System, method, and program for providing game

Abstract

A game providing server 10 as in one embodiment of the present invention enhances interest in a game. The server 10 provides a game to a user who operates a player terminal 30 that has been connected so as to be able to communicate via a communication network 20. The server 10: executes a first draw to determine winning identification information from among a plurality of items of identification information, in conjunction with a reduction in the remaining number of draws; changes a region corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning region; grants a first reward in response to the arrangement of a plurality of winning regions forming a predetermined pattern; and also executes a second draw to determine whether to increase the remaining number of draws in response to the determination of the winning identification information; and increases the remaining number of draws in the event of a win. The player is therefore able to enjoy acquiring a reward based on the arrangement of winning regions, while also taking into consideration an increase / decrease in the remaining number of draws.

Description

System, method, and program for providing games

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a method, and a program for providing a game.

[0002] Conventionally, technologies for providing a bingo game using a computer have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a device that provides a game in which information indicating an intention to participate in a game is received from a terminal device, numbers are sequentially distributed to the terminal device, and the game is won when the distributed numbers form a predetermined arrangement pattern.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-340642

[0004] However, while the above-mentioned conventional devices allow players to casually enjoy a typical bingo game, the game design lacks novelty and the progress can sometimes become monotonous. Therefore, there is a need to improve the enjoyment of games such as bingo.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to improve the enjoyment of games. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by reading the entire specification.

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for providing a game, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors execute the following steps: presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; reducing the number of remaining draws associated with the player and executing a first lottery to determine winning identification information from the plurality of identification information; changing, in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery, one of the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area; executing a second lottery to determine whether to increase the number of remaining draws, in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery, and increasing the number of remaining draws if the result of the second lottery is a win; and granting to the player a first reward in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for providing a game, which is executed by one or more computers, and includes the steps of: presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; reducing the number of remaining draws associated with the player and conducting a first drawing to determine a winning identification information from the plurality of identification information; changing one of the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first drawing; conducting a second drawing to determine whether to increase the number of remaining draws or not, and increasing the number of remaining draws if the result of the second drawing is a win; and granting a first reward to the player in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for providing a game, and causes one or more computers to execute the following steps: presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; reducing the number of remaining draws associated with the player and conducting a first lottery to determine winning identification information from the plurality of identification information; changing, in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery, one of the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area; conducting, in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery, a second lottery to determine whether to increase the number of remaining draws, and increasing the number of remaining draws if the result of the second lottery is a win; and granting to the player a first reward in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention provide increased entertainment value in games.

[0010] 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of the configuration of a network including a game providing server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. A diagram illustrating information managed by a player information table 151. A diagram illustrating information managed by a game progress management table 153. A diagram illustrating information managed by a game field management table 155. A diagram illustrating information managed by an object management table 157. A flowchart illustrating processing executed by the game providing server 10 in response to the start of a bingo game. A diagram illustrating a game screen 50. A diagram illustrating details of a bingo sheet display area 54 on the game screen 50. A diagram illustrating details of a ball containing object 55 on the game screen 50. A diagram for explaining three types of bingo balls. A diagram illustrating a winning number display area 57 in which winning numbers are displayed. A diagram illustrating the bingo sheet display area 54 after an effect display associated with the execution of a winning number lottery has been performed. A diagram for explaining bingo.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals may be used to designate the same or similar components.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a network including a game providing server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the server 10 is communicably connected to player terminals 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. Although Fig. 1 illustrates only one player terminal 30, the server 10 can be communicably connected to a plurality of player terminals 30. The server 10 provides a game to users who operate the player terminals 30. The game providing server 10 is an example of a device that implements all or part of the system of the present invention.

[0013] First, we will explain the hardware configuration of the game providing server 10. The game providing server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in Figure 1, it includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (storage device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0014] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in the storage 15 or the like into the main memory 12 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), audio input devices such as a microphone, and image input devices such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination of these, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via a communication network 20 or the like.

[0017] The storage 15 is configured, for example, by a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the storage 15 has a player information table 151 that manages information about game players, a game progress management table 153 that manages the progress of the game, a game field management table 155 that manages game fields used in the game, and an object management table 157 that manages information about predetermined objects used in the lottery for winning identification information. Some of these tables may be integrated into one table, or may be divided into multiple tables.

