Program, information processing method, and information processing device.

Abstract

To provide a game environment allowing a player to enjoy further by increasing amusement of a lottery pertaining to a game or the like.SOLUTION: First lottery means 100 holds lottery processing according to a lottery table stored in a lottery table DB300, and determines a friend character acquirable by a player. Second lottery means 102 determines a friend character acquirable by a player according to a type of an object character selected by the player (returned to the field) regardless of contents of the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300. Lottery execution means 104 holds lottery processing by either the first lottery means 100 or the second lottery means 102, determines a friend character acquirable by the player, and disposes a corresponding egg in the field.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, methods for enhancing the enjoyment of games that introduce randomness to rewards obtainable in the game have been known. Such methods can be applied to various in-game scenarios, for example, rewards granted upon achievement of in-game objectives and rewards granted in exchange for paid in-game currency (so-called gacha). For example, a technique is disclosed in which a game medium of the same type as the game medium selected by a user is added as one of the lottery targets (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, although the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses the concept of adding a game medium of the same type as the game medium selected by the user as one of the lottery targets, this concept is insufficient.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to enhance the amusement value of lotteries related to games and the like, and to provide a more enjoyable game environment.

[0006] To achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present disclosure provides: A computer is caused to function as: A management means for determining and managing the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, A receiving means that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the content of the user's input operation, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery means selects a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management means, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery means for selecting the second game medium as a result of the lottery process, An execution means that performs the lottery process by either the first lottery means or the second lottery means, An update means that adds the second game medium selected by the reception means as the target of the lottery process and determines the lottery probability in the lottery process, This is a program that makes it function as such.

[0007] Furthermore, in the first aspect, the execution means may execute the lottery process by the second lottery means when the second game medium is added for the first time, and execute the lottery process by the first lottery means in other cases.

[0008] In addition, in the first aspect, the update means may add or change game media in which the attributes or capabilities of the first game medium or the second game medium have been modified as targets of the lottery process.

[0009] Furthermore, in the first aspect, the receiving means may accept only game media held by the user within the game as the second game media.

[0010] Furthermore, in the first aspect, if the receiving means accepts the selection of the second game medium, it may exclude the selected second game medium from the game mediums that the user possesses within the game.

[0011] Furthermore, in the first aspect, the program described above may also function as a means of providing a game environment that provides a game play environment that reflects the management status of the lottery process managed by the management means to other users other than the user described above.

[0012] Furthermore, in the first aspect, the program described above may also function as a means of modifying the game environment to provide special effects that assist in the progress of the game or to impart additional capabilities to the first game medium, depending on the management status of the lottery process managed by the management means.

[0013] Furthermore, the second aspect of this disclosure is, A method of information processing performed by a computer, A management step that determines and manages the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, A reception step that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the user's input, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery step is performed to select a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management step, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery step in which the second game medium is selected as a result of the lottery process, An execution step which executes the lottery process by either the first lottery step or the second lottery step, An update step in which the second game medium selected in the reception step is added as the target of the lottery process and the lottery probability in the lottery process is determined, This is an information processing method that includes [something].

[0014] Furthermore, the third aspect of this disclosure is, A management means for determining and managing the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, a reception unit that receives selection of a second game medium to be added as a target of the lottery process, based on the content of a user's input operation; a first lottery unit that selects a game medium in the lottery process according to the lottery probability managed by the management unit; a second lottery unit that selects the second game medium as a result of the lottery process regardless of the lottery probability; an execution unit that executes the lottery process by either the method of the first lottery unit or the second lottery unit; an update unit that adds the second game medium selected by the reception unit as a target of the lottery process and determines the lottery probability in the lottery process; An information processing apparatus comprising:

[0015] An information processing method and an information processing apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure are also provided as an information processing method or an information processing apparatus corresponding to the program according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to enhance the amusement of the lottery related to games and the like, and provide a more enjoyable game environment. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a game apparatus constituting an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] It is a diagram illustrating an example of functional configurations of a game apparatus and a server constituting an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] It is an illustrative diagram for explaining the concept of ranks in a game according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a lottery table that can be employed in a game according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a lottery table that may be used in a game according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 4 and 5. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a lottery table that may be used in a game according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 4 to 6. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a lottery table that may be used in a game according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 4 to 7. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a lottery table that may be used in a game according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 4 to 8. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the flow of various processes performed by a game device that constitutes an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of a game device and server constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the example in Figure 3. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of various processes performed by a game device that constitutes an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the example in Figure 10. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of a game device and server constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 3 and 11. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of various processes performed by a game device that constitutes an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a diagram showing an example different from the examples in Figures 10 and 12. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] [Embodiment] First, before describing the embodiments of this disclosure, we will specifically describe the content of the game to which the information processing system according to one embodiment of this disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "this system") applies. The game in this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "this game") is, for example, a Role-Playing Game (RPG) type game. In this RPG type game, the player controls a character placed in a virtual space, defeats enemies, strengthens the character, and progresses through the game. The player then progresses through the game, experiencing various events within the game, with the ultimate goal of clearing the game (such as defeating a boss).

