Operation input device

Abstract

This operation input device comprises a plurality of operation parts for receiving the same kind of operation in a game. The plurality of operation parts include a first operation part and a second operation part located closer to a user than the first operation part. The size of the first operation part exceeds the size of the second operation part.

Description

Operation input device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for accepting an operation by a user.

[0002] Games in which a user progresses by selectively operating multiple operation units have been proposed. For example, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a music game in which a user operates the units sequentially in synchronization with the playback of music. The user selectively operates each of multiple operators arranged horizontally. The shape and size of all the operators are the same.

[0003] Chunithm, [Retrieved August 13, 2023], Internet<URL:https: / / chunithm.sega.jp / >

[0004] Since the multiple controllers in Patent Document 1 are used for the same type of operation in a music game, it is desirable for the user to be able to operate each controller equally. However, in reality, it may be more difficult to operate the multiple controllers located farther from the user than the controllers located closer to the user. In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to facilitate the operation of the multiple controllers that accept the same type of operation in a game and that are located farther from the user.

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, an operation input device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operation units that accept the same type of operation in a game, the plurality of operation units including a first operation unit and a second operation unit that is positioned closer to the user than the first operation unit, and the size of the first operation unit exceeds the size of the second operation unit.

[0006] 1 is a perspective view of a game system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a plan view of the game system; FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the game system; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a music game screen; FIG. 5 is a plan view of operation buttons; FIG. 6 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example; FIG. 7 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example; FIG. 8 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example; FIG. 9 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example; FIG. 10 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example; FIG. 11 is a plan view of a first operator group in a modified example;

[0007]

[0032] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments exemplified below include various limitations that are not essential to the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments exemplified below.

[0008] 1 is a perspective view of a game system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a partial plan view of the game system 100 as viewed from above in the vertical direction. The game system 100 of this embodiment is a computer system that provides a music game to a user U (i.e., a player). The music game is a timing game (rhythm game) that requires the user U to perform operations synchronized with the playback of music.

[0009] The game system 100 is installed in, for example, a gaming facility. The gaming facility may be, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The game system 100 is an example of an "operation input device."

[0010] As illustrated in FIG. 2 , a reference plane Q is assumed in this embodiment. The reference plane Q is, for example, a vertical plane corresponding to the plane of symmetry of the game system 100. In other words, the outer shape of the game system 100 is substantially plane-symmetrical with respect to the reference plane Q. The user U plays the music game at a position where the reference plane Q passes through the body (i.e., in front of the game system 100). Note that the outer shape of the game system 100 may be asymmetric. Note that in the following description, observing any element of the game system 100 from a line of sight along the vertical direction will be referred to as a "planar view."

[0011] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the game system 100 includes a housing 10. The housing 10 is a structure that constitutes the exterior of the game system 100. A display device 20, an operation device 30, and a sound output device 40 are mounted on the housing 10. The display device 20 displays various images related to the music game. The display device 20 is configured with a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic electroluminescence (EL) panel. The operation device 30 is an input device that accepts operations by a user U. The sound output device 40 is configured with, for example, multiple speaker devices, and outputs the playback sounds of music from the music game.

[0012] The housing 10 includes a front surface 11 and an operation surface 12. The front surface 11 is an exterior surface facing the user U. Specifically, the front surface 11 faces, for example, the waist or abdomen of the user U. The operation surface 12 is, for example, a substantially horizontal, flat surface. The operation surface 12 is placed at a position where both hands of the user U are placed. The operation device 30 is placed on the operation surface 12. Note that the operation surface 12 may be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0013] The display device 20 is installed in front of the user U, facing the front surface 11. In a plan view from the vertical direction, the operation surface 12 is located between the front surface 11 of the housing 10 and the display device 20. The display surface of the display device 20 is inclined obliquely upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the operation surface 12. The display surface of the display device 20 may be perpendicular to the operation surface 12. The sound emitting device 40 is installed, for example, to the side or above the display device 20.

[0014] Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game system 100. As illustrated in Fig. 3, the game system 100 includes a control device 61 and a storage device 62 in addition to a display device 20, an operation device 30, and a sound emission device 40. The game system 100 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as a plurality of devices configured separately from each other.

[0015] The control device 61 is composed of one or more processors that control each element of the game system 100. For example, the control device 61 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a sound processing unit (SPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0016] The storage device 62 is one or more memories that store programs executed by the control device 61 and various data used by the control device 61. The storage device 62 is configured with a known storage medium such as a magnetic storage medium or a semiconductor storage medium. The storage device 62 may be configured with a combination of multiple types of storage medium. Furthermore, a portable storage medium that can be attached to and detached from the game system 100 may be used as the storage device 62.

[0017] The control device 61 controls the music game by executing a program stored in the storage device 62. For example, the control device 61 executes a process of playing music for the music game using the sound emitting device 40, a process of displaying the screen shown in FIG. 4 (hereinafter referred to as the "music game screen 21") on the display device 20, and a process of progressing the music game in response to operations by the user U on the operation device 30.

[0018] The music game screen 21 is an image that is displayed on the display device 20 in parallel with the progress of the music game. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the music game screen 21 of this embodiment includes, for example, a lane area 22 and a plurality of notes 23 (23a, 23b).

[0019] The lane area 22 is a strip-shaped image object placed in virtual space. Specifically, the lane area 22 is a strip-shaped area having a side edge 24R and a side edge 24L. The side edges 24R and 24L are straight lines that form the outline of the lane area 22. The central axis A in FIG. 4 is an axis equidistant from the side edges 24R and 24L. The central axis A of the lane area 22 is located, for example, within the reference plane Q. However, it is also possible for the central axis A to be inclined relative to the reference plane Q, or for the position or angle of the central axis A relative to the reference plane Q to change in conjunction with the progress of the music game. In this embodiment, the lane area 22 is divided into a plurality of lanes 22a. The plurality of lanes 22a are arranged in the direction of the X-axis (i.e., the horizontal direction).

