Game system, method of operating the game system, and program

Abstract

To accelerate arbitrary provision of a value medium by a user.SOLUTION: A game system 1 comprises: a game control unit which causes a progress of a game played by a user Ua; a medium receiving unit which receives arbitrary provision of one of a plurality of types of value media from the user Ua; and a reproduction control unit which causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character and when the medium receiving unit receives the provision of the value medium, causes the reproduction device to reproduce a performance effect corresponding to the type of the value medium, the performance effect concerning the virtual character.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to games. [Background Art]

[0002] Systems have been conventionally proposed in which a plurality of users voluntarily give rewards for the provision of various services. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a plurality of users viewing content such as moving images give a virtual item to the distributor of said content. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 6001757 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] However, in conventional systems, it is actually not easy to provide users with sufficient incentives to provide a value medium for a specific service. In consideration of the foregoing circumstances, an object of the present invention is to promote the provision of value media by users. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] In order to solve the foregoing problems, a game system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a game control unit that progresses a game played by a user; a medium reception unit that receives arbitrary provision of any one of a plurality of types of value media from said user; and a reproduction control unit that causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character, and that, when said medium reception unit receives provision of said value medium, causes said reproduction device to reproduce a presentation effect related to said virtual character that corresponds to the type of said value medium.

[0006] A method of operating a game system according to one aspect of the present invention involves progressing a game played by a user, receiving an optional provision of one of several types of value media from the user, reproducing a virtual character in a playback device, and, upon receiving the provision of the value media, reproducing a performance effect related to the virtual character, which corresponds to the type of value media, in the playback device.

[0007] A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer system to function as follows: a game control unit that advances a game played by a user; a media receiving unit that receives an optional provision of any of a plurality of value media from the user; and a playback control unit that causes a virtual character to be reproduced by a playback device, and when the media receiving unit receives the provision of the value media, causes the playback device to reproduce a performance effect related to the virtual character, which is a performance effect corresponding to the type of value media. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a game system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a management unit. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the guidance screen. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a gaming unit. [Figure 5] This flowchart illustrates the specific steps involved in the processing performed by the control unit of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a reception device. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of the game screen. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the game screen. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a control system. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the confirmation screen. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of the confirmation screen. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing for operating a virtual character. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing executed by a control device of a gaming unit in connection with tipping of value media. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram of notification data. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram of a game screen. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing executed by a control device of a management unit. [Figure 17] It is an explanatory diagram of a presentation effect when "medal" is selected. [Figure 18] It is an explanatory diagram of a presentation effect when "coin" is selected. [Figure 19] It is an explanatory diagram of a presentation effect when "electronic money" is selected. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing executed by a control device of a control system. [Figure 21] It is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a communication system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing executed by a terminal device in connection with tipping. [Figure 23] It is a schematic diagram of a guidance screen in a modified example. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below include various technically preferable limitations. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated below.

[0010] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a game system 1 according to a first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the game system 1 of the first embodiment includes a game device 10 and a control system 20. Although an actual game system 1 includes a plurality of game devices 10, for convenience of the following description, focus will be placed on one game device 10.

[0011] The game device 10 is installed, for example, in a game facility. The game facility is, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The game device 10 is a computer system that provides a game to a user Ua (that is, a player) in the game facility. The game device 10 used in a casino is also referred to as a gaming machine.

[0012] The game device 10 includes a management unit 30 and a plurality of game units 40. Each of the plurality of game units 40 is a device used by the user Ua to play a game. One or more users Ua play a game using different game units 40. The management unit 30 is a device that controls the progress of a game by each game unit 40. Note that the plurality of game units 40 may be configured integrally with the management unit 30, or may be configured separately from the management unit 30.

[0013] The control system 20 is a computer system for controlling the operation of the game device 10. For example, a server system installed outside the game facility is used as the control system 20. The control system 20 is operated by an administrator Ub. The administrator Ub is a user such as an employee of an organization that operates the control system 20. An event (hereinafter referred to as a "special event") in which the administrator Ub remotely manages the progress of a game played by a plurality of users Ua is implemented. The special event is implemented within the game facility over a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as an "implementation period"). The special event is implemented a plurality of times in different implementation periods.

[0014] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management unit 30. As illustrated in Figure 2, the management unit 30 comprises a control device 31, a storage device 32, a communication device 33, a playback device 34, a lottery device 35, and an imaging device 36. The management unit 30 can be implemented as a single device or as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

[0015] The control device 31 is composed of one or more processors that control each element of the management unit 30, for example. Specifically, the control device 31 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0016] The storage device 32 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 31 and various data used by the control device 31. For example, known recording media such as semiconductor recording media and magnetic recording media, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, can be used as the storage device 32.

[0017] The lottery device 35 is a mechanism that performs a physical lottery by randomly selecting one of several lottery elements. The winner or loser of user Ua is determined according to the result of the physical lottery. For example, the lottery device 35 is exemplified by a rotating disc (roulette) into which a lottery object such as a sphere enters one of several lottery holes, or a lottery machine into which one or more lottery objects enter one or more lottery holes. Alternatively, an electronic lottery, in which the winner or loser of user Ua is determined by calculations performed by the control device 31, may be used instead of the physical lottery. In a configuration in which an electronic lottery is performed, the lottery device 35 may be omitted.

[0018] The imaging device 36 is a recording device that records the game status in the game device 10. The imaging device 36 comprises, for example, an optical system such as a photographic lens and an image sensor that converts incident light from the optical system into an electrical signal. The imaging device 36 of the first embodiment generates a video representing the status of the lottery device 35 by imaging the lottery device 35.

[0019] The playback device 34 plays video, including both video and audio. Specifically, the playback device 34 comprises a display device 341 that displays video and a sound emitter 342 that emits audio. The display device 341 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display panel. The sound emitter 342 is, for example, a speaker. Multiple users Ua using different game units 40 can view the video displayed by the display device 341 and the audio emitted by the sound emitter 342.

[0020] The control device 31 of the first embodiment causes the guidance screen Ga, illustrated in Figure 3, to be displayed on the display device 341. The guidance screen Ga is an image for supporting or guiding each user Ua, and includes an image of a virtual character C. The virtual character C is an object in a virtual space that represents a creature that supports or guides each user Ua in playing the game. For example, the virtual character C is a virtual facilitator (dealer) that advances the game. The control device 31 controls the actions of the virtual character C in parallel with the progress of the game. The sound emitter 342 emits the voice of the virtual character C. As can be understood from the above description, the control device 31 functions as an element (playback control unit) that reproduces the virtual character C on the playback device 34.

[0021] The communication device 33 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 (e.g., the Internet) under the control of the control device 31. For example, the control device 31 transmits status data Q, which represents the game status in the game device 10, to the control system 20 via the communication device 33. Specifically, the status data Q is data representing the image of the lottery device 35 generated by the imaging device 36 and the progress of the game. The status data Q is continuously transmitted to the control system 20 during the period of the special event. The communication between the communication device 33 and the communication network 2 may be either wired or wireless. The communication device 33 also communicates with each of the multiple game units 40. The method of communication between the communication device 33 and each game unit 40 (e.g., wired / wireless) is arbitrary.

[0022] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the gaming unit 40. As illustrated in Figure 4, the gaming unit 40 comprises a control device 41, a storage device 42, a communication device 43, a recording device 44, an operation device 45, a reception device 46, and a display device 47. The gaming unit 40 can be implemented as a single device or as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

[0023] The control device 41 consists of one or more processors that control each element of the game unit 40, for example. Specifically, the control device 41 is composed of one or more types of processors such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The functions of the control device 41 may also be incorporated into the control device 31.

[0024] The storage device 42 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 41 and various data used by the control device 41. For example, known recording media such as semiconductor recording media and magnetic recording media, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, can be used as the storage device 42. In the first embodiment, the storage device 42 stores, for example, the amount of credits held by user Ua. Credits are the game value that user Ua uses to play the game.

[0025] The recording device 44 in Figure 4 is an image input system that records the status of user Ua. Specifically, the recording device 44 comprises an imaging device 441 that captures video of user Ua and an audio recording device 442 that captures the voice of user Ua. The control device 41 generates recording data R representing the video captured by the imaging device 441 and the audio recorded by the audio recording device 442. Recording data R is continuously generated throughout the duration of the special event.

