JP2004141525A - GAME SYSTEM, PROGRAM, AND INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIUM - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game system, a program, and an information storage medium capable of efficiently retrieving information necessary for game play.
When a request for participation in a network game is received, an initial search condition is automatically set based on initial search condition setting information, and search target information is automatically searched based on the initial search condition and database information. The result is displayed on the player. The search condition selected based on the last used search condition or use frequency information at the previous participation in the network game is set as the initial search condition. When the initial search condition setting information is not valid, the search is performed according to the search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of all players. A search process is performed for input information (participating player, game space, weapon, armor, magic, item, technique, character, team, card, moving object, parts) that the player inputs prior to the start of game play.
[Selection] Figure 4

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a game system, a program, and an information storage medium.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, games using networks such as the Internet are becoming popular. According to this network game, a player can enjoy a multiplayer game with an unspecified number of players, and is therefore very popular as a game.
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2001-155782 A
[Patent Document 2]
International Publication No. 96/61122
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Now, in network games so far, most of the groups (game spaces) in which a player plays a multiplayer game are selected (matched) by the computer without regard to the player's intention. . That is, the player has to play the game in the selected group regardless of his / her intention. For example, even if a player goes to a game store (game center, game facility) with friends, he cannot enjoy the multiplayer game together. In other words, even if you know each other and want to play in the same environment, it was not a system that could do that.
[0005]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game system, a program, and an information storage medium that can efficiently search information necessary for game play. is there.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention is a game system for a player to play a network game via a network, based on a game processing unit that performs processing for the player to play the network game, and a processing result from the game processing unit. The search processing of the search target information is performed based on the input search condition and information stored in the network database when the player inputs the search condition on the search screen. And a search processing unit that performs a process of displaying the search result on the player, and when the search processing unit accepts a request for participation of the player in the network game, the player based on the initial search condition setting information The initial search condition for the is automatically set, and the initial search condition and network data are set. Based on the information stored in the base, the search performs an automatic search processing object information, related to the game system performs a process of displaying the search results to the player. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units. The present invention also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores (records) a program that causes a computer to function as each unit.
[0007]
According to the present invention, when a request for participation of a player in a network game is received, the search target information (needed to be known for game play) based on the initial search condition, even if the player does not input the search condition. Information, input information) is automatically retrieved and displayed on the player. Accordingly, the player can save the time and effort of searching and can play the game immediately, so that the operating rate of the game system can be improved.
[0008]
In the game system, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention, the search condition last used by the player when joining the previous network game is set as the initial search condition according to the initial search condition setting information, and the search processing unit However, the search process may be performed using the search condition last used by the player at the previous participation in the network game as the initial search condition.
[0009]
Note that the last used search condition may be a complex search condition (logical product of search conditions).
[0010]
In the game system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of the player is set as the initial search condition by the initial search condition setting information. The search process may be performed using the search condition selected based on the usage frequency information as the initial search condition.
[0011]
The usage frequency information may be usage frequency information of the player or usage frequency information of all players (other players). In addition, a search condition with the highest use frequency may be set as the initial search condition, or a search condition other than the search condition with the highest use frequency may be set as the initial search condition. For example, a search condition randomly selected from a plurality of frequently used search conditions may be set as the initial search condition.
[0012]
In the game system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, when the initial search condition setting information of the player is not valid, the search processing unit includes the usage frequency information of all players stored in the network database. The search process may be performed using the search condition selected based on the initial search condition.
[0013]
Here, the fact that the initial search condition setting information of the player is not valid is, for example, the case where the initial search condition setting information of the player does not exist (when it is empty information). In this case, in the present invention, the initial search condition is set based on the usage frequency information of all players (other players).
[0014]
In the game system, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention, when the search processing unit displays another search condition after the search result based on the initial search condition is displayed, the use frequency of the player A process of updating information, performing a search process based on the other search conditions, and displaying a search result on a player may be performed.
[0015]
In this way, the player can search for the search target information under a search condition different from the initial search condition.
[0016]
In the game system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game processing unit performs game processing based on input information input by the player prior to the start of game play, and the search processing unit includes an initial search condition. Based on the initial search condition set by the setting information, a search process for the input information may be performed, and a search result may be displayed on the player.
[0017]
In this way, if the search process for input information is automatically performed based on the initial search conditions, the player can quickly determine what input information is input, and the operating rate of the game system can be increased. It can be improved.
[0018]
In the game system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the input information includes a game space that the player plays, a participating player of the network game, a weapon used by the player, a use armor, a use magic, a use item, a use technique, It may be at least one of information on a used character, a used team, a used card, a used moving body, and a used part.
[0019]
Information other than the above may be used as input information.
[0020]
In the game system, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention, when the player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, A process for playing a multiplayer game is performed, and the search processing unit performs a process for displaying a search screen for searching for a play room, and is set by a search condition input by the player or initial search condition setting information Based on the initial search condition, a process of searching for and displaying information on L (L <K) play rooms that match the search condition from the information on K play rooms stored in the network database. May be.
[0021]
According to the present invention, based on the search conditions input by the player and the initial search conditions, the search conditions are matched with the search conditions from among a large number of playroom information stored in the database (database accessible via the network). Information about one or more play rooms is retrieved and displayed to the player. Therefore, the player can search for a desired play room by inputting various search conditions, and can determine the play room in which he / she participates by looking at the information on the play room displayed by the search. Therefore, even when a large number of playrooms are constructed on the network, it is possible to efficiently search for a playroom that the player wants to participate in from among them, and while reflecting the player's intention, an efficient network game Management can be realized. Further, according to the present invention, since the play room information suitable for the initial search condition is searched and displayed on the player, the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0022]
In the game system, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention, when the player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, A process for playing a multiplayer game is performed, and the search processing unit performs a process for displaying a search screen for searching for a participating player, and is set by a search condition or initial search condition setting information input by the player Based on the initial search condition, a process of searching for and displaying information on N (N <M) participating players that match the search condition from information on M participating players stored in the network database. May be.
[0023]
In this way, among the many participating players participating in the network game (players actually participating in the play room, players who are scheduled to participate), the player is a participating player that meets the search conditions. Can be searched efficiently. Participating player information that matches the initial search condition is searched and displayed on the player, so that the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0024]
In the game system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, when the player selects a participating player on which information is displayed, the search processing unit displays information on a play room in which the participating player participates. Processing may be performed.
[0025]
In this way, by selecting any participating player from participating players whose information is displayed on the screen (display unit), it is possible to easily find a play room in which the participating player is participating. Can do. When the player enters the found play room, the game can be played in the same play room as the participating player.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0027]
In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.
[0028]
1. Constitution
FIG. 1 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the game system (image generation system) of the present embodiment. Note that the game system of the present embodiment does not have to include all the units (functional blocks) in FIG. 1 and may have a configuration in which some of them are omitted.
[0029]
The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation data. The operation unit 160 has a touch panel type display unit having both functions of an operation unit and a display unit. This can be realized by a device that can input information by touching or pressing the screen. Or you may implement | achieve by hardware, such as a lever, a button, a steering, a shift lever, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, a microphone, a sensor, or a housing.
[0030]
The storage unit 170 serves as a work area such as the processing unit 100 or the communication unit 196, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a RAM.
[0031]
The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions as an optical disk (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, and magnetic tape. Alternatively, it can be realized by hardware such as a memory (ROM). The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on a program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores (records and stores) a program for causing the computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing the computer to implement each unit).
[0032]
The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and the function can be realized by a touch panel type display unit having both functions of an operation unit and a display unit. Or you may implement | achieve by hardwares, such as normal CRT, LCD, or HMD (head mounted display).
[0033]
The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a speaker or headphones.
