from multiple game devices 10. The memory device 1c also stores player data for managing players using the game service, and game machine management data for managing the usage status of multiple game devices 10. In addition, the memory device 1c stores images of prizes placed on multiple game devices 10. The prize images are used in the electronic device 2 to display the prize list menu.

[0025] The display device 1e displays a screen corresponding to the processing performed by the CPU 1a on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

[0026] Input device 1d receives data and instructions corresponding to various processes performed by CPU 1a via input devices such as a keyboard or mouse. The communication device 1f controls communication with electronic devices 2 via network 4, and communication with video distribution server 7 and game device 10 via network 8, under the control of CPU 1a.

[0027] Although the game management system 1 shown in Figure 1 is described as being implemented by a single computer (server), it can also be implemented by a so-called cloud system in which multiple computers (servers) cooperate to provide game services.

[0028] Electronic device 2, like the game management system 1 shown in Figure 2, has a CPU, RAM, storage device, input device, display device, communication device, etc., which constitute a computer. The CPU of electronic device 2 performs various processes based on programs and data stored in RAM, such as overall control of electronic device 2, management of data stored in storage device, and processing for using network game services. Programs loaded into RAM include the basic program (OS), as well as a browser program that displays a screen for viewing game sites published by the game management system 1 etc. via the network 4, or for playing the game device 10 using game services provided by the game management system 1. When using game services provided by the game management system 1, it is also possible to use a dedicated application program for game services instead of a browser program.

[0029] Electronic device 2 includes, for example, a touch panel as an input device and display device, and various instructions can be performed by the player by touching the touch surface.

[0030] Figure 3 shows the external configuration of the game device 10 (crane game device) in this embodiment. The game device 10 shown in Figure 3 is assumed to be implemented by one of two game units (left unit and right unit) mounted in a single enclosure (the left unit in Figure 3). Alternatively, the game device 10 may consist of only one game unit mounted in a single enclosure.

[0031] The game device 10 consists of an upper casing and a lower casing. The upper casing has its front and sides covered with transparent plates, allowing the inside of the casing to be seen through the transparent plates. However, since the game device 10 is not directly operated by the player, it does not need to be covered with transparent plates.

[0032] At the top of the upper cabinet (game space), there is a crane arm 10A whose movement is controlled according to operation data input from the game server 6. At the top of the upper cabinet, there is a crane mechanism (not shown) for moving the crane arm 10A in, for example, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis (up and down) directions. The crane mechanism is driven according to operation data indicating, for example, lateral movement (left and right), vertical movement (forward and backward), and descent (catching). At the tip of the crane arm 10A, there is an arm (gripping claw) for grasping prizes, and its movement is controlled to close (grasp the object) when it reaches the position where it has been lowered to reach the prize.

[0033] A front camera 12A, supported by a camera stand 12B, is installed on the front of the game device 10, and a side camera 14A, supported by a camera stand 14B, is installed on the side. The front camera 12A and the side camera 14A capture images including the crane arm 10A and prizes inside the upper cabinet, with at least the upper cabinet as their shooting range.

[0034] In addition, although not shown in Figure 3, an upper camera 13A (shown in Figure 4) is provided to photograph the inside of the upper casing of the game device 10 from above. The upper camera 13A is installed, for example, on the ceiling inside the upper casing, on the upper side of the upper casing, or on the crane arm 10A (main body).

[0035] A prize stage 10B on which prizes are placed is provided inside the upper casing of the game device 10. Although the prize stage 10B of the game device 10 shown in Figure 3 is configured as a flat surface, it may be configured in a shape other than a flat surface to allow prizes to be placed in various ways. For example, the prize stage 10B can be configured with steps or other steps, or with multiple rod-shaped members spanning across it (a bridge).

[0036] A prize drop-off opening 10C is formed in part of the prize stage 10B. The prize drop-off opening 10C is connected to a prize retrieval opening located on the front of the lower casing through a prize guidance space located in the lower part of the prize stage 10B. Prizes dropped into the prize drop-off opening 10C by the operation of the crane arm 10A are detected by a prize detection sensor (described later). The prizes are then guided to the prize retrieval opening through the prize guidance space.

[0037] The front camera 12A photographs the upper cabinet from the front of the game machine 10, capturing images of the crane arm 10A and prizes with the back of the stage 10D and the side of the stage 10E (partition plate with the right-side unit) of the upper cabinet as the background. Similarly, the side camera 14A photographs the upper cabinet from the side of the game machine 10, capturing images or videos of the crane arm 10A and prizes with the back of the stage 10D and the side of the stage 10E as the background.

[0038] Furthermore, the upper camera 13A captures images of the inside of the upper cabinet (prize field) from above, making it easier to simultaneously grasp the relative positions of the crane arm 10A and the prizes in the front, back, left, and right directions, which is difficult to confirm from the images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A.

[0039] In the example shown in Figure 3, three cameras are provided: a front camera 12A, an upper camera 13A, and a side camera 14A. However, four or more cameras may be provided to capture images of the game device 10 from different directions and output the video.

[0040] In the system of this embodiment, video or images captured by the front camera 12A and side camera 14A of the game device 10 are transmitted to the game management system 1 and provided to the electronic device 2 through the game management system 1.

[0041] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, a control PCB (Print Circuit Board) 68 on which various units are mounted is provided inside the casing of the game device 10. The units mounted on the control PCB 68 include a CPU 70, RAM 71, storage device 72, input / output processing unit 73, camera control unit 74, motor drive unit 76, arm drive unit 77, and communication control unit 78.