[0026] The communication device 43 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 under the control of the control device 41. For example, the control device 41 transmits the recorded data R generated by the recording device 44 to the control system 20 via the communication device 43. That is, the recorded data R is continuously transmitted to the control system 20 during the duration of the special event. The communication between the communication device 43 and the communication network 2 may be either wired or wireless. The communication device 43 also communicates with the management unit 30.

[0027] The operating device 45 is an input device that accepts operations from the user Ua. Specifically, the operating device 45 comprises a plurality of operators operated by the user Ua and a touch panel integrated with the display device 47.

[0028] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the process that the control device 41 executes when a program stored in the memory device 42 is run. The game is repeated multiple times during the special event period. The process shown in Figure 5 is executed for each game run.

[0029] User Ua can instruct the operating device 45 to use a desired amount of credits from their holdings (i.e., to place a bet). The control device 41 receives the instruction from user Ua to use credits (Sa1). After a waiting period for instructions from user Ua has elapsed, the management unit 30 performs a physical lottery using the lottery device 35.

[0030] The control device 41 determines whether user Ua has won or lost based on the result of the physical lottery by the lottery device 35 (Sa2). The control device 41 performs a settlement process to increase or decrease the amount of credits according to the determination result (Sa3). Specifically, if user Ua has won, the control device 41 adds a reward to user Ua's credits corresponding to the amount of credits used. If user Ua has lost, the control device 41 subtracts the amount used in this game from user Ua's credits. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 41 of each game unit 40 functions as an element (game control unit) that advances the game played by user Ua. The status data Q mentioned above represents the status of game progress, which can be various situations such as the use of credits by each user Ua, the result of the physical lottery by the lottery device 35, or the granting of rewards to each user Ua.

[0031] The reception device 46 in Figure 4 is a device that receives value media from user Ua. Value media are tangible or intangible media that user Ua consumes in order to play the game. In the game device 10 of the first embodiment, user Ua is granted a quantity of credits corresponding to the quantity of value media received by the reception device 46.

[0032] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the receiving device 46. As illustrated in Figure 6, the receiving device 46 comprises a first receiving section 461, a second receiving section 462, and a third receiving section 463 that receive different types of value media.

[0033] The first reception unit 461 accepts payment of medals by user Ua. Medals are a form of substitute currency, an example of a tangible medium of value, and are distinguished into physical medals (tokens), which are tangible mediums of value, and electronic medals, which are intangible mediums of value. The first reception unit 461 that accepts physical medals includes, for example, a transport path for transporting the physical medals supplied by user Ua to the input slot, and a counting machine for counting the physical medals. The first reception unit 461 that accepts electronic medals is a communication device that communicates with a management server device (not shown) that manages electronic medal accounts for each user Ua. That is, the first reception unit 461 performs a withdrawal process to transfer electronic medals from the account managed by the management server device to the game device 10. Alternatively, a reader that transfers electronic medals from a recording medium such as an IC card on which the electronic medals are recorded to the game device 10 may be used as the first reception unit 461.

[0034] The second reception unit 462 accepts coins, which are an example of a tangible medium of value, from the user Ua. For example, the second reception unit 462 includes a transport path for transporting the coins inserted into the slot by the user Ua, and a counting machine for counting the coins. The second reception unit 462 may also accept banknotes from the user Ua.

[0035] The third reception unit 463 accepts electronic money from user Ua. Electronic money is an intangible value medium recorded as electronic data on a recording medium such as an IC card. For example, a reader that performs electronic payment of electronic money via short-range wireless communication with a recording medium, or a communication device that performs electronic payment via communication with an electronic payment server, can be used as the third reception unit 463.

[0036] As illustrated above, the receiving device 46 of the first embodiment is capable of receiving multiple types of value media. User Ua selectively pays the desired value media (medals, coins, and electronic money) to the receiving device 46. A quantity of credits corresponding to the amount of value media paid is awarded to user Ua. For example, consider a case where the quantity of medals (physical medals or electronic medals) received by the first receiving unit 461 from user Ua is multiplied by a conversion rate α to award user Ua a quantity of credits. The conversion rate α is a predetermined positive number. As described above with reference to Figure 5, user Ua plays the game using credits. That is, user Ua can play the game by consuming value media.

[0037] As described above, user Ua can optionally provide value media consumed in the game for the virtual character C (hereinafter referred to as "tipping"). Tipping of value media means providing value media at the user Ua's discretion, not providing value media required for the game's play or progress. For example, tipping is an act in which user Ua voluntarily provides value media out of a desire to support virtual character C. In other words, whether or not user Ua tips does not affect the start or progress of the game. In the first embodiment, user Ua can selectively tip for a desired type of value media from among the multiple types of value media consumed in the game's play. The control device 41 transmits notification data N to notify user Ua of tipping to the control system 20 and the management unit 30 via the communication device 43.

[0038] The display device 47 in Figure 4 displays an image under the control of the control device 41. The display device 47 is composed of a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. In the first embodiment, the display device 47 displays the game screen Gb in Figure 7 under the control of the control device 41. The game screen Gb is an image that the user Ua views in order to play the game.

[0039] As illustrated in Figure 7, the game screen Gb includes a play image Gb1 and an operation image Gb2. The game of the first embodiment is a bingo game that uses a lottery card in which multiple lottery elements (specifically numbers) are arranged in a matrix. The play image Gb1 displays the lottery card. The control device 41 determines that user Ua has won when the lottery elements selected sequentially by physical drawing from among the multiple lottery elements of the lottery card are arranged in a row (vertically / horizontally / diagonally).

[0040] The operation image Gb2 is a button that user Ua uses to instruct tipping using a value medium. When user Ua operates the operation image Gb2, multiple options Gb3 corresponding to different types of value media are displayed, as illustrated in Figure 8. User Ua selects one option Gb3 from among the multiple types of value media that corresponds to the desired value medium to be used for tipping.

[0041] Figure 8 illustrates a state where three options Gb3 are displayed: "medals," "coins," and "electronic money." In Figure 8, the "medals" option Gb3 is a button for user Ua to instruct the user to tip using virtual medals. Virtual medals are a medium of value (virtual medals) that corresponds to a portion of the credits held by user Ua. The "coins" option Gb3 is a button for instructing the user to tip using coins accepted by the second reception unit 462. The "electronic money" option Gb3 is a button for instructing the user to tip using electronic money accepted by the third reception unit 463.

[0042] Figure 9 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control system 20. As illustrated in Figure 9, the control system 20 comprises a control device 21, a storage device 22, a communication device 23, an operating device 24, a sound pickup device 25, and a playback device 26. The control system 20 can be implemented as a single device or as a group of devices configured separately from each other.

[0043] The control device 21 is composed of one or more processors that control each element of the control system 20, for example. Specifically, the control device 21 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC.

[0044] The storage device 22 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 21 and various data used by the control device 21. For example, known recording media such as semiconductor recording media and magnetic recording media, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, can be used as the storage device 22.

[0045] The operating device 24 is an input device that accepts operations from the administrator Ub. Specifically, the operating device 24 comprises a plurality of operators operated by the administrator Ub and a touch panel integrated with the display device 261. The sound collection device 25 collects the voice spoken by the administrator Ub. The control device 21 generates audio data V representing the voice collected by the sound collection device 25. Audio data V is continuously generated throughout the duration of the special event.

[0046] The communication device 23 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 under the control of the control device 21. For example, the communication device 23 receives status data Q transmitted from the management unit 30 and recorded data R and notification data N transmitted from each game unit 40. The status data Q and recorded data R are continuously received during the period in which the special event is being held. The communication between the communication device 23 and the communication network 2 may be either wired or wireless.

[0047] In the first embodiment, the control device 21 transmits voice data V, representing the voice of administrator Ub, to the management unit 30 via the communication device 23. The voice data V is continuously transmitted to the management unit 30 throughout the duration of the special event.

[0048] As illustrated in Figure 3, the control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the sound emitter 342 to emit the voice represented by the voice data V received by the communication device 33 from the control system 20 (the utterance "Game Start!") as the voice of virtual character C. Alternatively, the sound emitter 342 may emit a voice obtained by converting the voice quality of administrator Ub as the voice of virtual character C. As illustrated above, during the period in which the special event is being held, the voice of virtual character C is continuously emitted from the sound emitter 342 of the management unit 30.