[0020] Each image object in the music game screen 21 is drawn three-dimensionally using, for example, perspective projection. Therefore, the side edges 24R and 24L are inclined with respect to the central axis A set in the lane area 22. Specifically, the side edge 24R is inclined with respect to the central axis A so that the distance WR1 between the central axis A and the lower end of the side edge 24R is greater than the distance WR2 between the central axis A and the upper end of the side edge 24R. Similarly, the side edge 24L is inclined with respect to the central axis A so that the distance WL1 between the central axis A and the lower end of the side edge 24L is greater than the distance WL2 between the central axis A and the upper end of the side edge 24L. In other words, the lane area 22 of the music game screen 21 is a trapezoidal area. Note that the lane area 22 may also be a triangular area in which the side edges 24R and 24L intersect at one point. As described above, the depth of the lane area 22 in the virtual space is expressed by the image in which the side edges 24R and 24L are inclined with respect to the central axis A.

[0021] The multiple notes 23 are image objects that indicate the time of operation by the user U. Each note 23 is also expressed as an indicator that indicates the time of operation to the user U. The multiple notes 23 are arranged in the lane area 22. The lane area 22 and the multiple notes 23 move in the direction in which the lane area 22 extends (i.e., the depth direction in the virtual space) in parallel with the playback of music by the sound emitting device 40. Note that in a form in which the lane area 22 is drawn two-dimensionally, the lane area 22 and the multiple notes 23 move, for example, vertically.

[0022] The multiple notes 23 include time point notes 23a and direction notes 23b. The time point notes 23a are notes 23 that instruct the user U on the time point of an operation. Specifically, the time point notes 23a are placed in one or more lanes 22a selected from the multiple lanes 22a. The direction notes 23b are notes 23 that instruct the user U on the time point of an operation and the direction of the operation (rightward / leftward).

[0023] A target position 25 is set at a predetermined point on the downstream side of the lane area 22. The music game is a game that requires the user U to perform an operation when each of the multiple notes 23 reaches the target position 25. In other words, the control device 61 evaluates the play of the user U based on the error between the time when each note 23 reaches the target position 25 and the time when the user U operates the operation device 30, and awards the user U points according to the results of the evaluation.

[0024] Next, the operation device 30 will be described. In the following description, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, an X-axis and a Y-axis are assumed to be orthogonal to each other in a plane parallel to the operation surface 12 (e.g., a horizontal plane). The X-axis is an example of a "first axis," and the Y-axis is an example of a "second axis."

[0025] Furthermore, one direction along the X axis is referred to as the X1 direction, and the direction opposite to the X1 direction is referred to as the X2 direction. The X1 direction corresponds to the right direction as seen from the user U, and the X2 direction corresponds to the left direction as seen from the user U. Furthermore, one direction along the Y axis is referred to as the Y1 direction, and the direction opposite to the Y1 direction is referred to as the Y2 direction. The Y1 direction corresponds to the back direction as seen from the user U, and the Y2 direction corresponds to the front direction as seen from the user U. The Y1 direction is an example of a "first direction," and the Y2 direction is an example of a "second direction."

[0026] As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the operating device 30 of this embodiment includes a first operator group 31 and a second operator group 32. The first operator group 31 is composed of 12 operation buttons 50 arranged along the X-axis. Each operation button 50 is a button-type operator (e.g., a key) that is pressed by the user U. Specifically, the operation button 50 is biased upward in the vertical direction by an elastic body (not shown), such as a spring. The operation button 50 is displaced downward in the vertical direction from its initial position in response to the user U pressing the operation button 50. On the other hand, when the operation by the user U is released, the operation button 50 is displaced upward in the vertical direction by the bias of the elastic body and returns to its initial position. Note that the number of operation buttons 50 constituting the first operator group 31 may be changed as desired.

[0027] When the time note 23a reaches the target position 25, the user U operates one or more of the 12 operation buttons 50 that correspond to the position of the time note 23a on the X-axis (lane 22a). As described above, the 12 operation buttons 50 in this embodiment accept operations corresponding to the time note 23a in the music game. In other words, the 12 operation buttons 50 accept the same type of operation in the music game. Each operation button 50 can also be expressed as an element that is selectively operated by the user U. The operation button 50 is an example of an "operation unit."

[0028] On the other hand, the second operator group 32 is composed of two faders 321. Each fader 321 is an operator operated in the X-axis direction by the user U. In a plan view, the second operator group 32 is located between the first operator group 31 and the display device 20. When the directional note 23b reaches the target position 25, the user U operates each fader 321 in the direction indicated by the directional note 23b. As described above, twelve operation buttons 50 and two faders 321 are provided on the operation surface 12 of the housing 10 in this embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 2 shows the midpoint M, right end ER, and left end EL of array B of 12 operation buttons 50 (50R1 to 50R6, 50L1 to 50L6). The right end ER is the end in the X1 direction of array B. The left end EL is the end in the X2 direction of array B. The midpoint M is a point equidistant from the right end ER and the left end EL in the X-axis direction. The midpoint M is an example of a point in array B of 12 operation buttons 50 that is located in front of the user U. One of the right end ER and the left end EL is an example of a "first end," and the other is an example of a "second end."

[0030] In this embodiment, the midpoint M is located within the reference plane Q. That is, the central axis A of the lane area 22 on the music game screen 21 and the midpoint M of the arrangement B of the 12 operation buttons 50 are at the same position in the X-axis direction. Specifically, as illustrated in Fig. 4, in the X-axis direction, the lane area 22 on the music game screen 21 is located within the range in which the 12 operation buttons 50 are arranged (i.e., the range between the right end ER and the left end EL).

[0031] 2, the twelve operation buttons 50 are divided into six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 located in the X1 direction of the midpoint M (reference plane Q) and six operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 located in the X2 direction of the midpoint M. The six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 are operation buttons 50 that the user U operates with, for example, the right hand. The six operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 are operation buttons 50 that the user U operates with, for example, the left hand. However, the user U may operate each operation button 50 with either the right hand or the left hand.

[0032] The shape of each operation button 50 is line-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry that is perpendicular to the X-axis at the midpoint M of the array B. The axis of symmetry is an axis that is parallel to the Y-axis and passes through the midpoint M. In other words, among the 12 operation buttons 50, corresponding operation buttons 50Rn and 50Ln are line-symmetrical (n = 1 to 6). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the shapes of the operation buttons 50 are asymmetrical, it is possible to realize a game system 100 that has a perceived sense of design unity.

