Block Game Timing Control for Strategic Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional block games have overly simple block removal and movement methods, which fail to enhance player interest.

Innovation Solution

A block game program and apparatus that introduce a new block removal method where blocks are removed based on player operation timing, with varying block appearance and removal times, and allow for strategic block movement and combination, displaying blocks satisfying removal conditions as single fixed blocks to prevent accidental removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If blocks are removed automatically when removal conditions are met, then the game progression is smooth and continuous, but the player loses control over timing and strategic decision-making

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic block removalVSAvoidplayer control over removal timing

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between automatic removal mode (when removal conditions are met) and manual timing control mode (when player operates timing button). This dynamic adaptation allows the game to provide both ease of operation and strategic control depending on the game state and player intent.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The player can prepare blocks for removal by satisfying removal conditions in advance, then choose the exact timing for execution. This preliminary preparation followed by delayed execution gives players strategic control while maintaining smooth game progression through pre-planned moves.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If block removal timing is fixed and automatic, then the game flow is simple and fast-paced, but player engagement and strategic depth are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegame flow speedVSAvoidstrategic gameplay options

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The game flow dynamically adjusts between fast automatic removal and strategically paced manual timing. Players can choose rapid automatic removal for smooth game flow or deliberate manual timing for strategic depth, adapting the pace to their play style and situation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the timing parameter from fixed (automatic) to variable (manual control). This parameter change allows players to adjust removal timing based on strategic considerations while maintaining the option for fast automatic removal when desired.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If blocks are displayed as individual removable units, then player control is precise, but accidental removal and visual clutter increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblock selection controlVSAvoidaccidental removal

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple blocks satisfying removal conditions are merged into a single composite block representation. This merging prevents accidental removal by requiring intentional selection of the composite unit, while also reducing visual clutter by displaying multiple blocks as one unified element.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The composite block acts as an intermediary between individual blocks and the removal mechanism. Players interact with the composite block as a single unit, which then manages the removal of constituent blocks, providing both protection against accidental removal and simplified visual presentation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Speed

If block removal is instantaneous and automatic, then the game responds quickly to player actions, but the visual feedback and player satisfaction are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblock removal speedVSAvoidvisual feedback duration

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary preparation by identifying and grouping blocks that satisfy removal conditions before actual removal occurs. This preliminary action allows for visual preparation and anticipation, enhancing player satisfaction while maintaining quick response through pre-computed removal sets.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The block removal process is made continuous rather than instantaneous, with blocks being removed in a sustained visual sequence. This continuous action provides extended visual feedback and player satisfaction while maintaining overall game responsiveness through efficient processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS8096879B2Block game program and block game apparatus for removing blocks in accordance with a timing operation

Publication Date: 2012.01.17 SQUARE ENIX HLDG CO LTD

AI summary

A block game program and a block game apparatus that can improve interest therein by using a new block removal method and a new block movement method are achieved. The game program sequentially produces blocks in a playing field displayed on a display screen to form a block group. The game program causes the game apparatus to function as a mouse that receives an operation, and a block removal control unit that removes blocks satisfying a removal condition from among the block group in accordance with timing at which the mouse receives an operation.