JP2025089000A - Information processing device, information processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To give consideration to privacy of users using a virtual space without sacrificing the excitement of events.SOLUTION: An information processing device is provided, comprising a control unit configured to: set appearance display types, including at least anonymous display of an avatar, in one or more areas in an event taking place in a virtual space in association with viewing point types; and control display of the appearance of the avatar in each area appearing in a video of the virtual space according to the association of the viewing point types with the appearance display types.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program.

In recent years, virtual spaces consisting of various objects such as 3D models or 2D images have been provided, and users can experience the virtual space visually and aurally using a user terminal. Examples of user terminals include various types of information processing terminals such as smartphones, HMDs (head mounted displays), and notebook or desktop PCs (personal computers). An avatar, which represents the user, is placed in the virtual space. The avatar is, for example, 3DCG that is rendered based on a 3D model. The user's viewpoint in the virtual space may be that of the avatar, or may be a viewpoint that includes the avatar within the angle of view.

In addition, in the virtual space, users can communicate with each other using means such as text chat or voice calls. For example, a user can move their avatar close to another user's avatar in the virtual space and converse with the other user's avatar via text or voice. It is also expected that many avatars will attend events such as live shows held in the virtual space. Users can enjoy events together with many other people in the virtual space.

JP 2021-12597 A

At events held in virtual spaces, the presence of many other users (specifically, other avatars) increases the sense of realism and unity, making the event more exciting and allowing users to enjoy it more. On the other hand, avatars in virtual spaces are the users' alter egos, and so it can be said that consideration of privacy is required.

Regarding privacy protection for people appearing in images, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that blurs the faces of people other than the main subject along with the background in images posted to SNS (social network services). However, the privacy of avatars in virtual spaces is not taken into consideration.

Therefore, this disclosure proposes an information processing device, information processing method, and program that can avoid reducing the excitement of an event while respecting the privacy of users who use the virtual space.

According to the present disclosure, an information processing device is provided that includes a control unit that sets an appearance display type, which includes at least an anonymous display of an avatar, in association with a viewpoint type for one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, and controls the display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in an image of the virtual space based on the association between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type.

The present disclosure also provides an information processing method including a processor setting an appearance display type, including at least an anonymous display of an avatar, in association with a viewpoint type for one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, and controlling the display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in an image of the virtual space based on the association between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type.

The present disclosure also provides a program that causes a computer to function as a control unit that sets an appearance display type, including at least an anonymous display of an avatar, in association with a viewpoint type for one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, and controls the display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in an image of the virtual space based on the association between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type.

1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server 20 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display screen showing how the arena (selected area) is seen from other areas according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display screen showing the view from the arena (selected area) according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of a simulation display according to the first embodiment. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an operational process of event registration according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to seat purchase by a user in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display presented when a user purchases a seat in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display presented when a user purchases a seat in the first embodiment. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of an operational process for seat purchase according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to entry into an event venue by a user in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to entry into an event venue by a user in the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operational processing of the server 20 when a user enters an event venue according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to entry into an event venue by a user in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to entry into an event venue by a user in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator according to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator according to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to settings for how an avatar appears to a favorite character according to a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display of how an avatar appears to a favorite idol according to a modified example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting operations related to settings for how an avatar is viewed by acquaintances according to a modified example.

A preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant description.

The explanation will be given in the following order:
1. Configuration 1-1. System configuration 1-2. Configuration of server 20 2. First embodiment 2-1. Event setting by administrator 2-2. Seat purchase by user (audience) 2-3. Entry into event venue 2-4. Others 3. Second embodiment 3-1. Event setting by administrator 3-2. Seat purchase by user (audience) 3-3. Entry into event venue 4. Third embodiment 4-1. Event setting by administrator 4-2. Seat purchase and entry into event venue by user 5. Modifications 6. Supplementary notes

<1. Configuration>
An information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

<<1-1. System configuration>>
1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes one or more user terminals 10 (10a to 10n), an administrator terminal 12, and a server 20 (an example of an information processing device). The user terminals 10, the administrator terminal 12, and the server 20 are connected for communication via a network 30 and can transmit and receive data.