[0034]
The information storage device 194 is a device that stores various information related to the game such as personal information and save information. The information storage device 194 stores information unique to each player (each character) using the game system. As this information storage device 194 (portable information storage device), a device such as a magnetic card that stores information using magnetism, an IC card (a card with a built-in rewritable memory), or the like is used. For example, a device for storing information using electricity can be used. Or you may use the apparatus which memorize | stores information using light like an optical card, the apparatus incorporating a hard disk, etc. Further, a mobile phone or a portable game device may be used as the information storage device 194. Alternatively, a server (host) storage device (storage area accessible by personal authentication of the player) may be used as the information storage device 194.
[0035]
The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, a host or other game system), and functions thereof are hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like. It can be realized by. As a data transfer protocol of the communication unit 196, a high-speed serial bus data transfer protocol such as IEEE 1394 or USB (USB 2.0 or the like) can be used.
[0036]
The printing unit 197 prints (visualizes in a broad sense) various information (game results, rankings, character graphics, etc.) on the information storage device 194 (card). The printing unit 197 performs printing on the information storage device 194 using, for example, an inkjet method. It also has a mechanism for erasing previously printed information (graphics) and printing new information.
[0037]
Note that a program (data) for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment is transferred from an information storage medium included in a host (server) to an information storage medium 180 (storage unit) via a network (wide area network, the Internet) and a communication unit 196. 170). Use of such a host (server) information storage medium is also included within the scope of the present invention.
[0038]
The processing unit 100 (processor) performs various processes such as a game process, an image generation process, and a sound generation process based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. In this case, the processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 172 in the storage unit 170 as a work area. The function of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) or ASIC (gate array, etc.) and a program (game program).
[0039]
Here, the processing performed by the processing unit 100 includes coin (price) acceptance processing, various mode setting processing, game progress processing, selection screen setting processing, the position and direction of an object (one or a plurality of primitives) ( Processing for obtaining a rotation angle about the X, Y or Z axis), processing for moving an object (motion processing), processing for obtaining the position and direction of the virtual camera (viewpoint) (rotation angle about the X, Y or Z axis), Processing to place objects such as map objects in the object space, hit check processing, processing to calculate game results (results, results), processing for multiple players to play in a common game space, game over processing, etc. is there.
[0040]
The processing unit 100 includes a game processing unit 110, a search processing unit 112, a creation processing unit 114, a live relay processing unit 116, an image generation unit 120, and a sound generation unit 130. Note that the processing unit 100 does not need to include all these units (functional blocks), and some of them may be omitted.
[0041]
The game processing unit 110 performs various game processes (processes for accepting player operations) for advancing a game (card game, mahjong game, RPG, competitive game, battle game, cooperative game, multiplayer game, or breeding game). , A process for determining the player's intention selection, a process for placing, moving and operating the game display object, a process for branching the game progress, a process for displaying the game display object, or a process for calculating the game result) I do.
[0042]
The game processing unit 110 performs game processing based on input information (game start condition information, game environment setting information) input by the player prior to the start of game play.
[0043]
Here, the input information is information that determines the game environment that the player plays, and is information that is necessary as a game play start condition. For example, on the condition that the player inputs this input information, the player's game play starts. In addition, the environment that the player can use in the game and the status of the player in the game is determined. Such input information includes a game space (playroom, course, game field) played by the player, a participating player of the network game (player playing together in the game space, opponent player, cooperative player), and game played by the player. Weapons (swords, swords, spears, axes, guns, missiles), armor used (armor, helmet, shield, shield), magic used (attack magic, defensive magic, recovery magic, monster summon magic), items used ( Items, keys, and maps that restore or change character status, skills used (normal skills, special skills, combo skills), characters used (monsters, robots, people), teams used (sports teams, fighting teams, performance teams) , Cooperative play team, party), cards used (character cards, monster cards) Trading cards, cards for playing cards), moving objects (cars, motorcycles, airplanes, spaceships, tanks), or used parts (parts that make up or attach to moving objects, modified parts, replacement parts, consumables) Information on parts).
[0044]
In addition, when the player enters (participates) in the play room (game space), the game processing unit 110 performs game processing for the player to play a game in the entered play room (game space).
[0045]
Here, the play room is a common game space where a plurality of players can play. In the present embodiment, a plurality (K) of play rooms are constructed on a network (a plurality of game devices and servers connected to the network). In each of these play rooms, a multiplayer game is played by a plurality of players (real players and computer players who are humans). A plurality of multiplayer games in a plurality of play rooms are played independently and in parallel. For example, in the first play room, a first multiplayer game (game processing) is performed by a plurality of players, and in the second play room, a second multiplayer game is performed by a plurality of players. The first multiplayer game performed in the first play room and the second multiplayer game performed in the second play room proceed independently and in parallel. Note that some relationship may be provided between the first multiplayer game played in the first playroom and the second multiplayer game played in the second playroom.
[0046]
The search processing unit 112 performs search processing for search target information (information necessary for game play, input information, and information displayed on the player). More specifically, the search conditions (search conditions input by the player, automatically set initial search conditions) and information stored in the network database (search target information, initial search condition setting information, last used search) Based on the condition information, usage frequency information, player identification information, and the like, search target information search processing (actual search processing, search request processing, processing for transmitting information necessary for search, or request For example, processing for receiving the search results. Then, processing for displaying the search results (sort result, extraction result) on the player (actual display processing, processing for requesting display, processing for determining the display object, processing for determining the display position of the display object, or display timing is determined. Process).
[0047]
More specifically, the search processing unit 112 receives the player's participation request (login request, authentication request) (if the player has successfully logged in, if the participation has been authenticated, the player inputs the price of the game) The initial search conditions are automatically set. Then, based on the set initial search condition, automatic search processing of search target information (information necessary for game play, input information) is performed. Then, the search result (sort result, extraction result) is displayed on the screen.
[0048]
Here, the initial search condition is set based on the initial search condition setting information. This initial search condition setting information sets the initial search condition by any method (for example, the search condition last input at the time of the previous game participation, the search condition that the player or other players use frequently), for example. It is information for deciding. The initial search condition setting information can include information on the initial search condition itself or information for specifying the initial search condition. Specifically, information on the last search condition itself at the time of the previous game participation or information (code) designating the last search condition can be included. Alternatively, it is possible to include information on a search condition itself having a high use frequency or information (code) designating a search condition having a high use frequency. Further, “automatically” means that the computer (game system) sets an initial search condition without permission or performs a search without the player's explicit intention display.
[0049]
In addition, the search processing unit 112 performs a process for searching for a play room (game space). More specifically, processing for displaying a search screen for searching for a play room is performed. In addition, based on the search conditions of the playroom input by the player using this search screen and the initial search conditions, the search conditions (sort conditions or extraction conditions) are selected from the information of the K (plurality) playrooms. A process of displaying information on L (L <K) (one or more) adapted play rooms on the display unit is performed.
[0050]
The search processing unit 112 performs processing for player search. More specifically, a process for displaying a search screen for searching for a network game participating player (play room participating player, play room participation reserved player) is performed. Also, N (N <M) people (N <M) who meet the search condition from the information of M (multiple) participating players based on the search condition input by the player for the search for participating players and the initial search condition. A process of displaying information of one or more participating players is performed.
[0051]
The actual search for information (playroom information, player information, etc.) may be carried out in a server (game store server, management server such as a host), or cooperation between the server and the game device (game terminal). You may carry out by processing. For example, the game device may transmit information such as search conditions to the server, and the server that receives the information may return information that matches the search conditions to the game device.
[0052]
Information to be searched (playroom information, player information, etc.) can be stored in a database existing on the network (server, management server, or each game device). That is, information to be searched can be obtained by accessing a database via a network (a wide area network such as the Internet, a local area network such as a LAN).
