Server device, server device control method, and storage medium

Abstract

Provided is a server device that contributes to activating a regional economy such as tourist site. This server device comprises an acquisition means, a movement control means, a mission control means, and a reward control means. The acquisition means acquires at least information about a destination in the real world of a user. The movement control means moves a virtual space avatar corresponding to the user in conjunction with the movement of the user in the real world. The mission control means gives a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar, and when the user achieves the given mission, gives points to the user who has achieved the mission. When the user arrives at the destination in the real world, the reward control means gives a reward to the user on the basis of the given points.

Description

Server device, server device control method and storage medium

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device, a control method for a server device, and a storage medium.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art With the advancement of information processing technology and communication technology, various services are now being provided over networks.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 (JP-A-2005-103666) describes an entertainment system that allows a player to actually move around the real world and obtain actual information from real stores, facilities, and the like as the game progresses in a network game. In the system of Patent Document 1, when a user starts a game using a user's mobile terminal, location information is obtained from a GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite or a mobile phone or PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) base station and notified to a server. In response to this notification, the server displays a map of the user's surroundings on the user's mobile terminal and allows the user to select an event spot. After selecting an event spot, a quiz or mini-game is presented to the user. The user travels to the actual event spot using the map, gets hints, plays the quiz or mini-game, and earns points by clearing the quiz or mini-game. These points are accumulated on the server and can be used to purchase goods and services at real stores.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-049681

[0005] There are tourist destinations that are in a recession due to labor shortages and other factors. There is a need to increase the appeal of these tourist destinations and revitalize the regions that include them. However, even if the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 is applied, it will not be possible to revitalize the economies of tourist destinations. Patent Document 1 merely uses the user's location and movement to progress through the game, and is unrelated to revitalizing the local economies of tourist destinations, etc.

[0006] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a server device, a control method for a server device, and a storage medium that contribute to revitalizing the local economy of tourist destinations and the like.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a server device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring information relating to at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control means for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control means for giving the user a predetermined mission via the avatar and, if the user completes the given mission, awarding points to the user who has completed the mission; and a reward control means for, when the user arrives at the destination in the real world, awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a server device, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring information relating to at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control step of moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control step of assigning a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar and, if the user accomplishes the assigned mission, awarding points to the user who has accomplished the mission; and a reward control step of, when the user arrives at the destination in the real world, awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium that stores a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device to execute the following processes: an acquisition process that acquires information about at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control process that moves an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control process that assigns a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar and, if the user accomplishes the assigned mission, awards points to the user who has accomplished the mission; and a reward control process that, when the user arrives at the destination in the real world, awards a reward to the user based on the awarded points.

[0010] According to each aspect of the present invention, a server device, a control method for a server device, and a storage medium are provided that contribute to revitalizing the local economy of a tourist destination or the like. Note that the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above. The present invention may achieve other effects instead of or in addition to the effects described above.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an overview of the operation of an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a terminal according to the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a terminal according to the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the information processing system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user management database according to the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of a game control unit according to the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of a game control unit according to the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a terminal according to the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a terminal according to the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a server device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a terminal according to a variation of the present disclosure.

[0012] First, an overview of one embodiment will be described. Note that the reference numerals in the drawings are added to each element for convenience as an example to facilitate understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the blocks shown in each drawing represent functional units, not hardware units. Connection lines between blocks in each drawing include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Note that in this specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be assigned the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation.

[0013] A server device 100 according to one embodiment includes an acquisition unit 101, a movement control unit 102, a mission control unit 103, and a reward control unit 104 (see FIG. 1). The acquisition unit 101 acquires information about at least a user's destination in the real world (step S1 in FIG. 2). The movement control unit 102 moves an avatar in the virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world (step S2). The mission control unit 103 assigns a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar, and when the user completes the assigned mission, awards points to the user for completing the mission (step S3). When the user arrives at the destination in the real world, the reward control unit 104 awards a reward to the user based on the awarded points (step S4).

[0014] The server device 10 acquires the user's destination in the real world and assigns various missions to the user via an avatar set in a virtual space before the user travels to the destination. The server device 10 provides the user with a game in which the user arrives at the destination while completing the missions. By completing the missions, the user can enjoy the journey to the destination. By providing the game to users (tourists) visiting tourist destinations, the users can enjoy not only the tourist spots but also the travel within the tourist destination. As a result, the tourist destination becomes more attractive, and more tourists visit the destination. Having many tourists visit the tourist destination revitalizes the economy of the region including the tourist destination.

[0015] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0016] First Embodiment The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0017] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing system according to the first embodiment includes a server device 10.

[0018] The server device 10 supports tourists visiting tourist spots and provides various information to the tourists. The server device 10 may be installed in a building such as a tourist association, or may be installed on a network (cloud).

[0019] A user (tourist) carries a terminal 20. The user operates the terminal 20 to input various pieces of information into the server device 10. Alternatively, the user obtains various pieces of information from the server device 10 via the terminal 20.

[0020] 3 are connected to a network. For example, the server device 10 is connected to the network via a wired or wireless communication means.

[0021] 3 is merely an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. For example, the system may include multiple server devices 10.

[0022] [Overall Operation] Next, an overall operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0023] <Installation of Travel Application> Before visiting a tourist spot, the user installs a travel application on the terminal 20. The user operates the terminal 20 to download the travel application from a predetermined website or the like and installs it on the terminal 20.