[0033] Since the shape of each operation button 50 is line-symmetrical, the following description will representatively focus on the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 located in the X1 direction of the midpoint M, and will also serve to describe the six operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 located in the X2 direction. When there is no need to particularly distinguish between the individual operation buttons 50, they will simply be referred to as "operation buttons 50."

[0034] Fig. 5 is a plan view of the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6. As illustrated in Fig. 5, of the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6, operation button 50R1 is closest to the midpoint M, and operation button 50R6 is closest to the right end ER. Operation button 50R2 is adjacent to operation button 50R1 in the X1 direction, operation button 50R3 is adjacent to operation button 50R2 in the X1 direction, operation button 50R4 is adjacent to operation button 50R3 in the X1 direction, operation button 50R5 is adjacent to operation button 50R4 in the X1 direction, and operation button 50R6 is adjacent to operation button 50R5 in the X1 direction.

[0035] User U plays the music game in a position where the midpoint M is located directly in front of him. Therefore, of the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6, operation button 50R1 is closest to user U, and operation button 50R6 is farthest from user U. Specifically, operation button 50R2 is located farther from user U than operation button 50R1, operation button 50R3 is located farther from user U than operation button 50R2, operation button 50R4 is located farther from user U than operation button 50R3, operation button 50R5 is located farther from user U than operation button 50R4, and operation button 50R6 is located farther from user U than operation button 50R5.

[0036] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the operation button 50R1 and the operation button 50R2 are the same size. On the other hand, the sizes of the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 are larger than those of the operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2. Focusing on the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6, the operation buttons 50Rn closer to the right end ER of the array B are larger in size. Specifically, the size of the operation button 50R4 is larger than that of the operation button 50R3, the size of the operation button 50R5 is larger than that of the operation button 50R4, and the size of the operation button 50R6 is larger than that of the operation button 50R5. In other words, the operation buttons 50 farther from the user U among the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 are larger in size.

[0037] Here, attention is focused on operation button 50R1 and operation button 50R6. Of the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6, operation button 50R6 is the operation button 50 that is closer to the right end ER than the midpoint M of array B. Of the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6, operation button 50R1 is the operation button 50 that is closer to the midpoint M than the right end ER. In other words, operation button 50R1 is located closer to user U than operation button 50R6. In the above configuration, the size of operation button 50R6 is larger than the size of operation button 50R1. Operation button 50R6 is an example of a "first operation unit," and operation button 50R1 is an example of a "second operation unit."

[0038] 2 is an operation button 50 that is closer to the left end EL than the midpoint M of the array B among the 12 operation buttons 50. The operation button 50L6 is line-symmetrical to the operation button 50R6. Therefore, the size of the operation button 50L6 is larger than the sizes of the operation buttons 50R1 and 50L1. The operation button 50L6 is an example of a "third operation unit."

[0039] As described above, in this embodiment, the size of the operation button 50R6 (i.e., the operation button 50 closest to the right end ER) among the twelve operation buttons 50 is larger than the size of the operation button 50R1 (i.e., the operation button 50 closer to the midpoint M) that is closer to the user U than the operation button 50R6. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which all the operation buttons 50 have the same size, it is easier to operate the operation button 50R6 that is located farther from the user U. In this embodiment, in particular, in addition to the size of the operation button 50R6 close to the right end ER, the size of the operation button 50L6 close to the opposite left end EL also exceeds the size of the operation button 50R1 close to the midpoint M of the arrangement B. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which all the operation buttons 50 have the same size, it is easier to operate the operation buttons 50 (50R6, 50L6) that are close to both ends of the arrangement B.

[0040] 5, the outline of each operation button 50Rn in plan view includes edges Sa, Sb, Sc, and Sd. That is, the planar shape of the operation button 50Rn is a rectangle surrounded by edges Sa, Sb, Sc, and Sd. Note that the corners of each operation button 50Rn are actually formed in an arc shape (R-shaped).

[0041] The edge Sa is the edge (upper end) of the contour of the operation button 50Rn located in the Y1 direction. The edge Sb is the edge (lower end) of the contour of the operation button 50Rn located in the Y2 direction. The edge Sa is an example of a "first edge," and the edge Sb is an example of a "second edge."

[0042] The edges Sc and Sd are edges between the edges Sa and Sb of the outline of the operation button 50Rn. The edge Sd is located between the edge Sc and the right edge ER of the array B. That is, the edge Sc is the left side of the operation button 50Rn, and the edge Sd is the right side of the operation button 50Rn. The dimension of the edge Sd of each operation button 50Rn is equal to the dimension of the edge Sc of the operation button 50Rn+1 adjacent to the operation button 50Rn in the X1 direction. The edge Sc is an example of a "third edge," and the edge Sd is an example of a "fourth edge."

[0043] 5, the dimensions of the edge sides Sc and Sd are greater than the dimensions of the edge sides Sa and Sb in each operation button 50. In other words, each operation button 50 has a rectangular shape that is elongated in the Y-axis direction.

[0044] The edge Sa of each operation button 50 is a straight line along the X-axis. The dimension of the edge Sa is common to all 12 operation buttons 50. Furthermore, the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction is common to all 12 operation buttons 50. That is, the edges Sa are arranged in a straight line along the X-axis across all 12 operation buttons 50. This configuration facilitates a unified design compared to a configuration in which the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction differs for each operation button 50, and also simplifies the structure for installing each operation button 50. Furthermore, because the position of the edge Sa of each operation button 50 is common, it is easier for the user U to recognize the correspondence between each lane 22 a on the music game screen 21 and each operation button 50, compared to a configuration in which the position of the edge Sa differs for each operation button 50. On the other hand, the direction of the edge Sb of each operation button 50 differs for each operation button 50, as described below.

[0045] The operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2 have the same shape. The edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2 is a straight line along the X-axis. In other words, the planar shape of each of the operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2 is a rectangle that is elongated along the Y-axis.