[0053]
Further, as information about the play room, for example, information on the game being played in the play room (rule, rate, participation qualification, number of participants), information on players participating in the play room, or identification information of the play room (Play room number, play room name).
[0054]
The player information includes, for example, the player name (real name, handle name), player ranking (ranking in the whole network game, ranking in the play area, ranking in the play room), player game performance (score) , Points, winning / losing, number of items acquired), player's play area (play store, play prefecture), player's home area, player's gender, or player input comment.
[0055]
The creation processing unit 114 performs processing for creating a play room (game space). More specifically, when the player selects to create a new play room, a process for creating a new play room is performed. Then, a new play room is created based on the game information (rule, rate, participation qualification, number of participants) input by the player. If the number of real players (human players) participating in the game does not reach a predetermined number (for example, five) after creating a new play room, a computer player (a predetermined program executed by the computer) Based on the above, a process of joining (entering) a game in a play room of a player who plays a game on behalf of the actual player is also performed.
[0056]
The live broadcast processing unit 116 performs live relay processing of a game performed in the play room. More specifically, when a player selects a play room (for example, a play room that is different from the play room in which the player is playing) that is subject to live broadcasting, the contents and progress of the game being played in that play room are displayed. It is displayed (monitored) on the display unit of the player in real time (may have a certain delay time). For example, the situation of the place, the situation of the player (hand card, bill, bag situation), the player's score, ranking, ranking, etc. are displayed in real time on the player. That is, the content that is almost the same as the content displayed on the display unit when the player plays by himself / herself is displayed (lively relayed) for other play rooms.
[0057]
In the present embodiment, live broadcasts are disabled (prohibited) for games in a play room in which players playing at the same game store participate. That is, even if the player selects the live broadcast in the play room, the player's selection is rejected. In this case, whether or not they are the same game store is determined based on the game store identification information. And this identification information can be memorize | stored in the server and game device which are installed in a game store.
[0058]
The image generation unit 120 performs a drawing process based on the result of the game process, thereby generating an image and outputting it to the display unit 190. That is, when generating a so-called three-dimensional game image, first, geometric processing such as coordinate transformation, clipping processing, perspective transformation, or light source processing is performed, and based on the processing result, drawing data (the vertex of the primitive surface) Position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) are created. Then, based on the drawing data (primitive surface data), the object (one or a plurality of primitive surfaces) after the perspective transformation (after the geometry processing) has the image information in a pixel unit such as a drawing buffer 174 (frame buffer, work buffer, etc.). It is drawn in a buffer that can be stored. As a result, an image that can be seen from the virtual camera (given viewpoint) in the object space is generated.
[0059]
The sound generation unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 192.
[0060]
FIG. 2 shows an example of an external view of the game system of the present embodiment. This game system includes, for example, a plurality of game devices 200 (game terminals, game stations) having the same configuration (for example, 4 to 8 devices), and also includes a relay device 220. In addition, game devices or game devices and relay devices are connected by a network (for example, a serial bus such as IEEE1394 or USB). Each game device 200 includes a touch panel type display unit 202 having both functions of a display unit and an operation unit, a card 210 (information storage device) insertion slot 204 (card reader, card writer), and a coin insertion slot 206 (coin For example). The relay device 220 displays a live relay screen of a multiplayer game (a battle game or a cooperative game) played by a plurality of players.
[0061]
FIG. 3 shows an example of the network configuration of the game system of the present embodiment.
[0062]
A server is installed in each game store (game facility, game center) in each region. A plurality of game devices are connected to the server via a local area network (LAN) using IEEE1394 or the like. These game store servers are connected by a wide area network such as the Internet. A company that provides a game has a host that is a management server, and the game store server is connected to the host.
[0063]
Note that communication between servers may be performed via a host, or may be performed peer-to-peer between servers.
[0064]
Further, the network configuration of the game system is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 3, and various modifications can be made. For example, a game apparatus may be directly connected to a host (management server) via a network without providing a server in the game store.
[0065]
In addition, a database (information storage unit in a broad sense) that stores information (playroom information, player information, etc.) may be constructed on a server of a game store (play area in a broad sense) or a host (for management purposes) Server). Alternatively, the database may be distributed to the game store server and the host (management server) and constructed (constructed separately for each type of information). A part of the database may be constructed in the game device.
[0066]
2 and 3, the function of the game system in FIG. 1 may be realized by one game device or a plurality of game devices. Or realized by distributed processing of game devices and servers (game store server, management server) (processing performed using a network to distribute processes, transactions, etc. and combine them in a given way) May be.
[0067]
2. Search method of this embodiment
Next, the search method of this embodiment will be described.
[0068]
2.1 Automatic search based on initial search conditions
In the present embodiment, prior to the start of game play by the player (user), a search screen for searching for information necessary for game play is displayed on the player. FIG. 4 shows an example of the search screen.
[0069]
In FIG. 4, when the player touches the portion indicated by I1 (search condition input area) and inputs the search condition, the search result that matches the search condition is displayed in the part indicated by I5 (search result display area). . Specifically, when the player touches the portion I1, the information of the participating players is displayed after being sorted (searched in a broad sense) by the player name (50-sound order, phonological order). Similarly, when the portions indicated by I2, I3, and I4 are touched (when a search condition for ranking, play area, and gender is input), the information of participating players is sorted and displayed by ranking, play area, and gender.
[0070]
In this way, the player can know information on participating players (players participating in the network game) that are opponent candidates. Then, the player selects (reserves) a player who is desired as an opponent from among these participating players. For example, if the part indicated by I6 in FIG. 4 is touched, the player ranked third can be selected (reserved) as the opponent. When the opponent player can play a game, the player can start a battle game with the opponent player by touching the portion indicated by I11.
[0071]
In the present embodiment, complex search (search by logical product of a plurality of search conditions) is also possible. For example, after touching the portion indicated by I7 in FIG. 4 and selecting a plurality of search conditions from the search conditions indicated by I1 to I4, a search based on the logical product of the selected search conditions can be performed. That is, after touching the portion indicated by I7 and then touching the portions indicated by I2 and I4, the male player can display the search results sorted in the ranking order, or the female player can display the search results sorted by the ranking order. . If the portion indicated by I7 is touched again, the complex search mode is canceled.
[0072]
In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of search screens can be displayed. For example, when the part indicated by I10 in FIG. 4 is touched, the next search screen different from the player search screen is displayed. For example, a search screen for a game space (play room, course, game field) where the player plays a game, a search screen for weapons used by the player, and the like are displayed. In these other search screens, if the player inputs search conditions, game space and weapon information are sorted and displayed. Then, the player can start game play after selecting a desired game space or weapon.
[0073]
In the present embodiment, initial search conditions are set in advance. When a player participation request (login request, authentication request) to the network game is accepted, search target information such as participating player information is automatically searched (automatically sorted) and displayed based on the set initial search conditions. Is done. For example, if the search condition last used by the player at the time of the previous game participation is “ranking” indicated by I2 in FIG. 4, the search condition for “ranking” is set as the initial search condition. When the player participates in the current network game (when the search screen is first displayed), the participating player information is automatically sorted (searched) by the ranking (displayed) and displayed. Alternatively, if the search condition with the highest use frequency of the player (self player or other player) is “play area” shown in I3 of FIG. 4, the search condition of this “play area” is set as the initial search condition. The When the player participates in the current network game, the participating player information is automatically sorted and displayed according to the play area.