The server 20 is a device that provides a virtual space to a user. The server 20 may be a single device or a system consisting of multiple devices. The server 20 transmits information about the virtual space to the user terminal 10 and causes the user terminal 10 to output images and sounds of the virtual space, thereby allowing the user to experience the virtual space. In the virtual space, an avatar that is associated with the user and can be operated by the user is placed. The image of the virtual space output by the user terminal 10 is an image from the user's viewpoint in the virtual space, specifically, the viewpoint of the user's avatar, or an overhead viewpoint that includes the user's avatar within the angle of view, and the user can experience the virtual space through his or her own avatar.

The server 20 may also receive operation input information from the user terminal 10, such as a movement operation or an action operation performed by a user on the user's avatar, and perform synchronization processing between users. Specifically, the server 20 performs processing to reflect the behavior of the avatar operated by each user in the virtual space based on the operation input information received from each user terminal 10. Based on the operation input information received from each user terminal 10, the server 20 transmits information (difference information) regarding changes in the position, movement, etc. of each avatar in the virtual space to each user terminal 10 (10a to 10n) as synchronization information to be reflected in the virtual space. This allows each user terminal 10 to generate an image of the virtual space reflecting the behavior of each avatar, and each user can share the same virtual space. Note that the synchronization processing between users is not limited to this.

The user terminal 10 is an information processing terminal used by the user to view the virtual space. The user terminal 10 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC, an HMD that covers the entire field of view, a glasses-type display device, a projector, or the like. The user terminal 10 generates an image from the user's viewpoint in the virtual space based on the information on the virtual space received from the server 20.

The administrator terminal 12 is an information processing terminal used by an administrator who manages various settings of the virtual space. The administrator terminal 12 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC, an HMD that covers the entire field of view, a glasses-type display device, a projector, or the like.

At events such as live shows held in virtual spaces, the presence of other users (specifically, other avatars) increases the sense of realism and unity in the venue, allowing each user to enjoy the event even more. However, in virtual spaces, avatars are the users' alter egos, and so consideration must be given to their privacy.

It may be possible to hide avatars that users do not want other users to see, but as the number of hidden avatars increases, the number of avatars visible at the event (audience avatars) will decrease, making the event appear less exciting. Blurring avatars may also be considered, but if each user is allowed to blur their avatars at their own discretion, blurred avatars will be scattered throughout the venue, and the display of other avatars visible as audience avatars will be non-uniform, diminishing the sense of realism and unity in the venue.

In view of the above, in the present disclosure, the appearance of avatars is set according to the viewpoint type for each area in a venue for an event held in a virtual space (i.e., an appearance display type), and the display of the avatar's appearance is controlled for each area according to the viewpoint type. The appearance display type includes displaying spectator avatars in a display mode in which they cannot be individually identified from their appearance, i.e., anonymous display. This makes it possible to avoid reducing the excitement of the event without compromising the sense of realism and unity of the venue, while still respecting the privacy of users using the virtual space, and to further improve convenience for users using the virtual space.

The above describes an overview of the information processing system 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Next, the specific configuration of each device included in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

<<1-2. Configuration of server 20>>
2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server 20 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the server 20 includes a communication unit 210, a control unit 220, and a storage unit 230.

(Communication unit 210)
The communication unit 210 has a transmitting unit that transmits data to an external device and a receiving unit that receives data from an external device. The communication unit 210 according to the present embodiment may be communicatively connected to an external device or the Internet using, for example, a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), a mobile communication network (LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (fourth generation mobile communication system), 5G (fifth generation mobile communication system)), or the like.

(Control unit 220)
The control unit 220 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the server 20 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 220 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 220 may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores the programs to be used, arithmetic parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate.

The control unit 220 in this embodiment can also function as a setting unit 221 and a display control unit 222.