[0018] Furthermore, for example, the storage 15 stores a server-side program 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The program 40 is a program for causing the game providing server 10 to function as all or part of a system for providing a game. At least a part of the server-side program 40 can be configured to be executed on the player terminal 30 side via a terminal-side program 42, which will be described later.

[0019] In this embodiment, the game providing server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the server 10 may be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

[0020] The game providing server 10 configured in this manner functions as a web server and an application server, executes various processes in response to requests from the terminal-side program 42 installed in the player terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the player terminal 30. The player terminal 30 outputs a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0021] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the player terminal 30. The player terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in Fig. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0022] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in the storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0023] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), audio input devices such as a microphone, and image input devices such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0024] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0025] The storage 35 is configured, for example, by a magnetic disk or flash memory. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded and installed from an application market or the like. The storage 35 also stores the above-mentioned terminal-side program 42. The program 42 can be configured as a web browser or other application (e.g., a game application) and can be configured to execute at least a part of the server-side program 40 as described above.

[0026] In this embodiment, the player terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device, a personal computer, a dedicated game terminal, or the like.

[0027] A user (game player) of a player terminal 30 configured in this manner can play a game provided by the server 10 by communicating with the server 10 via a terminal-side program 42 installed in storage 35 or the like.

[0028] Next, we will explain the functions of the game providing server 10 configured as above. As shown in Figure 1, the computer processor 11 of the server 10 is configured to function as a management function control unit 111 and a game progress control unit 113 by executing instructions included in a program (e.g., at least a part of the server-side program 40) loaded into the main memory 12.

[0029] The management function control unit 111 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the management functions of the game. For example, the management function control unit 111 transmits screen data and control data of various screens related to the management functions to the player terminal 30, executes various processes in response to operation inputs by the player via the screens output on the player terminal 30, and transmits screen data and control data according to the results of the processes to the player terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management function control unit 111 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and player account management.

[0030] The game progression control unit 113 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the progress of the game. For example, the game progression control unit 113 transmits screen data and control data of various screens for progressing the game to the player terminal 30, executes various processes in response to operation inputs by the player via the screens output on the player terminal 30, and transmits screen data, control data, etc. according to the results of the processes to the player terminal 30.

[0031] In this embodiment, the game progression control unit 113 is configured to present to the player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field on which a plurality of areas are arranged. For example, the game progression control unit 113 transmits screen data and control data of the predetermined screen to the player terminal 30. The plurality of areas arranged on the game field are configured to correspond to one of a plurality of mutually different identification information. The correspondence between each area and the identification information is managed, for example, in the game field management table 155. The identification information includes, but is not limited to, for example, a number, a character, a design, etc.

[0032] The game progress control unit 113 is also configured to reduce the number of remaining draws associated with the player in response to an instruction from the player, the passage of time, etc., and to execute a first drawing to determine winning identification information from among the above-mentioned plurality of identification information. The first drawing is executed, for example, according to the winning probability of each of the plurality of identification information. The winning probability may be the same value for all of the identification information, or may be different values ​​for at least some of the identification information. The number of remaining draws for the player is managed, for example, in the game progress management table 153. The first drawing is executed repeatedly each time an instruction is received from the player.

[0033] Furthermore, the game progress control unit 113 is configured to change one of the multiple areas arranged on the game field that corresponds to the winning identification information into a winning area in response to the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery. The status of each area on the game field (whether it is a winning area or not) is managed, for example, in the game field management table 155. In response to the change into a winning area, the display mode of that area on the predetermined screen typically changes.

[0034] The game progress control unit 113 is also configured to execute a second drawing to determine whether to increase the number of remaining draws in response to the determination of the winning identification information, and to increase the number of remaining draws if the result of the second drawing is a win. The second drawing may be executed each time the winning identification information is determined (i.e., the first drawing is executed), or may be executed when a predetermined condition is met after the determination of the winning identification information.

[0035] The game progress control unit 113 is also configured to award a first reward to a player when the arrangement of the multiple winning areas in the multiple areas forms a predetermined pattern. For example, the multiple areas in the game field are arranged in a grid pattern, and the first reward is awarded when the winning areas line up vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. The first reward includes various types of rewards. For example, the first reward is configured as a reward (including items, coins, points, etc.) that can be used in other games.