[0042] The CPU 70 controls the entire game device 10 by executing control programs and game programs stored in the RAM 71 or storage device 72. The CPU 70 operates the crane arm 10A by controlling the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 in response to operation data from the game server 6 input through the communication control unit 78. The CPU 70 also controls image processing of images captured by the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A, as well as the output of images captured by the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A. The CPU 70 controls the transmission of multiple video (image) captured by the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A to the game server 6 (game management system 1). The CPU 70 continuously transmits the multiple video (image) captured by the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A to the game management system 1, regardless of whether the game device 10 is operating or not.

[0043] The CPU 70 intermittently captures images of the game machine 10 using, for example, the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A. The timing of the capture can be set to every so often (for example, every 0.5 seconds to a few minutes), immediately after a player finishes playing, or when the prizes are exchanged or replaced by the game machine 10's administrator, or at any other time when the prize situation changes.

[0044] RAM71 temporarily stores various programs such as control programs and game programs, as well as various data for controlling the game that is executed by the CPU70. The data recorded in RAM71 includes video (image) data captured by the front camera 12A, top camera 13A, and side camera 14A.

[0045] The storage device 72 stores programs and data in a non-volatile storage medium such as ROM or a hard disk.

[0046] The input / output processing unit 73 is an interface with various input / output devices located outside the control PCB 68. For example, a prize sensor 84 is connected to the input / output processing unit 73. The prize sensor 84 detects prizes that have fallen into the prize drop-off opening 10C and outputs a detection signal to the input / output processing unit 73.

[0047] The camera control unit 74 controls the shooting of the front camera 12A, the top camera 13A, and the side camera 14A in response to instructions from the CPU 70.

[0048] The motor drive unit 76 controls the drive of the motor 82 provided in the mechanism unit 69 (controlling movement in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions). The arm drive unit 77 controls the drive of the arm motor 83 provided in the crane arm 10A for opening and closing the arm.

[0049] The motor 82 is driven by the motor drive unit 76 and includes an X-axis motor for moving the crane arm 10A in the X-axis direction (horizontal direction), a Y-axis motor for moving it in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction), and a Z-axis motor for moving it in the Z-axis direction (up and down direction). The arm motor 83 is driven by the arm drive unit 77 and opens and closes the crane arm 10A.

[0050] When the game server 6 receives operation data ("CATCH") to execute a prize acquisition sequence for the crane arm 10A, the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 will execute the prize acquisition sequence by lowering the tip of the crane arm 10A with the motor 82 until it reaches the prize, then by causing the arm motor 83 to grasp the prize, and then raising the crane arm 10A to the top of the prize drop-off opening 10C before opening the arm.

[0051] The communication control unit 78 controls communication with the game server 6 and the video distribution server 7 under the control of the CPU 70.

[0052] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 6 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the game server 6 includes components that make up a computer, such as a CPU 6a, RAM 6b, storage device 6c, input device 6d, display device 6e, and communication device 6f.

[0053] The CPU 6a performs various processes based on the programs and data stored in RAM 6b, including overall control of the game server 6, management of data stored in memory device 6c, control / management of the game device 10, and control of the video distribution server 7.

[0054] RAM6b stores various programs executed by CPU6a and data executed by various processes. The programs stored in RAM6b include the basic program (OS (Operating System)), management programs for controlling / managing multiple game devices 10, video management programs for acquiring and transmitting video (movies) and images (such as cabinet images) captured by multiple electronic devices 2 to the game management system 1, recording video or images to the video distribution server 7, and controlling the playback and transmission of recorded video / images to the game management system 1.

[0055] The memory device 6c stores various programs and data. The various programs and data stored in the memory device 6c are loaded into the CPU 6a and processed by the CPU 6a. The memory device 6c can also store data such as game video and images of the game device 10 acquired from the game device 10.

[0056] The display device 6e displays a screen corresponding to the processing performed by the CPU 6a on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

[0057] The input device 6d receives data and instructions corresponding to various processes performed by the CPU 6a through input devices such as a keyboard or mouse. The communication device 6f controls communication with the electronic device 2 via the network 4, and with the video distribution server 7 and game device 10 via the network 8, under the control of the CPU 6a.

[0058] Figure 6 shows an example of game machine management data stored in the memory device 1c of the game management system 1. The game machine management data is associated with a game machine number assigned to each game device 10, and includes, for example, the arrangement of prizes (direct placement, across a ladder, hanging, drop-in, etc.), prize information indicating the type of prize used in the game device 10 (stuffed animals 1, 2, ..., dolls 1, 2, ..., figures 1, 2, ...), beginner setting information indicating that the game device 10 is classified as one that is configured to make it easy for beginners to obtain prizes, difficulty information indicating the classification of the game device 10 with set difficulty levels for obtaining prizes, and classification data indicating the classification of the game device 1 (limited machine, new prizes, limited prizes, etc.).

[0059] Game machine management data is referenced, for example, to narrow down the game machines displayed on the screen for operating a crane game machine, i.e., the menu screen for selecting a game machine, so that the player is guided to a specific game machine. The menu for selecting a game machine includes a cabinet image list menu and a prize list menu.

[0060] For example, a list of game machine images or a list of prizes can be displayed by narrowing down the list of game machines 10 classified as crane game machines for beginners based on beginner setting information, or by narrowing down the list of game machines 10 that have a specific prize placed on them based on prize information.

[0061] Furthermore, the storage device 1c of the game management system 1 stores player data (not shown) for managing players who use the game service. As player data, various types of data are stored, such as login management data (number of logins, date and time, etc.), point data, and game execution result data (prizes acquired, prize placement, etc.), associated with individual player identification information (player ID, password, etc.) set for each registered player. Furthermore, as player data, a display mode can be set to show either a prize list menu or a cabinet image list menu as the initial (default) form of the menu for selecting the game machine 10 to play, in response to the player's settings operation.