[0049] The playback device 26 in Figure 9 plays video, including both video and audio. Specifically, the playback device 26 comprises a display device 261 that displays video and a sound emitter 262 that emits audio. The display device 261 is, for example, a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The sound emitter 262 is, for example, a speaker. Administrator Ub can view the video displayed by the display device 261 and the audio emitted by the sound emitter 262.

[0050] In the first embodiment, the control device 21 causes the playback device 26 to play a video representing the status of the game device 10 in real time during the special event period. Specifically, the control device 21 causes the sound representing the recorded data R received from each game unit 40 to be emitted from the sound emitter 262. That is, the sound spoken by each user Ua is emitted from the sound emitter 262.

[0051] Furthermore, the control device 21 displays confirmation screens Gc(Gc_a, Gc_b) in Figures 10 and 11 on the display device 261, corresponding to the status data Q received from the management unit 30 and the recorded data R and notification data N received from each game unit 40. Confirmation screen Gc_a, exemplified in Figure 10, is an image that includes reference area Gc1, reference area Gc2, reference area Gc3, reference area Gc4, and operation area Gc5. Confirmation screen Gc_b, exemplified in Figure 11, is a screen in which reference areas Gc2 and Gc3 in confirmation screen Gc_a of Figure 10 are replaced with reference areas Gc6 and Gc7 of Figure 11. Reference areas Gc1, Gc4, and operation area Gc5 are common to both confirmation screen Gc_a and confirmation screen Gc_b.

[0052] In response to an operation from administrator Ub on the control device 24, the confirmation screen Gc_a in Figure 10 and the confirmation screen Gc_b in Figure 11 are switched alternately. Note that the reference areas Gc6 and Gc7 in Figure 11 may be included in the confirmation screen Gc_a in Figure 10. In other words, the switching of the confirmation screen Gc may be omitted.

[0053] The reference area Gc1 displays the video represented by the recorded data R transmitted from each game unit 40. In other words, the video representing the status of each user Ua (e.g., facial expression or behavior) is displayed in the reference area Gc1 in parallel with the progress of the game. The administrator Ub can understand the status of each user Ua in real time in parallel with the progress of the game by listening to the reference area Gc1 displayed by the display device 261 and the sound emitted by the sound emitter 262.

[0054] The reference areas Gc2 and Gc3 of the confirmation screen Gc_a display the status of the tips represented by the notification data N received from each game unit 40. Specifically, the reference area Gc2 displays the tipping history H of each user Ua. Specifically, the quantity X of the value medium used by user Ua for tipping (hereinafter referred to as "amount provided") and the type Y of that value medium are displayed for each tip by user Ua.

[0055] The reference area Gc3 on the confirmation screen Gc_b displays the aggregated amount of tips X provided by each user Ua. Specifically, the total amount of value media X provided by multiple users Ua x1 and the total amount of value media X provided by each user Ua x2 are displayed in reference area Gc3 for each of the multiple types of value media. By viewing reference areas Gc2 and Gc3, the administrator Ub can grasp the status of tips from each user Ua in real time, in parallel with the progress of the game.

[0056] The reference area Gc4 displays the image of virtual character C. The operation area Gc5 is where instructions for virtual character C's actions are received from the administrator Ub. Specifically, multiple actions that virtual character C can perform are placed in the operation area Gc5 as candidates for selection by administrator Ub. For example, the actions of virtual character C smiling (smile), virtual character C waving (wave), virtual character C clapping (clapping), and virtual character C being happy (happy) are placed in the operation area Gc5.

[0057] Administrator Ub selects the action they want virtual character C to perform from the operation area Gc5 by operating the operation device 24. The control device 21 causes virtual character C, displayed in the reference area Gc4, to perform the action instructed by administrator Ub. Therefore, administrator Ub can check the actions of virtual character C that they have instructed in real time, in parallel with the progress of the game. In addition, virtual character C in the reference area Gc4 may be operated according to the results of detecting the physical movements of administrator Ub. For example, administrator Ub's movements may be estimated by analyzing the video footage (e.g., motion capture) captured by an imaging device (not shown) and the virtual character C may be made to perform those movements.

[0058] In the confirmation screen Gc_b in Figure 11, reference areas Gc6 and Gc7 display images corresponding to the status data Q transmitted from the management unit 30. Specifically, reference area Gc6 displays a video of the lottery device 35 represented by the status data Q. Reference area Gc7 displays the status of the game's progress represented by the status data Q. For example, strings or images representing various situations such as credit usage (betting) by each user Ua, the results of the physical lottery by the lottery device 35, or the awarding of rewards to each user Ua are displayed in reference area Gc7. By viewing reference areas Gc6 and Gc7, the administrator Ub can grasp the status of the game in the game device 10 (especially the status of the lottery by the lottery device 35) in real time in parallel with the progress of the game.

[0059] As illustrated above, the administrator Ub checks the status of each user Ua (reference area Gc1 and sound played by the sound emitter 262), the status of each user Ua's tipping (reference areas Gc2 and Gc3), the status of virtual character C (reference area Gc4), and the game status (reference areas Gc6 and Gc7), selects one appropriate action from several actions in the operation area Gc5, and pronounces it to the sound receiver 25. For example, if user Ua makes a tip, the administrator Ub selects an action from the operation area Gc5 that would please virtual character C, and pronounces a thank you message to the user Ua to the sound receiver 25. Virtual character C, displayed in reference area Gc4, performs actions according to instructions from the administrator Ub. Therefore, the administrator Ub can check the actions of virtual character C, select an action from the operation area Gc5, and pronounce it to the sound receiver 25.

[0060] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps for operating the virtual character C in response to instructions from administrator Ub. The process in Figure 12 is executed in parallel with the display of the confirmation screen Gc(Gc_a,Gc_b) illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the operation of the operation area Gc5, and the reception of voice to the sound pickup device 25. The voice data V representing the voice of administrator Ub, picked up by the sound pickup device 25, is transmitted from the control system 20 to the management unit 30 in parallel with the process in Figure 12. As described above, the control device 31 of the management unit 30, upon receiving the voice data V, causes the sound output device 342 to emit the voice represented by the voice data V.

[0061] As illustrated in Figure 12, the control device 21 of the control system 20 waits until administrator Ub selects one of several operations within the operation area Gc5 (Sb1: NO). If an operation is selected (Sb1: YES), the control device 21 generates control data D specifying the operation selected by administrator Ub (Sb2). The control device 21 transmits the control data D from the communication device 23 to the management unit 30 (Sb3).

[0062] The control device 31 of the management unit 30 receives control data D transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 33 (Sc1). The control device 31 causes the virtual character C to execute the operation specified by the control data D (Sc2). In other words, the control device 31 functions as an element (playback control unit) that operates the virtual character C in accordance with instructions (specifically, the selection of an operation) from the administrator Ub to the control system 20. With this configuration, it is possible to change the virtual character C in various ways according to various situations that the administrator Ub can grasp (for example, the play status or tipping status of each user Ua).

[0063] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the operations performed by the game device 10 in relation to tipping, which is a medium of value. Each control device 41 of the multiple game units 40 executes the processes shown in Figure 13 in parallel.

[0064] A user Ua who wishes to tip using a value medium operates the operation image Gb2 of the game screen Gb, as exemplified in Figure 7. Then, user Ua selects one of the multiple options Gb3 (Figure 8) that are displayed by operating the operation image Gb2. The control device 41 waits for user Ua to select a value medium (Sd1: NO).

[0065] When user Ua selects a value medium (Sd1:YES), the control device 41 determines whether user Ua has selected "medals" (Sd2). If user Ua has selected "medals", they specify the amount of virtual medals X to be used for tipping by operating the control device 45. If user Ua has selected "medals" (Sd2:YES), the control device 41 accepts the specification of the amount of virtual medals X from user Ua (Sd3). The control device 41 subtracts the amount corresponding to the amount X specified by user Ua from user Ua's credits (Sd4). For example, the control device 41 subtracts the amount obtained by multiplying the amount X by the conversion rate α from user Ua's credits. In other words, the control device 41 accepts the tip of virtual medals from user Ua. User Ua's selection of the "medals" option Gb3 corresponds to an instruction to tip using virtual medals (credits).

[0066] The control device 41 executes a process (hereinafter referred to as "notification process") Sd5 to notify the control system 20 and the management unit 30 that user Ua has made a tip using virtual medals. In notification process Sd5, the control device 41 transmits notification data N to the control system 20 and the management unit 30 via the communication device 43.