[0046] The edge Sb of the operation button 50R3 is a straight line inclined with respect to the X-axis. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the edge Sb of the operation button 50R3 is inclined with respect to the X-axis so that the distance Lb1 between the edge Sb closest to the right edge ER and the edge Sa is greater than the distance Lb2 between the edge Sb closest to the midpoint M and the edge Sa (Lb1 > Lb2). The distance Lb1 corresponds to the dimension of the edge Sd, and the distance Lb2 corresponds to the dimension of the edge Sc. Although FIG. 5 focuses on the operation button 50R3, the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R4 to 50R6 is also a straight line inclined with respect to the X-axis.

[0047] As can be understood from the above explanation, the dimension of the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 is greater than the dimension of the edge Sa. Therefore, the user U can easily operate the portions of each of the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6, particularly the portions near the edge Sb. In this embodiment, the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 is inclined with respect to the X axis so that the end of the edge Sb closest to the right end ER extends further in the Y2 direction than the other end. Therefore, the user U can easily operate the portion of the edge Sb on the right end ER side of each of the operation buttons 50Rn.

[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 5 , the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R3 and 50R4 is inclined at an angle θa with respect to the X-axis. The angle θa is the minor angle formed between the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R3 and 50R4 and the X-axis. Similarly, the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R5 and 50R6 is inclined at an angle θb with respect to the X-axis. The angle θb is the minor angle formed between the edge Sb of each of the operation buttons 50R5 and 50R6 and the X-axis. As illustrated in FIG. 5 , the angle θb is greater than the angle θa (θb > θa). The operation buttons 50R3 and 50R4 are an example of a "fourth operation unit," and the operation buttons 50R5 and 50R6 are an example of a "first operation unit." The operation buttons 50R3 and 50R4 are located between the operation button 50R1 (50R2) and the operation button 50R5 (50R6).

[0049] As described above, in this embodiment, the angle θb of the edge Sb of the operation buttons 50R5 and 50R6 is greater than the angle θa of the edge Sb of the operation buttons 50R3 and 50R4. Therefore, a sense of design unity is achieved in which the angle of the edge Sb changes continuously from operation button 50R3 to operation button 50R6. Furthermore, with the above-described configuration in which the angle θb exceeds the angle θa, a shape in which the multiple operation buttons 50 surround the front and sides of the user U is realized. That is, compared to a configuration in which the angle θb is less than the angle θa, for example, the operation buttons 50 near the right end ER or the left end EL of the array B are positioned closer to the user U. This further simplifies the operation of each operation button 50 by the user U.

[0050] 5, the edges Sc and Sd of each of the operation buttons 50R1 to 50R5 are straight lines along the Y axis. That is, the edges Sc and Sd are parallel to each other. The edge Sc of the operation button 50R6 is also a straight line along the Y axis, but the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 is a straight line that is inclined with respect to the Y axis.

[0051] Specifically, the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 is inclined with respect to the Y axis so that the distance Ld1 on the X axis between the end of the edge Sd closest to the edge Sb and the midpoint M is greater than the distance Ld2 on the X axis between the end of the edge Sd closest to the edge Sa and the midpoint M (Ld1>Ld2). Note that the end of the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 closest to the edge Sb corresponds to the right end ER of the array B.

[0052] As described above, in this embodiment, the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 is inclined with respect to the Y-axis. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 is parallel to the Y-axis, the user U can more easily operate the operation button 50R6. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in addition to the configuration in which the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 and the operation button 50L6 are inclined with respect to the Y-axis, the side edges 24R and 24L of the lane area 22 of the music game screen 21 are inclined with respect to the central axis A. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 4 , the user U can be given the sensation that the side edge 24R of the lane area 22 and the edge Sd of the operation button 50R6 are contiguous, and that the side edge 24L and the edge Sd of the operation button 50L6 are contiguous. In other words, a unified design can be achieved across the display device 20 and the operation device 30. Furthermore, as a result of the user U perceiving the continuity between the lane area 22 and each operation button 50 as described above, there is also the advantage that the user U can easily recognize the correspondence between each lane 22a on the music game screen 21 and each operation button 50.

[0053] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, a recess 13 is formed in the front surface 11 of the housing 10 in this embodiment. The recess 13 is a space recessed in the Y1 direction as viewed from the user U. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface of the recess 13 is composed of multiple planes connected to each other in an arc shape. As illustrated in Figure 2, the midpoint C of the recess 13 on the X axis is located within the reference plane Q. The midpoint C is a point equidistant from the right end CR of the recess 13, which is located in the X1 direction, and the left end CL, which is located in the X2 direction.

[0054] 2 , the user U can approach the game system 100 up to the inside of the recess 13 of the housing 10. With the above configuration, compared to a configuration in which the front surface 11 of the housing 10 is a flat surface parallel to the X-axis (i.e., a configuration in which the recess 13 is not formed on the front surface 11), the user U can operate each operation button 50 at a position closer to the first operator group 31. Therefore, the user U can easily operate each operation button 50.

[0055] 2 , the area of ​​the front surface 11 in which the recess 13 is formed and the area in which the first operator group 31 (12 operation buttons 50) are provided overlap on the X-axis. Specifically, the position of the right end CR of the recess 13 in the X-axis direction is the same as the position of the right end ER of the first operator group 31 in the X-axis direction. Similarly, the position of the left end CL of the recess 13 in the X-axis direction is the same as the position of the left end EL of the first operator group 31 in the X-axis direction. However, a configuration in which the right end CR and left end CL of the recess 13 are located inside or outside the right end ER and left end EL of the first operator group 31 is also conceivable.

[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the edge Sb located on the front side of each of the 12 operation buttons 50 is aligned with the recess 13 in a plan view. That is, the edge Sb of each operation button 50 extends in a folded line shape (substantially an arc shape) along the inner circumferential surface of the recess 13 in a plan view. This configuration achieves a more unified design between the front surface 11 (recess 13) of the housing 10 and each operation button 50, compared to a configuration in which the edge Sb of each operation button 50 is parallel to the X-axis (e.g., the configuration shown in FIG. 11 below). Furthermore, in a configuration in which the edge Sb of each operation button 50 is aligned with the recess 13, the operation buttons 50 closest to the right end ER or the left end EL are located closer to the user U than in a configuration in which the edge Sb of each operation button 50 is linearly arranged along the X-axis. Therefore, the effect of making it easier for the user U to operate each operation button 50 is particularly pronounced.

[0057] [Modifications] Specific modifications that can be added to the above-described embodiments are exemplified below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be combined as appropriate within the scope of not mutually contradicting each other.

