Two-Character Game Control With Dynamic Input Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rhythm games do not effectively utilize intuitive tilting and sliding operations for controlling multiple player characters, leading to player confusion and burden.

Innovation Solution

A game system and control method that allows players to switch between modes where two player characters are controlled individually or by a single input device, using a one-side and other-side operation portion on each hand, with specific actions and modes to enhance player interaction and reduce confusion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If two player characters are controlled individually by separate operation portions, then control precision is improved, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between two control modes: a first mode where two player characters are controlled individually by separate operation portions (one-side and other-side direction input portions), and a second mode where both characters are controlled by a single operation portion. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to adjust control complexity based on gameplay requirements, resolving the contradiction between control precision and operation complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The operation device is designed with multi-functionality, where the one-side operation portion and other-side operation portion can serve different roles depending on the mode. In the first mode, they independently control different player characters for precise individual control. In the second mode, either operation portion can control both player characters, providing universal control capability that reduces operational burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If mode switching is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode adaptabilityVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service mode switching where the player can initiate mode transitions through simple operations on the operation portions. The switching between first mode and second mode is triggered by player input, allowing the system to adapt to different gameplay situations without requiring complex external controls or additional buttons.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the mode switching function with the existing direction input operations. The same operation portions used for controlling character movement also serve as the trigger for mode switching. This integration eliminates the need for separate switching controls, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high adaptability between control modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If multiple operation portions are used for controlling multiple characters, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically adjusts between individual character control (first mode) and joint character control (second mode) based on gameplay needs. This dynamic switching allows players to use precise individual control when necessary while switching to simpler joint control during other phases, maintaining ease of operation overall while preserving control precision when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12458894B2Storage medium, game system and game control method
Publication Date: 2025.11.04 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • US12458894B2 patent drawing
  • US12458894B2 patent drawing
  • US12458894B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A non-limiting example game system comprises a main body apparatus, and the main body apparatus executes a virtual game and a game screen is displayed on a display device. A player character, a first fellow character and a background object are displayed in the game screen. The player character and the first fellow character are moved individually by respective operations of two analog sticks by a player. If the player character and second fellow character are combined with each other, the second fellow character is moved along with the player character by an operation of the analog stick by the player.