[0067] Notification data N is data for notifying the control system 20 and the management unit 30 of a tip made by user Ua. Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 14, notification data N includes the amount X of the value medium provided by user Ua for tipping, the type Y of the value medium, and user Ua's identification information Z. The type Y of the value medium is the type (virtual medal, coin, or electronic money) selected by user Ua from the game screen Gb in Figure 8. Identification information Z is a code sequence for identifying user Ua. For example, identification information Z for identifying user Ua in the authentication process performed when user Ua starts a game is included in notification data N. Alternatively, a code sequence for identifying each game unit 40 of the game device 10 may be used as identification information Z.

[0068] In Figure 13, if user Ua has not selected "medals" (Sd2: NO), the control device 41 determines whether user Ua has selected "coins" (Sd6). If user Ua has selected "coins" (Sd6: YES), the control device 41 accepts the payment of coins by user Ua at the second reception unit 462 (Sd7). User Ua pays the desired amount of coins to the second reception unit 462. The control device 41 calculates the amount provided X corresponding to the amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 (Sd8). The amount provided X is the quantity of virtual medals equivalent to the coins received by the second reception unit 462 (i.e., the value obtained by converting the amount of coins into virtual medals). For example, the control device 41 calculates the amount provided X by multiplying the amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 by a predetermined conversion rate β. The conversion rate β is a predetermined positive number. Furthermore, the amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 may be set as the amount provided X (β=1). However, if the amount of coins is converted to an amount provided X based on virtual medals, it becomes possible to compare the amount of virtual medals X and the amount of coins X with each other.

[0069] The control device 41 allows user Ua to choose whether to use the coins received by the second reception unit 462 for tipping or to spend them to earn credits (Sd9). Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 15, the control device 41 displays options Gb4, which represents tipping, and Gb5, which represents earning credits, on the display device 47. User Ua can select either option Gb4 or option Gb5 by operating the operating device 45. User Ua's selection of option Gb4 corresponds to instructing tipping using coins. The control device 41 determines whether user Ua has instructed tipping (Sd10). That is, it determines whether user Ua has selected option Gb4.

[0070] The selection of option Gb5 by user Ua corresponds to an instruction for the second reception unit 462 to spend the received coins to acquire credits. If user Ua selects option Gb5 (Sd10: NO), the control device 41 adds the provided amount X to user Ua's credits (Sd11). In other words, user Ua is given credits equal to the provided amount X. When option Gb5 is selected, no tipping using coins is performed. In other words, the coins received by the second reception unit 462 are spent by user Ua to play the game.

[0071] On the other hand, if user Ua selects option Gb4 (Sd10:YES), the control device 41 executes notification process Sd5 without increasing user Ua's credits. That is, the management unit 30 and the control system 20 are notified that user Ua has made a tip using coins. Specifically, notification data N with the value medium type Y set to "coins" is sent from the game unit 40 to the control system 20. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 41 accepts the tip using coins from user Ua. The coins received by the second reception unit 462 are consumed for tipping the virtual character C.

[0072] On the other hand, if user Ua selects "electronic money" (Sd6:NO), the control device 41 accepts the electronic money payment by user Ua at the third reception unit 463 (Sd12). User Ua pays an arbitrary amount of electronic money to the third reception unit 463. The control device 41 calculates the amount provided X corresponding to the amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 (Sd13). The amount provided X is the quantity of virtual medals equivalent to the electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 (i.e., the amount of electronic money converted into virtual medals). For example, the control device 41 calculates the amount provided X by multiplying the amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 by a predetermined conversion rate β. Alternatively, the amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 may be set as the amount provided X. However, if the amount of electronic money is converted into a provision amount X based on virtual medals, it becomes possible to compare the provision amount X of virtual medals and the provision amount X of electronic money with each other.

[0073] The control device 41 prompts user Ua to choose whether to use the electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 for tipping or to spend it to earn credits (Sd14). Specifically, as described above with reference to Figure 15, the control device 41 displays options Gb4 and Gb5 on the display device 47. User Ua's selection of option Gb4 corresponds to an instruction to tip using electronic money. The control device 41 determines whether user Ua has instructed to tip (option Gb4) (Sd15).

[0074] If user Ua selects option Gb5 (Sd15: NO), the control device 41 adds the provided amount X to user Ua's credits (Sd16). That is, user Ua is granted credits equal to the provided amount X. If option Sc6 is selected, no tipping using electronic money is performed. That is, the electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 is consumed by user Ua for playing the game.

[0075] On the other hand, if user Ua selects option Gb4 (Sd15:YES), the control device 41 executes notification process Sd5 without increasing user Ua's credits. That is, the management unit 30 and the control system 20 are notified that user Ua has made a tip using electronic money. Specifically, notification data N with the value medium type Y set to "electronic money" is sent from the game unit 40 to the control system 20. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 41 accepts the tip using electronic money from user Ua. The electronic money received by the third receiving unit 463 is consumed for tipping the virtual character C.

[0076] As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 41 functions as an element (medium receiving unit) that accepts tips from user Ua using any of several types of value media. Specifically, the control device 41 selectively executes the following processes: accepting tips using virtual medals (Sd3), accepting tips using coins (Sd7), and accepting tips using electronic money (Sd12). The value media provided by user Ua through tips are recorded as profit for the provider of game system 1, the operator of game system 1 (e.g., administrator Ub), or the operator of the amusement facility.

[0077] Figure 16 is a flowchart of the actions performed by the control device 31 of the management unit 30 in response to a tip made by user Ua. The process shown in Figure 16 is executed when the communication device 33 receives notification data N from the game unit 40.

[0078] The control device 31 causes the playback device 34 to reproduce a performance effect corresponding to the type of value medium Y used by user Ua for tipping (Se1-Se5). In other words, the nature of the performance effect changes depending on the type of value medium Y used for tipping. The performance effect is a visual or auditory effect related to the virtual character C. Typical examples of performance effects include display by the display device 341 or sound emitted by the sound emitter 342.

[0079] First, the control device 31 determines whether the type of value medium Y specified by the notification data N received from the game unit 40 is "medals" (Se1). If the type of value medium Y is "medals" (Se1: YES), the control device 31 causes the sound emitter 342 to emit a sound E1 related to the virtual character C, as illustrated in Figure 17 (Se2). Specifically, the control device 31 emits the sound E1 by supplying a sound signal pre-stored in the storage device 32 to the sound emitter 342. For example, various types of sound E1, such as calls or cheers for the virtual character C, are emitted. Each user Ua can hear the sound E1 emitted from the sound emitter 342. It is also conceivable that a user Ua performing a tip may select a desired sound E1 from a number of pre-prepared candidates.

[0080] On the other hand, if the type of value medium Y is not a "medal" (Se1: NO), the control device 31 determines whether the type of value medium Y is a "coin" (Se3). If the type of value medium Y is a "coin" (Se3: YES), the control device 31 displays a comment E2 related to the virtual character C on the display device 341 (guidance screen Ga), as illustrated in Figure 18 (Se4). For example, the control device 31 displays a comment E2 previously stored in the storage device 32 on the display device 341. For example, various comments E2 such as calls or cheers for the virtual character C are displayed. Each user Ua can see the comment E2 displayed on the display device 341. It is also conceivable that a user Ua performing a tip selects a desired comment E2 from several pre-prepared candidates. Furthermore, any string entered by the user Ua through an operation on the operating device 45 may be displayed on the display device 341 as a comment E2.

[0081] On the other hand, when the type of value medium Y is "electronic money" (Se3:NO), the control device 31 displays an image E3 related to the virtual character C on the display device 341, as illustrated in Figure 19 (Se5). For example, the control device 31 displays an image E3 previously stored in the storage device 32 on the display device 341 (guidance screen Ga). For example, various images E3 such as gifts for the virtual character C are displayed. Each user Ua can see the image E3 displayed on the display device 341. It is also conceivable that a user Ua performing a tip selects a desired image E3 from a number of pre-prepared candidates. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 31 functions as an element (playback control unit) that causes the playback device 34 to play back the effects corresponding to the type of value medium Y used by the user Ua for tipping.