[0074]
In this way, when you log in to the network game and the search screen is displayed for the first time, the search target information is automatically searched (auto-sorted) based on the initial search condition and displayed without entering the search condition. Is done. In addition, the initial search condition in this case is the last search condition of the previous time or a search condition with high use frequency. Therefore, the player can save the trouble of inputting the search condition, can immediately see the information searched under the favorite search condition, and can start the game immediately after seeing the information. For example, if a player prefers to play with a player with a high ranking, the last search condition of the previous time or a search condition with high use frequency is likely to be a search condition for “ranking”. Therefore, when participating in the network game, the participating player information sorted in the ranking order as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed, and the player selects the opponent player with the highest ranking from among them and immediately plays the battle play. You can start. Thereby, the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0075]
In addition, a beginner player who plays a game for the first time may not be sure how to search for information and perform a battle play. Even in such a case, for example, if information is automatically searched and displayed using a search condition that is frequently used by all players (other players) as an initial search condition, the search condition used by many other players is used. Information is retrieved and displayed. Therefore, a situation where a beginner player is confused can be prevented and a search system that is easy to use for a beginner player can be provided.
[0076]
When the player touches the portions indicated by I8 and I9 in FIG. 4, the initial search condition setting method can be switched. For example, when the part indicated by I8 is touched, the last search condition at the time of the previous participation is set as the initial search condition, and when the part indicated by I9 is touched, the search condition that is frequently used is set as the initial search condition. . Note that this setting method switching may be performed on an option setting screen of a game store server or game device.
[0077]
Further, for example, “players that have played in the past” may be employed as a search condition for the participating player (competitor) information. Specifically, business cards (ID) are exchanged with each other when they play against other players. Then, the player ID is added to the address book and updated. Then, when searching for participating player information, if the address book is selected as a search condition, the players that have played in the past are searched and displayed. If this address book is set as an initial search condition, players who have played in the past and friends' friends can always be displayed as the initial search screen, and the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0078]
2.2 Details of the search process
Next, details of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0079]
First, the player ID (identification information) is identified, and a player participation request is accepted (step S101). Then, initial search condition setting information is read from the player information storage area (step S102).
[0080]
Here, the player information storage area (area for storing the player's personal information) may be secured in the database of the network server (store server, host management server) as shown in FIG. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7B, the card may be secured on a card (an information storage device in a broad sense; refer to 210 in FIG. 2) that the player inserts when participating in the game.
[0081]
The player ID may be input by the player using the operation unit or the screen, or may be input by fingerprint authentication or the like. Alternatively, the player ID written on the card as shown in FIG. 7B may be used. When the player inputs the player ID using the operation unit, the screen, or fingerprint authentication, the player's participation in the network game is accepted when the input player ID is authenticated. When the player uses the player ID of the card, the player joins the network game when the card is inserted into the game device, the player ID of the card is read, and the read player ID is authenticated. Will be accepted.
[0082]
Next, it is determined whether the read initial search condition setting information is valid (empty information) (step S103). If it is valid, it is determined whether the setting method included in the initial search condition setting information is set to use the last search condition at the time of the previous participation (step S104). If it is set to use the last search condition at the time of the previous participation, as shown in FIG. 8A, the initial search condition setting information (the last search information in the player information storage area (database or card)) Based on the search condition information), the last search condition at the previous participation is set as the initial search condition (step S105). On the other hand, if it is not set to use the last search condition at the time of the previous participation, as shown in FIG. 8B, based on the initial search condition setting information (usage frequency information) in the player information storage area. The search condition with the highest frequency of use is set as the initial search condition (step S106).
[0083]
In step S106, an initial search condition may be set based on not only the usage frequency of the player itself but also the usage frequency information of all players (other players).
[0084]
If it is determined in step S103 that the initial search condition setting information is not valid (when the player participates in the network game for the first time; if the initial search condition setting information is empty information), all players (other players) ) To determine whether or not to set an initial search condition (step S107). When the initial search condition is set based on the usage frequency information of all players, the search condition with the highest usage frequency among all the players is set as the initial search condition based on the network database information (usage frequency information). Setting is made (step S108). On the other hand, if the initial search condition is not set based on the usage frequency information of all players, the search condition set in advance by the program is set as the initial search condition (step S109).
[0085]
Whether or not the initial search condition is set based on the usage frequency information of all players can be set by the game facility operator on the option setting screen of the server or game device.
[0086]
Next, based on the search condition (initial search condition), a search process (sort) of participating players (opponents), game space (play room), weapons used, cards used, etc. is performed (step S110). Then, the search result is displayed on the screen (step S111). For example, when the participating player information is searched under the search condition “ranking”, a screen as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.
[0087]
Next, a change input operation from the player is accepted (step S112). Then, it is determined whether or not there has been a change input operation from the player (step S113). If there has been a change input operation, whether or not to change the current search condition (whether or not another search condition has been input). (Step S114). When another search condition different from the initial search condition is input, the search condition is changed (step S115). Then, the usage frequency information of the initial search condition setting information is updated and written into the player information storage area (database) (step S116), and the process returns to step S110. Thus, a search process based on other search conditions input by the player is performed, and the search result is displayed on the player.
[0088]
Next, it is determined whether or not the setting method (last search condition or use frequency) of the initial search condition setting information is to be changed (step S117), and if so, the setting method of the initial search condition setting information is changed. (Update), writing into the player information storage area (step S118), and the process returns to step S112.
[0089]
Next, it is determined whether or not to end the search screen (step S119). For example, when the player touches the portion indicated by I11 in FIG. 4 and starts the game, the search screen ends. When the search screen is completed, the current (last) search condition information in the initial search condition setting information is updated and written in the player information storage area (step S120).
[0090]
As described above, in this embodiment, the initial search condition is automatically set by the computer based on the initial search condition setting information (steps S105 and S106 in FIG. 5), and the search process is automatically performed by the computer based on the initial search condition. Is performed (step S110 in FIG. 6), and the search result is displayed (step S111). Therefore, in the initial state, the search results sorted according to the initial search condition (ranking) as shown in FIG. 4 can be displayed on the player, and the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0091]
Note that the number of initial search conditions set in the initial search condition setting information is not limited to one. For example, a plurality of initial search conditions may be set such as an initial search condition for searching for participating players, an initial search condition for searching game space, and an initial search condition for searching for weapons.
[0092]
Further, the composite search condition may be set by the initial search condition setting information. For example, the composite search condition (logical product of a plurality of search conditions) input last at the time of the previous game participation may be set as the initial search condition. Alternatively, the composite search condition with the highest use frequency may be set as the initial search condition.
[0093]
In addition, there are various types of search target information and search conditions (participating players, game spaces, weapons, armor, magic, items, techniques, characters, teams, cards, moving objects, parts, etc.). For example, in FIG. 9 (A), weapons used in RPG (role playing game) and fighting games are search target information, and the type of weapon (Japanese sword, western sword, spear, gun, machine gun, ax, etc.) Is a search condition. In FIG. 9B, the monster card in the card battle game (trading card game) is the search target information, and the attribute (flame, water, ice, earth, wind, light, etc.) of the monster card is the search condition. It has become. In FIG. 9C, the parts to be mounted on the car (moving body) in the competitive game are the search target information, and the type of parts (engine, suspension, muffler, brake, aero parts, computer, etc.) is the search target. It has become.
[0094]
For example, in FIG. 9A, when the player participates in the network game, the player's favorite weapon type (for example, a Japanese sword) is searched and displayed according to the initial search condition (Japanese sword). You can select a weapon and start the game. Further, if the initial search condition is set based on the usage frequency information of all players, it becomes possible to select from the types of weapons that are popular and popular with other players, and a search system suitable for beginner players can be provided. The same applies to FIGS. 9B and 9C.
[0095]
3. Detailed game examples
3.1 Game description
Next, an example of a network game realized by the game system of this embodiment will be described.