[0019] Here, we will explain an example of a distinctive feature that this game may incorporate. (1) Egg In this game, players can take the action of acquiring "eggs." Eggs are placed in predetermined locations in the game's virtual space, and players can acquire new characters to join their team (hereinafter referred to as "ally characters") depending on the type of egg they acquire. These eggs range from those that allow players to acquire general-purpose characters to those that allow players to acquire extremely powerful characters, and what kind of egg a player can acquire is determined by a lottery according to a predetermined lottery table. In this embodiment, the virtual space is divided into units called fields, and a lottery table is set for each field, with the information stored in the lottery table DB300 or the like. Furthermore, the specifications of the eggs are described in detail in Non-Patent Document 1, which is shown below; please refer to it. [Non-Patent Literature 1] "Let's Collect Eggs", [online], [Retrieved August 17, 2023], Internet (https: / / game.capcom.com / manual / MHST_mobile / ?page=page&cat=2&subcat=5&lang=ja&platform=mobile)

[0020] (2) Return to the wild In this game, players can take the action of "releasing" their allied characters back into the wild. By releasing allied characters from their party, players can change the draw tables for each field (for example, by adding draw targets or changing draw probabilities). By repeatedly performing this action, players can bring the draw tables closer to their preferences. In this embodiment, by releasing allied characters back into the wild, players can acquire "points" that can be used to change the rank of each field, as described later.

[0021] (3) Attributes In this game, each character is assigned one of several broad "attributes," such as fire, water, lightning, ice, or dragon. These attributes influence many in-game processes, including battles and events. For example, in this embodiment, characters with the fire attribute are weak against water, and the combat effectiveness of each attribute changes depending on their relationship to the broader attribute.

[0022] (4) Rank In this game, each field has a "rank" assigned to it. The rank is the criterion that determines the type of egg that can be obtained and the probability of drawing it. Players can change the rank of each field by repeatedly "releasing" eggs into the wild in each field and accumulating points. In this embodiment, the system may set multiple ranks for each character in each field, for example, setting the rank of character X1 to B and the rank of character X2 to C in field X. Further details regarding the specifications of (1) through (4) and the specific changes in the lottery table will be described later with reference to Figures 4 through 9.

[0023] This game has many distinctive features in addition to the features described in (1) through (4). However, none of the features described in this disclosure, including features (1) through (4), are necessarily essential to the structure of the invention, and they can be modified or omitted as appropriate.

[0024] <Summary> Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of this system. As shown in Figure 1, this system consists of a game device 1 and a server 2. The game device 1 and the server 2 are interconnected via a predetermined network N, such as the Internet. However, the network N is not a mandatory component; for example, NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), LAN (Local Area Network), etc., may be used. Hereafter, when simply referred to as "image," it includes any image, such as "moving images" and "still images."

[0025] Game device 1 is used by players who wish to apply this system. Game device 1 consists of a general-purpose home game console, PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, tablet, etc. Game device 1 performs various processes necessary for the progress of this game.

[0026] Server 2 is managed by the system administrator, etc. Server 2 is composed of a general-purpose PC or similar device. It communicates with game device 1 and other devices, and performs tasks such as saving and managing various information necessary for the progress of the game.

[0027] <Hardware Configuration> Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the game device within this system.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the game device 1 includes a control unit 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0029] The control unit 11 is composed of a microcomputer including a CPU, GPU, and semiconductor memory. The control unit 11 executes various processes according to the program recorded in the ROM 12 or the program loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. RAM13 also stores information necessary for the control unit 11 to perform various processes.

[0030] The control unit 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. An output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0031] The output unit 16 outputs image information or audio information to a display or speaker. The image information or audio information output by the output unit 16 is output from the display or speaker in a format that can be recognized by a person as an image or sound.

[0032] The input unit 17 is, for example, a game controller, and it inputs various information in response to the player's input operations.

[0033] The memory unit 18 consists of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), and stores various types of information. For example, the memory unit 18 stores various game programs necessary for game progression, save data, account information, and so on.

[0034] The communications unit 19 controls communications with other hardware, etc., via the network N, including the Internet.

[0035] A drive 20 is provided as needed. A removable media 31, consisting of a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, is appropriately mounted in the drive 20. Various programs for running the game are stored in the removable media 31. Programs read from the removable media 31 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. Furthermore, the removable media 31 can store various types of information stored in the memory unit 18, just as the memory unit 18 does.