The setting unit 221 sets an appearance display type, including at least an anonymous display of spectator avatars, in association with a viewpoint type for each area set in the venue of an event held in a virtual space. The viewpoint type is the type of position of the subject viewing the target (the avatar in the area), and can be, for example, any of the various areas. Each area includes an audience area where the spectator avatars are located, and an area where performers perform. Types of audience areas include, for example, a VIP area, an arena area, and a stand area. The administrator can arbitrarily set which areas of the venue will be the type (name) of audience area. The administrator can also arbitrarily set the allocation of one or more areas in the venue.

The area may also be a part of any of the areas such as the VIP area, the arena area, and the stand area. The area may also include multiple areas of the same type (name) (for example, two arena areas and four stand areas).

The setting unit 221 sets the appearance (spectator avatar appearance display type) from each viewpoint type (e.g., VIP area, arena area, and stand area) for each spectator area (e.g., VIP area, arena area, and stand area). The setting unit 221 can set the appearance display type based on operations by the administrator. Appearance display types include anonymized displays such as a human-shaped silhouette. The setting unit 221 stores the setting information in a setting information DB (database) 231 in the storage unit 230.

The display control unit 222 performs various display controls of the virtual space. For example, the display control unit 222 transmits information about the virtual space to each user terminal 10. As one of the display controls of the virtual space, the display control unit 222 controls the display of the appearance of spectator avatars located in each spectator area based on a preset correspondence between viewpoint types and appearance display types.

More specifically, when generating (displaying) an image of a virtual space, the display control unit 222 controls the appearance of the spectator avatars in each spectator area shown in the image to be displayed in an appearance display type that corresponds to the viewpoint type of the viewpoint subject of the image.

For example, in a case where there are an arena area and a stand area as spectator areas, the appearance of the spectator avatars in the arena area and stand area for each viewpoint type (appearance display type) is set as shown in Table 1 below.

In this case, for example, in the image provided by user terminal 10a used by user Ua as the image from the user's viewpoint of user Ua (user avatar sitting in an arena seat) located in the arena area, the appearances of all other avatars (spectator avatars) in the arena area are displayed (drawn) as they are, and the appearances of all other avatars (spectator avatars) in the stand area are displayed (anonymized display) as the same human-shaped silhouettes. On the other hand, in the image provided by user terminal 10b used by user Ub as the image from the user's viewpoint of user Ub (user avatar sitting in a stand seat) located in the stand area, the appearances of all other avatars in the arena area are displayed as the same human-shaped silhouettes, and the appearances of all other avatars in the stand area are also displayed as the same human-shaped silhouettes. As a result, for example, the appearances of avatars in the stand area are displayed anonymously as human-shaped silhouettes from both the arena area and the stand area, so the privacy of the avatars is protected. Furthermore, because anonymous display is set for each area, the display type of other audience avatars shown in the video is unified for each area, maintaining uniformity in the display of avatars. Therefore, even when anonymous display is used, privacy can be protected without compromising the sense of presence and unity of the venue.

When using the settings in Table 1 above, users corresponding to avatars in the arena area will be able to see the other user's avatar as is.

When purchasing tickets for an event or entering an event venue, the user can refer to the setting information for the appearance display type of each spectator area and decide which area to use.

The appearance used for the anonymous display is not limited to a human silhouette, but may be a mosaic, a specified character, or any other display format that is not identifiable from the appearance. The specified character may be, for example, an official character of the event organizer. The type of "display format that is not identifiable from the appearance" in the anonymous display may be specified, for example, by an administrator (replacement with a specified appearance).

The display control unit 222 may perform display control by generating an image of the virtual space for each user's viewpoint and transmitting it to each user terminal 10, or may perform display control by transmitting information for generating an image of the virtual space for each user's viewpoint (an example of information about the virtual space) to the user terminal 10. The information for generating an image of the virtual space for each user's viewpoint that is transmitted to the user terminal 10 may include setting information for the exterior display type of each spectator area.

The display control unit 222 may also control the display of a simulation of the view from any seat in the spectator area, or the view from another area of the seat, based on the correspondence (setting information) between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type. For example, the display control unit 222 controls the display of the simulation on a setting screen that accepts the setting of the appearance display type by the administrator. The display control unit 222 also controls the display of the simulation on a purchase screen that accepts seat purchases by users (spectators) participating in the event, or an entrance screen that accepts various operations when a user enters the event venue.