[0036] In this way, the game providing server 10 in this embodiment executes a first drawing to determine a winning identification from among multiple identifications as the number of remaining draws decreases, changes the area corresponding to the winning identification to a winning area, and awards a first reward when the arrangement of the multiple winning areas forms a predetermined pattern. Furthermore, in response to the determination of the winning identification, it executes a second drawing to determine whether to increase the number of remaining draws, and increases the number of remaining draws if a win is found. Therefore, the player can enjoy winning rewards based on the arrangement of the winning area while taking into account the increase or decrease in the number of remaining draws. In this way, the server 10 enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0037] In this embodiment, the first lottery for determining the winning identification information may be configured to determine the winning identification information from among the plurality of identification information that have not yet been selected. The winning status of each identification information (whether or not it has been selected) is managed in, for example, the game progress management table 153, the game field management table 155, or the object management table 157.

[0038] In this embodiment, the multiple regions in the game field may be configured to have regions corresponding to each of the multiple identification information. For example, two or more predetermined number of multiple regions may be configured to correspond to the same predetermined number of identification information. This configuration allows the multiple regions to include the region corresponding to the winning identification information determined through the first lottery, thereby achieving a good pace of game progress.

[0039] In this embodiment, the second lottery for determining the increase in the remaining number of lottery draws may be configured so that the fewer the number of lottery draws remaining at that time, the higher the probability of winning. Such a configuration encourages players who have a small number of lottery draws remaining to continue playing the game.

[0040] The probability of winning the second lottery may also be varied based on the progress of the game. The progress of the game may include, but is not limited to, the number of times the first lottery is executed to determine the winning identification information, the status of changing multiple areas into winning areas (e.g., the arrangement of multiple winning areas), or the status of awarding the first reward. This configuration makes it possible to vary the possibility of restoring the number of remaining lotteries based on the progress of the game.

[0041] The game progress control unit 113 may also be configured to increase the remaining number of lottery draws in response to the player's consumption of a predetermined value (e.g., a fee). The predetermined value may include real value (e.g., currency) or virtual value (e.g., an item). This configuration allows the game to continue by consuming the predetermined value.

[0042] In this embodiment, a second reward may be awarded to the player in response to the change of the area corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area. The second reward may be the same type of reward as the first reward awarded in response to the arrangement of the multiple winning areas forming a predetermined pattern, or may be a different type of reward from the first reward. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of obtaining a reward in response to the change of the winning area.

[0043] In this case, each of the multiple identification information may have a parameter, and the second reward may be awarded based on the value of the parameter possessed by the winning identification information. For example, the value of the second reward to the player may vary (including the quantity) based on the value of the parameter. The parameter may include the identification information itself. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of acquiring the second reward based on the value of the parameter possessed by the winning identification information.

[0044] Alternatively, each of a plurality of areas in the game field may have a parameter, and the second reward may be awarded based on the value of the parameter of the area corresponding to the winning identification information. For example, the value of the second reward to the player may vary (including the quantity) based on the value of the parameter. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of acquiring the second reward based on the value of the parameter of the area corresponding to the winning identification information.

[0045] In this embodiment, the predetermined screen for playing the game can be configured to display a plurality of predetermined objects corresponding to non-winning identification information among the plurality of identification information in a state in which the corresponding identification information is unrecognizable. In this case, the game progress control unit 113 can be configured to execute a first lottery by identifying one predetermined object included in the plurality of predetermined objects. The predetermined object is identified in response to a selection by the player or automatically by the game progress control unit 113. This configuration makes it possible to display objects corresponding to non-winning identification information when the first lottery is executed.

[0046] In this case, each of the plurality of predetermined objects may have a parameter, and the second drawing for determining the increase in the remaining number of drawings may have a winning probability based on the value of the parameter possessed by the predetermined object identified when the first drawing is executed. The parameters possessed by such predetermined objects are managed, for example, in the object management table 157. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of executing the second drawing based on the value of the parameter possessed by the predetermined object.

[0047] The second reward may be awarded based on the value of a parameter possessed by the predetermined object identified when the first lottery is executed. For example, the value of the second reward to the player may vary (including the quantity) based on the value of the parameter. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of acquiring the second reward based on the value of the parameter possessed by the predetermined object.

[0048] The game progress control unit 113 may be configured to end play of the game using the game field when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The predetermined condition may include, but is not limited to, a condition that is satisfied when the remaining number of lotteries reaches zero or when a predetermined time has passed since the start of the game. This configuration creates the need to obtain the first reward before play of the game using the game field ends, which may increase interest in the game.