[0036] Here, the hardware configuration of Server 2 can be basically the same as that of Game Device 1, so we will omit the explanation. Through the cooperation of these various hardware and software components, various processes can be executed on Game Device 1 and Server 2.

[0037] Figure 3 shows an example of the functional configuration of the game device in Figure 2 and the server in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 11 of the game device 1 executes various programs, causing the game processing execution means 60, input operation reception means 62, selection reception means 64, point management means 66, lottery management means 68, lottery execution means 70, and output control means 72 to function. In addition, a lottery table DB 300 is provided in one area of ​​the storage unit 18 of the game device 1. The lottery table DB 300 stores information such as the lottery targets and the lottery probability of each lottery target related to the lottery process within the game (for example, the lottery process to determine which eggs to place in the field) (hereinafter referred to as "lottery table information").

[0038] The game processing execution means 60 of the game device 1 performs various processes related to the game. Specifically, the game processing execution means 60 executes the game program and generates 2D or 3D images and sounds related to the game, by reading virtual game space objects and textures included in the game information from a storage unit (not shown) in accordance with various input operations from the player or other users. In other words, the game processing execution means 60 controls the progress of the game by generating and managing game images of the game based on input operations and the position and angle of the virtual camera. Furthermore, the game processing execution means 60 transmits various information related to the game to the server 2 as appropriate.

[0039] The input operation receiving means 62 receives game-related input operations from the player. The input operations received by the input operation receiving means 62 include information about the type of input operation received, and information about the time and number of times the input operation was performed.

[0040] The selection receiving means 64 accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process, based on the content of the player's input operation. Specifically, the selection receiving means 64 accepts the selection of a character (hereinafter referred to as the "target character") that has been targeted for "returning to the wild" in response to the player's input operation related to "returning to the wild".

[0041] The point management means 66 acquires predetermined points according to the type of the second game medium selected by the reception means. Specifically, the point management means 66 acquires points according to the type of target character selected by the selection reception means 64 and manages the cumulative value thereof. As mentioned above, points are the criteria used to determine rank in each field, and the type and value of points that can be obtained are predetermined according to the type, level, rarity, etc. of the target character. Furthermore, the point management means 66 is provided with a rank management means 80. The rank management means 80 determines the rank of each field according to the cumulative value of points managed by the point management means 66.

[0042] The lottery management means 68 determines and manages the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process. Specifically, the lottery management means 68 determines and manages the targets of the lottery conducted when placing eggs in this game, as well as the probability of each target being drawn. Here, the lottery management means 68 is provided with a target management means 90, a probability management means 92, and an update means 94. The target management means 90 manages the targets of the lottery conducted when placing eggs in this game. Specifically, the target management means 90 manages the types of eggs that are subject to the lottery (types of characters that can be obtained) according to the rank of each field. The probability management means 92 manages the probability of winning the draw when the eggs are placed in this game. Specifically, the probability management means 92 manages the probability of winning each draw target according to the rank of each field. The update means 94 changes at least one of the targets of the lottery process and the probability of the lottery process according to the points acquired by the acquisition means. Specifically, when the selection acceptance means 64 accepts the selection of a new target character, the update means 94 determines the type of egg to be newly included in the lottery and the lottery probability for each target, according to the rank determined by the rank management means 80. That is, when the selection acceptance means 64 accepts the selection of a new target character, the update means 94 creates a new lottery table according to the rank determined by the rank management means 80. The update means 94 also updates the lottery table DB 300 based on the newly determined type of egg to be included in the lottery and the lottery probability for each target. Furthermore, if the selection of a new target character is accepted by the selection acceptance means 64 but the rank of each field does not change, the update means 94 does not need to change the type of egg to be drawn or the probability of each drawing target.

[0043] The lottery execution means 70 performs a lottery process according to the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300 to determine which ally character the player can acquire and places the corresponding egg in the field.

[0044] The output control means 72 performs control to display various game images and the like generated by the game processing execution means 60 on the output unit 16.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 200 of server 2 executes various programs, thereby enabling the game information management means 220 to function.

[0046] The game information management means 220 of server 2 manages various information necessary for the game to progress on game device 1 and executes various processes. Specifically, for example, the game information management means 220 performs authentication for account information transmitted from game device 1, and delivers game information in response to download requests for various game information from game device 1.