[0096]
The game realized in this embodiment is a card game called a millionaire. In this game, five players can play, and when the number of players participating is less than five, a computer (CPU) participates. Also, 54 cards including two jokers are used, and the basic rules are the same as the rules of millionaires well known as card games.
[0097]
Next, the overall flow of the game will be described using the flowchart of FIG.
[0098]
First, it is determined whether or not the player has inserted a coin (whether or not a price has been paid in a broad sense) (step S1). If inserted, the player's ID (identification) is determined from the card inserted in the card insertion slot. Various information such as information, personal authentication information), game result information, save information, etc. is read (step S2). The payment of the price includes not only payment of money such as coins but also payment by electronic money, prepaid card, postpay card, credit card, or the like.
[0099]
Next, a lobby screen (search screen) is displayed (step S3). Then, it is determined whether or not the player has selected a play room (synonymous with game space) on this lobby screen (screen representing the player's waiting room) and entered the play room (new participation) (step S4). In such a case, a process for entering the play room is performed (step S5).
[0100]
Next, the player's card exchange process (card extraction / delivery / exchange process) is performed (step S6). When the exchange process is completed, a card battle process (game process) is performed (step S7).
[0101]
FIG. 11 shows an example of a game image generated during a card battle. In this millionaire game, five players (J in a broad sense) can participate, and these players are based on the results of the previous game, and they are classified into millionaire, millionaire, commoner, poor, and poor. They are ranked. The order of cards is the first for the poor and the last for the millionaire.
[0102]
When the game is over, it is determined whether or not the player has left (leaved) the play room (step S8). If the player has left, the game result of the player is displayed (step S9). Then, information such as the game result of the player is written on the card (step S10).
[0103]
3.2 Player entry
In the game according to the present embodiment, for example, the player uses a single game (a game from the start of the game until all participating players finish (up) the game. Each time the game result of the participating players is confirmed, the player can enter the play room (new participation). In this case, the newly participating player is replaced with a computer (CPU) player.
[0104]
For example, in FIG. 12A, in the previous game, a computer player was in charge of P1 and P4, and a human player (real player) was in charge of P2, P3, and P5. Then, according to the result of the previous game, P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5 are ranked as a millionaire, a millionaire, a commoner, a poor, and a great poor, respectively.
[0105]
In this state, when a new player participates in the current game, as shown in FIG. 12B, the new participating player is set to the commoner (medium rank). Then, when a new player of the common people enters in this way, for example, a computer player who has been ranked as a poor person leaves the room (leaves in a broad sense) by the replacement with the new participating player. As a result, the poor (lower rank) become vacant.
[0106]
In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 (C), when a human player leaves the room after one game, the computer player is changed as shown in FIG. 12 (D).
[0107]
3.3 Search for playrooms and players
In the present embodiment, information on a play room and a player can be searched on the screen of a display unit (touch panel type display unit). Hereinafter, this search process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0108]
3.3.1 Lobby screen display
First, a lobby screen (a waiting room screen in a broad sense) is displayed (step S21). FIG. 14 shows an example of the lobby screen. This lobby (waiting room) screen is a screen for searching for a play room and participating players and selecting a play room to enter before the player enters the play room.
[0109]
Next, it is determined whether or not the computer (CPU) is in a mode for automatically selecting a play room (step S22). Specifically, when the player touches the portion indicated by A1 in the lobby screen of FIG. 14, the computer automatically enters a mode (automatic mode) in which the player enters a play room where the player enters. In this case, the computer finds a play room in which the real player is vacant, and makes a reservation for the player to enter the play room (step S23). For example, in the case of FIG. 12A, since the players P1 and P4 that the computer is in charge of are free, it is reserved to enter the play room instead of the players P1 and P4. Then, when there is no other player reserved in advance, the reserved player enters the room after one game (one game) in the play room is completed.
[0110]
In step S23, a play room in which the player should enter may be selected at random, or a play room may be selected according to the player ranking (ranking nationwide).
[0111]
3.3.2 Creating a new playroom
Next, it is determined whether or not it is a mode for creating a new play room (whether or not it is a mode for entering an empty play room) (step S25). Specifically, when the player touches the portion A2 on the lobby screen in FIG. 14 (selection in a broad sense; the same applies to the following description), a new playroom creation mode is entered. In this case, the computer creates a new play room according to the player's input (intention selection) and assigns a play room number (step S26). Then, the assigned play room number is displayed (step S27). Further, the computer sets a rule for the game in the play room according to the player's input (intention selection) (step S28). Then, it waits for the participation of another player for a predetermined time (step S29). When the number of participants does not reach the predetermined number, the computer players as many as the number of participants are made to participate (step S30).
[0112]
FIG. 15 shows an example of a new play room creation screen. As shown in B1 and B2 of FIG. 15, the player can select the rules and rates (game information in a broad sense) of the game played in the play room on the new play room creation screen.
[0113]
Note that the rate is a ratio applied to the score (game result in a broad sense) acquired in each play room. In other words, if the basic score that can be obtained when the game is finished is Q, the basic score Q is multiplied by the rate R to be the player's score. For example, if the rates R in the first and second playrooms are 1.2 and 1.4, respectively, R × Q = 1.2 × Q when becoming a millionaire in the first playroom. You can get a score, and if you become a millionaire in the second playroom, you can get a score of R × Q = 1.4 × Q.
[0114]
Further, as shown in B3 of FIG. 15, the player can set an entry permission key (encryption key) for the new play room on the new play room creation screen. When the entry permission key is set in the play room, entry into the play room is prohibited unless the entry permission key is input. Accordingly, the player can create a play room in which only his / her acquaintances who know the room entry permission key can enter the room.
[0115]
Also, as shown in B4 of FIG. 15, when a new play room is created, the mode waits for the entry of another player for a predetermined time. If the number of real players (human players) participating in the game does not reach a predetermined number (a plurality of people, for example, five people) within a predetermined time (time limit) after the creation of a new play room, In order to compensate for the shortage, a computer player is allowed to participate (enter) the play room. For example, if three real players (P2, P3, P5) participate (enter) after creating a new play room, as shown in FIG. 12A, the remaining two players (P1, P4) ) Is in charge of the computer, and the game starts.
[0116]
In this way, it is possible to prevent a situation in which a newly created game in the play room is hardly started. As a result, it is possible to provide an optimal system for a game system for business use that requires efficient collection of coins or the like by increasing the number of games played per hour. In addition, since the player can start the game in the new play room without waiting for much time, the stress on the player can be reduced. In addition, when a player decides a time with a friend and promises to play a game in a new playroom, the friend can enter the playroom within a predetermined time (time limit) after creating a new playroom. become. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is easy to make time with friends.
[0117]
In addition, in the new play room creation screen, information such as the name of the play room (identification information), the comment of the creator of the play room, or eligibility to participate in the play room (gender, age), etc., other than those illustrated in FIG. May be entered.
[0118]
Next, as shown in step S31 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not it is a mode for designating (selecting) an entry play room by a play room number. More specifically, when the player touches the portion A3 on the lobby screen in FIG. 14, the play room number designation mode is entered (step S32).
[0119]
3.3.3 Playroom number designation
FIG. 16 is a flowchart example of processing in the play room number designation mode. When the portion indicated by A3 is touched on the lobby screen of FIG. 14, a play room number designation screen as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed (step S41). Then, the input of the play room number by the player is accepted (step S42), and when the player touches the portion indicated by C1 in FIG. 17 and the play room number is input, the information of the input play room is displayed (step). S43). That is, information on the game played in the play room (rule, rate, number of participants, participation qualifications, etc.) and information on participating players (name, ranking, game results, region, comments, etc.) are displayed.