[0082] As explained above, in the first embodiment, when a tip is received from user Ua, a visual effect related to virtual character C is played. The value medium used for tipping by user Ua is the same value medium consumed for playing the game. In other words, the value medium consumed for playing the game is also used to play the visual effect related to virtual character C. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which a separate value medium is required for playing the visual effect from the value medium consumed for playing the game, it is possible to increase the opportunities for user Ua to use the value medium.

[0083] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the performance effects are reproduced according to the type Y of value medium used for tipping. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the user Ua is given an incentive to use a variety of value mediums, and the performance effects related to the virtual character C are diversified.

[0084] Figure 20 is a flowchart of the actions performed by the control device 21 of the control system 20 in response to a tip made by user Ua. The process shown in Figure 20 is executed when the communication device 23 receives notification data N from the game unit 40.

[0085] The control device 21 aggregates the amount X of value media provided by the gaming unit 40 from each user Ua (Sf1). Specifically, for each of the multiple types of value media (medals, coins, and electronic money), the control device 21 calculates the total amount X of the value media provided x1 and the total amount x2 for each user Ua. The total amount x1 for each value media is the sum of the amount X of the value media specified by the notification data N across multiple users Ua. The total amount x2 for each value media for each user Ua is the sum of the amount X of the value media provided by that user Ua for one or more past tips. In other words, the amount X of value media provided is aggregated for each type of value media for each of the multiple users Ua. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 21 functions as an element (aggregation processing unit) that aggregates the amount X of value media provided by the gaming unit 40. During the special event period, the amount X provided is aggregated for each notification data N received, ultimately generating a result that aggregates the amount X provided over the entire duration of the event. At the end of a special event or the start of a new special event, the aggregated value medium results are reset.

[0086] The control device 21 displays the history H of tipping value media by each user Ua on the display device 261 (Sf2). Specifically, the control device 21 displays the history H, which includes the information specified by the notification data N, in chronological order in the reference area Gc2. For example, as illustrated in Figure 10, the history H, which includes the amount of tip X, the type of value media Y, and the user Ua's identification information Z, is displayed on the display device 261. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 21 functions as an element (notification control unit) that displays the history H of tipping value media by users Ua on the display device 261. With this configuration, the administrator Ub can grasp the history H of tipping by users Ua, and therefore can have the virtual character C execute actions according to the status of value media usage through tipping, based on instructions from the administrator Ub.

[0087] Furthermore, since the amount provided X is aggregated for each user Ua, there is also the advantage that, for example, an administrator Ub can grasp the tipping trends for each user Ua (e.g., the amount of provided X or the trend in the type of value medium). In the first embodiment, since the amount provided X is aggregated for each type of value medium, there is also the advantage that, for example, an administrator Ub can grasp the tipping trends for each type of value medium (e.g., the amount of provided X).

[0088] As illustrated in Figure 20, the control device 21 displays the aggregated amount X of value media provided by each user Ua on the display device 261 (Sf3). Specifically, for each of the multiple types of value media, the control device 21 displays the total amount X of that value media x1 and the total amount x2 for each user Ua in the reference area Gc3. With this configuration, the aggregated amount X of value media provided by each user Ua is reported to the administrator Ub, making it possible to have the virtual character C perform actions according to the tipping status of each user Ua based on instructions from the administrator Ub.

[0089] For example, if the administrator Ub detects from the reference area Gc2 that a specific user Ua has made a donation, the administrator Ub selects an action that would please the virtual character C from the operation area Gc5 and pronounces a word of thanks to the user Ua to the sound pickup device 25. Also, if the administrator Ub detects from the reference area Gc3 that donations from user Ua are stagnant (for example, the total value x1 or total value x2 is low), the administrator Ub selects an action that would please the virtual character C or a hand-waving action from the operation area Gc5.

[0090] As described above with reference to Figure 12, control data D specifying an action in response to instructions from administrator Ub is sent from the control system 20 to the management unit 30 (Sb3). The control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 to execute the action specified by the control data D (Sc2). As can be understood from the above explanation, the virtual character C executes an action according to the status of tipping by each user Ua. Specifically, the virtual character C executes an action that reacts to tipping by user Ua. For example, the virtual character C executes an action that expresses gratitude for the tip or an action that expresses surprise at the tip. In other words, the virtual character C takes action in response to tipping by user Ua. Therefore, an incentive to use the medium of value for tipping can be effectively provided to users Ua. In addition, by having the virtual character C execute the action selected by administrator Ub, each user Ua pays attention to the virtual character C, and as a result, tipping by each user Ua is promoted.

[0091] Furthermore, upon receiving notification data N transmitted by the game unit 40, the control device 31 may cause the virtual character C to perform a predetermined action in response to a tip from user Ua. For example, the virtual character C may perform an action to express gratitude for the tip, or an action to express surprise at the tip.

[0092] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. In each of the embodiments described below, elements whose function is the same as in the first embodiment will use the same reference numerals as in the description of the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0093] In the second embodiment, the control device 31 changes the performance effect according to the amount X of value medium provided by user Ua for tipping. Specifically, the control device 31 makes the performance effect different depending on whether the amount X provided is below a predetermined threshold or above that threshold.

[0094] For example, if a user Ua instructs a user to tip using virtual medals, the volume of the sound E1 emitted by the sound emitter 342 changes according to the amount X provided. For example, the control device 31 controls the volume of the sound E1 played by the sound emitter 342 so that when the amount X provided exceeds a threshold, the volume of the sound E1 is greater than when the amount X provided falls below the threshold.

[0095] When a tip using coins is instructed by user Ua, the conditions of comment E2 displayed on the display device 341 change according to the amount X provided. For example, the control device 31 controls the comment E2 displayed on the display device 341 so that the number of characters in comment E2 when the amount X provided exceeds a threshold is greater than the number of characters in comment E2 when the amount X provided falls below a threshold.

[0096] When a tip is made using electronic money by user Ua, the content of image E3 displayed on display device 341 changes according to the amount X provided. For example, if the amount X provided is below a threshold, the control device 31 displays image E3 representing an inexpensive gift on display device 341, and if the amount X provided is above the threshold, it displays image E3 representing an expensive gift on display device 341.

[0097] The same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved in the second embodiment. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the performance effect changes according to the amount X of value media provided by the user Ua, so an incentive to provide a large amount of value media can be effectively given to the user Ua.

[0098] [Third Embodiment] Figure 21 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the communication system 3 in the third embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 21, the communication system 3 of the third embodiment comprises a game system 1 including a game device 10 and a control system 20, a distribution system 60 and a terminal device 70. The control system 20, the distribution system 60 and the terminal device 70 can communicate with each other via the communication network 2. The configuration and operation of the control system 20 and the game device 10 are the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved in the third embodiment.

[0099] The terminal device 70 is a communication terminal such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer. The user Uc uses the terminal device 70. As illustrated in Figure 21, the terminal device 70 comprises a playback device 71 and an operation device 72. The playback device 71 plays video, including video and audio. Specifically, the playback device 71 comprises a display device that displays video and a sound emitter that emits audio. The operation device 72 receives operations from the user Uc. In reality, there are multiple terminal devices 70, but in the third embodiment, for convenience, we will focus on one terminal device 70.

[0100] The distribution system 60 is a computer system (video distribution server) that distributes video to the terminal device 70. Specifically, the distribution system 60 transmits video data M, which represents the video, to the terminal device 70 via the communication network 2.

[0101] In the third embodiment, the control device 21 of the control system 20 transmits video data M of a video including a virtual character C to the distribution system 60 via the communication device 23. The video data M represents a video including the image of the virtual character C and the sound picked up by the sound pickup device 25. For example, video data M representing, for example, the guidance screen Ga displayed on the display device 341 of the game device 10 is transmitted from the control system 20 to the distribution system 60. The transmission of video data M to the distribution system 60 is performed in real time in parallel with the game play by each user Ua during the special event period. As can be understood from the above description, the control device 21 of the third embodiment functions as an element (video distribution unit) that transmits video data M to the distribution system 60. The video data M generated by the control system 20 may also be transmitted to the game device 10 together with the distribution system 60. The control device 31 of the management unit 30 displays the image (for example, the guidance screen Ga) represented by the video data M received from the control system 20 on the display device 341.

[0102] The distribution system 60 transmits the video data M received from the control system 20 to the terminal device 70. The video data M is distributed in parallel from the distribution system 60 to multiple terminal devices 70. The playback device 71 of each terminal device 70 plays the video represented by the video data M. That is, during the duration of the special event, a video including the virtual character C is played by the playback device 71 of the terminal device 70. The user Uc of the terminal device 70 watches the video.