[0062] Next, the operation of the game management system 1 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the game management system 1 in this embodiment. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the menu screen display of the game management system 1 in this embodiment.

[0063] The game management system 1 publishes a site (hereinafter referred to as the game site) for providing network game services via the network 4. The CPU 1a of the game management system 1 executes a management program to display a menu screen for electronic devices 2 that access the game site, allowing them to select a game device 10 to run or view the game (step A1).

[0064] Furthermore, when using the network game service provided by Game Management System 1, players are required to register in advance to obtain unique identification data (user ID, password, etc.) and to purchase virtual coins (hereinafter simply referred to as "coins") which are managed as data. When accessing the game site, the identification data will be entered. Coin purchases will be carried out, for example, by following the prescribed procedure via electronic device 2 on a site for purchasing coins. Game Management System 1 stores and manages the coins held by each registered player (player ID). In addition to purchasing coins in advance, it is also possible to use the network game service by paying with a credit card or electronic money card.

[0065] Registered players can, for example, set a display mode that shows the form of the menu for selecting the game machine 10 to play by performing a predetermined setting operation on the game site. Unless special settings are made, the prize list menu is set as the initial (default) form, and the machine image list menu can be set by performing a predetermined operation. The data indicating the display mode is stored in association with the player data identification data.

[0066] In the menu screen display process, the game management system 1 refers to the display mode of the accessing player's player data to determine the menu display format. If the display mode is set to the prize list menu (step B1, prize image), the game management system 1 retrieves the prize image for the prize list menu stored in the storage device 1c (step B2), and transmits it to the electronic device 2 to display the prize list menu (step B3).

[0067] Figure 9(A) shows an example of a prize list menu screen displayed on the electronic device 2 based on prize images provided by the game management system 1.

[0068] Electronic device 2 displays a prize list menu, for example, using a browser program, based on prize images received from game management system 1, various data related to the prize images (prize name, display format, number of coins required to play, etc.), and data on the player's coins.

[0069] The prize list menu screen shown in Figure 9(A) includes a coin display area 30, a category selection area 31, a selection area 33, a function selection area 34, a home button 35, a scroll button 37, a refresh button 36, and a toggle button 38.

[0070] The coin display area 30 shows the number of coins the player possesses (expressed in units of TC). The category selection area 31 displays icons for selecting the category to be played in the crane game (prize type, prize placement, instruction, etc.).

[0071] The selection area 33 is provided with multiple selection buttons 330, each corresponding to one of the multiple game devices 10, for selecting the game device 10 to be played. The selection buttons 330 in the selection area 33 include a prize image 331 of the prize that can be won by playing the game device 10, along with the name of the prize 332, a form icon 333 indicating the form in which the prize is placed on the prize stage, and the number of coins 334 required to play the game device 10. Examples of prize placement forms include "direct placement," where the prize is placed directly on the prize stage, and "bridge placement," where the prize is placed on or hooked onto a rod-shaped member stretched between the sides of the cabinet above the prize stage.

[0072] The prize list menu shown in Figure 9(A) indicates that the same "stuffed animal" prize is placed on three different game machines 10, and the same "figure" prize is placed on three different game machines 10.

[0073] The function selection area 34 is equipped with multiple buttons for selecting functions that can be performed through the game site. For example, the function selection area 34 includes buttons for prize search, notification display, prize delivery, and menu.

[0074] The Home button 35 is used to switch from the prize list menu screen to the Home screen. The Refresh button 36 is used to refresh the contents of the prize list menu to the latest information. The Scroll button 37 is used to scroll the selection buttons displayed in the selection area 33. The Switch button 38 is used to switch from the prize list menu screen to the machine image list menu screen.

[0075] When the player on the electronic device 2 instructs the update button 36 on the prize list menu screen to be pressed (screen touch) (step B4, Yes), the game management system 1 acquires the prize image and various data related to the prize image corresponding to the prize currently placed on the game machine 10, and transmits them to the electronic device 2 to display the prize list menu screen (steps B2, B3). For example, if there are changes such as another player playing the game machine 10 and winning a prize, the prizes on the game machine 10 being replaced, or the way the prizes are placed being changed, the prize list menu is updated based on the updated data.

[0076] Furthermore, if there are any operations on the prize list menu screen (Step B6, No), such as a scroll instruction using the scroll button 37 or an instruction to select an icon (category) in the category selection area 31, the game management system 1 will perform other processing according to each instruction (Step B7).

[0077] Furthermore, if the player on the electronic device 2 instructs (touches) the player to press the prize list menu button 38 (step B5, Yes), the game management system 1 switches the prize list menu screen to the machine image list menu screen. In other words, the game management system 1 displays a machine image list menu using machine images that capture the current status of the prizes, which are photographs of the game machines 10 on which each of the prizes displayed in the prize list menu is placed.

[0078] First, the game management system 1 obtains the latest cabinet images from each of the 10 (step B8) and sends them to the electronic device 2 to display the cabinet image list menu screen (step B9).

[0079] Figure 9(B) shows an example of a cabinet image list menu screen displayed on the electronic device 2 based on cabinet images provided by the game management system 1. On the cabinet image list menu screen, instead of the switch button 38, a switch button 39 is provided to instruct the user to switch from the cabinet image list menu screen to the prize list menu screen.

[0080] Electronic device 2 displays a list of cabinet images based on the cabinet images received from the game management system 1, for example, by a browser program. The cabinet image list menu is the same as the prize list menu, but with the prize images 331 replaced by cabinet images 351, and the prize names 332, form icons 333, and coin counts 334 being the same as in the prize list menu.