[0120]
Next, it is determined whether or not the player can make a reservation for entry into the play room (step S44). If the entry reservation is not possible (when the number of reservations exceeds the reservation capacity), the play room is full. It is displayed (step S45). On the other hand, if a room entry reservation is possible, it is determined whether or not the player has made a room entry reservation (step S46). If a room entry reservation has been made, the process proceeds to a room entry reservation procedure (step S47). Then, after the room entry reservation procedure is completed, it waits for the game in the play room to start (step S48).
[0121]
If the player has not made a room entry reservation, it is determined whether or not the play room number designation mode has ended (step S49), and if it has not ended, the process returns to step S42, and if it has ended (FIG. 14). When a portion other than A3 is touched on the lobby screen), the screen returns to the lobby screen (step S50).
[0122]
3.3.4 Playroom search
Next, as shown in step S <b> 33 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not it is a mode for searching for a play room (game space). More specifically, when the player touches the portion A4 on the lobby screen of FIG. 14, the play room search mode is entered (step S34).
[0123]
FIG. 18 is an example of a flowchart of processing in the play room search mode. First, play room information is read from the database (step S61), and a play room (game space) search screen as shown in FIG. 19 is displayed (step S62).
[0124]
The database (playroom information storage unit) is provided, for example, in a game store server or management server (host) (see FIG. 3). In this database, for example, information on all (K) play rooms constructed on the network is stored. In this embodiment, information on one or a plurality (L pieces) of play rooms extracted from these play rooms is displayed.
[0125]
Next, it is determined whether or not the search room number search mode is selected (step S63). If the play room number search mode is selected, the pre-room information is sorted based on the play room number (play room identification information in a broad sense). (Search in a broad sense) (step S64), and display the sort (search) results (step S65).
[0126]
More specifically, when the player touches a portion indicated by D1 (playroom identification information search input area) on the play room search screen of FIG. 19 (when a search condition relating to playroom identification information is input), the portion indicated by D2 ( In the play room information display area), the play room information is sorted and displayed in the order of the play room numbers. That is, information on the games played in each play room (rules, rates, number of participants, participation qualifications, etc.), information on participating players (name, ranking, game results, region, computer (CP) and human (MAN) identification Information, comments, etc.) are displayed in the part indicated by D2.
[0127]
Note that when the player touches portions (scroll instruction areas) shown in D3 and D4 of FIG. 19, the display of the play room information scrolls (scrolls up or down). Thereby, the information of the play room which could not be displayed in the part shown by D2 can be displayed.
[0128]
Next, it is determined whether or not the search mode is based on a rule (game information in a broad sense) (step S66). If the mode is the rule search mode, an input (search condition) of a rule desired by the player is accepted (step S67). ). Then, information on the play room that matches the input is extracted (searched in a broad sense) (step S68), and the extraction (search) result is displayed (step S69).
[0129]
More specifically, when a player touches a portion (input area for searching game information) indicated by D5 in the play room search screen of FIG. 19 (when a search condition related to a game such as a rule is input), the rule desired by the player is adopted. The information on the play room being played is displayed in the part indicated by D2. For example, if the player wants rules (local rules) such as “eight cuts”, “restraint”, “revolution” in a millionaire game, touching the part corresponding to those rules in D5, Information of a play room that adopts the rule is displayed in a portion indicated by D2. As a result, the player can easily find a play room that employs a rule according to his / her wishes.
[0130]
In FIG. 19, information on playrooms that adopt all the rules of “eight cuts”, “bound”, and “revolution” is displayed. Any one or two of these rules are displayed. It is also possible to display the information of the play room that employs.
[0131]
Next, it is determined whether or not the search mode is based on the rate (game information in a broad sense) (step S70). If the mode is the rate search mode, the input of the desired rate (search condition) by the player is accepted (step S71). ). Then, the play room information that matches the input is extracted (searched in a broad sense) (step S72), and the extraction (search) result is displayed (step S72).
[0132]
More specifically, when the player touches a portion (game information search input area) indicated by D6 in the play room search screen of FIG. 19 (when a search condition relating to a game such as a rate is input), the rate desired by the player is adopted. The information on the play room being played is displayed in the part indicated by D2. For example, if a player wants one of “cheap rate”, “medium rate”, or “high rate”, the part corresponding to those rates is touched in D6, and those rates are adopted. The information of the play room being played is displayed in the part indicated by D2. Thus, the player can easily find a play room that employs a rate according to his / her wish.
[0133]
Next, it is determined whether or not the play room search mode has ended (step S74). If it has not ended, the process returns to step S63. If it has ended (a portion other than A4 is touched on the lobby screen in FIG. 14). In the event of a failure), the screen returns to the lobby screen (step S75).
[0134]
FIG. 19 shows a case where the player inputs a search condition regarding the play room number (search condition regarding play room identification information in a broad sense) and a search condition regarding game rules and rates (search condition regarding a game in a broad sense). However, search conditions regarding participating players (including participating reservation players) may be input on the play room search screen of FIG. For example, when a search condition related to a participating player such as a name of a participating player (real name, handle name), ranking, game score, play area, or the like is input, a play room in which a player that matches the input participates (or participates in a reservation) Display information. In this way, the player can easily find another player who wants to play and enjoy the multi-play game in the same play room as that player.
[0135]
3.3.5 Player search
Next, as shown in step S35 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the mode is for searching for a player. More specifically, when the player touches the portion A5 on the lobby screen of FIG. 14, the player search mode is entered (step S36). If it is determined that the player search mode is not selected, the process returns to step S22.
[0136]
FIG. 20 is an example of a flowchart of processing in the player search mode. First, player information (participating player information) is read from the database (step S81), and a player search screen as shown in FIG. 21 is displayed (step S82).
[0137]
This database is provided, for example, in a game store server or management server. In this database, for example, information of all (M) players who participate in the network game (currently participating in the play room, participating in the past, or making a reservation for participation) is stored. In this embodiment, information on one or more (N) participating players extracted from these participating players is displayed.
[0138]
Next, it is determined whether or not the search mode is based on the player name (for example, in the order of the syllabary of the name) (step S83). Sorting (searching) in the order of phonetics (phonemic order in a broad sense) (step S84), and displaying the sorting (searching) result (step S85).
[0139]
More specifically, when the player touches a portion indicated by E1 (player identification information search input area) on the player search screen of FIG. 21 (when a search condition related to the player name is input), a portion indicated by E2 (participating player information display) In the area), player information is sorted and displayed by player name (in the order of the Japanese syllabary). In other words, participating player information (player information) such as names (actual names, handle names), rankings, game results, regions, computer and human identification information, gender, or comments of the network game is displayed in a portion indicated by E2. To do.
[0140]
Note that when the player touches portions (scroll instruction areas) indicated by E3 and E4 in FIG. 21, the display of participating player information scrolls. Thereby, the participating player information that could not be displayed in the part indicated by E2 can be displayed.
[0141]
Next, it is determined whether or not the search mode is based on the ranking (rank) (step S86). If it is the ranking search mode, the participating player information is sorted (searched) based on the ranking (step S87). The sort (search) result is displayed (step S88).
[0142]
More specifically, when the player touches a part (input area for ranking search) indicated by E5 on the player search screen in FIG. 21 (when a search condition related to ranking is input), the part indicated by E2 (participating player information display area) is displayed. The information of participating players is sorted and displayed in order of ranking. Thus, the player can easily find a player with a higher ranking or a player with a lower ranking.
[0143]
Next, it is determined whether or not the mode is for searching in the play area (game store in a narrow sense) (step S89). If it is in the play area search mode, the participating player information is sorted based on the play area of the participating player. (Search) (Step S90), and display the sort (search) result (Step S91).