[0049] In this embodiment, the game field may have multiple levels, and after play of the game is completed, the next game field level may be changed (leveled up or down) depending on whether a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition may include various conditions, such as conditions related to the progress of the game (e.g., the acquisition status of the first reward and / or the second reward). For example, the higher the level of the game field, the higher the difficulty of acquiring the first reward (in other words, the difficulty of the arrangement of the multiple winning areas forming a predetermined pattern) and the higher the value of the first reward. This configuration provides the player with the enjoyment of the level of the game field.

[0050] Next, a specific example of one aspect of the game providing server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. In this example, the server 10 provides a solo play bingo game that is played by one person.

[0051] First, the information managed by each table in this example will be described. Figure 2 illustrates information managed by the player information table 151 in this example. The player information table 151 in this example manages information about players of the game, and as shown in the figure, associates the information with a "player account" that identifies an individual player, and manages information such as "basic information" including an account name and date of birth, a "number of owned coins" that indicates the number of coins (first and second rewards) that can be acquired through playing the bingo game, a "number of consecutive bingos" that indicates the number of consecutive plays that result in bingo, and a "bingo sheet level" that indicates the level of the bingo sheet (game field) used when playing the bingo game. The bingo sheet level is initially set to "1."

[0052] 3 illustrates information managed by the game progress management table 153 in this example. The game progress management table 153 in this example manages information related to the progress of individual games, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "player account" identifying a player of the game, "number of remaining turns" (number of remaining draws) indicating the number of draws remaining in the draw (first draw) for determining winning numbers in the bingo game, "remaining time," a "bingo occurrence flag" indicating that one or more bingos have occurred, and "number of acquired coins," in association with a "play ID" identifying an individual play of the game.

[0053] 4 illustrates information managed by the game field management table 155 in this example. The game field management table 155 in this example manages information related to the bingo sheet used when playing a bingo game, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as an "arrangement position" indicating the arrangement position of a square on the bingo sheet, a "number" indicating the corresponding (assigned) number (identification information), and a "winning square flag" indicating whether the corresponding number is a winning square, in association with a combination of a "play ID" identifying an individual play of the game and a "square ID" identifying an individual square (area) arranged on the bingo sheet.

[0054] In this example, the bingo sheet has NxN squares arranged in a grid pattern vertically and horizontally, and the placement positions in the game field management table 155 are set as a combination of vertical positions (rows) and horizontal positions (columns).

[0055] 5 illustrates information managed by the object management table 157. In this example, the object management table 157 manages information related to bingo balls (predetermined objects) used when playing a bingo game, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "type" indicating the type of bingo ball and a "status" indicating the status of the bingo ball, in association with a combination of a "play ID" identifying an individual play of the game and a "ball ID" identifying an individual bingo ball in that play.

[0056] The information managed by each table in this example has been described above. Next, the processing executed by the server 10 and the screens output on the player terminals 30 in this example will be described.

[0057] 6 is a flowchart illustrating the process executed by the game providing server 10 in response to the start of the bingo game in this example. First, as shown in the figure, the server 10 sets the bingo sheet and bingo balls, and starts reducing the remaining time (step S100).

[0058] 7 illustrates a game screen 50 (predetermined screen) that is output on the player terminal 30 in response to the start of a bingo game. As shown, the screen 50 has a basic information display area 52 that displays basic information about the game, a bingo sheet display area 54 that displays a bingo sheet, a ball containing object 55 that contains bingo balls used in the lottery for drawing winning numbers, a reserved ball display area 56 that displays four bingo balls to be used in subsequent lotteries, a winning number display area 57 that displays the winning number, and a lottery button 58. A cannon object 571 that has the appearance of a cannon is arranged below the winning number display area 57.

[0059] The basic information display area 52 has a remaining time display area 521 that displays the remaining time, a remaining turn number display area 522 that displays the number of remaining turns, and a coin number display area 523 that displays the number of acquired coins. This information is managed in the game progress management table 153.

[0060] In this example, the bingo sheet has multiple levels, and the initial values ​​of the remaining time, the number of remaining turns, and the number of squares on the bingo sheet vary depending on the level of the bingo sheet. The game screen 50 in Figure 7 corresponds to a case where the bingo sheet level is "1," in which case the initial value of the remaining time is 15 minutes and the initial value of the remaining number of turns is 15. The level of the bingo sheet applied to a player is managed in the player information table 151, as described above.

[0061] 8 illustrates details of the bingo sheet display area 54 of the game screen 50. As shown in the figure, the area 54 displays a bingo sheet 541, and a plurality of squares 542 are arranged in a grid pattern on the bingo sheet 541. The level of the bingo sheet 541 in FIG. 8 is "1," and in this case, a total of 25 squares are arranged in a 5x5 matrix.