[0081] The cabinet image 351 is the most recent image of the game device 10, allowing for easy confirmation of the current state of the prizes (whether they are in an easy-to-win state). For example, the cabinet image 351 is an image taken by the front camera 12A of the game device 10.

[0082] In the cabinet image list menu shown in Figure 9(B), the cabinet images of the game machines 10 corresponding to each of the multiple prizes displayed in the prize list menu shown in Figure 9(A) are displayed all at once. Therefore, when the same product is placed on multiple game machines 10, it is easy to determine which game machine 10 is most likely to give the desired prize (to be the target game machine).

[0083] When the update button 36 on the cabinet image list menu screen is operated (screen touch) by the player on the electronic device 2 (step B10, Yes), the game management system 1 obtains the latest cabinet image corresponding to the prize currently placed on the game machine 10 and sends it to the electronic device 2 to display the cabinet image list menu screen (steps B8, B9).

[0084] The cabinet images in the cabinet image list menu are updated to the latest version when the update button 36 is pressed. However, they may be set to update automatically at regular intervals while the cabinet image list menu is displayed, even without any player intervention. Alternatively, they may be set to update automatically at shorter intervals when another player is playing the game device 10.

[0085] Furthermore, if there are any operations on the cabinet image list menu screen (Step B12, No.), for example, if there is an instruction to scroll using the scroll button 37, or an instruction to select an icon (category) in the category selection area 31, the game management system 1 will perform other processing according to each instruction (Step B13).

[0086] Furthermore, if the player on the electronic device 2 instructs (touches) the toggle button 39 for the cabinet image list menu screen to be pressed (step B11, Yes), the game management system 1 switches the cabinet image list menu screen to the prize list menu screen. The display of the prize list menu is performed in the same manner as described above, so the explanation is omitted (steps B2 to B7).

[0087] Furthermore, if any category (such as prize type or prize arrangement) is selected in the category selection area 31, other processing (steps B7, B13) may be performed to narrow down the display target and display either a prize list menu or a cabinet image list menu according to the display mode setting.

[0088] Furthermore, if a prize image is selected by specifying any selection button in the prize list menu (Step B6, Yes), or if a cabinet image is selected by specifying any selection button in the cabinet image list menu (Step B12, Yes), the game management system 1 determines that the player has selected the game device 10 to play and proceeds to the process of starting the game.

[0089] When the electronic device 2 selects any of the game devices 10 from the menu screen, the game management system 1 (CPU1a) outputs the video of the selected game device 10, which is received from the selected game device 10, to the electronic device 2, and displays the video for viewing the game (step A2).

[0090] Electronic device 2 displays a game viewing screen based on video received from game management system 1, for example, by a browser program. Electronic device 2 displays game viewing video in a video display area within a frame designed for game viewing.

[0091] The game viewing screen may display only the video captured by the front camera 12A of the game device 10, or it may display multiple videos of the game device 10 captured from different directions by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A on a single screen. It may also include video captured by the top camera 13A.

[0092] The video for viewing the game may be the same as the video used when playing the game on the game device 10, or the video quality may be reduced to reduce the amount of data before the game starts. For example, it could be a simple video that continuously displays images of the arcade cabinet taken at relatively short intervals (a few seconds).

[0093] On the game viewing screen, the video footage for game viewing captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 is displayed simultaneously on a single screen.

[0094] If the target game machine 10 is currently being played by another player, the gameplay can be viewed using the game viewing video. For example, the movement of the crane arm 10A towards the prizes placed on the prize stage can be simultaneously viewed from the front and side. By comparing the videos taken from different angles, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prizes can be easily understood. This can be used as a reference when playing oneself. Furthermore, even when no other player is playing, the state of the prizes placed on the prize stage can be checked based on videos taken from different angles. This makes it possible to judge how easy it is to win prizes or to consider how to move the crane arm 10A when playing before actually playing.

[0095] Additionally, the game viewing screen displays a reservation button, a coin purchase button, the number of reservations, and the number of viewers.

[0096] The reservation button is used to reserve a play session for the game device 10 being viewed. By operating the reservation button, if another player has already reserved the game device 10, you will be added to the reservation queue; if it is available and no other players have reserved it, you will be able to proceed to gameplay. The coin purchase button is used to move to a site for purchasing coins.

[0097] The number of reservations refers to the number of players who have registered a reservation for the target game machine 10. The number of viewers refers to the number of players who are currently viewing the target game machine 10.

[0098] If, at this point, an operation is made to indicate the end of display (return) on the game viewing screen of electronic device 2 (Step A3, No), the game management system 1 will cause electronic device 2 to display the original cabinet image list menu or prize list menu instead of the game viewing screen (Step A1).

[0099] Meanwhile, when the reservation button is pressed on the game viewing screen of electronic device 2, a reservation request is sent to game management system 1. When game management system 1 receives a reservation request from electronic device 2 (step A3, Yes), it determines whether the player has the necessary number of coins to play game device 10 (i.e., has purchased coins).

[0100] If it is determined that the player does not possess the required number of coins to play (Step A4, No), the game management system 1 returns the display on the game device 10 to the game browsing screen. On the game browsing screen, the player can move to a site for purchasing coins by clicking the coin purchase button and proceed with the process of purchasing the coins necessary to play the game.

[0101] On the other hand, if it is determined that the player possesses the necessary number of coins to play (Step A4, Yes), the game management system 1 displays a confirmation screen (not shown) on the game device 10 to request confirmation from the player on the electronic device 2 regarding the play reservation and coin consumption. The play reservation confirmation screen displays a message indicating that coins will be consumed by playing the game, such as "Do you want to reserve a play?", along with "Yes" and "No" buttons, allowing the player to select one. The play reservation confirmation screen also displays the number of tickets that can be used instead of coins (obtained through a procedure separate from coin purchase), the number of coins, and the number of plays available, to help the player decide whether to reserve a play.