[0047] Figure 4 is an illustrative diagram illustrating the concept of rank in a game according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 4 shows the rank of Monster Y in Field X and the points required to set each rank. Looking at Figure 4, the first column of the "Rank" column shows the rank "S," and the first column of the "Ecological Points" column shows the number "600~." This indicates that in the example in Figure 4, if the points obtained for Field X (Monster Y) are 600 or more, the rank of Field X (Monster Y) will be S. Similarly, the example in Figure 4 shows that if the points obtained are between 300 and 599, the rank will be A; if between 200 and 299, the rank will be B; if between 50 and 199, the rank will be C; and if between 0 and 49, it will be Reserved.

[0049] Here, referring to Figure 5, we show an example of a specific lottery table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is Reserve. In the example in Figure 5, as an example of the normal lottery table for Field X, it is shown that Thunder-attribute Monster A and Thunder-attribute Monster B are each selected with a 50% probability, and their respective eggs are placed in Field X. In other words, in the example in Figure 5, if the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is Reserve, this system does not add Monster Y to the lottery targets, and does not change the lottery targets or lottery probabilities.

[0050] Similarly, referring to Figure 6, we will show an example of a specific lottery table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is rank C. In the example in Figure 6, an example of a lottery table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is C is shown. In the example in Figure 6, Monster A and Monster B are each selected with a 40% probability, and Monster Y, the target character selected by the player, is selected with a 20% probability, and their respective eggs are placed in Field X.

[0051] Similarly, referring to Figure 7, we show an example of a specific draw table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is rank B. In the example in Figure 7, Monster A and Monster B are each selected with a 40% probability, and Monster Y1, which is an enhanced version of the target character Monster Y selected by the player, is selected with a 20% probability, and the respective eggs are placed in Field X.

[0052] Similarly, referring to Figure 8, we show an example of a specific lottery table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is rank A. In the example in Figure 8, Monster A and Monster B are selected with a 40% probability each, and Monster Y2, which is a greatly enhanced version of Monster Y (the target character selected by the player), is selected with a 20% probability, and their respective eggs are placed in Field X.

[0053] Similarly, referring to Figure 9, we show an example of a specific lottery table that applies when the rank of Field X (Monster Y) is S rank. In the example in Figure 9, Monster A and Monster B are selected with a 40% probability each, and Monster Y3, which is a greatly enhanced version of Monster Y (the target character selected by the player), is selected with a 20% probability, and their respective eggs are placed in Field X. By repeatedly releasing monsters into the wild in this way and changing the rank of the field, the player has the potential to acquire more powerful allied characters. Specifically, for example, Monsters Y1 to Y3 are allied characters that have been given basic abilities (so-called stats) and special abilities (so-called skills) according to the rank of the field. The example lottery tables for each field rank, as explained with reference to Figures 4 through 9, are, of course, illustrative and not limiting. This system may, for example, add any different allied character as a target for lottery, or freely change the lottery probability for each allied character.

[0054] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of various processes performed by a game device that constitutes an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] In step S1, the input operation receiving means 62 receives input operations from the player regarding the game (return to the wild).

[0056] In step S2, the selection acceptance means 64 accepts the selection of a new character to be drawn in response to the player's input operation.

[0057] In step S3, the point management means 66 acquires points according to the type of target character selected by the selection acceptance means 64 and manages the cumulative value thereof.

[0058] In step S4, the rank management means 80 determines the rank of each field according to the cumulative value of points managed by the point management means 66.

[0059] In step S5, if the selection of a new target character is accepted by the selection acceptance means 64, the update means 94 creates a new lottery table according to the rank determined by the rank management means 80.

[0060] In step S6, the update means 94 updates the lottery table information stored in the lottery table DB300.

[0061] In step S7, the lottery execution means 70 performs a lottery process according to the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300 to determine which character the player can obtain and places the corresponding egg in the field. This completes one example of the process performed by the game device 1.

[0062] Although one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment described above, and modifications, improvements, etc., to the extent that they can achieve the purpose of the present disclosure are included in the present disclosure.

[0063] [Other embodiments] Now, with reference to Figures 11 to 14, we will describe other embodiments employing methods different from those described above.

[0064] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a game device and server constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a diagram showing an example different from the example in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 11 of the game device 1 executes various programs, causing the game processing execution means 60, input operation reception means 62, selection reception means 64, lottery management means 68, output control means 72, first lottery means 100, second lottery means 102, and lottery execution means 104 to function. Note that the game processing execution means 60, input operation reception means 62, selection reception means 64, lottery management means 68, and output control means 72 in Figure 11 can be the same as the various functional configurations already explained in Figure 3, so their explanation is omitted here.

[0065] The first lottery means 100 selects a game medium in the lottery process according to the lottery probability managed by the management means. That is, the first lottery means 100 performs a lottery process according to the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB 300 and determines which ally character the player can obtain.

[0066] The second lottery means 102 selects the second game medium as a result of the lottery process, regardless of the lottery probability. That is, regardless of the contents of the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300, the second lottery means 102 determines which allied character the player can acquire, according to the type of target character selected (returned to the wild) by the player.