[0024] A travel application is an application that helps tourists who visit tourist spots to enjoy their trip (sightseeing) and provides support to tourists.

[0025] For example, a travel application provides tourists with travel-linked games that are linked to travel from a departure point (e.g., the tourist's home) to a destination (e.g., the nearest station to a tourist spot) or travel within a tourist spot (e.g., travel from one tourist spot to another).

[0026] In the movement-linked game, game participants are given "missions," and those who complete the missions are awarded points according to the missions they have completed. At the end of the movement-linked game, the server device 10 awards the game participants "rewards" according to the points they have.

[0027] In the first embodiment, the movement-linked game will be described using movement within a tourist spot (for example, movement from one tourist spot to another tourist spot) as an example.

[0028] <User Registration> Once the installation of the travel application is complete, the user registers themselves. The user launches the travel application and performs a predetermined operation (for example, pressing the user registration button).

[0029] In response to a user's operation, the terminal 20 accesses the server device 10. The server device 10 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) on the terminal 20 and acquires information such as the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, and email address.

[0030] When the server device 10 acquires the name, gender, email address, etc. from the user, it generates a user ID for identifying the user. The server device 10 associates the generated user ID with the acquired information and registers them in a user management database. The user management database will be described in detail later.

[0031] The server device 10 then issues the generated user ID to the user. The server device 10 then transmits the generated user ID to the terminal 20. The terminal 20 stores the received user ID.

[0032] <Movement-linked game> When a user launches a travel application and performs a predetermined operation (for example, pressing a movement-linked game button), the terminal 20 accesses the server device 10. At that time, the terminal 20 transmits a user ID issued by the server device 10 to the server device 10. The server device 10 identifies the user (tourist) based on the acquired user ID. The server device 10 then starts the movement-linked game.

[0033] First, the server device 10 acquires information about the departure point and destination of the user (tourist). For example, the tourist selects a station or the like that is closest to their current location as the departure point from among Station A, Bus Stop B, Bus Stop C, and Bus Stop D shown in FIG. 3. The tourist also selects a station or the like that is close to a tourist spot of their choice as the destination. For example, the tourist sets Station A as the departure point and Bus Stop C as the destination.

[0034] Once the departure point and destination are acquired, the server device 10 starts a movement-linked game linked to the tourist's actual movement (movement from the departure point to the destination). Specifically, when the tourist moves in the real world, the server device 10 moves an avatar or virtual character of the tourist on a map in a virtual space that imitates the topography of the tourist spot.

[0035] Tourists may travel to their destinations on foot, or by train, bus, taxi, bicycle, or other means.

[0036] To realize the movement-linked game, the terminal 20 notifies the server device 10 of its current location (coordinate information: latitude, longitude). Specifically, the terminal 20 periodically or at a predetermined timing transmits a "current location notification" including the user ID and the current location to the server device 10 (see FIG. 4).

[0037] The server device 10 determines the tourist's current location based on the current location notification and reflects this on the map of the movement-linked game (see Figure 5). The server device 10 converts the tourist's real-world coordinates into the coordinates of an avatar (tourist character) in the virtual space of the game.

[0038] For example, if the tourist himself / herself is staying at station A, the corresponding avatar will also be staying at station A. If the tourist moves towards bus stop C, which is his / her destination, the corresponding avatar will also move towards bus stop C.

[0039] The server device 10 periodically or at predetermined timings assigns "missions" to the tourists via the avatars. For example, the server device 10 instructs the avatars to stop by retail store E, which is open near bus stop B shown in FIG. 3. For example, the server device 10 displays a screen (game screen) such as that shown in FIG. 6 on the tourist's terminal 20, and notifies the tourist of the mission (instructions).

[0040] The tourist may either complete or ignore the given mission. The server device 10 determines whether the mission has been completed based on, for example, the current location of the terminal 20 carried by the tourist.

[0041] Alternatively, the server device 10 may give the tourist a mission such as "make a purchase of 300 yen or more at retail store E." In this case, the server device 10 displays a screen such as that shown in FIG.

[0042] The tourist may ignore the mission or may follow the mission and shop at retail store E. After shopping, the tourist operates terminal 20 to take a photo of the receipt for the purchased items. Terminal 20 transmits image data of the receipt to server device 10. Specifically, terminal 20 transmits an "action notification" including the image data and the user ID to server device 10 (see FIG. 8).

[0043] The server device 10 identifies the tourist based on the user ID included in the behavior notification. The server device 10 also determines whether the mission assigned to the tourist has been accomplished using the image data included in the behavior notification.

[0044] The server device 10 awards points to tourists who have completed a mission. For example, in the above example, 10 points are awarded for completing the mission of stopping by retail store E, and 30 points are awarded for completing the mission of shopping at retail store E for 300 yen or more.

[0045] When the tourist arrives at the destination, the server device 10 ends the travel-linked game. When the travel-linked game ends, the server device 10 awards the tourist a reward (compensation) for participating in the travel-linked game and for completing the mission. For example, the server device 10 awards the tourist "region-limited points" based on the points held by the tourist.

[0046] Area-limited points are points whose use is restricted to a specific area including the user's real-world destination (for example, a tourist spot including the destination).