[0103] A user Uc of terminal device 70 can perform a tip for the virtual character C played by playback device 71 by operating the operation device 72 of terminal device 70. Figure 22 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the operations performed by terminal device 70 in relation to tipping using terminal device 70.

[0104] User Uc can instruct the operator 72 to send a tip of a desired amount (amount X) by operating the control device 72 while watching the playback operation of the playback device 71. The terminal device 70 waits for the tip instruction from user Uc (Sg1:NO).

[0105] Upon receiving a tipping instruction from user Uc (Sg2), the terminal device 70 executes the electronic payment for the tip (Sg2). Specifically, the terminal device 70 requests the electronic payment server (not shown) to make an electronic payment for the amount specified by user Uc (amount provided X).

[0106] When an electronic payment is successfully completed, the terminal device 70 transmits notification data N to the control system 20 (Sg3). The notification data N includes the amount X specified by the user Uc, the type of value medium Y, and the user Uc's identification information Z. The type of value medium Y is specified as a tip from the terminal device 70. The terminal device 70 may also transmit the notification data N to the management unit 30, and the control device 31 may change the performance effect according to any of the multiple types Y, including a tip from the terminal device 70. That is, in a configuration in which the performance effect is changed according to the type of value medium Y, the type Y may include "a tip from the terminal device 70" in addition to the examples in each of the above forms (virtual medals, coins, and electronic money).

[0107] When the communication device 23 receives notification data N transmitted from the terminal device 70, the control device 21 of the control system 20 aggregates the amount X provided by the notification data N (Sf1). For example, the total amount X of tips instructed from the terminal device 70 x1 and the total amount X provided for each user Uc of the terminal device 70 x2 are calculated. The control device 21 displays the aggregated results, including the total value x1 and the total value x2, on the display device 261.

[0108] As illustrated above, in the third embodiment, a user of the terminal device 70 that is viewing a video including the virtual character C can perform a tip to the virtual character C. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which only the user Ua playing the game can perform a tip, it is possible to increase the opportunities for a large number of users (Ua, Uc) to use the value medium.

[0109] [Differentiation] Each of the forms exemplified above can be modified in various ways. Specific examples of modifications that can be applied to each of the aforementioned forms are given below. Two or more forms arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be merged to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0110] (1) In each of the above-described embodiments, control data D representing an action selected by administrator Ub from the operation area Gc5 has been given as an example, but the format of control data D is not limited to the above examples. For example, action data representing changes in the position of each part of the body, such as joints, of the virtual character C may be used as control data D. For example, action data representing the body movements of administrator Ub may be used as control data D. Specifically, the actions of administrator Ub may be estimated by analyzing the video captured by the imaging device (e.g., motion capture), and control data D representing those actions may be transmitted from the control system 20 to the game device 10. Alternatively, an action command that instructs the actions of virtual character C, or an action program (motion script) describing instructions regarding the actions of virtual character C, may be used as control data D.

[0111] (2) In each of the above embodiments, the virtual character C is displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20, but the configuration for notifying the administrator Ub of the operation of the virtual character C is not limited to the above examples. For example, the virtual character C displayed on the display device 261 does not need to be exactly the same as the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341. For example, a virtual character C that is a simplified version of the appearance or operation of the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 may be displayed on the display device 261. Alternatively, a string or image (e.g., an icon) representing the operation performed by the virtual character C may be displayed on the display device 261.

[0112] (3) In each of the above-described embodiments, the control system 20 transmits audio data V representing the voice spoken by administrator Ub to the game device 10. However, the method for playing the voice of virtual character C is not limited to the above examples. For example, administrator Ub may transmit selected audio data V from among a plurality of pre-prepared audio data V to the management unit 30 from the control system 20. Alternatively, administrator Ub may transmit selected identification information from among a plurality of identification information representing different voices as audio data V to the game device 10, and the game device 10 may play the voice corresponding to that identification information from among a plurality of pre-prepared voices.

[0113] (4) In each of the above-described forms, the display device 341 shared by multiple users Ua displays the virtual character C, but the virtual character C (guidance screen Ga) may also be displayed on a display device 47 installed for each game unit 40. The virtual character C common to each of the display devices 47 of the multiple game units 40 may be displayed, or a separate virtual character C may be displayed for each game unit 40. Furthermore, a configuration in which the display device 341 can be moved to a position and angle facing a specific user Ua among the multiple users Ua is also conceivable.

[0114] (5) The period during which user Ua can give a tip may be restricted. For example, a configuration is envisioned in which tipping instructions are not accepted during the waiting period (Sa1) in which user Ua gives instructions to use credits, and tipping instructions are accepted from user Ua during the lottery period in which the physical lottery by the lottery device 35 is performed. Since user Ua tends to have free time during the lottery period, the possibility of user Ua missing the virtual character C's response to the tip is reduced.

[0115] (6) In each of the above-described configurations, the management unit 30 and the game unit 40 are shown to communicate independently with the control system 20. However, a configuration in which the communication device 33 of the management unit 30 relays communication between the game unit 40 and the control system 20 is also conceivable. In other words, the function of directly communicating with the control system 20 is omitted from the game unit 40.

[0116] (7) In each of the above-described embodiments, each of the multiple game units 40 transmits notification data N to the control system 20. However, the management unit 30 may aggregate the notification data N representing the tipping status in each of the multiple game units 40, and the management unit 30 may transmit the notification data N representing the aggregated result to the control system 20. In other words, the configuration and process of directly transmitting notification data N from each game unit 40 to the management unit 30 may be omitted. Also, in each of the above-described embodiments, each of the multiple game units 40 transmits recorded data R to the control system 20. However, the management unit 30 may aggregate the recorded data R generated in each of the multiple game units 40, and the management unit 30 may transmit the recorded data R representing the aggregated result to the control system 20. In other words, the configuration and process of directly transmitting recorded data R from each game unit 40 to the management unit 30 may be omitted. On the other hand, in each of the above-described embodiments, the management unit 30 transmits status data Q to the control system 20. However, status data Q representing the game status in each game unit 40 may be transmitted from the game unit 40 to the control system 20.

[0117] (8) In each of the above-described embodiments, the control device 31 of the management unit 30 caused the playback device 34 to reproduce the performance effect corresponding to the type of value medium Y in accordance with the notification data N received from the game unit 40. However, the control system 20, upon receiving the notification data N, may instruct the management unit 30 to reproduce the performance effect corresponding to the type of value medium Y, and the management unit 30 may then reproduce the performance effect in the playback device 34 in accordance with the instruction from the control system 20. For example, the control device 21 of the control system 20 determines the type of value medium Y by the same process as in steps Se1 and Se3 of Figure 16. The control device 21 transmits an instruction for the performance effect corresponding to the determination result from the communication device 23 to the management unit 30. The control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the playback device 34 to reproduce the performance effect (Se2, Se4, Se5) corresponding to the instruction received from the control system 20. The same effects as in each of the above-described embodiments are achieved with this configuration as well.

[0118] (9) The entities responsible for each process performed in the game system 1 are not limited to the examples given in each of the above-described forms. For example, in each of the above-described forms, the control device 21 of the control system 20 aggregated the amount provided X, but the control device 31 of the management unit 30 may perform the aggregation of the amount provided X and notify the control system 20 of the aggregation result via the communication device 33.

[0119] (10) In each of the above configurations, the aggregated amount X is displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20, but the aggregated results may also be displayed on the display device 341 of the management unit 30. For example, as illustrated in Figure 23, the total value x1 (x1_a, x1_b, x1_c) of the amount X provided for each type of value medium is displayed on the display device 341. The total value x1_a (cheer points) is the sum of the amount X provided by virtual medals for multiple users Ua. Similarly, the total value x1_b (comment points) is the sum of the amount X provided by coins, and the total value x1_c (gift points) is the sum of the amount X provided by electronic money. With the above configuration, users Ua can grasp the trend of tipping by each user Ua. The total value x1 of the amount X provided may also be displayed on the display device 47 of each game unit 40.