[0067] The lottery execution means 104 executes the lottery process using either the first lottery means or the second lottery means. That is, the lottery execution means 104 performs the lottery process using either the first lottery means 100 or the second lottery means 102 to determine which ally character the player can acquire and place the corresponding egg on the field.

[0068] Next, an example of various processes performed by the game device 1 having the functional configuration shown in Figure 11 will be described. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of various processes performed by the game device constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a different example from the example in Figure 10.

[0069] In step S21, the input operation receiving means 62 receives input operations from the player regarding the game (return to the wild).

[0070] In step S22, the selection acceptance means 64 accepts the selection of a new ally character to be drawn in response to the player's input.

[0071] In step S23, the lottery execution means 104 determines whether the target ally character has been selected by the player for the first time (i.e., whether it is the first time it has been selected) or not. If the target ally character has been selected for the first time, the lottery execution means 104 determines step S23 as YES, and the process proceeds to step S24. If the target ally character has not been selected for the first time, the lottery execution means 104 determines step S23 as NO, and the process proceeds to step S25.

[0072] In step S24, the lottery execution means 104 performs the lottery process by the second lottery means 102 to determine which ally character the player can acquire and places the corresponding egg on the field. In other words, if the target ally character has been selected for the first time, the lottery execution means 104 determines which ally character the player can acquire, according to the type of target character selected (returned to the wild) by the player, regardless of the contents of the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300.

[0073] In step S25, the lottery execution means 104 performs the lottery process by the first lottery means 100 to determine which ally character the player can acquire and places the corresponding egg on the field. In other words, if the target ally character has not been selected for the first time (otherwise), a lottery process is performed according to the lottery table stored in the lottery table DB300 to determine which ally character the player can acquire. This completes one example of the process performed by the game device 1 with the functional configuration shown in Figure 11.

[0074] Further embodiments will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a game device and server constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a diagram showing an example different from the examples in Figures 3 and 11. As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 11 of the game device 1 executes various programs, causing the game processing execution means 60, input operation receiving means 62, selection receiving means 64, lottery management means 68, lottery execution means 70, and output control means 72 to function. In addition, one area of ​​the memory unit 18 of the game device 1 is provided with a variant information DB 400 in addition to the lottery table DB 300. The variant information DB 400 stores information about other ally characters that have a predetermined relationship with the target ally character (for example, higher-ranking ally characters or variant ally characters). Note that the game processing execution means 60, input operation receiving means 62, lottery execution means 70, and output control means 72 in Figure 13 can be the same as the various functional configurations already explained in Figure 3, so their explanation is omitted here.

[0075] The selection receiving means 64 is provided with a variant information management means 110. The variant information management means 110 obtains information about allied characters belonging to the same category as the target character selected by the player (hereinafter referred to as "variant allied character information") by referring to the variant information DB 400, etc. Here, a variant allied character is, for example, an allied character that belongs to the same category as the target character in this game, but is set as a different character. Generally, a variant allied character is a different character that is similar to the target character in appearance, ability type, attributes, etc.

[0076] Here, the lottery management means 68 in Figure 13 is provided with a target management means 90, a probability management means 92, and an update means 120. The target management means 90 and the probability management means 92 can be the same as the various functional configurations already explained in Figure 3, so their explanation is omitted here. The update means 120 adds at least one of the second game medium or the third game medium associated with the second game medium selected by the reception means as an object of the lottery process, thereby changing the lottery probability in the lottery process. Specifically, the update means 120 adds at least one of the target character or variant ally character selected by the player to the types of eggs that are newly subject to the lottery, and determines a new lottery probability for each target. That is, the update means 120 creates a new lottery table that adds at least one of the target character or variant ally character selected by the player to the lottery targets. The update means 120 also updates the lottery table DB 300 based on the newly created lottery table.

[0077] Next, an example of various processes performed by the game device 1 having the functional configuration shown in Figure 13 will be described. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of various processes performed by the game device constituting an information processing system according to one embodiment of this disclosure, and is a different example from the examples in Figures 10 and 12.

[0078] In step S41, the input operation receiving means 62 receives input operations from the player regarding the game (return to the wild).

[0079] In step S42, the selection acceptance means 64 accepts the selection of a new ally character to be drawn in response to the player's input.

[0080] In step S43, the variant information management means 110 obtains variant ally character information by referring to the variant information DB 400 or the like.

[0081] In step S44, the update means 120 creates a new lottery table that adds at least one of the target character or variant ally character selected by the player to the lottery pool.

[0082] In step S45, the lottery execution means 70 performs a lottery process using the newly created lottery table to determine which ally character the player can acquire and places the corresponding egg on the field. This completes one example of the process performed by the game device 1 having the functional configuration shown in Figure 13.