[0047] The server device 10 stores the area-limited points in the user management database.

[0048] <Using Regionally Limited Points> Users (tourists) can use regionally limited points like currency at restaurants, retail stores, etc. in tourist destinations. A tourist who wishes to use regionally limited points operates terminal 20 to display a two-dimensional barcode while informing a staff member at a restaurant or the like that they will be using regionally limited points (see FIG. 9).

[0049] In response to the tourist's operation, the terminal 20 displays a two-dimensional barcode that has been converted from the address of the server device 10 and the user ID issued by the server device 10. The tourist displays the two-dimensional barcode using a travel application that has been installed in advance. The tourist then presents the two-dimensional barcode displayed on the terminal 20 to a staff member at a restaurant or other establishment.

[0050] A staff member at a restaurant or the like operates a POS (Point of Sale) terminal 30 to read the displayed two-dimensional barcode.

[0051] The POS terminal 30 transmits the user ID obtained from the two-dimensional barcode to the address obtained from the two-dimensional barcode (the address of the server device 10) to the server device 10. The server device 10 transmits the number of area-limited points stored in association with the user ID to the POS terminal 30.

[0052] The POS terminal 30 notifies the store clerk of the number of area-limited points acquired from the server device 10. The store clerk uses the notified area-limited points to pay for the product. The store clerk inputs the number of area-limited points used by the user into the POS terminal 30. The POS terminal 30 notifies the server device 10 of the number of area-limited points used by the user and the user ID. The server device 10 subtracts the number of points used from the area-limited points of the user corresponding to the notified user ID.

[0053] Next, details of each device included in the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0054] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration (processing module) of the server device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 10, the server device 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a user registration unit 202, a game control unit 203, a point control unit 204, and a storage unit 205.

[0055] The communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the terminal 20. The communication control unit 201 also transmits data to the terminal 20. The communication control unit 201 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 201. The communication control unit 201 has a function as a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0056] The user registration unit 202 is a means for performing user registration. The user registration unit 202 acquires the user's name, sex, address, date of birth, email address, etc. from a predetermined web page or the like.

[0057] Furthermore, the user registration unit 202 generates a user ID for the user whose name, etc., has been acquired. The user ID may be any information that can uniquely identify the user. For example, the user registration unit 202 may assign a unique value each time a user is registered as the user ID.

[0058] The user registration unit 202 stores the generated user ID and the acquired information in a user management database (see FIG. 11). Note that the user management database shown in FIG. 11 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored.

[0059] The user registration unit 202 transmits the generated user ID to the user's terminal 20 .

[0060] The game control unit 203 is a means for executing control relating to the movement-linked game.

[0061] The game control unit 203 has a function as an acquisition unit (acquisition means) that acquires information about the user's destination in the real world, and also has a function as a movement control unit (movement control means) that moves a virtual space avatar (an avatar generated and set in the virtual space) corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world.

[0062] Furthermore, the game control unit 203 functions as a mission control unit (mission control means) that assigns a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar and, when the user completes the assigned mission, awards points to the user who has completed the mission. Furthermore, the game control unit 203 functions as a reward control unit (reward control means) that, when the user arrives at a destination in the real world, awards a reward to the user based on the points awarded to the user.

[0063] The operation of the game control unit 203 will now be described in detail.

[0064] When a user operates the terminal 20 to access a predetermined web page or the like, the game control unit 203 acquires a user ID from the terminal 20. The game control unit 203 searches the user management database using the user ID as a key to identify the corresponding user.

[0065] Furthermore, the game control unit 203 acquires information about the user's movement (starting point, destination). For example, the game control unit 203 acquires the starting point and destination by displaying a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like on the terminal 20.

[0066] When the user inputs the departure point, etc., the game control unit 203 may display a list of tourist spots, stations, bus stops, etc. included in the tourist destination. Alternatively, the game control unit 203 may display a map of the tourist destination on the terminal 20 and provide an interface that allows the user to intuitively select the departure point and destination. For example, when the user touches the screen of the terminal 20 in the order of the departure point and the destination, the game control unit 203 may set the point corresponding to the touched location as the departure point, etc.

[0067] Upon acquiring the user's departure point and destination, the game control unit 203 stores the departure point and destination in the user management database. The game control unit 203 also sets "game in progress" in the status field of the user management database. For ease of understanding, the user management database shown in FIG. 11 lists the names of tourist attraction facilities in the departure point field and destination field. However, in reality, coordinate information (latitude and longitude) corresponding to the facilities is stored in the user management database.

[0068] Next, with reference to FIG. 12, the operation of the game control unit 203 when a current position notification is received from the terminal 20 will be described.

[0069] The game control unit 203 receives a "current location notification" from the user's terminal 20 (step S101).

[0070] The game control unit 203 identifies the user playing the game based on the user ID included in the current location notification (step S102).

[0071] The game control unit 203 updates the identified current location of the user based on the current location included in the current location notification (step S103). The game control unit 203 stores the location information (coordinate information) included in the current location notification in the current location field of the user management database.

[0072] When the game control unit 203 updates the current position of the user, it updates the current position of the avatar corresponding to that user (the position of the avatar displayed on the terminal 20) (step S104). The game control unit 203 converts the coordinate information of the real world into coordinate information of the game coordinate system, and moves the avatar corresponding to the position according to the user's current position.

