Multiplayer Group Merging to Cut Match Formation Wait Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating temporary groups in multiplayer games often take a long time for a desired number of members to gather, causing user stress.
Innovation Solution
A game management device and method that includes a storage unit for group lists, a merging-subject search unit, a proposition unit, and a merging unit to facilitate the merging of compatible groups, reducing the time needed for a desired number of members to gather.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If temporary groups are created on a per-play basis, then variations in the game are brought about and users are stably gathered, but it takes a long time for a desired number of members to gather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small groups into a larger group when the merged group would satisfy the target size condition. The merging unit combines groups that have the same game type, where the sum of member counts equals or exceeds the target size, thereby reducing the time to gather sufficient members while maintaining game variations through selective merging based on game type matching.
2Reliability
If temporary groups are created on a per-play basis, then users are stably gathered irrespective of period and time, but it takes a long time for a desired number of members to gather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by automatically merging groups that are close to meeting the target size before users need to play. The system proactively combines groups based on predefined conditions (same game type, sufficient total members), so that when a play session is requested, the groups are already optimized for immediate gameplay, reducing waiting time while maintaining reliable user gathering.
3Ease of manufacture
If groups are formed in advance with static methods, then group formation is simple, but it lacks variations and may not gather users stably across different periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic group formation where groups are automatically merged based on real-time conditions such as game type matching and member count thresholds. Unlike static pre-formed groups, this dynamic approach adapts to current game states, maintaining simplicity through automated rules while achieving variations through conditional merging that responds to changing game requirements and user availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A game management device includes a storage unit that stores a list of a plurality of groups constituted of a member. The device further includes a merging-subject search unit that searches for various groups that satisfy a merging condition and that can be mutually merged from among groups with which the numbers of members have not reached an upper limit set in advance in a game and that are in a state in which it is possible to add a member. The device further includes a proposition unit that presents a proposal for merging to the groups that can be mutually merged and that accepts replies to the proposal. The device further includes a merging unit that merges the groups to generate a single group in the case where replies to the effect of accepting the proposal have been received from the groups.