[0062] In setting the bingo sheet in step S100, numbers ranging from 1 to the maximum value (the number of squares) are randomly assigned to a number of squares corresponding to the level of the bingo sheet. For example, in the bingo sheet 541 of Fig. 8, numbers ranging from 1 to 25 are randomly assigned to 25 squares 542, and the corresponding number is displayed in each square 542. The numbers assigned to each square are managed in the game field management table 155, as described above.

[0063] 9 illustrates details of the ball containing object 55 on the game screen 50. The ball containing object 55 has a spherical containing portion 551 and a support portion 552 that supports the containing portion 551. A plurality of bingo balls 553 are contained inside the containing portion 551. In the initial state immediately after the start of the game, the bingo balls 553 contained in the containing portion 551 of the ball containing object 55 are the remaining 21 bingo balls out of the 25 bingo balls corresponding to the 25 squares, excluding the four bingo balls placed in the reserved ball display area 56. Thus, in this example, the number of bingo balls is the same as the number of squares on the bingo sheet.

[0064] In this example, there are three types of bingo balls, and a different parameter (coin acquisition multiplier) is set for each type of bingo ball. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the three types of bingo balls. As shown in the figure, the set coin acquisition multiplier is "1.0" for type A bingo balls, "1.5" for type B bingo balls, and "2.0" for type C bingo balls. These three types of bingo balls have different appearances (e.g., colors, patterns, etc.). Details of the coin acquisition multiplier will be described later.

[0065] Here, the bingo balls 553 contained in the container section 551 of the ball container object 55 have an appearance according to their type, but no numbers are displayed (no numbers are assigned to each bingo ball 553).

[0066] 7 , four bingo balls 561 to be used in subsequent lotteries are arranged in a left-right direction in the reserved ball display area 56. The four bingo balls 561 are arranged so that the bingo ball 561 to be used earlier in the lottery is on the right, that is, the rightmost bingo ball 561 will be used in the next lottery.

[0067] Here, the bingo balls 561 placed in the reserved ball display area 56 have an appearance according to their type, similar to the bingo balls 553 described above, but no numbers are displayed (no numbers are assigned to each bingo ball 561).

[0068] In setting the bingo balls in step S100, the same number of bingo balls as the number of squares on the bingo sheet are registered in the object management table 157, and the type and status of each of these bingo balls are set. The type of each bingo ball is set randomly by lottery according to the winning probability for each type (type A is highest, type C is lowest). The status of a bingo ball includes "held", which indicates that it is held in the holding section 551 of the ball holding object 55, "first held", which indicates that it is located at the rightmost position in the held ball display area 56, "second held", which indicates that it is located second from the right in the held ball display area 56, "third held", which indicates that it is located third from the right in the held ball display area 56, "fourth held", which indicates that it is located fourth from the right (leftmost) in the held ball display area 56, and "drawn", which indicates that it has been used in the drawing of the winning number, and at the stage of setting the bingo ball, a value corresponding to one of "held", "first held", "second held", "third held", and "fourth held" is set.

[0069] 6, after the bingo sheet and bingo balls are set and the remaining time begins to decrease, the server 10 waits for a lottery instruction from the player (step S110) while there is remaining time (NO in step S105). The lottery instruction from the player is accepted in response to selection of the lottery button 58 on the game screen 50.

[0070] When the player issues a lottery instruction (i.e., selects the lottery button 58) (YES in step S110), the server 10 decreases the number of remaining turns (step S120). Specifically, the number of remaining turns for the corresponding play is updated (decreased by 1) in the game progress management table 153.

[0071] Next, the server 10 draws a lottery for a winning number and sets a winning square (step S130). Specifically, one winning number is determined by lottery from among the non-winning numbers among the multiple numbers corresponding to the multiple squares on the bingo sheet, and the square corresponding to the winning number is set (changed) as the winning square. The non-winning numbers are identified by referencing the winning square flag in the game field management table 155. In this example, each number has the same winning probability. However, the winning probabilities of at least some of the multiple numbers may be different from one another. Depending on the setting of the winning square, the winning square flag of the corresponding square is updated in the game field management table 155.