[0073] In this way, the game control unit 203 acquires the location information of the terminal 20 held by the user from the terminal 20, and changes the position of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information.

[0074] Furthermore, the operation of the game control unit 203 regarding the assignment of missions (instructions) and the like will be described with reference to FIG.

[0075] During the movement-linked game, the game control unit 203 gives the user a mission periodically or at a predetermined timing (step S201).

[0076] For example, the game control unit 203 may select a mission to be given to the user from among prepared missions based on the user's current location, or may randomly select a mission to be given to the user from among prepared missions.

[0077] Alternatively, the game control unit 203 may select a mission to be given to a user depending on the point balance held by the user. For example, the game control unit 203 may give a mission of low difficulty to a user who has few points. On the other hand, the game control unit 203 may give a mission of high difficulty to a user who has many points.

[0078] The game control unit 203 determines the mission to be given to the user by referring to table information that stores the content and difficulty of each mission, etc. The game control unit 203 stores the determined mission (mission content).

[0079] Furthermore, when a mission to be given to the user is selected, the game control unit 203 notifies the user of the selected mission via an in-game avatar. For example, the game control unit 203 displays on the terminal 20 a display such as that shown in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7.

[0080] When the mission is assigned to the user, the game control unit 203 determines whether the mission can be accomplished (step S202).

[0081] For example, if the mission is set to have the user arrive at a specified location, the game control unit 203 determines that the mission is accomplished if the difference between the current location (coordinates) stored in the user management database and the location (coordinates) specified in the mission is within a specified range.

[0082] Alternatively, if the mission is set to require the user to purchase goods or services worth a specified amount at a specified location, the game control unit 203 determines whether the mission can be accomplished at the time of receiving an action notification from the user's terminal 20.

[0083] When the action notification is received, the game control unit 203 analyzes the image data included in the action notification and determines whether the user has purchased goods or the like at a specified location for a specified amount or more.

[0084] The game control unit 203 may use OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to read the name of the store where the purchase was made and the purchase amount from the image data to determine whether the mission has been accomplished. Alternatively, the game control unit 203 may make the above determination using a learning model (AI (Artificial Intelligence) model) prepared in advance.

[0085] The game control unit 203 continues to determine whether the mission has been accomplished for a predetermined period of time. In other words, if the mission has not been accomplished even after a predetermined period (time) has passed since the mission was assigned, the game control unit 203 determines that the mission has not been accomplished.

[0086] The game control unit 203 may determine the predetermined period (time) according to the content of the mission assigned to the user. For example, the game control unit 203 may change the period for determining whether the mission can be accomplished depending on whether the mission is to stop by a predetermined facility or to make purchases of a predetermined amount or more at the predetermined facility.

[0087] When the mission is accomplished (step S203, Yes branch), the game control unit 203 awards points to the user who has accomplished the mission (step S204). The game control unit 203 awards points to the user according to the accomplished mission. The game control unit 203 stores (adds) the awarded points in the user management database.

[0088] If the mission is not accomplished (step S203, No branch), the game control unit 203 does not perform any particular process.

[0089] Alternatively, the game control unit 203 may notify the user that the mission has not been completed. For example, the game control unit 203 may notify the user when the user has passed a location specified in the mission or when the time period for determining whether the mission has been completed has expired. For example, the game control unit 203 may display a screen such as that shown in FIG. 14 on the terminal 20. In this case, if the user completes the mission based on the notification, points are awarded to the user.

[0090] The game control unit 203 determines whether the user has arrived at the destination (step S205).

[0091] For example, if the difference between the coordinates of the destination and the coordinates of the current location falls within a predetermined range, the game control unit 203 determines that the user has arrived at the destination.

[0092] If the user has not arrived at the destination (step S205, No branch), the game control unit 203 continues the movement-linked game.

[0093] If the user has arrived at the destination (step S205, Yes branch), the game control unit 203 ends the movement-linked game.

[0094] In this way, the game control unit 203 assigns the user a mission to purchase a predetermined product or service. The game control unit 203 acquires image data showing a receipt for the product or service purchased by the user from the user's terminal 20. The game control unit 203 analyzes the acquired image data to determine whether the mission assigned to the user has been accomplished.

[0095] When the movement-linked game ends, the game control unit 203 controls the reward (compensation, benefit) to be given to the user. Specifically, the game control unit 203 gives the user a reward according to the points that the user has acquired in the movement-linked game.

[0096] For example, the game control unit 203 converts points held by the user into "region-limited points." For example, the game control unit 203 converts the points held by the user into an equivalent value of region-limited points (converting one point into one region-limited point). The game control unit 203 stores the region-limited points given to the user in the user management database.

[0097] When the movement-linked game ends, the game control unit 203 notifies the user who participated in the game of the number of area-limited points that the user has acquired.

[0098] When the movement-linked game ends, the game control unit 203 initializes the user's status, points, current location, starting point, destination, etc. For example, the game control unit 203 sets the user's status to that before the game and initializes points obtained by completing missions during the game.

[0099] The points control unit 204 is a means for controlling area-limited points.

[0100] The point control unit 204 acquires the user ID of a user who wishes to use area-limited points from a POS terminal 30 installed in a restaurant or the like in a tourist destination. The point control unit 204 searches the user management database using the acquired user ID as a key to identify the corresponding entry. The point control unit 204 transmits the setting value (remaining number of area-limited points) set in the area-limited points field of the identified entry to the POS terminal 30.