[0102] If the play reservation is canceled by selecting the "No" button (Step A5, No), the game management system 1 returns the display on the game device 10 to the game browsing screen. On the other hand, if the play reservation is instructed to be executed by selecting the "Yes" button (Step A5, Yes), the game management system 1 determines whether it is possible to proceed to game play, assuming that an approval response has been received for the play reservation and coin consumption. In other words, the game management system 1 determines whether the game device 10 is available.

[0103] If the game device 10 is not available (Step A6, No), the game management system 1 adds the player (the electronic device 2 being viewed) to the reservation list (Step A12). In this case, the CPU 6a outputs video data to the electronic device 2 to display the game viewing screen (Step A13). That is, the electronic device 2 is made to display the game viewing screen and continue to view the video of the game device 10 being played by another player, putting it into a waiting state for game play.

[0104] The player of electronic device 2 waits for their turn while watching other players play the game. If a reservation is made, instead of continuing to watch the reserved game device 10, the player may be allowed to switch to watching or playing another game device 10, for example. This allows the player to make effective use of their waiting time. Furthermore, enabling gameplay on other game devices 10 can improve the operational efficiency of game device 10.

[0105] On the other hand, if the game device 10 is available when the reservation is registered (Step A6, Yes), or if another player who was previously on the waiting list has finished playing (Step A14, Yes), the game management system 1 displays a game start preparation screen (not shown) on the electronic device 2. The game start preparation screen displays, for example, a "Start" button to instruct the start of gameplay, and also displays a countdown of the remaining time (effective time) for which the "Start" button operation will be effective. For example, the initial effective time is set to "60" seconds, and the display changes to "59", "58", etc., as time passes.

[0106] If the "Start" button is not pressed within the valid time, the game management system 1 determines that the game reservation has been canceled by the player on the electronic device 2 (Step A7, No), deletes the reservation registration, and subtracts the current number of reservations (-1) (Step A11). Then, the game management system 1 displays the menu screen on the electronic device 2 (Step A1).

[0107] On the other hand, if the "Start" button is pressed within the valid time (Step A7, Yes), the game management system 1 starts the game process to allow the player on the electronic device 2 to play the game device 10 (Step A8). The game management system 1 updates (subtracts) the number of coins the player possesses according to the number of coins required to play the game, and starts the game on the game device 10.

[0108] The game management system 1 outputs a game execution request to the game device 10, and in response to this game execution request, it transmits video data to the electronic device 2 to display a play screen (hereinafter referred to as the play screen) that includes gameplay video output from the game device 10, thereby displaying the play screen. The play screen simultaneously displays video captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 on a single screen.

[0109] Electronic device 2 displays the gameplay screen on a display device based on video data of the gameplay screen received from the game management system 1. On the gameplay screen, the position of the crane arm 10A relative to the prize placed on the prize stage can be simultaneously confirmed by viewing the video from both the front and the side. By comparing the video taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily understood. This allows the player to reliably and easily position the crane arm 10A relative to the prize as intended. In other words, it makes it easier to understand the status of the game.

[0110] The gameplay screen also displays a "CATCH" button to execute the prize acquisition sequence, directional buttons corresponding to the left, right, down, and up directions, as well as the remaining gameplay time, the number of reservations, and the number of viewers.

[0111] The directional buttons include buttons for moving the crane arm 10A left and right (X-axis direction) when viewed from the front, and buttons for moving it forward and backward (Y-axis direction).

[0112] CPU 6a displays an initial value for the remaining game time, for example "60" seconds, when the game starts, and changes the display to "59", "58", etc., as time progresses. The game management system 1 receives operation data corresponding to each button in response to input operations on the directional buttons of the electronic device 2 and outputs it to the game device 10. The game device 10 operates the crane arm 10A according to the operation data. The player on the electronic device 2 can check the movement of the crane arm 10A based on the gameplay video displayed on the play screen.

[0113] In this way, once the player has positioned the crane arm 10A vertically and horizontally while checking the gameplay video displayed on the play screen, they can instruct the prize acquisition sequence to be executed by pressing the "CATCH" button.

[0114] When the game management system 1 receives operation data from the electronic device 2 instructing the prize acquisition sequence, it causes the game device 10 to execute the prize acquisition sequence. The game device 10 causes the crane arm 10A to perform the actions of the prize acquisition sequence. Specifically, the game device 10 lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it can reach the prize, causes the arm to grasp the prize, then raises the crane arm 10A, moves it to the top of the prize drop-off opening 10C, and then opens the arm.

[0115] As a result, if a prize falls into the prize drop-off slot 10C, it is detected by the prize sensor 84. The game device 10 notifies the game management system 1 that a prize has been dispensed (successful prize acquisition) in response to the detection signal from the prize sensor 84. The game device 10 also notifies the game management system 1 that the prize did not fall into the prize drop-off slot 10C (failure to acquire a prize) if there is no detection by the prize sensor 84 within a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) after the execution of the prize acquisition sequence. The game management system 1 then executes processing in response to the notification of prize acquisition from the game device 10. For example, if the game management system 1 is notified of successful prize acquisition, it displays a game acquisition message screen (e.g., a message such as "Congratulations on winning a prize") on the electronic device 2 instead of the play screen SC.

[0116] Furthermore, the game management system 1 performs a game result recording process (step A9) that records the game results of a single game as a player-specific play history, associated with the player's identification data.