[0058] (1) In the above-described embodiment, the edge Sb of each operation button 50R3 to 50R6 is inclined relative to the X-axis. However, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the edge Sb of each operation button 50 may be a straight line parallel to the X-axis. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the edge Sb of each operation button 50R3 to 50R6 is positioned further in the Y2 direction than the edge Sb of each operation button 50R1 and 50R2, so that the size of each operation button 50R3 to 50R6 exceeds the size of each operation button 50R1 and 50R2. Furthermore, when focusing on operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 (n = 3 to 6), the edge Sb of operation button 50Rn is positioned further in the Y2 direction than the edge Sb of operation button 50Rn-1. Therefore, the size of operation button 50Rn exceeds the size of operation button 50Rn-1.

[0059] (2) In the above-described embodiment, the dimensions of the operation buttons 50 in the Y-axis direction are different from each other, but the configuration for differentiating the sizes of the operation buttons 50 is not limited to the above example. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 7 , the sizes of the operation buttons 50 may be different depending on the dimensions of the operation buttons 50 in the X-axis direction (i.e., the widths).

[0060] 7, the width W of operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 is greater than the width W of operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2, so that operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 are larger than operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2. The dimensions of each operation button 50 in the Y-axis direction are the same. Focusing on operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 (n = 3 to 6), the width W of operation button 50Rn is greater than the width W of operation button 50Rn-1, so that operation button 50Rn is larger than operation button 50Rn-1.

[0061] (3) In the above-described embodiment, the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 have different shapes. However, the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 may include two or more operation buttons 50 of the same shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, an embodiment is also conceivable in which the operation button 50R3 and the operation button 50R4 have the same shape, and the operation button 50R5 and the operation button 50R6 have the same shape.

[0062] (4) In the above-described embodiment, the operation button 50R1 and the operation button 50R2 have the same shape, but as shown in Fig. 9, the shapes of the operation button 50R1 and the operation button 50R2 may be different. In the configuration shown in Fig. 9, the shapes of the operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 are different from each other.

[0063] (5) In the above-described embodiment, an example was given in which 12 operation buttons 50 were arranged at equal intervals, but the arrangement of the operation buttons 50 is not limited to this example. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, an example is also conceivable in which six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 and six operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction with a gap between them.

[0064] (6) In the above-described embodiment, the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction is common to all 12 operation buttons 50. However, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction may differ for each operation button 50.

[0065] 11, the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction differs for each operation button 50, while the position of the edge Sb in the Y-axis direction is common to the multiple operation buttons 50. In the embodiment of Fig. 12, the position of the edge Sa in the Y-axis direction differs for each operation button 50, and the position of the edge Sb in the Y-axis direction also differs for each operation button 50.

[0066] 7 and 11, the shape of the edge Sb of each operation button 50 may be selected regardless of the shape of the recess 13 of the housing 10. In other words, a configuration in which the edge Sb of each operation button 50 follows the recess 13 is not essential in the present disclosure and may be omitted as appropriate.

[0067] (7) In the above embodiment, the inner circumferential surface of the recess 13 is configured with a plurality of flat surfaces, but the shape of the recess 13 is not limited to this example. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, the inner circumferential surface of the recess 13 may be a curved surface in the shape of a circular arc that continues from the right end CR to the left end CL.

[0068] (8) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which a recess 13 is formed on the front surface 11 of the housing 10 is illustrated. However, as illustrated in FIG. 14 , the front surface 11 of the housing 10 may be a flat surface along the X-axis. That is, the recess 13 may be omitted. In the configuration of FIG. 14 , the distance between the edge Sb of each operation button 50 and the front surface 11 of the housing 10 varies for each operation button 50. For example, the distance between the edge Sb of operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2 and the front surface 11 is greater than the distance between the edge Sb of operation buttons 50R3 to 50R6 and the front surface 11.

[0069] (9) Each operation button 50 may be made of a light-transmitting material. For example, each operation button 50 may be formed of a milky white resin material. In a configuration in which each operation button 50 is light-transmitting, a light-emitting element 51 may be installed directly below each operation button 50, as illustrated in FIG. 15 . The light-emitting element 51 is a light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The control device 61 controls the light emission of each light-emitting element 51. For example, the control device 61 causes the light-emitting element 51 of the operation button 50 operated by the user U to emit light. Note that a configuration in which the light-emitting color of each light-emitting element 51 is variable is also conceivable. The light emitted from each light-emitting element 51 passes through each operation button 50 and is visible to the user U. With the above configuration, a visual effect can be achieved.

[0070] 15 , the number of light-emitting elements 51 provided on each operation button 50 varies for each operation button 50. Specifically, the larger the size of the operation button 50, the more light-emitting elements 51 provided on that operation button 50. For example, two light-emitting elements 51 are provided on each of the operation buttons 50R1 and 50R2, three light-emitting elements 51 are provided on each of the operation buttons 50R3 to 50R5, and five light-emitting elements 51 are provided on the operation button 50R6.

[0071] In a configuration in which the number of light-emitting elements 51 is the same for all operation buttons 50, the amount of light emitted per unit area of ​​each operation button 50 differs depending on the size of the operation button 50. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user U may perceive larger operation buttons 50 as being darker. In a configuration in which the number of light-emitting elements 51 differs depending on the size of the operation button 50 as shown in FIG. 15 , it is possible to equalize the amount of light perceived by the user U for operation buttons 50 of different sizes. However, the number of light-emitting elements 51 in each operation button 50 is arbitrary.

[0072] (10) In the above-described embodiment, the shapes of the operation buttons 50 of the first operator group 31 are illustrated as being line-symmetrical, but the shapes of the first operator group 31 may be asymmetrical. For example, it is conceivable that the shapes of the operation buttons 50 of either the six operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 or the six operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 are the same. Furthermore, either the operation buttons 50R1 to 50R6 or the operation buttons 50L1 to 50L6 may be omitted.

[0073] (11) In the above-described embodiment, the operation button 50 that is displaced in response to an operation by the user U is exemplified. However, in the present disclosure, the element (operation unit) that receives an operation from the user U is not limited to the operation button 50. For example, various types of operators, such as an operation knob that rotates in response to an operation by the user U, or an operation lever that changes angle or position in response to an operation by the user U, are exemplified as the “operation unit.”