[0072] In this example, in conjunction with the execution of the lottery for the winning number, an effect display using bingo balls is displayed on the game screen 50 illustrated in FIG. 7 . Specifically, an animation display is displayed in which a bingo ball 561 positioned at the rightmost position in the reserved ball display area 56 is thrown into a turret object 571, and one bingo ball 553 (specified by lottery) is supplied from the ball container object 55 to the leftmost position in the reserved ball display area 56. Thereafter, the winning number is displayed in the winning number display area 57 (see FIG. 11 ). Further, an animation display is displayed in which the bingo ball 561 is fired from the turret object 571 and lands on the corresponding square 542 (to which the winning number is assigned) among the multiple squares 542 on the bingo sheet 541 displayed in the bingo sheet display area 54. In response to the movements of the bingo balls 553 and 561, the status of the corresponding bingo balls is updated in the object management table 157.

[0073] Specifically, the status of a bingo ball that was "first reserved" is changed to "drawn," the status of a bingo ball that was "second reserved" is changed to "first reserved," the status of a bingo ball that was "third reserved" is changed to "second reserved," and the status of a bingo ball that was "fourth reserved" is changed to "third reserved." Also, the status of a bingo ball supplied to the leftmost side of the reserved ball display area 56 from the ball containing object 55 is changed from "contained" to "fourth reserved."

[0074] 12 shows an example of the bingo sheet display area 54 after an effect display accompanying the execution of the lottery for the winning number has been performed. In the bingo sheet display area 54 in this state, as shown in the figure, among the multiple squares 542 on the bingo sheet 541, square 542A to which the winning number ("12" in the example of FIG. 12) has been assigned has been changed to a winning square, and a star-shaped winning object 543 indicating that this square 542A is a winning square has been placed in this square.

[0075] 6 , after the winning number lottery is executed and the winning square is set in this manner, the server 10 then awards the coins (second reward) associated with the setting of the winning square to the player (step S140). Specifically, the number of coins acquired in the corresponding play is updated (increased by a predetermined number) in the game progress management table 153, and the number of coins owned by the corresponding player is updated (increased by a predetermined number) in the player information table 151. Note that in response to the awarding of the coins, a corresponding effect may be displayed on the game screen 50 (for example, an animation display in which an object having the appearance of a coin appears from the square 542 on which the bingo ball 561 has landed).

[0076] In this example, the number of coins awarded in association with the setting of a winning square is determined based on the winning number itself and the type of bingo balls used in the lottery (managed in the object management table 157). Specifically, the base number of coins to be awarded increases as the winning number increases, and the number of coins awarded to the player is calculated by applying a coin acquisition multiplier corresponding to the type of bingo balls used to this base number.

[0077] If a bingo occurs on the bingo sheet 541 as a result of the setting of the winning squares (YES in step S150), the server 10 awards coins (first reward) associated with the bingo to the player (step S160). Specifically, the number of coins earned for the corresponding game play is updated (increased by a predetermined number) in the game progress management table 153, and the number of coins owned by the corresponding player is updated (increased by a predetermined number) in the player information table 151. In response to the awarding of the coins, a corresponding effect may be displayed on the game screen 50. The number of coins associated with the bingo is predetermined. A bingo occurs when winning squares are lined up vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. For example, in the bingo sheet 541 illustrated in FIG. 13 , five squares 542 lined up vertically in the rightmost column are winning squares, indicating that a bingo has occurred. In response to the occurrence of a bingo, the bingo occurrence flag for the corresponding play is updated in the game progress management table 153.

[0078] Next, the server 10 executes a lottery (second lottery) for restoring the number of remaining turns (step S170). Specifically, a lottery is executed to determine whether or not to restore the number of remaining turns according to a predetermined probability of winning.

[0079] The winning probability of the remaining turn recovery lottery is adjusted from a standard value (e.g., 30%) based on the number of turns remaining at that time and the type of bingo balls used when the winning number was drawn. For example, if the number of turns remaining at that time is two or less, 10% points are added to the standard winning probability. Furthermore, for example, if the type of bingo balls used is Type B, 5% points are added to the winning probability, and if the type of bingo balls used is Type C, 10% points are added to the winning probability.

[0080] If the result of the lottery to restore the number of remaining turns is a win (YES in step S180), the server 10 restores the number of remaining turns. Specifically, the number of remaining turns for the corresponding play is updated (increased by 1) in the game progress management table 153.

[0081] If there are turns remaining (one or more) (NO in step S200), the process returns to waiting for a lottery instruction from the player (step S110), and each time a lottery instruction is given by the player, a series of processes is repeated, from reducing the number of remaining turns to restoring the number of remaining turns if the result of the lottery to restore the number of remaining turns is a win (steps S120 to S190).