[0120] (11) In each of the forms described above, examples were given of the emission of sound E1 and the display of comments E2 or images E3, but the forms of performance effects for tipping are not limited to these examples. For example, the process of having a virtual character C perform a predetermined action can also be adopted as a performance effect. Furthermore, the correspondence between the type of value medium Y used for tipping and the form of performance effect is not limited to the examples given above.

[0121] (12) In each of the above-described forms, the performance effect was changed according to the type Y of value medium used by each user Ua for tipping, but the configuration of changing the performance effect according to the type Y may be omitted. For example, a specific performance effect may be played regardless of the type Y of value medium. In a configuration in which the performance effect does not depend on the type Y of value medium, the user Ua may use the credits granted to the user in response to payment of any of the multiple types of value mediums for tipping. In other words, regardless of the type of value medium the user Ua pays, the user Ua can use the credits uniformly to perform tipping.

[0122] (13) In the forms described above, examples were given in which a medium of value is used for tipping, but items that can be obtained by the user Ua in exchange for payment of a medium of value may also be used for tipping. Furthermore, similar to the forms described above in which the visual effects are changed according to the type of medium of value Y, the visual effects may also be changed according to the type of item that the user Ua uses for tipping. Additionally, items may be understood as examples of mediums of value in the forms described above.

[0123] (14) In each of the above-described embodiments, an example was given in which the virtual character C displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20 operates in response to instructions from the administrator Ub. However, video data representing the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 of the management unit 30 may be transmitted from the management unit 30 to the control system 20, and the virtual character C represented by the video data may be displayed on the display device 261.

[0124] (15) In each of the above-described forms, an example was given in which a user Ua performs a tip independently of the use of credits in the game (Sa1). However, a configuration in which a tip is performed in conjunction with the use of credits by the user Ua is also conceivable. For example, when the control device 41 receives a credit reward instruction from the user Ua (Sa1), the control device 41 uses the credits to perform a physical lottery (Sa2, Sa3) and at the same time performs a process to accept a tip with a provision amount X which is the amount of credits used multiplied by a predetermined coefficient.

[0125] (16) In each of the above-mentioned forms, medals (physical medals, electronic medals), coins, and electronic money were given as examples of value media, but the types of value media are not limited to these examples. Examples of tangible value media include the aforementioned physical medals and coins (actual currency including coins and banknotes), as well as tickets. Examples of intangible value media include the aforementioned electronic medals and electronic medals, as well as points or credits.

[0126] (17) In each of the above embodiments, examples were given of a lottery game in which the winner / loser of a user Ua is determined according to the result of a lottery process (physical lottery or electronic lottery). However, the types of games in the present invention are not limited to the above examples. For example, the present invention can be applied to any game such as a fighting game in which multiple characters fight, a competitive game in which multiple users Ua compete against each other in, for example, a sports game or a board game, or an exploration game in which a character explores a location such as a cave or a building.

[0127] (18) The functions of the control system 20 according to each of the above-described embodiments are realized through the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 21 and a program stored in the storage device 22. Similarly, the functions of the game device 10 according to each of the above-described embodiments are realized through the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 31 or control device 41 and a program stored in the storage device 32 or storage device 42. The programs according to each of the above embodiments can be provided in a form stored on a computer-readable recording medium and installed on a computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and optical recording media such as CD-ROMs (optical discs) are good examples, but any known form of recording medium such as semiconductor recording media or magnetic recording media is also included. Note that a non-transitory recording medium includes any recording medium except transient propagation signals (transitory, propagating signals), and volatile recording media are not excluded. Furthermore, in a configuration in which a distribution device distributes programs via a communication network, the storage device that stores the programs in the distribution device corresponds to the non-transitory recording medium described above.

[0128] [Note] From the above description, preferred embodiments of the present invention can be understood, for example, as follows. For the sake of ease of understanding each embodiment, the reference numerals in the drawings are conveniently included in parentheses below, but this does not mean that the present invention is limited to the illustrated embodiments.

[0129] [Note A1] A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A1) comprises a game control unit (41) that advances a game played by a user (Ua) by consuming a value medium, a medium receiving unit (41, 46) that receives the user (Ua) to provide the value medium at will, and a playback control unit (31) that causes a virtual character (C) to be reproduced by a playback device (34) in parallel with the progress of the game, and causes the playback device (34) to reproduce performance effects related to the virtual character (C) when the medium receiving unit (41, 46) receives the provision of the value medium.

[0130] In the above embodiment, when a user (Ua) provides a value medium voluntarily (so-called tip), a visual effect related to the virtual character (C) is played. The value medium provided by the user (Ua) is the same value medium consumed for playing the game. In other words, the value medium consumed for playing the game is also used to play the visual effects related to the virtual character (C). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which a separate value medium is required for playing the visual effects, it is possible to increase the opportunities for users (Ua) to provide value medium.

[0131] A "Virtual Character (C)" is a visible object that performs various actions. For example, a biological character that assists or guides a user (Ua) in playing a game is an example of a "Virtual Character (C)".

[0132] "Optional provision of a medium of value" means providing a medium of value (so-called tipping) at the user's (Ua's) discretion, and is not necessary for playing or progressing in the game.

[0133] A "value medium" is a tangible or intangible medium that has value as compensation for playing a game. Examples of tangible value mediums include physical medals (tokens), physical currency (coins, etc.), or tickets. Examples of intangible value mediums include electronic medals, electronic currency (electronic money), credits, or points. The quantity of intangible value medium is stored as electronic data on various recording media.

[0134] The type of "game" is arbitrary. For example, any type of game, regardless of its content, is included in the concept of "game," such as a lottery game in which users (Ua) are rewarded by winning a draw, or a competitive game in which multiple users (Ua) compete against each other.

[0135] "Performance effects" refer to visual or auditory effects related to a virtual character (C). For example, any effect related to a virtual character (C), such as a visual effect that displays the bestowal of a gift to the virtual character (C), a visual effect that displays a string of characters (e.g., a cheering comment) that represents an appeal to the virtual character (C), or an auditory effect that emits a sound (e.g., a cheer) that appeals to the virtual character (C), is included in the concept of "performance effects." In other words, effects that act on the virtual character (C) from an external source (other than the virtual character) are "performance effects" (in the narrow sense). However, in addition to effects that act on the virtual character (C) from an external source, actions that include the actions of the virtual character (C) itself may also be interpreted as "performance effects" (in the broad sense).

[0136] [Appendix A2] The game system (1) according to the specific example of Appendix A1 (Appendix A2) comprises a game device (10) and a control system (20) that can communicate with each other via a communication network (2). The game device (10) comprises a game control unit (41), a playback control unit (31), and a media receiving unit (41, 46). The playback control unit (31) operates the virtual character (C) in response to instructions from the administrator (Ub) to the control system (20). According to the above embodiment, since the virtual character (C) operates in response to instructions from the administrator (Ub) to the control system (20), it is possible to operate the virtual character (C) in various ways according to various situations that the administrator (Ub) can grasp (for example, the situation of the user (Ua) playing the game).

[0137] [Note A3] In the specific example of Appendix A2 (Appendix A3), the control system (20) includes a notification control unit (21) that displays the history (H) of value medium provision by the user (Ua) on a display device (261). According to the above embodiment, since the administrator (Ub) can grasp the history (H) of value medium provision by the user (Ua), it is possible to have the virtual character (C) perform actions according to the status of value medium provision by the administrator (Ub) upon instruction.

[0138] [Note A4] In the specific example of Appendix A3 (Appendix A4), the control system (20) includes an aggregation processing unit (21) that aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua), and the notification control unit (21) displays the result of the aggregation by the aggregation processing unit (21) on the display device (261). According to the above embodiment, the result of the aggregation of the quantity of value medium provided by the user (Ua) is notified to the administrator (Ub), so that the virtual character (C) can be made to perform actions according to the status of the provision of value medium by instructions from the administrator (Ub).

[0139] [Note A5] In the specific example of Appendix A4 (Appendix A5), the game is a game that can be played in parallel by multiple users (Ua), including the user (Ua), and the aggregation processing unit (21) aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by each of the multiple users (Ua) for each of them. According to the above embodiment, the quantity of value medium provided by each user (Ua) is aggregated for each user (Ua). Therefore, for example, the operator of the game system (1) can grasp the trend of value medium provision for each user (Ua).