[0083] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, this system may also include a function to allow other players to play the field with the changed lottery table via a network or the like.

[0084] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment explained the system using a lottery system for eggs placed on a field as an example, it is not limited to that system. For example, the system may be applied to games in which players can acquire characters, items, etc., through a lottery (so-called gacha games, etc.). Specifically, for example, this system may use any game medium, such as weapons, armor, various items, or clothing (avatars), as the subject of the lottery.

[0085] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explained that the system adds an egg corresponding to the target of the lottery when a character is returned to the wild, it is not limited to this. The system may, for example, add a corresponding adult character instead of an egg.

[0086] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, the fields in this system may also have the concept of attributes. For example, this system may change the attributes and abilities of the characters to be drawn or added based on the attributes of the field.

[0087] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, the field of this system may be equipped with special effects (hereinafter referred to as "buffs") that are effective in strategy. In this case, the system may be equipped with a specification that allows the type of buff to be changed randomly or according to a predetermined rule, for example, depending on the type of character released into the wild.

[0088] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, the system may have a specification to revert the changes to the lottery table for each field after a certain period of time (in-game time or real-world time) has elapsed. Also, the system may have a specification to revert the changes to the lottery table for each field after a predetermined number of draws have been performed.

[0089] Furthermore, although the above embodiment is only a simplified explanation, this system may also include a function to change the performance of the allied characters to be added to the lottery. Specifically, for example, this system may include a function to change the basic abilities (so-called status, etc.), special abilities (so-called skills, special moves, etc.), characteristics, attributes, equipment, appearance, etc. of the allied characters to be added to the lottery.

[0090] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above (particularly the embodiments in Figures 13 and 14), the system was explained as adding allied characters belonging to the same category as the target character selected by the player, i.e., variant allied characters, to the draw, but it is not limited to these. The system may add allied characters to the draw as long as they have some kind of relationship with the target character selected by the player, not limited to allied characters belonging to the same category as the target character selected by the player. In other words, the relationship in the embodiments described above (particularly the embodiments in Figures 13 and 14) does not require that the allied characters have a special relationship in the game's specifications; it is sufficient if they have some kind of relationship in a broad sense.

[0091] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiments, this system has been described as accepting player selections of game media (e.g., characters) to be added as lottery targets, but is not limited to this. For example, this system may adopt a specification that allows only game media owned by the player within the game to be added as lottery targets. In this case, the system may, for example, remove game media added by the player from the game media owned by the player within the game, or it may not.

[0092] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the in-game attributes as being fire, water, lightning, ice, and dragon, it is not limited to these five attributes. Games to which this system is applied may adopt any other attributes as specifications, or may not adopt the concept of attributes at all.

[0093] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment explained that the system sets multiple ranks for each character in each field, it is not limited to this. For example, the system may set a common rank for each field that is not dependent on a character, or the system may set a common rank that is not dependent on each field at all.

[0094] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the system as determining which ally character a player can acquire based on the eggs they obtain (i.e., a lottery is held for the type of egg that is placed), it is not limited to this. The system may also place common eggs, regardless of type, on the field and determine which ally character can be acquired by lottery.

[0095] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above (particularly the embodiments in Figures 11 and 12), the system was described as performing a lottery process by the second lottery means 102 when the target ally character is selected for the first time, and performing a lottery process by the first lottery means 100 when the target ally character is not selected for the first time. However, this is merely an example and not limiting. For example, the system may perform a lottery process by the first lottery means 100 on the first attempt, and perform a lottery process by the second lottery means 102 in all other cases. Alternatively, the system may, for example, normally perform a lottery process by the first lottery means 100, and perform a lottery process by the second lottery means 102 when a predetermined number of lotteries have been performed.

[0096] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the number of allied characters that a player can "return to the wild" at one time as one, this is not limited to that. The system may, for example, have a function that allows multiple allied characters to be "returned to the wild" simultaneously.

[0097] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the system as only adding new ally characters to the selection pool, it is not limited to this. The system may also remove predetermined ally characters from the selection pool depending on the field rank or other factors.

[0098] Furthermore, although not explained in the embodiments described above, the system may also have a function that, when a player selects an ally character (e.g., Monster Y), treats a different ally character (e.g., Mutant Z) as having been selected with a predetermined probability. In this case, the system may, for example, add the rank of the target ally character (e.g., Mutant Z) to the rank of the target field and add Mutant Z to the list of characters to be drawn.

[0099] Furthermore, although the above embodiment was described as adding allied characters to be included in the lottery as guaranteed targets, it is not limited to this. For example, this system may select candidates for adding allied characters to be included in the lottery, and then perform a preliminary lottery process from among them to determine whether or not to add them to the lottery.