[0082] Then, when the remaining time runs out (YES in step S105) or the remaining turns run out (YES in step S200), the server 10 ends the current game and updates the bingo sheet level (step S210). Specifically, if a bingo occurs during the current game (on the current bingo sheet) (determined by referencing the bingo occurrence flag in the game progress management table 153), the number of consecutive bingos in the player information table 151 is updated (increased by 1). If the number of consecutive bingos reaches a threshold value (e.g., three), the bingo sheet level is incremented by 1 (level up). On the other hand, if a bingo does not occur during the current game, the number of consecutive bingos is reset to 0, and the bingo sheet level is decremented by 1 (level down). When the bingo sheet level is increased, the initial values ​​of the remaining time and the remaining number of turns are changed (e.g., increased), and the number of squares placed on the bingo sheet is also changed (e.g., increased). The updated bingo sheet level is applied during the next game play.

[0083] In the above example, numbers ranging from 1 to the maximum value (the number of squares) are randomly assigned to a number of squares corresponding to the level of the bingo sheet. However, the maximum number may be greater than the number of squares. In this case, for example, 25 numbers randomly selected from the numbers 1 to 100 are assigned to 25 squares. This gives players an advantage over bingo sheets with larger numbers (the larger the winning number, the greater the number of coins awarded for setting a winning square). This results in winning and losing bingo sheets, enhancing the excitement of the game. Furthermore, when setting a bingo sheet, one or more squares (e.g., the center square) may be set as winning squares from the beginning.

[0084] In the above example, the coins held by the player are used in games other than the bingo game, for example, to purchase items etc. The other games include various types of games.

[0085] In the above example, the player may be allowed to specify a coin multiplier when issuing a command to select a winning number. The specification of the multiplier involves, for example, consuming a predetermined number of coins. In this case, the number of coins awarded upon setting a winning square is determined by the coin multiplier specified by the player in addition to the coin multiplier corresponding to the type of bingo ball.

[0086] In the example above, the number of bingo balls (numbers to be drawn) is the same as the number of squares on the bingo sheet, but the number of bingo balls may be greater than the number of squares. In this case, if there is no square on the bingo sheet that corresponds to the determined winning number, no coins will be awarded for the winning square.

[0087] In the example described above, the probability of winning the lottery to restore the number of remaining turns is adjusted based on the number of turns remaining at that time and the type of bingo balls, but instead of or in addition to these adjustments, adjustments may be made based on the progress of the bingo game (the number of draws performed to determine the winning number, the placement of the winning squares, the number of coins acquired, etc.).

[0088] In the above example, the number of remaining turns may be increased by the player spending a predetermined value (e.g., real currency, coins, or other items) immediately after the remaining turns run out or at any other timing. The number of remaining turns may also be increased over time (e.g., by recovering one turn every time one minute passes). In this way, even if the remaining turns run out, as long as there is time remaining, the player can recover the remaining turns by spending a predetermined value or by the passage of time, and continue playing the bingo sheet at that time. For example, a player who aims to get multiple bingos (and thereby acquire coins) will be motivated to recover the remaining turns in this way.

[0089] In the above example, the same type of reward (coins) is awarded to the player when a winning square is set and when a bingo is hit, but different types of rewards may be awarded for each of these. Also, no reward may be awarded when a winning square is set.

[0090] In the above example, the number of coins awarded in association with the setting of a winning square may be based on a parameter (e.g., the type of square) associated with the winning square. For example, if the central square among multiple squares is determined to be a winning square, the number of coins awarded may be increased. Furthermore, a special effect (e.g., changing another square to an additional winning square) may be generated based on the parameter associated with the winning square.

[0091] The game providing server 10 according to the present embodiment described above executes a first lottery to determine a winning identification from among multiple identifications (e.g., numbers) as the number of remaining lottery draws (e.g., the number of remaining turns) decreases, converts an area (e.g., a square) corresponding to the winning identification into a winning area, and awards a first reward (e.g., coins) when the arrangement of the multiple winning areas forms a predetermined pattern (e.g., a line arrangement pattern). Furthermore, in response to the determination of the winning identification, a second lottery is executed to determine whether to increase the number of remaining lottery draws, and increases the number of remaining lottery draws if a win is found. Therefore, the player can enjoy receiving a reward based on the arrangement of the winning area while taking into account the increase or decrease in the number of remaining lottery draws. In this way, the server 10 enhances the enjoyment of the game.