[0140] [Note A6] In any specific example from Appendix A1 to Appendix A5 (Appendix A6), the playback control unit (31) causes the virtual character (C) to perform an action in response to the provision of the value medium. In the above embodiment, since the virtual character (C) responds to the provision of the value medium, an incentive to provide the value medium can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[0141] [Note A7] In any specific example from Appendix A1 to Appendix A6 (Appendix A7), the playback control unit (31) changes the performance effect according to the quantity of value media provided by the user (Ua). In the above embodiment, since the performance effect changes according to the quantity of value media provided by the user (Ua), an incentive to provide a large amount of value media can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[0142] [Note A8] A game system (1) relating to any specific example (Appendix A8) of Appendix A1 to Appendix A6 comprises a video distribution unit (21) that transmits video data (M) representing a video including the virtual character (C) to a distribution system (60) that distributes the video data (M) to a terminal device (70), and the media receiving units (41, 46) accept the voluntary provision of the value medium from the user (Ua) playing the game and the user (Uc) of the terminal device (70) that plays the video represented by the video data (M). According to the above embodiment, not only the user (Ua) playing the game but also the user (Uc) of the terminal device (70) that watches the video including the virtual character (C) can voluntarily provide the value medium (i.e., tip). Therefore, it is possible to increase the opportunities for a large number of users (Ua, Uc) to use the value medium.

[0143] [Note A9] The operation method of a game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A9) is as follows: the game played by the user (Ua) progresses by consuming a value medium; the system accepts the user (Ua) to provide the value medium at will; a virtual character (C) is reproduced by a playback device (34) in parallel with the progress of the game; and when the provision of the value medium is accepted, the playback device (34) reproduces the performance effects related to the virtual character (C).

[0144] [Note A10] A program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A10) causes a computer system to function as follows: a game control unit (41) that advances a game played by a user (Ua) by consuming a value medium; a medium receiving unit (41, 46) that receives the user (Ua) to provide the value medium at will; and a playback control unit (31) that causes a virtual character (C) to be played back by a playback device (34) in parallel with the progress of the game, and when the medium receiving unit (41, 46) receives the provision of the value medium, causes the playback device (34) to play back the performance effects related to the virtual character (C).

[0145] [Note B1] A game system (1) according to another aspect of the present invention (Appendix B1) comprises a game control unit (41) that advances a game played by a user (Ua), a media receiving unit (41, 46) that receives an optional provision of any of a plurality of value media from the user (Ua), and a playback control unit (31) that causes a virtual character (C) to be reproduced by a playback device (34), and when the media receiving unit (41, 46) receives the provision of the value media, causes the playback device (34) to reproduce a performance effect related to the virtual character (C) that corresponds to the type of value media.

[0146] In the above embodiment, when a user (Ua) provides a value medium voluntarily (so-called tipping), a performance effect related to the virtual character (C) is played. The performance effect is one that corresponds to the type of value medium provided by the user (Ua). Therefore, there is an advantage in that a diverse incentive is given to the user (Ua) to provide a variety of value mediums, and the performance effects related to the virtual character (C) are diversified.

[0147] The "type" of a medium of value refers to the classification of a medium of value according to its form (tangible / intangible) or function (medal / money). Differences in the quantity of a medium of value are not included in the concept of "type." For example, a first quantity of physical money (e.g., a 50-yen coin) and a second quantity of physical money (e.g., a 100-yen coin) are of the same "type" as physical money, even though the quantities differ.

[0148] [Note B2] The game system (1) according to the specific example of Appendix B1 (Appendix B2) comprises a game device (10) and a control system (20) that can communicate with each other via a communication network (2). The game device (10) comprises a game control unit (41), a playback control unit (31), and a media receiving unit (41, 46). The playback control unit (31) operates the virtual character (C) in response to instructions from an administrator (Ub) to the control system (20). According to the above embodiment, since the virtual character (C) operates in response to instructions from an administrator (Ub) to the control system (20), it is possible to operate the virtual character (C) in various ways according to various situations that the administrator (Ub) can grasp (for example, the situation of the user (Ua) playing the game).

[0149] [Note B3] In a specific example of Appendix B1 or Appendix B2 (Appendix B3), the playback control unit (31) causes the virtual character (C) to perform an action in response to the provision of the value medium. In the above embodiment, since the virtual character (C) acts in response to the provision of the value medium, an incentive to provide the value medium can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[0150] [Note B4] In any specific example from Appendix B1 to Appendix B3 (Appendix B4), the playback control unit (31) changes the performance effect according to the quantity of value media provided by the user (Ua). In the above embodiment, since the performance effect changes according to the quantity of value media provided by the user (Ua), an incentive to provide a large amount of value media can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[0151] [Note B5] The game system (1) relating to any specific example (Appendix B5) of Appendix B1 to Appendix B4 includes an aggregation processing unit (21) that aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua). According to the above embodiment, the result of aggregating the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) can be used.

[0152] [Note B6] In the specific example of Appendix B5 (Appendix B6), the aggregation processing unit (21) aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) for each type of value medium. According to the above embodiment, the quantity of value medium provided by the user (Ua) is aggregated for each type of value medium. Therefore, for example, the operator of the game system (1) can grasp the trend of provision of each type of value medium.

[0153] [Note B7] The operation method of a game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix B7) is as follows: the game played by a user (Ua) progresses, the system accepts the user (Ua) to provide any of several types of value media, the system reproduces a virtual character (C) in a playback device (34), and when the provision of the value media is accepted, the system reproduces a performance effect related to the virtual character (C) that corresponds to the type of value media in the playback device (34).

[0154] [Note B8] A program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix B8) causes a computer system to function as follows: a game control unit (41) that advances a game played by a user (Ua); a media receiving unit (41, 46) that receives an optional provision of any of several types of value media from the user (Ua); and a playback control unit (31) that causes a virtual character (C) to be reproduced by a playback device (34), and when the media receiving unit (41, 46) receives the provision of the value media, causes the playback device (34) to reproduce a performance effect related to the virtual character (C) that corresponds to the type of value media. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0155] 1...Game system, 2...Communication network, 3...Communication system, 10...Game device, 20...Control system, 21...Control device, 22...Storage device, 23...Communication device, 24...Operation device, 25...Sound pickup device, 26...Playback device, 261...Display device, 262...Sound emission device, 30...Management unit, 31...Control device, 32...Storage device, 33...Communication device, 34...Playback device, 341...Display device, 342...Sound emission device, 35...Lottery device, 40...Game unit, 41...Control device, 42...Storage device, 43...Communication device, 44...Recording device, 441...Image device, 442...Sound pickup device, 45...Operation device, 46...Reception device, 461...First reception unit, 462...Second reception unit, 463...Third reception unit, 47...Display device, 60...Distribution system, 70...Terminal device, 71...Playback device, 72...Operation device.

Claims

1. A game device and a control system that can communicate with each other via a communication network, The aforementioned game device, A game control unit that manages the progress of the game played by the user, A media reception unit that accepts the voluntary provision of value media from the aforementioned users, It comprises a playback control unit that causes a virtual character to be reproduced by a playback device, The control system is transmitted recording data that records the user's status and status data that represents the status of the game. The playback control unit operates the virtual character in response to instructions from the administrator to the control system. The control system is The display device will show the aggregated amount of the value medium provided by the user at their discretion, the user's status as represented by the recorded data, and the game's status as represented by the status data. Game system.

2. A method for operating a game system, which is performed on a game device and a control system that can communicate with each other via a communication network, The aforementioned game device, The game that the user is playing will progress, The aforementioned users will voluntarily provide value media, The virtual character is played back on the playback device. The control system is transmitted recording data that records the user's status and status data that represents the status of the game. The virtual character to be reproduced by the playback device is operated in accordance with instructions from the administrator to the control system. The control system is The display device will show the aggregated amount of the value medium provided by the user at their discretion, the user's status as represented by the recorded data, and the game's status as represented by the status data. How the game system works.

3. At least one computer that makes up the game system, Using a game device and control system that can communicate with each other via a communication network, The process of advancing the game played by the user, The process of receiving the voluntary provision of a value medium from the aforementioned user, The process of playing a virtual character on a playback device, A process to transmit recorded data containing the user's status and status data representing the game's status to the control system, A process for operating the virtual character in response to instructions from an administrator to the control system, The aggregated amount of the value medium provided by the user at their discretion, the user's status as represented by the recorded data, and the game's status as represented by the status data, The process of displaying on a display device and A program that executes the command.

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