[0100] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, the system may or may not present the rank of the field where the egg is placed to the player when the player acquires the egg.

[0101] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiments (particularly those shown in Figures 11 and 12) describe an example in which the system always selects the target character chosen by the player in the first draw, the system is not limited to this. For example, the system may simply grant the player an egg, and in subsequent draws, all draws may be performed according to a draw table.

[0102] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiments (particularly the embodiments in Figures 11 to 14), when a target character is selected by the player, the target character or variant ally character may not be immediately added to the lottery process, but may only be added to the lottery if a predetermined condition (for example, the field rank in Figure 4 is C or higher) is met.

[0103] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiments (particularly those shown in Figures 13 to 14) have been described as adding at least one of the target character or variant ally character selected by the player as a target for selection, the system is not limited to these embodiments. This system may, for example, not include the target character in the draw, but only include variant allied characters in the draw. This system may, for example, add both the target character and its variant allied character to the list of characters to be drawn.

[0104] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiments, specific examples of points in this system are provided below. This system may, for example, increase the value of points that can be obtained as the level (in-game strength) of the target character increases. This system may, for example, increase the value of points that can be obtained if the attributes of the target character and the attributes set in each field are the same. This system may, for example, increase the value of points that can be obtained if the target character is rare (difficult to acquire in the game). In other words, this system can be configured so that if a rare target character is released back into the wild, that character can be added to the lottery pool earlier. This system may, for example, reduce the value of points that can be obtained if the target character is rare (difficult to acquire in the game). In other words, if a target character to be added as a target for the lottery is rare, this system can be set to make it more difficult to add that character as a target for the lottery.

[0105] Furthermore, although not explained in the above embodiment, this system may have the following specifications regarding points. This system may, for example, include a feature that decreases the points of each field under predetermined conditions in the game. This system may, for example, include a feature that decreases the points each time a predetermined amount of time has passed in the game. This system may, for example, include a feature that decreases the points of other predetermined target characters when the points of a predetermined target character increase. Furthermore, if the field's points decrease due to these specifications, this system may change the field's rank, or it may not change the rank (the points will remain at the lower limit of each rank).

[0106] Furthermore, although not described in the embodiments described above, this game may be run on any hardware, such as a home game console like PlayStation®, a portable game console like Nintendo Switch®, various game consoles designed for commercial use, or electronic devices such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[0107] Furthermore, although not explained in the embodiments described above, the content of the games covered by this system is not limited. This system may be applied to any game, such as FPS (First Person Shooter), TPS (Third Person Shooter), RPG (Role Playing Game), action games, simulation games, sports games, card games, battle royale (symmetrical and asymmetrical), MOBA (Multiplayer online battle arena), music games, fighting games, quiz games, and so on.

[0108] Furthermore, the series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. In other words, the functional configurations shown in Figure 3 are merely examples and are not particularly limiting. In other words, it is sufficient for the information processing system to have a function that can execute the series of processes described above as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not limited to the examples shown in Figure 3. Furthermore, the location of the functional block is not limited to the examples shown in Figure 3, and can be arbitrary. Furthermore, a single functional block may consist of hardware alone, software alone, or a combination of both.

[0109] Furthermore, the number and users of the various hardware components that make up this system are arbitrary, and it may also include other hardware components.

[0110] Furthermore, when a series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer or other device from a network or storage medium.

[0111] Furthermore, the computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware. Also, the computer may be a computer capable of performing various functions by installing various programs. In other words, for example, any computer, any mobile device such as a smartphone, any game console, etc., may be freely used as the various hardware in the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, any combination of types and contents of various input and output units may be adopted.

[0112] Furthermore, such a recording medium containing a program may consist not only of a removable medium (not shown) provided separately from the main unit of the device to provide the program to a player or the like, but may also consist of a recording medium that is pre-installed in the main unit of the device and provided to the player.

[0113] In this specification, the step of describing the program to be recorded on the recording medium may be performed not only chronologically according to its order, but also in parallel or individually. Furthermore, some of the steps described in the above embodiments may be omitted.

[0114] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall system composed of multiple devices, means, etc.

[0115] The effects and advantages of this embodiment will also be achieved when these other embodiments are adopted. Furthermore, it is possible to combine this embodiment with other embodiments, and other embodiments with each other, as appropriate.