[0101] When the number of area-limited points used by the user (number of points used) and the user ID are obtained from the POS terminal 30, the point control unit 204 subtracts the number of points used from the set value in the area-limited points field in the entry corresponding to the user ID.

[0102] The storage unit 205 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 10. For example, the storage unit 205 stores location information (coordinate information) of tourist spots, facilities, etc. Alternatively, the storage unit 205 stores the content of missions given to users, the difficulty level, the number of points awarded when the missions are completed, etc.

[0103] [Terminal] Examples of the terminal 20 include mobile terminal devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game consoles, and tablets. The terminal 20 can be any equipment or device that can accept user operations and communicate with the server device 10. The configuration of the terminal 20 is clear to those skilled in the art, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0104] [POS Terminal] A description of the configuration and operation of the POS terminal 30 will be omitted because the configuration and operation of the POS terminal 30 are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0105] Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described.

[0106] <Modification 1> In the above embodiment, it has been described that the user can earn points by completing missions. However, points may also be awarded based on the user's spontaneous actions. The game control unit 203 may award predetermined points for predetermined actions by the user.

[0107] For example, a user (tourist) purchases a predetermined item (e.g., a souvenir related to a tourist spot). The tourist operates the terminal 20 to take a picture of the receipt for the purchased item. The terminal 20 transmits image data showing the receipt to the server device 10. The game control unit 203 of the server device 10 analyzes the receipt shown in the image data and determines whether the item purchased by the tourist is eligible for points. If the purchased item is eligible for points, the game control unit 203 awards points to the tourist.

[0108] <Modification 2> The server device 10 may allow only users (tourists) staying in a tourist spot to participate in the movement-linked game.

[0109] In this case, the game control unit 203 may determine whether or not to start the game based on the user's current location. The game control unit 203 acquires the user's current location when the game starts. The game control unit 203 starts the movement-linked game if the acquired current location is within a predetermined range (tourist spot).

[0110] As described above, the server device 10 according to the first embodiment provides users with a travel-linked game linked to the user's travel. The server device 10 assigns various missions (events) to tourists to help them enjoy their travel to their real-world tourist destinations. The server device 10 awards points to users who complete missions according to the content of the completed missions. The points acquired by the users are converted into area-limited points that can be used at tourist destinations, etc. The users can enjoy completing missions while traveling and receive rewards (benefits) for completing the missions, thereby achieving a more satisfying travel experience. Note that in the first embodiment, whether the user arrives at the destination quickly is not important. This is because one of the goals of the first embodiment is to have users visit more tourist spots, etc. In other words, even if it takes a long time to arrive at the destination, more points are awarded to users who complete more missions (such as making more purchases) along the way.

[0111] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0112] In the first embodiment, a mobile-linked game has been described in which a user accomplishes a mission given by the server device 10. In the second embodiment, a mobile-linked game in which a competitor competes with the user will be described.

[0113] The following description will focus on the differences between the first and second embodiments.

[0114] The game control unit 203 according to the second embodiment generates a competitor for the user when the movement-linked game starts. For example, the game control unit 203 generates a competitor (a computer-based competitor) with the same starting point and destination as the user. The generated competitor moves from the starting point to the destination. The game control unit 203 controls the movement of the competitor.

[0115] For example, the game control unit 203 moves the competitor on the game screen at a predetermined speed. For example, the game control unit 203 displays a game screen such as that shown in Fig. 15 on the user's terminal 20. The game control unit 203 realizes a movement-linked game in which the computer-based competitor or the avatar of the game participant competes to see which can arrive at a destination first.

[0116] As in the first embodiment, the game control unit 203 assigns a mission to the user. For example, the user may stop by a predetermined location or purchase a predetermined item in accordance with the mission. When the user completes the mission, the game control unit 203 restricts the movement of the competitor in accordance with the points acquired by the user for completing the mission.

[0117] For example, if the user acquires many points by accomplishing a mission, the game control unit 203 may stop or slow down the movement of the competitor for a long period of time.

[0118] In this way, when a mission given to a user is accomplished, the game control unit 203 restricts the movement of the competitor in the virtual space according to the number of points acquired by the user by accomplishing the mission.

[0119] When either the user or the competitor arrives at the destination, the game control unit 203 ends the movement-linked game. If the user arrives at the destination earlier than the competitor, the game control unit 203 awards more points to the user. Conversely, if the competitor arrives at the destination earlier than the user, the game control unit 203 awards fewer points to the user.

[0120] As in the first embodiment, the points given to the user are converted into area-limited points as a reward for participating in the game.

[0121] In this way, the game control unit 203 according to the second embodiment has a function as a competitor control unit (competitor control means) that controls competitors in a game. The game control unit 203 generates a competitor for an avatar in a virtual space. If the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space that corresponds to a destination in the real world before the competitor, the game control unit 203 awards the user first points (a first number of points). If the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space that corresponds to a destination in the real world after the competitor, the game control unit 203 awards the user second points (a second number of points) that are less than the first points.

[0122] Next, a modified example of the second embodiment will be described.

[0123] <Modification 1> The server device 10 may implement a movement-linked game in which users compete against each other, rather than against a computer.