(Storage unit 230)
The storage unit 230 is realized by a ROM that stores programs and calculation parameters used in the processing of the control unit 220, and a RAM that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate.

The memory unit 230 also has a setting information DB 231 that stores setting information for the exterior display type of each spectator area.

The configuration of server 20 has been specifically described above, but the configuration of server 20 according to the present disclosure is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 2. For example, server 20 may have other configurations or may be realized by multiple devices.

2. First embodiment
Next, a flow of holding an event according to the first example of this embodiment will be described.

<<2-1. Event settings by administrator>>
3 and 4 are diagrams showing examples of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the first embodiment.

The server 20 displays a screen on the administrator terminal 12 that accepts various settings related to the event.

The administrator first inputs basic information about the event, such as the date and time of the event, the event name, the event ID, and the performers (e.g., the performer's name and the performer's avatar ID). Note that the basic information about the event is an example, and the present embodiment is not limited to this.

Next, the administrator selects the venue to be used for the event on the setting screen 410 shown on the left of Figure 3. Various patterns of venues are prepared in advance, such as the venue shape, stage and seating arrangement, and capacity, and any venue can be selected on the setting screen 410. On the setting screen 410, a venue information image 411 is displayed showing information about the venue, such as the venue shape, seating, and explanation. The administrator can select the arrows on both sides of the venue information image 411 to scroll the venue information image 411 horizontally and display other venue information images. With the desired venue displayed on the setting screen 410, the administrator selects the decision button 412 to decide which venue to use for the event.

Once the venue has been decided, the administrator then registers the seat type on screen 420 shown on the right side of Figure 3. For example, arena seats and stand seats can be selected on screen 420. After selecting the desired seat type, the administrator selects the decision button 421 to register the seat type. In this embodiment, we will continue to explain the case where arena seats and stand seats are registered as seat types.

After the seat types are registered, the administrator sets the display method (appearance display type) of the avatars for each audience area for each viewpoint type on screen 430 shown on the left in FIG. 4. On screen 430, the display method can be set to either "(1) Display as is" or "(2) Anonymous display". In "(2) Anonymous display", the administrator may be able to determine the content of the anonymous display (replacement with a human silhouette, mosaic, or a specified character, etc.), or the content of the anonymous display may be set automatically by the server 20. In this example, since it is assumed that arena seats and stand seats are selected as the seat types on screen 420 described above, the viewpoint types and targets on screen 430 include "arena" and "stand". In addition, the viewpoint types and targets shown on screen 430 also include the "stage", which is the area where the performers perform, and the display method can be set. Note that the stage viewpoint and the appearance of the performer avatars performing on the stage may all be set to (1) in advance.

Once the avatar display method (appearance display type) has been set, the administrator then assigns the seat type on screen 440 shown on the right side of Figure 4. In the example shown on screen 440, the central seat block is set to the arena, and the surrounding seat blocks are set to the stands. The seat blocks set to the arena are recognized as the arena area, and the seat blocks set to the stands are recognized as the stand area.

The server 20 can then display, on the administrator terminal 12, a simulation of how the selected area is seen from the selected area and how the selected area is seen from other areas. The administrator selects the area for which the simulation is to be displayed, and selects the simulation display button 441 that is displayed. Here, as an example, a case where the arena area is selected will be described.

Figure 5 shows an example of a simulation display screen showing how the arena (selected area) appears from other areas in the first embodiment.

The simulation display screen 450 shown in FIG. 5 includes a "How the arena looks from other areas" button 451 and a "How it looks from the arena" button 452. The administrator can check either simulation display by selecting any button. FIG. 5 shows an example of the screen when the "How the arena looks from other areas" button 451 is selected.

The simulation display screen 450 also includes options for viewpoint types, such as "View from the stage," "View from the arena," and "View from the stands." The administrator can check how the avatar in the arena looks from each viewpoint type. The viewpoint position for each viewpoint type may be any seat in each area. In the example shown in FIG. 5, "View from the stands" is selected, and a view screen 453 is displayed that shows how the arena looks from any seat in the stands. A direction control button 454 that allows the direction of the line of sight is displayed on the view screen 453. The administrator can operate the direction control button 454 to move the line of sight up, down, left, or right.