[0117] In the game result recording process, for example, a unique identification data (play ID) is set for each game, and information about the prize placed on the game device 10, the date and time of game play, and a status indicating success or failure in acquiring the prize as the game result are recorded. Furthermore, video data of the game device 10 captured during game execution is recorded on the video distribution server 7. The video data recorded in the game recording process can be, for example, video footage of game play from the start of the game until a predetermined time after the execution of the prize acquisition sequence, or video data captured by each of the multiple cameras received from the game device 10, or all of them.

[0118] Next, the game management system 1 displays a continue confirmation screen on the electronic device 2 to ask the player whether to continue playing the game. The continue confirmation screen displays a message such as "CONTINUE?" along with "Yes" and "No" buttons, allowing the player to select one of them. The continue confirmation screen also displays the number of tickets the player possesses, the number of coins, and the number of plays remaining to help the player decide whether to continue playing the game.

[0119] If the game is canceled by selecting the "No" button (Step A10, Yes), the game management system 1 subtracts (-1) the current number of reservations (Step A11) in accordance with the completion of one player's gameplay, and returns the display on the game device 10 to the menu screen. The game management system 1 also instructs the game device 10 to end the game.

[0120] On the other hand, if the player is instructed to continue playing the game by selecting the "Yes" button (Step A10, No), the game management system 1 updates (subtracts) the number of coins the player possesses according to the number of coins required to play the game, as described above, and starts the game using the game device 10. The process for playing the game is then executed in the same manner as described above (Steps A7 to A10). Thus, the player can play the game multiple times in order to win a single prize.

[0121] Next, a modified example of the menu screen display by the game management system 1 in this embodiment will be described.

[0122] Figure 10 shows an example of a housing image displayed in the housing image list menu.

[0123] In the cabinet image list menu shown in Figure 9(B), the cabinet image 351 is an image taken by the front camera 12A on the game device 10. However, as shown in Figure 10, the front cabinet image 41 taken by the front camera 12A and the side cabinet image 42 taken by the side camera 14A may be displayed simultaneously.

[0124] Furthermore, to make it easy to determine from which direction the front cabinet image 41 and the side cabinet image 42 were taken relative to the game device 10, shooting direction information 43 and 44 indicating the shooting direction (front, side) is added to each image.

[0125] This allows users to check the ease of obtaining prizes from the front and side views of the game machine 10 in the cabinet image list menu.

[0126] Furthermore, if the sensor detects that the electronic device 2 is being used with its display screen in landscape orientation, the front housing image 41 and the side housing image 42 may be displayed simultaneously, as shown in Figure 10. If the sensor detects that the display screen is being used with its display screen in portrait orientation, only the front housing image 41 (or the side housing image 42) may be displayed.

[0127] Figure 11 shows an example of a housing image displayed in the housing image list menu.

[0128] In the cabinet image list menu shown in Figure 9(B), cabinet image 351 is an image taken by the front camera 12A on the game device 10. However, as shown in Figures 11(A) and 11(B), the cabinet image list menu may be configured to allow switching between a front cabinet image 46 (Figure 11(A)) taken by the front camera 12A and a side cabinet image 47 (Figure 11(B)) taken by the side camera 14A.

[0129] The front casing image 46 is provided with a shooting direction switching button 48, and the side casing image 47 is provided with a shooting direction switching button 49. When the front casing image 46 is displayed, if the shooting direction switching button 48 is pressed, the image switches to the side casing image 47. Also, when the side casing image 47 is displayed, if the shooting direction switching button 49 is pressed, the image switches back to the front casing image 46.

[0130] This allows the front cabinet image 46 and side cabinet image 47 to be displayed separately in the cabinet image list menu, making it possible to check the ease of winning prizes. By switching between displaying the front cabinet image 46 and the side cabinet image 47, the menu screen, which has size limitations, can be used effectively.

[0131] Figure 12(A) shows an example of a prize list menu, and Figure 12(B) shows an example of switching a part of the prize list menu to a machine image list menu.

[0132] In the selection area 33 of the prize list menu screen shown in Figure 9(A), a selection button 330 is provided for each prize placed on the game machine 10. However, in the selection area 51 of the prize list menu screen shown in Figure 12(A), the same prizes are grouped together and displayed as a single selection button 53 based on the game machine management data. The selection button 53 shown in Figure 12(A) is assumed to display three identical prizes together as a single selection button 53. In addition, each of the multiple selection buttons 53 in the selection area 51 is provided with a toggle button 531 to instruct the user to switch the display of the prize list menu.

[0133] When the toggle button 531 is operated, based on the game machine management data, multiple selection buttons 54 are displayed, each changed to an image of the game machine 10 on which the prize corresponding to the selection button 53 of the toggle button 531 is placed. The prize list menu shown in Figure 12(B) includes a cabinet image list menu in part. That is, as shown in Figure 12(A), when the toggle button 531 provided on one selection button 53 is operated, three identical prizes are grouped together as one selection button 53, and as shown in Figure 12(B), selection buttons 54 corresponding to three game machines 10 are displayed.

[0134] Each of the selection buttons 54 is provided with a toggle button 541 for instructing the user to switch the display of the prize list menu.

[0135] If any of the three selection buttons 54 are operated on the toggle button 541, one selection button 53 will be displayed with the prize image corresponding to the three selection buttons 54. That is, as shown in Figure 12(A), one selection button 53 will be displayed that combines the same prizes.

[0136] This allows users to switch between multiple selection buttons 54, each containing a picture of a game machine 10 with the same prize, by operating the selection button 53 that groups identical prizes together in the prize list menu. Therefore, by referring to the game machine images on the selection button 54, users can easily select the game machine 10 to play from among the multiple game machines 10 that contain the desired prize, after checking the placement and ease of obtaining the prize.