[0124] In this case, the game control unit 203 sets users who participated in the game during a specified time period (for example, a specified time period such as 9:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to 15:00) and who have traveled a similar distance (distance from the starting point to the destination) as competitors.

[0125] For example, the game control unit 203 may create a group of users who participated in the game during the same time period and who have traveled a similar distance, and set each user in the group as a competitor. More specifically, the game control unit 203 may create a group with a travel distance of 5 to 8 km, a group with a travel distance of 8 to 10 km, and so on.

[0126] The game control unit 203 gives points to each user (game participant) belonging to each group according to the time it took for each user to arrive at their destination.

[0127] Specifically, the game control unit 203 awards points to each user according to the user's travel time (travel time from the departure point to the destination). The game control unit 203 awards more points to the user who arrives at the destination in the shortest time, and fewer points to the user who arrives at the destination in the longest time.

[0128] Furthermore, the game control unit 203 assigns a mission to each user, as in the first embodiment. The game control unit 203 awards points to each user according to the content of the mission that each user has completed.

[0129] Each user will be awarded points based on the mission they complete and the travel time they take to reach their destination.

[0130] The game control unit 203 determines the winner of the game at a predetermined timing (for example, when each user arrives at the destination). For example, the game control unit 203 determines the winner of the game (champion) based on the number of points each user ultimately possesses. Specifically, the game control unit 203 sets the user with the largest total number of points obtained by completing the missions and traveling to the destination as the winner of the game.

[0131] The game control unit 203 awards area-limited points to the winner of the game. Note that the game control unit 203 may determine the game participant with the most points as the winner, the game participant with the second most points as the runner-up, and so on, and award area-limited points to the winner and the runner-up.

[0132] In a competitive mobile game involving multiple users, the faster a game participant reaches the destination, the more points they will receive, and the user who completes the most missions during their journey may be selected as the final winner.

[0133] As described above, the server device 10 according to the second embodiment provides a travel-linked game in which the opponents are the computer and other users. The presence of competitors allows users to become even more engrossed in the travel-linked game and enjoy traveling to their destination.

[0134] Next, the hardware of each device constituting the information processing system will be described. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10.

[0135] The server device 10 can be configured by an information processing device (so-called computer), and has the configuration exemplified in Fig. 16. For example, the server device 10 includes a processor 311, a memory 312, an input / output interface 313, and a communication interface 314. The components such as the processor 311 are connected by an internal bus or the like, and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0136] However, the configuration shown in Fig. 16 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 10. The server device 10 may include hardware not shown, and may not include the input / output interface 313 as necessary. Furthermore, the number of processors 311 and the like included in the server device 10 is not intended to be limited to the example shown in Fig. 16, and for example, the server device 10 may include multiple processors 311.

[0137] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 311 executes various programs including an operating system (OS).

[0138] The memory 312 is a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The memory 312 stores an OS program, application programs, and various data.

[0139] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device and an input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like that accepts user operations.

[0140] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc. that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a network interface card (NIC).

[0141] The functions of the server device 10 are realized by various processing modules. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in the memory 312. The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transitory medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. That is, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium storing the program. Furthermore, the processing modules can be realized by semiconductor chips.

[0142] The terminal 20 can also be configured by an information processing device, similar to the server device 10, and its basic hardware configuration is no different from that of the server device 10, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0143] The server device 10 is equipped with a computer, and the computer executes a program to realize the functions of the server device 10. The server device 10 also executes a control method for the server device 10 by the program.

[0144] [Modifications] The configuration, operation, etc. of the information processing system described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the configuration, etc. of the system.

[0145] In the above embodiment, a travel-linked game targeting travel within a tourist destination has been described. However, a travel-linked game targeting travel over a wider area or over a longer distance may be provided. For example, the server device 10 may provide a travel-linked game in which the user's nearest station (e.g., Tokyo Station) is the starting point and the nearest station to the tourist destination (e.g., Kyoto Station) is the destination.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the server device 10 acquires a starting point from a user participating in a movement-linked game. The server device 10 may acquire only a destination without acquiring a starting point. The server device 10 may treat the user's location at the start of the game as the starting point.

[0147] In the above embodiment, the server device 10 acquires location information of the terminal 20 carried by the user from the terminal 20 and changes the location of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information. The server device 10 may acquire information from an authentication terminal (not shown in FIG. 3 , etc.) installed at various locations in the tourist destination (e.g., train stations, bus stops, retail stores, restaurants, etc.) to identify the location of the user. The server device 10 stores biometric information (e.g., facial information) of each user and acquires the user's biometric information from the authentication terminal. The server device 10 performs biometric authentication. If the biometric authentication is successful, the server device 10 determines that the user detected by the authentication terminal is located at the location where the authentication terminal is installed (e.g., a train station or bus stop). The server device 10 changes the location of the avatar in the virtual space based on the user's location (location in the real world) identified by biometric authentication.