In the example shown in Figure 5, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the display method for spectator avatars in the arena from the stand viewpoint is set to "anonymous display", and therefore the appearance of all avatars in the arena is changed to humanoid silhouettes on the field of view screen 453. Note that a large number of dummy avatars are provided in the arena for simulation purposes.

In this way, when the display method (appearance display type) is set to anonymous display, each avatar is displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to identify it from its appearance, so the privacy of the user (user's avatar) is protected. On the other hand, all avatars in the target area (arena in the case of the field of view screen 453) are controlled to be displayed anonymously, so the uniformity of the display is maintained and there is no reduction in the sense of realism or unity.

Next, we will explain what happens when the "View from Arena" button 452 is selected. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display screen showing the view from the arena (selected area) according to the first embodiment.

The simulation display screen 455 shown in FIG. 6 is an example of a screen that is displayed when the "View from Arena" button 452 is selected. The simulation display screen 455 displays a field of view screen 456 that shows the surroundings as viewed from an arbitrary seat in the arena (e.g., a seat in the center of the arena) as the viewpoint. The arbitrary seat in the arena may be preset, or may be selectable by the administrator.

The view screen 456 shows other spectator avatars (dummy avatars) sitting in the arena, as well as the stage. The performer avatars placed on the stage may be dummy avatars, or may be avatars of actual performers displayed based on event setting information entered by the administrator. The administrator can move the line of sight up, down, left, and right by operating the directional control button 457.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the display method for spectator avatars in the arena from the arena viewpoint is set to "display as is," and therefore the appearances of all avatars in the arena are displayed on the field of view screen 456 in a manner that makes it easy to identify who they are. Although not shown, when the direction control button 457 is operated to turn the gaze toward the stands and the stand area comes into view, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the appearances of all avatars (dummy avatars) in the stands are changed to humanoid silhouettes and displayed.

As described above, administrators can check in advance how an area will be seen from each area and how each area will be seen from other areas. How an area will be seen from other areas also includes how it will be seen from the same area.

Note that the screen configuration and display contents shown in Figures 5 and 6 are merely examples, and this embodiment is not limited to these. Figures 5 and 6 have described an example in which the field of view from any seat in the selection area is simulated and displayed on the administrator terminal 12, but this embodiment is not limited to this, and for example, an image of any seat in the selection area as seen from the front may be displayed as the simulation display. The following description will be given with reference to Figure 7.

Figure 7 is a diagram showing another example of a simulation display according to the first embodiment. The simulation display screen 458 shown in Figure 7 is an example of a screen that is displayed when the "How the arena appears from other areas" button 451 is selected. As shown in Figure 7, the simulation display screen 458 displays on a single screen how spectator avatars (dummy avatars) in the arena appear from each viewpoint type, such as the stage, the stands, and the arena. This allows the administrator to check how the spectator avatars in the selected area appear from each viewpoint type without switching screens.

In the example shown in Figure 7, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the display method for the spectator avatars in the arena from the stand viewpoint is set to "anonymous display," and therefore the appearance of the dummy avatar is changed to a human-shaped silhouette in the "View from the stands" displayed on the simulation display screen 458.

(Operation Processing)
Next, the operational process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of the operational process of event registration according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 8, first, the server 20 accepts input of event information input by the administrator using the administrator terminal 12 (step S103). The event information includes basic information about the event, such as the date and time of the event, the event name, the event ID, and the performers (e.g., the performers' names and the performers' avatar IDs), as described above.

Next, the server 20 selects the venue for the event according to the administrator's operations (step S106).

Next, the server 20 registers the seat type according to the administrator's operations (step S109).

Next, the server 20 sets the avatar display method (appearance display type) for each spectator area for each viewpoint type in accordance with the administrator's operations (step S112).

Next, the server 20 assigns seat types to the seats in the venue according to the administrator's operations (step S115).