[0116] In summary, the information processing system to which this disclosure applies can take various forms having the following configurations. Computers, A management means (e.g., lottery management means 68) that determines and manages the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability of each of the first game media in the lottery process, A receiving means (for example, a selection receiving means 64) that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the content of the user's input operation, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery means (for example, a first lottery means 100) selects a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management means, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery means (for example, second lottery means 102) selects the second game medium as a result of the lottery process, An execution means (for example, a lottery execution means 104) that executes the lottery process by either the first lottery means or the second lottery means, An update means (for example, update means 94) adds the second game medium selected by the reception means as the target of the lottery process and determines the lottery probability in the lottery process, Any program that functions as such will suffice.

[0117] In other words, the lottery management means 68 functions as a management means. The selection receiving means 64 functions as a receiving means. The first lottery means 100 functions as the first lottery means. The second lottery means 102 functions as a second lottery means. The lottery execution means 104 functions as an execution means. The update means 94 functions as an update means.

[0118] <Effects> This allows players to enjoy the lottery system in games and other activities more. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] <Embodiment> 1 Game device 11 Control Unit 60 Game Processing Execution Means 62 Input operation receiving means 64 Selection Acceptance Method 66 Point Management Methods 80 Rank Management Methods 68. Lottery management method 90 Target Management Methods 92 Probability Management Methods 94 Update method 70. Means for executing the lottery 72 Output control means 300 Lottery Table DB 2 servers 200 Control Unit 220 Game Information Management Methods <Other Embodiments> 1 Game device 11 Control Unit 60 Game Processing Execution Means 62 Input operation receiving means 64 Selection Acceptance Method 68. Lottery management method 90 Target Management Methods 92 Probability Management Methods 94 Update method 100 First drawing method 102 Second drawing method 104 Lottery execution means 72 Output control means 300 Lottery Table DB 2 servers 200 Control Unit 220 Game Information Management Methods <Other Embodiments> 1 Game device 11 Control Unit 60 Game Processing Execution Means 62 Input operation receiving means 64 Selection Acceptance Method 110 Subspecies Information Management Methods 68. Lottery management method 90 Target Management Methods 92 Probability Management Methods 120 Update method 70. Means for executing the lottery 72 Output control means 300 Lottery Table DB 400 Subspecies Information Database 2 servers 200 Control Unit 220 Game Information Management Methods

Claims

1. Computers, A management means for determining and managing the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, A selection receiving means that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the content of the user's input operation, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery means selects a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management means, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery means for selecting the second game medium as a result of the lottery process, An execution means that performs the lottery process by either the first lottery means or the second lottery means, An update means that adds the second game medium selected by the selection receiving means as the target of the lottery process and determines the lottery probability in the lottery process, To make it function as, When the selection receiving means receives a selection of the second game medium that the user possesses within the game, it removes the selected second game medium from the game mediums that the user possesses within the game. program.

2. The execution means, when each of the second game media is added, determines whether each of the second game media was added for the first time or for the second time or later, and if each of the second game media was added for the first time, executes the lottery process by the second lottery means, and if it was added for the second time or later, executes the lottery process by the first lottery means. The program according to claim 1.

3. The update means adds or changes a game medium in which the attributes or capabilities of the first game medium or the second game medium have been modified as the target of the lottery process. The program according to claim 1.

4. The virtual space field of the game, which reflects the management status of the lottery process managed by the management means, is further made to function as a means of providing a game environment to other users other than the user to play. The program according to claim 1.

5. Depending on the management status of the lottery process managed by the management means, the game environment modification means further functions to change the status or skills of the first game medium that can be obtained in the game. The program according to claim 1.

6. A method of information processing performed by a computer, A management step that determines and manages the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, A selection acceptance step that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the content of the user's input operation, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery step is performed to select a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management step, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery step in which the second game medium is selected as a result of the lottery process, An execution step which performs the lottery process by either the first lottery step or the second lottery step, An update step in which the second game medium selected in the selection acceptance step is added as the target of the lottery process, and the lottery probability in the lottery process is determined, Includes, If the selection acceptance step accepts the user's selection of the second game medium held within the game, the selected second game medium is removed from the game mediums held by the user within the game. Information processing methods.

7. A management means for determining and managing the types of first game media that can be selected in the lottery process performed in the game, and the lottery probability for each of the first game media in the lottery process, A selection receiving means that accepts the selection of a second game medium to be added as the target of the lottery process based on the content of the user's input operation, In the aforementioned lottery process, a first lottery means selects a game medium according to the lottery probability managed by the management means, Regardless of the aforementioned lottery probability, a second lottery means for selecting the second game medium as a result of the lottery process, An execution means that performs the lottery process by either the first lottery means or the second lottery means, An update means that adds the second game medium selected by the selection receiving means as the target of the lottery process and determines the lottery probability in the lottery process, Equipped with, When the selection receiving means receives a selection of the second game medium that the user possesses within the game, it removes the selected second game medium from the game mediums that the user possesses within the game. Information processing device.

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