[0148] In the above embodiment, the server device 10 determines whether a mission has been completed using image data included in the action notification received from the user's terminal 20. The server device 10 may also determine whether a mission has been completed by acquiring information from authentication terminals (not shown in FIG. 3 , etc.) installed at various locations in the tourist destination (e.g., retail stores, restaurants, etc.). In this case, the server device 10 stores each user's biometric information (e.g., facial information) and credit card information and provides biometric authentication payment to restaurants, etc. The authentication terminal installed at the restaurant, etc., sends an authentication request to the server device 10, including the biometric information of the user who purchased a product and payment information (e.g., the product purchase location, product name, price, etc.). The server device 10 identifies the product purchaser through a matching process using the biometric information and performs payment using the purchaser's credit card information and payment information. If the payment is successful, the server device 10 sends a notification of successful authentication to the authentication terminal. If the payment is successful, the server device 10 determines whether the mission has been completed using the payment information received from the authentication terminal. In this way, the server device 10 may determine whether or not the mission has been accomplished based on the payment information (payment history) used for biometric authentication.

[0149] The server device 10 may acquire information about an avatar to be displayed on the game screen from the user when the user registers. Specifically, the user registration unit 202 may acquire image data of a character or the like that the user likes and use the acquired character or the like as the user's avatar.

[0150] When the server device 10 assigns a mission to the user, the server device 10 may clearly indicate to the user the number of points that can be obtained by completing the mission. For example, the game control unit 203 may display a screen such as that shown in FIG. 17 on the terminal 20.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the case where area-limited points converted from points earned by game participants are awarded as rewards (benefits) to game participants has been described. However, the server device 10 may award game participants with virtual currency, local specialties of tourist destinations, or other goods as rewards.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the case where the user management database is configured inside the server device 10 has been described, but the database may also be configured on an external database server or the like. That is, some of the functions of the server device 10 may be implemented in another device. More specifically, it is sufficient that the above-described "game control unit (game control means)" and the like are implemented in any of the devices included in the system.

[0153] In the flow charts (flowcharts, sequence diagrams) used in the above explanation, multiple steps (processes) are described in order, but the order of execution of the steps executed in the embodiments is not limited to the order described. In the embodiments, the order of the steps shown in the drawings can be changed to the extent that the content is not affected, such as by executing each process in parallel.

[0154] The above-described embodiments have been described in detail to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and it is not intended that all of the above-described configurations are required. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used alone or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with another configuration.

[0155] From the above explanation, the industrial applicability of the present invention is clear, and the present invention can be suitably applied to an information processing system that provides a movement-linked game that is linked to the movement of a user.

[0156] Some or all of the above embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0157] [Supplementary Note 1] A server device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring information regarding at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control means for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control means for assigning a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar and, if the user completes the assigned mission, awarding points to the user for completing the mission; and a reward control means for awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points when the user arrives at the destination in the real world. [Supplementary Note 2] The server device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the movement control means acquires location information of a terminal carried by the user from the terminal, and changes the position of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information. [Supplementary Note 3] The server device according to Supplementary Note 2, wherein the mission control means assigns the user a mission to purchase a predetermined product or service, acquires image data from the user's terminal showing a receipt for the product or service purchased by the user, and determines whether the mission assigned to the user has been completed by analyzing the acquired image data. [Supplementary Note 4] The server device according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein the mission control means awards predetermined points for predetermined actions by the user. [Supplementary Note 5] The server device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 4, wherein the reward control means awards area-limited points, the use of which is restricted to a predetermined area including the destination in the real world, to the user who arrives at the destination. [Supplementary Note 6] The server device according to Supplementary Note 1, further comprising competitor control means for generating a competitor for the avatar in the virtual space, awarding first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space that corresponds to the destination in the real world before the competitor, and awarding second points that are less than the first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space that corresponds to the destination in the real world after the competitor.[Supplementary Note 7] The server device according to Supplementary Note 6, wherein the competitor control means, when a mission assigned to the user is completed, restricts the movement of the competitor in the virtual space in accordance with the points acquired by the user for completing the mission. [Supplementary Note 8] The server device according to Supplementary Note 1, comprising control means for awarding points to each of the multiple users in accordance with the travel time required for each of the multiple users to arrive at their respective destinations, and determining a winner of the game based on the total value of the points awarded for completing the mission and the points awarded for the travel time. [Supplementary Note 9] A control method for a server device, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring information regarding at least the user's destination in the real world; a movement control step of moving an avatar in the virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control step of assigning a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar, and awarding points to the user who has completed the mission if the user completes the assigned mission; and a reward control step of awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points when the user arrives at the destination in the real world. [Supplementary Note 10] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 9, wherein the movement control step acquires location information of a terminal carried by the user from the terminal, and changes the position of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information. [Supplementary Note 11] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 10, wherein the mission control step assigns the user a mission to purchase a predetermined product or service, acquires image data showing a receipt for the product or service purchased by the user from the user's terminal, and determines whether the mission assigned to the user has been accomplished by analyzing the acquired image data. [Supplementary Note 12] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 11, wherein the mission control step assigns predetermined points for a predetermined action by the user.[Supplementary Note 13] The control method for a server device according to any one of Supplements 9 to 12, wherein the reward control step awards area-limited points, the use of which is limited to a predetermined area including the destination in the real world, to a user who arrives at the destination. [Supplementary Note 14] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 9, further comprising a competitor control step of generating a competitor for the avatar in the virtual space, awarding first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world before the competitor, and awarding second points less than the first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world after the competitor. [Supplementary Note 15] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 14, wherein the competitor control step, when a mission assigned to the user is accomplished, restricts movement of the competitor in the virtual space in accordance with points acquired by the user by completing the mission. [Supplementary Note 16] The control method for a server device according to Supplementary Note 9, comprising a control step of awarding points to each of the plurality of users according to the travel time required for each of the plurality of users to arrive at their respective destinations, and determining a winner of the game based on the total value of the points awarded for completing the missions and the points awarded according to the travel times. [Supplementary Note 17] A computer-readable storage medium storing programs for causing a computer mounted on the server device to execute the following: an acquisition process for acquiring information on at least the users' destinations in the real world; a movement control process for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control process for assigning a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar, and awarding points to the user who has completed the mission if the user has completed the assigned mission; and a reward control process for awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points when the user arrives at the destination in the real world.[Supplementary Note 18] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 17, wherein the movement control process acquires location information of a terminal carried by the user from the terminal, and changes the position of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information. [Supplementary Note 19] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 18, wherein the mission control process assigns the user a mission to purchase a predetermined product or service, acquires image data showing a receipt for the product or service purchased by the user from the user's terminal, and determines whether the mission assigned to the user has been accomplished by analyzing the acquired image data. [Supplementary Note 20] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 19, wherein the mission control process awards predetermined points for predetermined actions performed by the user. [Supplementary Note 21] The storage medium of any one of Supplements 17 to 20, wherein the reward control process awards area-limited points, the use of which is limited to a predetermined area including the destination in the real world, to a user who arrives at the destination. [Supplementary Note 22] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 17, further comprising a competitor control process that generates a competitor for the avatar in the virtual space, awards first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world before the competitor, and awards second points less than the first points to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world after the competitor. [Supplementary Note 23] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 22, wherein the competitor control process restricts movement of the competitor in the virtual space according to points acquired by the user for completing a mission assigned to the user when the user completes the mission. [Supplementary Note 24] The storage medium of Supplementary Note 17, further comprising a control process that awards points to each of the multiple users according to the travel time required for each of the multiple users to arrive at their respective destinations, and determines a winner of the game based on the total value of the points awarded for completing the mission and the points awarded according to the travel time.