[0137] Figure 13(A) shows an example of a prize list menu, and Figures 13(B) and (C) show an example of switching part of the prize list menu to a machine image list menu.

[0138] In the selection area 61 of the prize list menu screen shown in Figure 13(A), a selection button 63 is provided for each prize placed on the game device 10, similar to Figure 9(A). In the prize list menu screen shown in Figure 13(A), a switch button 631 is provided for each of the multiple selection buttons 63 in the selection area 61 to instruct switching between them.

[0139] When the toggle button 631 is operated, the selected button 64 is changed to display an image of the game machine 10 casing on which the prize corresponding to the selected button 63 of the operated toggle button 631 is placed. The prize list menu shown in Figure 13(B) includes a casing image list menu in part. That is, one selected button 64 is displayed corresponding to one selected button 63 shown in Figure 13(A), similar to the casing image list menu.

[0140] Therefore, by operating the toggle button 631 on the multiple selection buttons 63 in the selection area 61 shown in Figure 13(A), the prize list menu shown in Figure 13(C) will display multiple selection buttons 64 (a list of cabinet images) including cabinet images.

[0141] Figure 13(C) shows the state in which multiple selection buttons 64 (a list of housing images menu) are displayed by operating the toggle button 631 on multiple selection buttons 63 (in this case, three).

[0142] Although it is stated that multiple selection buttons 64 are displayed by individually operating the toggle button 631 for multiple selection buttons 63, it is also possible to display multiple selection buttons 64 by operating the toggle button 631 for a single selection button 63. In other words, based on the game management data, the game machine 10 that has the same prize as the prize of the selection button 63 for which the toggle button 631 was operated is identified, and as shown in Figure 13(C), multiple selection buttons 64 (a list of machine images) corresponding to the game machine 10 are displayed.

[0143] The selection button 64 is equipped with a toggle button 641 for instructing the user to switch the display of the prize list menu.

[0144] When the select button 64 is operated on the toggle button 641, the select button 63 is changed to display the prize image of the prize corresponding to the operated select button 64. That is, the select button 63 shown in Figure 13(A) is displayed.

[0145] This allows users to easily display images of the prize cabinets by individually operating the prize list menu toggle button 641 for each prize (selection button 63), and then check the status of the desired prize.

[0146] Figure 14(A) shows an example of a prize list menu, and Figure 14(B) shows an example of switching a part of the prize list menu to a machine image list menu.

[0147] In the prize list menu shown in Figure 9(A), a toggle button 38 is provided, and the cabinet image list menu is displayed in response to the operation of the toggle button 38. However, in Figure 14(A), the cabinet image list menu (cabinet images) is displayed by a different operation.

[0148] In the example shown in Figure 14(B), the display of the cabinet image is instructed by a touch operation on the touch panel, which is different from the operation of selecting the game device 10 to be played, for example, by a touch operation on the touch panel. For example, if the operation of selecting the game device 10 is a tap operation (short touch), the switch is instructed by continuing to touch (long press).

[0149] In the selection area 70 shown in Figure 14(B), the casing image 700 is displayed while the player's hand (finger) 72 is touching the selection button 330. When the player's hand (finger) 72 is released, it returns to the selection button 330 shown in Figure 14(A).

[0150] As a result, by simply touching the multiple selection buttons 330 displayed in the selection area 33, an image of the game cabinet will be displayed, allowing users to easily check the status of the prizes in each game machine 10 using the cabinet image.

[0151] In the example shown in Figure 14(B), the cabinet image is displayed at the original size of the selection button. However, it is also possible to enlarge the target cabinet image and display it in the center of the screen to make it easier to check the condition of the prize.

[0152] Furthermore, the instruction for switching is not limited to a continuous touch (long press) operation; any operation different from the operation for selecting the game device 10 is acceptable. Also, when using a pointing device such as a mouse, the cabinet image may be displayed in a similar manner by moving the cursor to the selection button 330.

[0153] The cabinet images in the cabinet image list menu mentioned above (Figures 9 to 14) are described as intermittently captured still images, but they can also be used as a simple video displaying cabinet images captured at relatively short intervals (a few seconds) in sequence. Furthermore, video footage can be displayed instead of cabinet images. For example, when the target game device 10 is played, the game play video (or multiple cabinet images capable of displaying a simple video) recorded on the video distribution server 7 by the game result recording process, and the last video (cabinet image) that records a status indicating successful prize acquisition as a game result, can be displayed as a sample video.

[0154] This allows users to check the operation of the crane arm 10A when a prize is obtained through a demonstration video, judge how easy it is to win a prize, and select the game machine 10 to play.

[0155] Furthermore, in order to display the example video in the cabinet image list menu, it is necessary to send gameplay video (or multiple cabinet images) corresponding to each game device 10 from the game management system 1 to the electronic device 2, which results in a large amount of data communication. In this case, the gameplay video (or multiple cabinet images) will be sent only for the selection button (game device 10) to be displayed on the cabinet image list menu screen, or, in case of further scrolling, including the range before and after the currently displayed image. This will reduce the amount of data transmitted when switching menus.

[0156] In addition, although the above explanation states that the display of the menu is controlled by the game management system 1 (server, cloud system), this may also be achieved by the game server 6 provided in the game system 5.

[0157] Furthermore, while the above explanation states that the browser program on electronic device 2 displays screens for using the game service, including the prize list menu and the cabinet image list menu, it is also possible to have this done by a dedicated application program for using the game service.

[0158] Furthermore, although the above description refers to game device 10 as a crane game device, it is not limited to crane game devices; other prize acquisition game devices can also be used. Examples of other prize acquisition games include those in which prizes placed on a rotating table (field) are scooped up and dropped using a crane mechanism or shovel (bucket), those in which prizes placed on a table are dropped by tilting the table, those in which prizes placed on a field are pulled forward or pushed to fall, those in which prizes are dropped by hooking them with strings attached to them, and those in which prizes are lifted up with something like a fishing hook.