[0092] In other embodiments of the present invention, some or all of the functions of the game providing server 10 in the above-described embodiments may be realized by cooperation between the game providing server 10 and the player terminals 30, or may be realized by the player terminals 30. In other words, the system of the present invention may be constituted not only by the game providing server 10, but also by the game providing server 10 and the player terminals 30, or may be constituted by the player terminals 30.

[0093] The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed by various computers.

[0094] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be implemented by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0095] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without limitation as either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise.

[0096] 10 Game providing server 11 Computer processor 111 Management function control unit 113 Game progress control unit 15 Storage 151 Player information table 153 Game progress management table 155 Game field management table 157 Object management table 30 Player terminal 40 Server side program 42 Terminal side program 50 Game screen 541 Bingo sheet 542 Squares 553 Bingo balls 561 Bingo balls

Claims

1. A system for providing a game, comprising one or more computer processors, the one or more computer processors executing the following steps: presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; reducing the remaining number of draws associated with the player and executing a first lottery to determine a winning identification information from the plurality of identification information; changing an area among the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery; executing a second lottery to determine whether to increase the remaining number of draws, and increasing the remaining number of draws if the result of the second lottery is a win; and granting a first reward to the player in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first lottery determines the winning identification information from among non-winning identification information among the plurality of identification information.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of regions includes a region corresponding to each of the plurality of pieces of identification information.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the probability of winning the second lottery increases as the number of remaining lottery draws decreases.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the probability of winning the second lottery varies based on the progress of the game.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the game progress status includes at least one of the number of times the first lottery has been performed, the status of the plurality of areas being changed to the winning areas, and the status of the first reward being awarded.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more computer processors further execute the step of increasing the number of remaining lottery draws accompanied by the consumption of a predetermined value by the player.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more computer processors further execute a step of awarding a second reward to the player in response to a change to the winning area of ​​the area corresponding to the winning identification information.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of identification information has a first parameter, and the step of awarding the second reward awards the second reward based on the value of the first parameter possessed by the winning identification information.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of regions has a second parameter, and the step of awarding the second reward awards the second reward based on the value of the second parameter possessed by the region corresponding to the winning identification information.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the specified screen displays a plurality of specified objects corresponding to non-winning identification information among the plurality of identification information in a state in which the corresponding identification information cannot be recognized, and the step of performing the first lottery performs the first lottery by identifying one specified object included in the plurality of specified objects.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of predetermined objects has a third parameter, and the second lottery has a probability of winning based on the value of the third parameter possessed by the one predetermined object.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the one or more computer processors further execute a step of granting a second reward to the player in response to a change to the winning area of ​​the area corresponding to the winning identification information, each of the plurality of specified objects having a third parameter, and the step of granting the second reward grants the second reward based on the value of the third parameter possessed by one of the specified objects.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more computer processors further execute a step of terminating play of the game using the game field in response to a first condition being satisfied, the first condition including a condition that is satisfied when the remaining number of draws becomes 0 or when a predetermined time has elapsed.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the game field has a plurality of levels, and the one or more computer processors further execute a step of changing the next level of the game field in response to satisfaction of a second condition after completion of play of the game.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the first reward is used in a game other than the game.

17. A method for providing a game, executed by one or more computers, comprising: a step of presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; a step of reducing the remaining number of draws associated with the player and conducting a first drawing to determine a winning identification information from among the plurality of identification information; a step of changing an area among the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first drawing; a step of conducting a second drawing to determine whether to increase the remaining number of draws, and increasing the remaining number of draws if the result of the second drawing is a win; and a step of granting a first reward to the player in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

18. A program for providing a game, the program causing one or more computers to execute the following steps: presenting to a player a predetermined screen for playing the game, the predetermined screen displaying a game field in which a plurality of areas corresponding to any of a plurality of mutually different identification information are arranged; reducing the remaining number of draws associated with the player and executing a first lottery to determine winning identification information from the plurality of identification information; changing an area among the plurality of areas corresponding to the winning identification information to a winning area in accordance with the determination of the winning identification information through the first lottery; executing a second lottery to determine whether to increase the remaining number of draws, and increasing the remaining number of draws if the result of the second lottery is a win; and granting a first reward to the player in accordance with the arrangement of the plurality of winning areas in the plurality of areas forming a predetermined pattern.

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