Next, the server 20 performs a simulation display showing the view from each area and the view of each area based on the setting information set in step S112 above (step S118).

Then, the server 20 repeats the processes shown in steps S109 to S118 above until a decision is made by the administrator (step S121/No).

Then, when the administrator has made the decision (step S121/Yes), the server 20 registers the event (step S125). Specifically, the server 20 stores information such as basic information about the event, the venue, the seat type, setting information about the display method (appearance display type) of the avatar for each spectator area associated with each viewpoint type, and the allocation of seat types in the storage unit 230. The server 20 may also publish information about the registered event and notify users of the event.

The operational process of the server 20 according to this embodiment has been described above with reference to FIG. 8, but the operational process shown in FIG. 8 is merely an example, and this embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the server 20 may automatically select the event venue, seat type, and the method of displaying avatars for each spectator area without the operation of an administrator.

<<2-2. Seat purchase by users (audiences)>>
Next, the purchase of seats by a user (spectator) in the first embodiment will be described.

Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts operations related to seat purchase by a user in the first embodiment. Each screen shown in Figure 9 is displayed on the display unit of a user terminal 10 that is connected to and communicates with the server 20. Operation information by the user on each screen is transmitted from the user terminal 10 to the server 20.

First, the user selects an event they wish to attend from a list of upcoming events on the event selection screen 510 shown on the left side of Figure 9. Once an event has been selected, a seat selection screen 520 for the selected event is displayed, as shown on the right side of Figure 9. The user selects the seats they wish to purchase.

When the user selects a seat, a simulation display button 521 is displayed. By selecting the simulation display button 521, the user can check the view of the surrounding area from the seat they are considering purchasing and the view from the surrounding area of the seat.

An example of a simulation displayed when the simulation display button 521 is selected will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figures 10 and 11 show an example of a simulation display presented when a user purchases a seat in the first embodiment.

The simulation display screen 550 shown in FIG. 10 is a diagram showing "how the selected seat appears from other areas." The simulation display screen 550 includes options for viewpoint types, such as "how the seat appears from the stage," "how the seat appears from the arena," and "how the seat appears from the stands." The user can check how the avatar in the seat they have selected (referred to as the "selected seat" in this specification) appears from each viewpoint type. Note that in the simulation display, a dummy avatar may be placed at each seat, including the selected seat.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, "View from the stands" is selected, and a view screen 553 is displayed that shows how the arena is viewed from any seat in the stands. The view screen 553 includes the user's selected seat. The user's selected seat may be clearly indicated by an arrow or the like, as in the view screen 553 of FIG. 10. The view screen 553 may also display a seat number display 554 indicating the user's selected seat. The view screen 553 also displays a direction operation button 555 that allows the direction of the line of sight to be controlled. The user can operate the direction operation button 555 to move the line of sight up, down, left, or right.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the display method of the spectator avatars in the arena from the stand viewpoint is set to "anonymous display", and therefore the appearance of all avatars in the arena is changed to a human silhouette on the field of view screen 553. Therefore, the avatar of the user placed in the selected seat (the avatar at the location indicated by the arrow. Here, a dummy avatar is used) is also changed to a human silhouette. If the user wants to view from another viewpoint type, the user selects "View from the stage" or "View from the arena". This allows the user to check how his or her avatar in the selected seat looks from other areas (e.g., how clearly it looks), and can use this as a reference when selecting a seat to purchase. If the user wants to display "View from the selected seat", the user selects the "View from the selected seat" button 552. When the "View from the selected seat" button 552 is selected, the simulation display screen 556 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed.

The simulation display screen 556 shown in FIG. 11 is a screen showing "view from selected seat." The simulation display screen 556 displays a field of view screen 557 showing the surroundings as viewed from the selected seat (seat "Arena A62" in the example shown in FIG. 11). The user can move their line of sight up, down, left and right by operating the directional control button 558.