[0074] Furthermore, in addition to operators that actually exist in real space, virtual operators displayed on the display device 20, for example, are also included in the "operation unit" of the present disclosure. Virtual operators are operated, for example, by the user U touching a touch panel. A touchpad that does not require the display of an image is also included in the "operation unit." As can be understood from the above examples, it is not essential in the present disclosure for the elements that make up the "operation unit" to be displaced (for example, moved or rotated). A virtual operator that is installed in a virtual space and operated by the user U (for example, an avatar in the virtual space) is also included in the "operation unit" of the present disclosure.

[0075] (12) In the above-described embodiment, an example of a game system 100 to which the operation input device of the present disclosure is applied has been given. However, the device (operation input device) that accepts operations by the user U may be configured as a standalone device. The operation input device is an input device that includes a plurality of operation buttons 50. The operation input device may or may not include elements such as a display device 20 that displays a music game screen 21, or a function for controlling the music game (a control device 61 and a storage device 62).

[0076] (13) In the above-described embodiment, a music game is illustrated, but the type of game to which the present disclosure is applicable is not limited to music games and can be any type. For example, the operation input device of the present disclosure can be applied as a device that accepts operations from a user U (i.e., operations for playing the game) in various types of games, such as shooting games, action games, role-playing games, adventure games, racing games, puzzle games, simulation games, and table games.

[0077] (14) In the above description, the following configurations A and B have been exemplified. [Configuration A] The size of the operation button 50 located farther from the user U is larger than the size of the operation button 50 located closer to the user U. [Configuration B] A recess 13 is formed on the front surface 11 of the housing 10. Furthermore, the edge Sb of each operation button 50 is aligned with the recess 13 in a plan view.

[0078] Configuration A and configuration B are independent of each other. That is, configuration A and configuration B are not essential for one another. For example, configuration B may be adopted in a configuration in which the size of a plurality of operation buttons 50 is the same (i.e., a configuration in which configuration A is not a requirement).

[0079] (15) The term "nth" (n is a natural number) in this application is used only as a formal and convenient label to distinguish each element in the description and does not have any substantive meaning. Therefore, there is no room for restrictive interpretation of the position or order of each element based on the term "nth."

[0080] [Additional Notes] From the above description, for example, the following preferred embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood: Note that, to facilitate understanding of each embodiment, reference numerals in the drawings are conveniently written in parentheses below, but this is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0081] [Supplementary Note 1] An operation input device (100) according to one aspect (Supplementary Note 1) of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operation units (50) that accept the same type of operation in a game, the plurality of operation units (50) including a first operation unit (50R6) and a second operation unit (50R1) that is positioned closer to a user (U) than the first operation unit (50R6), and the size of the first operation unit (50R6) is larger than the size of the second operation unit (50R1). In the above aspect, the size of the first operation unit (50R6) among the plurality of operation units (50) is larger than the size of the second operation unit (50R1) that is positioned closer to a user (U) than the first operation unit (50R6). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which all operation units (50) that accept the same type of operation have the same size, it is easier to operate the first operation unit (50R6) that is positioned farther from the user (U).

[0082] "Operations of the same type" are operations that have a substantially common role in the game (i.e., the effect of the operation). For example, in a music game in which operations are required to be performed in synchronization with the playback of music, an operation selectively performed by a player in synchronization with the playback of music is an example of "operations of the same type." Note that operations accepted by multiple operation units (50) do not necessarily always have to be of the same type. For example, even if the configuration is such that each of the multiple operation units (50) accepts different operations in a specific operation mode, the requirement that "multiple operation units (50)" "accept operations of the same type" is satisfied as long as the multiple operations accept the same type of operations in other operation modes.

[0083] The "size" of the operation unit (50) refers to the size of an area of ​​the operation unit (50) that can accept an operation. For example, in a configuration in which a user (U) operates (e.g., presses) the operation unit (50) while touching the operation surface of the operation unit (50), the area of ​​the operation surface that the user (U) can touch is the "size" of the operation unit (50). For example, in a configuration in which the operation unit (50) accepts a pressing operation directed vertically downward, the area of ​​the top surface of the operation unit (50) corresponds to the "size."

[0084] [Supplementary Note 2] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 2) of Supplementary Note 1, the multiple operation units (50) are arranged in a horizontal direction, the first operation unit (50R6) is located closer to the first end (ER) of the arrangement (B) of the multiple operation units (50) than a point located in front of the user (U), and the second operation unit (50R1) is located closer to the point than the first operation unit (50R6). In the above-described embodiment, the size of the first operation unit (50R6) closer to the first end (ER) of the arrangement (B) of the multiple operation units (50) exceeds the size of the second operation unit (50R1) closer to a point located in front of the user (U). Therefore, compared to an embodiment in which all operation units (50) have the same size, operation of the first operation unit (50R6) closer to the first end (ER) is easier.

[0085] [Supplementary Note 3] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 3) of Supplementary Note 1, the multiple operating units (50) are arranged along a first axis (X-axis), the first operating unit (50R6) is located closer to a first end (ER) of the arrangement (B) of the multiple operating units (50) than to a midpoint (M) of the arrangement (B), and the second operating unit (50R1) is located closer to the midpoint (M) than to the first end (ER). In the above-described embodiment, the size of the first operating unit (50R6) closer to the first end (ER) of the arrangement (B) of the multiple operating units (50) exceeds the size of the second operating unit (50R1) closer to the midpoint (M) of the arrangement (B). Therefore, compared to an embodiment in which all operating units (50) have the same size, it is easier to operate the first operating unit (50R6) closer to the first end (ER).

[0086] The "first axis (X-axis)" is any axis, and includes not only straight lines but also curved lines. "Along" the first axis (X-axis) means that the multiple operating units (50) are arranged without being excessively spaced apart from the first axis (X-axis). Therefore, for example, assuming that the "first axis (X-axis)" is a straight line, the multiple operating units (50) can be interpreted as being "arranged along the first axis (X-axis)" not only in a configuration in which the multiple operating units (50) are linearly arranged in a direction strictly parallel to the first axis (X-axis), but also in a configuration in which the distance between the first axis (X-axis) and the operating units (50) varies from one operating unit (50) to another, but in which the multiple operating units (50) as a whole are not excessively spaced apart from the first axis (X-axis).