[0144]
More specifically, when the player touches a portion indicated by E6 (play area search input area) on the player search screen of FIG. 21 (when a search condition related to the play area is input), a portion indicated by E2 (participating player information display area) ), The information of the participating players is sorted and displayed according to the play area. Thus, the player can easily find a player who plays in the play area desired by the player.
[0145]
Note that it is also possible to accept an input (search condition) of a play area by a player and extract and display participating player information that matches the input.
[0146]
Further, the search condition related to the play area is preferably a search condition related to the game store where the participating player is playing. That is, when a player inputs a search condition regarding a game store, information on participating players playing at the same game store (game store that matches the search condition) is displayed.
[0147]
In this way, the player can easily find another player playing in the same game store and play the game in the same play room as the player. In this case, the search by the game store is preferably performed based on the game store identification information stored in the server or game device installed in the game store. This game store identification information can be input, for example, by a game store operator using a setting screen displayed on the display unit of the server or game device.
[0148]
Next, it is determined whether or not the player search mode has ended (step S92). If it has not ended, the process returns to step S83, and if it has ended (a part other than A5 has been touched on the lobby screen in FIG. 14). In such a case, the screen returns to the lobby screen (step S93).
[0149]
3.3.6 Search for playrooms in which searched players participate
In this embodiment, when a player selects a participating player whose information is displayed on a search screen (for example, the player search screen in FIG. 21), information on the play room in which the player is participating is displayed.
[0150]
For example, in FIG. 22A, when the player touches the portion F1 (selects in a broad sense), the player information is sorted and displayed by game store (phone store order of game store name, game store ID number, etc.). Is done. In this state, when the player touches the part of another player (“Tanaka”) that he / she desires as shown by F2 in FIG. 22A, the player participates (see FIG. 22B). Information on playrooms (including participation reservations) is displayed. Then, as shown in F3, when the part of the play room is touched, the player can enter the reserved play room (room reservation). Note that the play room number displayed in FIG. 22B may be designated (see FIG. 17) to enter the play room.
[0151]
For example, when visiting a game store with a friend, the player often wants to play the game in the same play room as the friend. In such a case, the player searches the game store as shown in FIG. 22A, and displays information about players who play in the same game store. Then, a player who is his / her friend is found from the displayed players, and the player's part is touched. Then, as shown in FIG. 22B, information on the play room in which the friend's player participates (participation reservation) is displayed. If the player touches the part of the play room, the player can play the game in the same play room as his / her friend.
[0152]
Also, for example, in FIG. 22A, when the player touches the portion F4, the information on the participating players is sorted and displayed according to the ranking of the players. In this state, if the player touches the part of the player whose ranking he / she wants to play, displays the information of the player's playroom, and enters the playroom, the player can join the player with various rankings. You will be able to play. For example, it becomes possible to easily compete with the player with the highest ranking or the player with the lowest ranking, and the interest of the competition game can be increased.
[0153]
As described above, in the present embodiment, prior to the start of the game (matching game, cooperative game, multiplayer game) shown in FIG. Search target information such as (space) and players (opponents) can be searched. In the present embodiment, when the player participates in the network game, the search result based on the initial search condition is automatically displayed on the initial screen of the search screen of FIGS. For example, in FIG. 19, a play room number, rule, or rate is set as an initial search condition, and an initial play room search screen is displayed. In FIG. 21, any one of the player name, ranking, and play area is set as the initial search condition, and the initial screen of the player search screen is displayed. Thereby, the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0154]
4). Hardware configuration
Next, an example of a hardware configuration capable of realizing this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0155]
The main processor 900 operates based on a program stored in the CD 982 (information storage medium), a program transferred via the communication interface 990, or a program stored in the ROM 950 (one of information storage media). Various processes such as processing, image processing, and sound processing are executed.
[0156]
The coprocessor 902 assists the processing of the main processor 900, has a product-sum calculator and a divider capable of high-speed parallel calculation, and executes matrix calculation (vector calculation) at high speed. For example, if a physical simulation for moving or moving an object requires processing such as matrix operation, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs (requests) the processing to the coprocessor 902. )
[0157]
The geometry processor 904 performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation, perspective transformation, light source calculation, and curved surface generation, has a product-sum calculator and a divider capable of high-speed parallel computation, and performs matrix computation (vector computation). Run fast. For example, when processing such as coordinate transformation, perspective transformation, and light source calculation is performed, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs the geometry processor 904 to perform the processing.
[0158]
The data decompression processor 906 performs a decoding process for decompressing the compressed image data and sound data, and a process for accelerating the decoding process of the main processor 900. As a result, a moving image compressed by the MPEG method or the like can be displayed on the opening screen, the intermission screen, the ending screen, or the game screen. Note that the image data and sound data to be decoded are stored in the ROM 950 and the CD 982 or transferred from the outside via the communication interface 990.
[0159]
The drawing processor 910 performs drawing (rendering) processing of an object composed of primitives (primitive surfaces) such as polygons and curved surfaces at high speed. When drawing an object, the main processor 900 uses the function of the DMA controller 970 to pass the object data to the drawing processor 910 and transfer the texture to the texture storage unit 924 if necessary. Then, the drawing processor 910 draws an object in the frame buffer 922 at high speed while performing hidden surface removal using a Z buffer or the like based on the object data and texture. The drawing processor 910 can also perform α blending (translucent processing), depth cueing, mip mapping, fog processing, bilinear filtering, trilinear filtering, anti-aliasing, shading processing, and the like. When an image for one frame is written in the frame buffer 922, the image is displayed on the display 912.
[0160]
The sound processor 930 includes a multi-channel ADPCM sound source and the like, and generates high-quality game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, and sounds. The generated game sound is output from the speaker 932.
[0161]
Operation data from the game controller 942 (lever, button, chassis, pad type controller, gun type controller, etc.), save data from the memory card 944, and personal data are transferred via the serial interface 940.
[0162]
The ROM 950 stores system programs and the like. In the case of an arcade game system, the ROM 950 functions as an information storage medium, and various programs are stored in the ROM 950. A hard disk may be used instead of the ROM 950.
[0163]
The RAM 960 is used as a work area for various processors.
[0164]
The DMA controller 970 controls DMA transfer between the processor and memory (RAM, VRAM, ROM, etc.).
[0165]
The CD drive 980 drives a CD 982 (information storage medium) in which programs, image data, sound data, and the like are stored, and enables access to these programs and data.
[0166]
The communication interface 990 is an interface for transferring data to and from the outside via a network. In this case, as a network connected to the communication interface 990, a communication line (analog telephone line, ISDN), a high-speed serial bus, or the like can be considered. By using a communication line, data transfer via the Internet becomes possible. Further, by using the high-speed serial bus, data transfer with other game systems becomes possible.
[0167]
Note that all the units (units) of the present embodiment may be realized only by hardware, or only by a program stored in an information storage medium or a program distributed via a communication interface. May be. Alternatively, it may be realized by both hardware and a program.
[0168]
And when each part of this embodiment is implement | achieved by both hardware and a program, the program for functioning hardware (computer) as each part of this embodiment is stored in an information storage medium. Become. More specifically, the program instructs each processor 902, 904, 906, 910, 930, etc., which is hardware, and passes data if necessary. Each of the processors 902, 904, 906, 910, 930 and the like implements each unit of the present invention based on the instruction and the passed data.
[0169]
The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made.
[0170]
For example, terms cited as broad terms (play area, participation, departure, waiting room, selection, information storage, game information, playroom identification information, search, phonetic order, price, etc.) in the description and drawings (Game store, entry, exit, lobby, touch, database, rule rate, play room number, extraction / sort, 50 alphabetical order, coins, etc.) is a broad term in the description and other descriptions in the drawings. Can be replaced.