In the example shown in FIG. 11, based on the setting information shown in Table 1 above, the display method for spectator avatars in the arena from the arena viewpoint is set to "display as is," and therefore the appearances of all avatars in the arena are displayed on the field of view screen 557 in a manner that makes it possible to identify who they are. In this way, the user can check the view from the selected seat and use this as a reference when choosing seats to purchase. If the user wants to display "how the selected seat looks from other areas," the user selects the "how the selected seat looks from other areas" button 551. When the "how the selected seat looks from other areas" button 551 is selected, the simulation display screen 550 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed.

(Operation Processing)
Next, the operational process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of the operational process of seat purchase according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, first, the server 20 selects an event from a list of upcoming events (see FIG. 9) in accordance with the user's operational input using the user terminal 10 (step S203).

Next, the server 20 displays a seat selection screen (see FIG. 9) for the selected event and accepts the user's seat selection (step S206).

Next, the server 20 performs a simulation display of the selected seat (the selected seat) (step S209). Specifically, the server 20 displays a simulation of the view from the selected seat and the view from the selected seat from each viewpoint type (see Figures 10 and 11).

Next, the server 20 repeats the processes shown in steps S206 to S209 above until the user has determined the seat to be purchased (step S212/No).

When the user selects the seat to be purchased (step S212/Yes), the server 20 executes the seat purchase process (step S215). There are no particular limitations on the payment process method for seat purchase. The server 20 may store the user information and the seat information in the storage unit 230 in association with each other.

The operational process of the server 20 according to this embodiment has been described above with reference to FIG. 12, but the operational process shown in FIG. 12 is only an example, and this embodiment is not limited thereto.

<<2-3. Entry to the event venue>>
Next, a description will be given of a user's entry into an event venue according to the first embodiment.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are diagrams showing examples of screens that accept operations by a user regarding entry to an event venue in the first embodiment. Each screen shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 is displayed on the display unit of a user terminal 10 that is connected to and communicates with the server 20. Operation information by the user on each screen is transmitted from the user terminal 10 to the server 20.

The user first selects an event to enter from a list of available events on the available event list screen 610 shown on the left side of Figure 13. Available events are events for which the user is eligible to enter, such as events for which seats have been purchased. Once an event is selected, an available seat screen 620 is displayed, as shown on the right side of Figure 13, which clearly shows seats available for the user on the seating chart for the venue where the selected event is held. A seat available for the user is, for example, a seat that the user has purchased. Once the user has confirmed their seat, they select the confirm button 621.

When the decision button 621 is selected, the avatar appearance screen 630 shown on the left side of FIG. 14 is then displayed. The avatar appearance screen 630 presents how the user's avatar appears from the user's seat for each viewpoint type, that is, how the avatar appears.

In the example shown in FIG. 14, the user's avatar is displayed as is on the avatar appearance screen 630 as "how it appears from the stage and arena." This allows the user to confirm before entering the event venue that their avatar will appear as is, i.e., in a identifiable state, from the stage and arena. The user can also select the edit button 631 to change their avatar's clothing and accessories in advance.

In the example shown in FIG. 14, the user's avatar is displayed anonymously, more specifically, as a human silhouette, as the "appearance from the stands" on the avatar appearance screen 630. This allows the user to confirm before entering the stadium that their avatar will be displayed as a human silhouette, i.e., unidentifiable, from the stands.

After checking how the avatar will look, the user selects the decision button 632. When the decision button 632 is selected, the available seats screen 640 shown on the right side of FIG. 14 is then displayed. When the user places the cursor on his or her own seat on the available seats screen 640, a simulation display button 641 is displayed. By selecting the simulation display button 641, the user can check how the surroundings are seen from the user's seat and how the surroundings are seen from the seat before entering. The simulation displayed here is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, so a detailed description will be omitted. Note that in the simulation before entering the event venue, the user's avatar may be used instead of a dummy avatar. After checking the simulation, the user selects the entry button 642 and enters the event venue.

(Operation Processing)
Next, the operational process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of the operational process of the server 20 when a user enters an event venue according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, first, the server 20 selects an event from a list of events that the user can enter (see FIG. 13) in accordance with the user's operational input using the user terminal 10 (step S233).

Next, the server 20 presents the seats that the user has already purchased for the selected event (see FIG. 13) (step S236).