[0087] With respect to the "first operating unit (50R6)," "closer to the first end (ER) than the midpoint (M)" means that the distance between the first operating unit (50R6) and the first end (ER) is less than the distance between the first operating unit (50R6) and the midpoint (M). Similarly, with respect to the "second operating unit (50R1)," "closer to the midpoint (M) than the first end (ER)" means that the distance between the second operating unit (50R1) and the midpoint (M) is less than the distance between the second operating unit (50R1) and the first end (ER). In other words, the first operating unit (50R6) is located closer to the first end (ER) than the second operating unit (50R1), and the second operating unit (50R1) is located closer to the midpoint (M) than the first operating unit (50R6).

[0088] [Supplementary Note 4] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 4) of Supplementary Note 3, the multiple operating units (50) further include a third operating unit (50L6) that is closer to a second end (EL) on the opposite side of the first end (ER) in the arrangement (B) than to the midpoint (M) in the arrangement (B), and the size of the third operating unit (50L6) is larger than the size of the second operating unit (50R1). In the above aspect, in addition to the size of the first operating unit (50R6) close to the first end (ER), the size of the third operating unit (50L6) close to the opposite second end (EL) is also larger than the size of the second operating unit (50R1) close to the midpoint (M) of the arrangement (B). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which all operating units (50) have the same size, it is easier to operate the operating units (50) close to both ends of the arrangement (B) (the first operating unit (50R6), the third operating unit (50L6)).

[0089] [Supplementary Note 5] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 5) of Supplementary Note 3 or Supplementary Note 4, the shape of each of the plurality of operation units (50) is line-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry perpendicular to the first axis (X-axis) at the midpoint (M) of the array (B). In the above aspect, the shape of each of the plurality of operation units (50) is line-symmetrical. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the shapes of the operation units (50) are asymmetrical, it is possible to realize an operation input device (100) that has a perceived sense of design unity.

[0090] [Supplementary Note 6] In any specific example (Supplementary Note 6) of Supplementary Note 3 to Supplementary Note 5, each of the multiple operating units (50) includes a first edge (Sa) located in a first direction (Y1 direction) along a second axis (Y axis) perpendicular to the first axis (X axis), and a second edge (Sb) located in a second direction (Y2 direction) opposite to the first direction (Y1 direction), and the dimension of the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) is greater than the dimension of the first edge (Sa) of the first operating unit (50R6). In the above aspect, the dimension of the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) is greater than the dimension of the first edge (Sa) of the first operating unit (50R6). Therefore, it is easy for the user (U) to operate the first operating unit (50R6), particularly the portion near the second edge (Sb).

[0091] [Supplementary Note 7] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 7) of Supplementary Note 6, the position of the first edge (Sa) in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) is common across the multiple operating units (50). In the above aspect, the position of the first edge (Sa) in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) is common across the multiple operating units (50). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the position of the first edge (Sa) in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) differs for each operating unit (50), a sense of design unity can be easily achieved, and the structure for installing the multiple operating units (50) can be simplified.

[0092] [Supplementary Note 8] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 8) of Supplementary Note 7, the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) is inclined with respect to the first axis (X-axis) so that the distance (Lb1) between the end of the second edge (Sb) closest to the first end (ER) of the array and the first edge (Sa) is greater than the distance (Lb2) between the end of the second edge (Sb) closest to the midpoint (M) and the first edge (Sa). In the above aspect, the second edge (Sb) is inclined with respect to the first axis (X-axis) so that the end of the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) closest to the first end (ER) protrudes in the second direction (Y2 direction) compared to the other end. Therefore, it is easy for the user (U) to operate the first operating unit (50R6), particularly the portion of the second edge (Sb) on the first end (ER) side.

[0093] [Supplementary Note 9] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 9) of Supplementary Note 8, the plurality of operation units (50) further include a fourth operation unit (50) located between the first operation unit (50R6) and the second operation unit (50R1), and the second edge (Sb) of the fourth operation unit (50) has a distance (Lb1) between an end of the second edge (Sb) that is close to the first end (ER) of the array and the first edge (Sa) of the fourth operation unit (50) that is The edge (Sb) is inclined with respect to the first axis (X-axis) so as to exceed the distance (Lb2) between the end of the edge (Sb) closest to the midpoint (M) of the array and the first edge (Sa) of the fourth operating unit (50), and the angle (θb) that the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) makes with the first axis (X-axis) exceeds the angle (θa) that the second edge (Sb) of the fourth operating unit (50) makes with the first axis (X-axis). In the above embodiment, since the angle (θb) of the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) exceeds the angle (θa) of the second edge (Sb) of the fourth operating unit (50), a sense of design unity is achieved in which the angle of the second edge (Sb) changes continuously between the fourth operating unit (50) and the first operating unit (50R6). Furthermore, compared to a configuration in which the angle (θb) of the second edge (Sb) of the first operating unit (50R6) is smaller than the angle (θa) of the second edge (Sb) of the fourth operating unit (50), it is easier to install the multiple operating units (50) so as to surround the front and sides of the user (U), which makes it even easier for the user (U) to operate each operating unit (50).

[0094] [Supplementary Note 10] In any specific example (Supplementary Note 10) of Supplementary Note 6 to Supplementary Note 9, the first operating unit (50R6) includes a third edge (Sc) between the first edge (Sa) and the second edge (Sb), and a fourth edge (Sd) between the first edge (Sa) and the second edge (Sb), the fourth edge (Sd) is located between the third edge (Sc) and the first end (ER), and the fourth edge (Sd) is inclined with respect to the second axis (Y-axis) so that a distance (Ld1) between an end of the fourth edge (Sd) close to the second edge (Sb) and the midpoint (M) of the array is greater than a distance (Ld2) between an end of the fourth edge (Sd) close to the first edge (Sa) and the midpoint (M). In the above-described embodiment, the fourth edge (Sd) of the first operating unit (50R6) is inclined with respect to the second axis (Y axis), making it easier for the user (U) to operate the first operating unit (50R6) compared to an embodiment in which the fourth edge (Sd) is parallel to the second axis (Y axis).