[0158] Furthermore, some or all of the configurations described in Supplementary Notes 2 to 8 that are dependent on Supplementary Note 1 above may also be dependent on Supplementary Notes 9 and 17 in the same dependent relationship as Supplementary Notes 2 to 8. Furthermore, not limited to Supplementary Notes 1, 9, and 17, some or all of the configurations described as Supplements may be made dependent on various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems, within the scope of each of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0159] The disclosures of the above-cited prior art documents are incorporated herein by reference. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that may be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure, including the claims, and the technical concepts thereof.

[0160] 10 Server device 20 Terminal 30 POS terminal 100 Server device 101 Acquisition means 102 Movement control means 103 Mission control means 104 Reward control means 201 Communication control unit 202 User registration unit 203 Game control unit 204 Point control unit 205 Storage unit 311 Processor 312 Memory 313 Input / output interface 314 Communication interface

Claims

1. A server device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring information relating to at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control means for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the movement of the user in the real world; a mission control means for giving the user a predetermined mission via the avatar, and awarding points to the user who has completed the mission when the user arrives at the destination in the real world; and a reward control means for awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points when the user arrives at the destination in the real world.

2. A server device as described in claim 1, wherein the movement control means acquires location information of a terminal carried by the user from the terminal, and changes the position of the avatar in the virtual space based on the acquired location information.

3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein the mission control means assigns the user a mission to purchase a specified product or service, acquires image data from the user's terminal showing a receipt for the product or service purchased by the user, and determines whether the mission assigned to the user has been accomplished by analyzing the acquired image data.

4. The server device according to claim 3, wherein said mission control means awards predetermined points for a predetermined action by said user.

5. A server device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the reward control means awards area-limited points, the use of which is restricted to a specified area including the destination in the real world, to a user who arrives at the destination.

6. The server device of claim 1, further comprising a competitor control means for generating a competitor for the avatar in the virtual space, giving a first point to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world before the competitor, and giving a second point less than the first point to the user if the avatar arrives at a destination in the virtual space corresponding to the destination in the real world after the competitor.

7. The server device according to claim 6, wherein the competitor control means, when the mission given to the user is accomplished, restricts the movement of the competitor in the virtual space in accordance with the points acquired by the user by completing the mission.

8. A server device as described in claim 1, further comprising a control means for awarding points to each of the plurality of users according to the travel time required for each of the plurality of users to reach their respective destinations, and determining a winner of the game based on the total value of points awarded for completing the mission and points awarded according to the travel time.

9. A method for controlling a server device comprising: an acquisition process for acquiring information relating to at least a user's destination in the real world; a movement control process for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the movement of the user in the real world; a mission control process for giving a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar, and, if the user accomplishes the given mission, awarding points to the user who has accomplished the mission; and a reward control process for, when the user arrives at the destination in the real world, awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points.

10. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device to execute the following processes: an acquisition process for acquiring at least information regarding a user's destination in the real world; a movement control process for moving an avatar in a virtual space corresponding to the user in conjunction with the user's movement in the real world; a mission control process for giving a predetermined mission to the user via the avatar and, if the user accomplishes the given mission, awarding points to the user who has accomplished the mission; and a reward control process for, when the user arrives at the destination in the real world, awarding a reward to the user based on the awarded points.

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