[0159] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and the components can be modified and implemented in practice without departing from the spirit of the invention. Also, various inventions can be formed by appropriate combinations of the multiple components disclosed in the embodiments. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

[0160] Furthermore, the methods described in the embodiments can be distributed by storing the program (software means) that can be executed by a computer on recording media such as magnetic disks (flexible disks, hard disks, etc.), optical disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs, MOs, Blu-ray®, etc.), and semiconductor memory (ROMs, RAMs, flash memory, etc.), and by transmitting them via communication media. The program stored on the media also includes a configuration program that configures the software means (including not only the executable program but also tables and data structures) to be executed by the computer. The computer implementing this device reads the program recorded on the recording media and, if necessary, constructs the software means using the configuration program, and executes the above-described process by controlling the operation of this software means. Note that the recording media referred to in this specification are not limited to those for distribution, but also include storage media such as magnetic disks and semiconductor memory provided inside a computer or in devices connected via a network. The invention described in the original claims of the application is listed below. [Claim 1] A video acquisition means that acquires images of the cabinets of multiple game machines, including the crane arm installed on the game machine and the prize stage on which the prizes are placed, A first list display means outputs multiple cabinet images taken for each of the multiple game devices to an electronic device and displays a cabinet image list on the electronic device that displays the multiple cabinet images on a single screen, A control means that operates the crane arm of a game device corresponding to the selected cabinet image in the cabinet image list by transmitting data input by the operation of the electronic device to the game device. A game management device having the following features. [Claim 2] A second list display means for displaying a list of prizes on an electronic device, which displays images of multiple prizes placed on multiple game devices on a single screen, A switching means that switches between the housing image in the housing image list and the prize image in the prize list in response to a display switching instruction in the electronic device. The game management device according to claim 1, further comprising: [Claim 3] The aforementioned video acquisition means acquires a first cabinet image taken from the front of the game device and a second cabinet image taken from the side. The game management device according to claim 1, wherein the first list display means is used to display at least one of the first cabinet image and the second cabinet image in the cabinet image list, by tilting it to one game device. [Claim 4] The game management device according to claim 2, wherein the first list display means displays an image of the game device housing corresponding to the selected prize image when any of the prize images in the prize list displayed by the second list display means is selected by operation on the electronic device. [Claim 5] The game management device according to claim 2, wherein the first list display means displays images of the casings of a plurality of game devices on which the prize corresponding to the selected prize image is placed when any of the prize images in the prize list displayed by the second list display means is selected by operation on the electronic device. [Claim 6] Computers, A video acquisition means that acquires images of the cabinets of multiple game machines, including the crane arm installed on the game machine and the prize stage on which the prizes are placed, A first list display means outputs multiple cabinet images taken for each of the multiple game devices to an electronic device and displays a cabinet image list on the electronic device that displays the multiple cabinet images on a single screen, A program for causing the crane arm of a game device corresponding to a selected cabinet image in the cabinet image list to function as a control means that transmits data input by operation on the electronic device to the game device and operates it. [Claim 7] Computers, A video acquisition means that acquires multiple cabinet images taken for each of multiple game machines, including the crane arm installed on the game machine and the prize stage on which the prizes are placed, A first list display means for displaying a list of housing images that displays the multiple housing images on one screen, A second list display means for displaying a list of prizes, which displays images of multiple prizes placed on multiple game machines on a single screen, A switching means that switches between the cabinet image in the cabinet image list and the prize image in the prize list in response to a display switching instruction, A program that functions as a control means for receiving operations to control the movement of the crane arm of a game machine on which a prize corresponding to a game machine image selected from the list of game machine images or a prize corresponding to a prize image selected from the list of prizes is placed, and for transmitting data input by the operations. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0161] 1...Game management system, 2...Electronic equipment, 6...Game server, 6a...CPU, 10...Game device, 10A...Crane arm, 10B...Prize stage, 10C...Prize drop-off point, 12A...Front camera, 13A...Top camera, 14A...Side camera.

Claims

1. A first display means for displaying images of prizes placed on multiple crane game machines on an electronic device, A second display means outputs images of the casings of each of the multiple crane game machines, including the prize stage on which the prizes are placed, to the electronic device, and when a prize image displayed by the first display means is selected by operation on the electronic device, the second display means displays the images of the casings of the multiple crane game machines on which the prizes corresponding to the selected prize image are placed. When a housing image displayed by the second display means is selected by operation on the electronic device, a control means operates a crane game device corresponding to the selected housing image. It has, The second display means is a game management device that displays the cabinet image at a size larger than the size used to display the prize image.

2. The game management device according to claim 1, wherein the second display means displays images of the cabinets corresponding to multiple crane game machines, each having a different arrangement of prizes on the prize stage, on a single screen.

3. The game management device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second display means updates with a newly captured image of the casing every certain period of time.

4. Computers, A first display means for displaying images of prizes placed on multiple crane game machines on an electronic device, A second display means outputs images of the casings of each of the multiple crane game machines, including the prize stage on which the prizes are placed, to the electronic device, and when a prize image displayed by the first display means is selected by operation on the electronic device, the second display means displays the images of the casings of the multiple crane game machines on which the prizes corresponding to the selected prize image are placed. A program for causing a crane game device corresponding to a selected housing image to function as a control means when a housing image displayed by the second display means is selected by operation on the electronic device, The second display means is a program that displays the housing image enlarged to a size greater than the size used to display the prize image.

Images