[0095] [Supplementary Note 11] In a specific example (Supplementary Note 11) of Supplementary Note 10, the game is a music game that requires operations synchronized with the playback of a musical piece, and further includes a display device (20) that displays a screen (21) of the music game, the screen (21) including a lane area (22) having a side edge (24R) and notes (23) arranged in the lane area (22) and indicating the time of the operation, the side edge (24R) being inclined with respect to the central axis (A) of the lane area (22) such that the distance (WR1) between the central axis (A) of the lane area (22) and the lower end of the side edge (24R) is greater than the distance (WR2) between the central axis (A) and the upper end of the side edge (24R). In the above aspect, in addition to the configuration in which the fourth edge (Sd) of the first operating unit (50R6) is inclined with respect to the second axis (Y-axis), the side edge (24R) of the lane area (22) of the music game is inclined with respect to the central axis (A). Therefore, the user (U) can be given the sensation that the side (24R) of the lane area (22) and the fourth edge (Sd) of the first operating unit (50R6) are connected. Furthermore, as a result of the above-described perception of continuity, there is also the advantage that the user (U) can easily recognize the correspondence between the lane area (22) and the multiple operating units (50).

[0096] [Supplementary Note 12] In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note 12) of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 11, the device further includes a housing (10) on which the plurality of operation units (50) are installed, the housing (10) including a front surface (11) facing the user (U), and the front surface (11) including a recess (13) that is recessed as seen from the user (U). According to the above embodiment, compared to an embodiment in which the front surface (11) of the housing (10) is a flat surface parallel to the first axis (X axis), the user (U) can operate each of the plurality of operation units (50) from a position closer to the operation units (50). Therefore, the user (U) can easily operate each of the operation units (50).

[0097] [Supplementary Note 13] In the specific example (Supplementary Note 13) of Supplementary Note 12, the edge (Sb) located on the front side of each of the multiple operating units (50) is aligned with the recess (13) in a plan view. According to the above configuration, compared to a configuration in which the front edge (Sb) of each of the multiple operating units (50) is linearly arranged along the first axis (X axis), a sense of design unity can be achieved between the front surface (11) of the housing (10) and the multiple operating units (50). Furthermore, according to a configuration in which the front edge (Sb) of each operating unit (50) is aligned with the recess (13), the operating units (50) that are particularly close to the end of the arrangement can be positioned closer to the user (U). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the edge (Sb) of each operating unit (50) is linearly arranged, for example, the user (U) can more easily operate each operating unit (50).

[0098] 100...game system, 10...casing, 11...front surface, 12...operation surface, 13...recess, 20...display device, 21...music game screen, 22...lane area, 23...note, 23a...time point note, 23b...directional note, 24R, 24L...side edge, 25...target position, 30...operation device, 31...first operator group, 32...second operator group, 321...fader, 40...sound emission device, 50, 50R1 to 50R6, 50L1 to 50L6...operation buttons, 51...light-emitting element, 61...control device, 62...storage device.

Claims

1. An operation input device comprising a plurality of operation units which accept the same type of operation in a game, the plurality of operation units including a first operation unit and a second operation unit which is positioned closer to a user than the first operation unit, and the size of the first operation unit is greater than the size of the second operation unit.

2. The operation input device according to claim 1, wherein the multiple operation units are arranged in a horizontal array, the first operation unit is located closer to a first end of the array of the multiple operation units than a point located in front of the user, and the second operation unit is located closer to the point than the first operation unit.

3. The operation input device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of operation units are arranged along a first axis, the first operation unit is located closer to a first end of the arrangement of the plurality of operation units than a midpoint of the arrangement, and the second operation unit is located closer to the midpoint than the first end.

4. The operation input device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of operation units further include a third operation unit that is closer to a second end opposite the first end in the array than the midpoint in the array, and the size of the third operation unit is greater than the size of the second operation unit.

5. An operation input device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the shape of each of the plurality of operation sections is linearly symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry perpendicular to the first axis at the midpoint of the arrangement.

6. The operation input device of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of operation parts includes a first edge located in a first direction along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, and a second edge located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a dimension of the second edge of the first operation part exceeds a dimension of the first edge of the first operation part.

7. The operation input device according to claim 6, wherein the position of the first edge in the direction of the second axis is common to the plurality of operation sections.

8. The operation input device of claim 7, wherein the second edge of the first operation section is inclined with respect to the first axis so that the distance between the end of the second edge closest to the first end of the array and the first edge is greater than the distance between the end of the second edge closest to the midpoint of the array and the first edge.

9. The operation input device of claim 8, wherein the multiple operation units further include a fourth operation unit located between the first operation unit and the second operation unit, the second edge of the fourth operation unit is inclined with respect to the first axis such that the distance between an end of the second edge closest to the first end of the array and the first edge of the fourth operation unit is greater than the distance between an end of the second edge closest to the midpoint of the array and the first edge of the fourth operation unit, and the angle that the second edge of the first operation unit makes with the first axis is greater than the angle that the second edge of the fourth operation unit makes with the first axis.

10. The operation input device of claim 6, wherein the first operation section includes a third edge between the first edge and the second edge, and a fourth edge between the first edge and the second edge, the fourth edge being located between the third edge and the first end, and the fourth edge being inclined with respect to the second axis such that the distance between an end of the fourth edge closer to the second edge and the midpoint of the array is greater than the distance between an end of the fourth edge closer to the first edge and the midpoint.

11. The operation input device of claim 10, wherein the game is a music game that requires an operation at a time synchronized with the playback of a musical piece, and further comprising a display device for displaying a screen of the music game, the screen including: a lane area having a side; and notes arranged on the lane area that indicate the time of the operation, the side being inclined with respect to the central axis so that the distance between the central axis of the lane area and the bottom end of the side is greater than the distance between the central axis and the top end of the side.

12. The operation input device according to claim 1, further comprising a housing in which the plurality of operation sections are arranged, the housing including a front surface facing the user, the front surface including a recess that is recessed when viewed from the user.

13. The operation input device according to claim 12, wherein an edge located on the front side of each of the plurality of operation sections is aligned with the recess in a plan view.

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