[0171]
Further, the initial search condition, the initial search condition setting information, the contents of the search screen, the search process, and the like are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, the initial search condition may be set based on a search condition other than the last search condition at the time of the previous game participation or the search condition based on the usage frequency. For example, the initial search condition may be set based on the history information of the search condition. Also, when the initial search condition is set based on the use frequency, a search condition other than the search condition with the highest use frequency may be set as the initial search condition.
[0172]
In the invention according to the dependent claims of the present invention, a part of the constituent features of the dependent claims can be omitted. Moreover, the principal part of the invention according to one independent claim of the present invention can be made dependent on another independent claim.
[0173]
Further, the present invention can be applied to various games (such as fighting games, competitive games, shooting games, robot battle games, sports games, role playing games, etc.).
[0174]
The present invention is also applicable to various game systems (image generation systems) such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, and a system board for generating game images. Applicable.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an example of a functional block diagram of a game system according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an example of an external view of the game system of the present embodiment.
FIG. 3 is an example of a network configuration of the game system according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a search screen.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a search method according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a search method according to the present embodiment.
7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams of player information areas. FIG.
FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams of a method for setting an initial search condition.
9A to 9C are examples of search targets and search conditions. FIG.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a game flow.
FIG. 11 is an image example of a card battle game.
FIGS. 12A to 12D are explanatory views of entering and leaving a player.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of play room search and player search.
FIG. 14 is an example of a lobby screen.
FIG. 15 is an example of a new play room creation screen.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a play room number specifying process.
FIG. 17 is an example of a play room number designation screen.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart of play room search processing;
FIG. 19 is an example of a play room search screen.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart of player search processing.
FIG. 21 is an example of a player search screen.
FIGS. 22A and 22B are explanatory diagrams of a player search method.
FIG. 23 is a hardware configuration example capable of realizing the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
100 processing units, 110 game processing units, 112 search processing units,
114 creation processing unit, 116 live relay processing unit
120 image generators, 130 sound generators,
160 operation unit (touch panel type display unit), 170 storage unit,
172 Main storage unit, 174 Drawing buffer, 180 Information storage medium
190 Display unit (touch panel type display unit), 192 Sound output unit
194 Information storage device, 196 communication unit, 197 printing unit

Claims (21)

A game system for a player to play a network game via a network,
A game processing unit for performing processing for a player to play a network game;
An image generation unit that generates a game image based on a processing result from the game processing unit;
When the player inputs a search condition on the search screen, the search target information is searched based on the input search condition and the information stored in the network database, and the search result is displayed on the player. A search processing unit to perform,
The search processing unit
When a request for participation in a network game is received, an initial search condition for the player is automatically set based on the initial search condition setting information, and stored in the set initial search condition and the network database. A game system that performs an automatic search process of search target information based on the information to be displayed and displays a search result on a player. In claim 1,
According to the initial search condition setting information,
The search condition last used by the player when joining the previous network game is set as the initial search condition.
The search processing unit
A game system, wherein a search process is performed using a search condition last used by a player at the time of participation in a previous network game as an initial search condition. In claim 1,
According to the initial search condition setting information,
The search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of the player is set as the initial search condition.
The search processing unit
A game system characterized by performing a search process using a search condition selected based on player usage frequency information as an initial search condition. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The search processing unit
When the initial search condition setting information of the player is not valid, the search process is performed using the search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of all players stored in the network database as the initial search condition. Game system. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The search processing unit
If the player inputs another search condition after the search result based on the initial search condition is displayed, the player's usage frequency information is updated, search processing is performed based on the other search condition, and the search result is displayed in the player. A game system characterized by performing processing to be displayed on the screen. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 5,
The game processing unit
Based on the input information that the player inputs prior to the start of game play,
The search processing unit
A game system characterized by performing a search process on the input information based on an initial search condition set by initial search condition setting information and displaying a search result on a player. In claim 6,
The input information is
At least information on the game space played by the player, players participating in the network game, players' weapons used, armor used, magic used, items used, techniques used, characters used, teams used, cards used, moving objects, parts used A game system characterized by being one. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 7,
The game processing unit
When a player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, the player performs processing for playing a multiplayer game in the entered play room,
The search processing unit
A process for displaying a search screen for searching for a play room is performed, and the K plays stored in the network database based on the search condition input by the player or the initial search condition set by the initial search condition setting information. A game system characterized by performing processing for searching and displaying information on L (L <K) play rooms that match a search condition from room information. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 8.
The game processing unit
When a player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, the player performs processing for playing a multiplayer game in the entered play room,
The search processing unit
Participation of M persons stored in the network database is performed based on the search condition input by the player or the initial search condition set by the initial search condition setting information. A game system that performs processing for searching for and displaying information on N (N <M) participating players that match a search condition from player information. In claim 9,
The search processing unit
A game system characterized in that when a player selects a participating player on which information is displayed, processing is performed to display information on a play room in which the participating player is participating. A program for a player to play a network game via a network,
A game processing unit for performing processing for a player to play a network game;
An image generation unit that generates a game image based on a processing result from the game processing unit;
When the player inputs a search condition on the search screen, the search target information is searched based on the input search condition and the information stored in the network database, and the search result is displayed on the player. While making the computer function as a search processing unit to perform,
The search processing unit
When a request for participation in a network game is received, an initial search condition for the player is automatically set based on the initial search condition setting information, and stored in the set initial search condition and the network database. A program for performing an automatic search process of search target information based on information to be displayed and displaying a search result on a player. In claim 11,
According to the initial search condition setting information,
The search condition last used by the player when joining the previous network game is set as the initial search condition.
The search processing unit
A program for performing a search process using a search condition last used by a player at the time of participation in a previous network game as an initial search condition. In claim 11,
According to the initial search condition setting information,
The search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of the player is set as the initial search condition.
The search processing unit
A program for performing a search process using a search condition selected based on usage frequency information of a player as an initial search condition. In any of claims 11 to 13,
The search processing unit
When the initial search condition setting information of the player is not valid, the search process is performed using the search condition selected based on the usage frequency information of all the players stored in the network database as the initial search condition. program. In any one of Claims 11 thru | or 14.
The search processing unit
If the player inputs another search condition after the search result based on the initial search condition is displayed, the player's usage frequency information is updated, the search process is performed based on the other search condition, and the search result is stored in the player. A program characterized by performing processing to be displayed on the screen. In any of claims 11 to 15,
The game processing unit
Based on the input information that the player inputs prior to the start of game play,
The search processing unit
A program for performing a search process on the input information based on an initial search condition set by initial search condition setting information and displaying a search result on a player. In claim 16,
The input information is
At least information on the game space played by the player, players participating in the network game, players' weapons used, armor used, magic used, items used, techniques used, characters used, teams used, cards used, moving objects, parts used A program characterized by being one. In any of claims 11 to 17,
The game processing unit
When a player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, the player performs processing for playing a multiplayer game in the entered play room,
The search processing unit
A process for displaying a search screen for searching for a play room is performed, and K plays stored in the database of the network based on the search condition input by the player or the initial search condition set by the initial search condition setting information. A program for performing a process of searching for and displaying information on L (L <K) pieces of play rooms that match a search condition from room information. In any of claims 11 to 18,
The game processing unit
When a player enters a play room that is a common game space where a plurality of players play, the player performs processing for playing a multiplayer game in the entered play room,
The search processing unit
Participation of M people stored in the network database based on the search condition input by the player or the initial search condition set by the initial search condition setting information is performed. A program for performing processing for searching for and displaying information on N (N <M) participating players that match search conditions from player information. In claim 19,
The search processing unit
When a player selects a participating player on which information is displayed, a program for performing processing for displaying information on a play room in which the participating player participates. A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 11 to 20 is stored.

Images