Next, the server 20 presents how the avatar appears in the seat (step S239). Specifically, the server 20 presents how the avatar appears in the seat for each viewpoint type (see FIG. 14).

Next, the server 20 performs a simulation display of the seat (step S242). Specifically, the server 20 displays a simulation of the view from the seat and the view of the seat from each viewpoint type.

Next, the server 20 repeats the processes shown in steps S236 to S242 above until the user has finished checking how the avatar appears, etc. (step S245/No).

Then, once the user has completed the confirmation (step S245/Yes), the server 20 allows the user (specifically, the user's avatar) to enter the event venue (step S248).

The operational process of the server 20 according to this embodiment has been described above with reference to FIG. 15, but the operational process shown in FIG. 15 is only an example, and this embodiment is not limited to this.

<<2-4. Others>>
In the first embodiment described above, the simulation display screen displayed when the simulation display button is selected displays the selection buttons "View of the selected area or selected seat from other areas" and "View from the selected area or selected seat", allowing either view to be selected from here, but the method of displaying the simulation according to this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the server 20 may display a simulation of the view from the selected area (view screen 456 shown in FIG. 6) when the "Simulation display" button displayed with the cursor placed on the selected area is selected on the screen 440 shown on the right of FIG. 4, and may display a simulation of the view of the selected area from other areas (view screen 453 shown in FIG. 5 when the cursor is placed on the stand) when the "Simulation display" button displayed with the cursor placed on another area is selected.

In addition, if an area is set with a visibility option such as a telephoto function, the server 20 will allow the user to try out the option associated with the area in the simulation display. This allows the user to check in advance whether their avatar may be enlarged and visible from other areas.

3. Second Example
Next, a flow of holding an event according to a second example of the present embodiment will be described. In the second example, a case will be described in which VIP seats are added to the arena seats and stand seats described in the first example regarding the types of seats at the event.

<<3-1. Event settings by administrator>>
16 and 17 are diagrams showing examples of screens that accept various settings related to events by an administrator in the second embodiment.

The administrator selects the venue to be used for the event on the setting screen 710 shown on the left side of FIG. 16. Once the venue has been decided, the administrator then registers the seat type on screen 720 shown on the right side of FIG. 16. For example, on screen 720, VIP seats, arena seats, and stand seats can be selected. In this embodiment, we will continue to explain the case where VIP seats, arena seats, and stand seats are registered as the seat types.

After the seat types are registered, the administrator then sets the display method (appearance display type) of the avatars for each area for each viewpoint type on screen 730 shown on the left of FIG. 17. On screen 730, the display method can be set to "(1) Display as is", "(2) Anonymous display", or "(3) User himself selectable". "(3) User himself selectable" means that the user (spectator) can select whether to display the avatar as is or anonymously. In this embodiment, as an example, only the appearance (display method) of VIP spectators (avatars), who have a relatively small number of seats, is set to (3). Also, although not all of the information is displayed on screen 730, as an example, the settings are the same as in the first embodiment except for VIPs.

Once the avatar display method (appearance display type) has been set, the administrator then assigns seat types on screen 740 shown on the right side of Figure 17. In the example shown on screen 740, part of the central seat block is set as VIP, the rest is set as arena, and the surrounding seat blocks are set as stands. Of the central seat block, the seats set as VIP are recognized as the VIP area, and the seats set as arena are recognized as the arena area. Additionally, the seat block set as stands is recognized as the stand area.

As with the first embodiment, it is possible to display a simulation of how the selected area is viewed from the selected area and how the selected area is viewed from other areas. The administrator can display the simulation by selecting the area for which the simulation is to be displayed and selecting the displayed simulation display button 741. The server 20 displays a simulation of how the selected area is viewed from the selected area and from other areas according to the setting information, which is the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the display method of the avatars for each spectator area (appearance display type). Note that in the simulation, a large number of dummy avatars may be placed in each area. Regarding the setting (3) above, the server 20 randomly displays the appearance of each dummy avatar in the VIP area as is or in an anonymous manner.

A specific example of the simulation display according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, except for the addition of the view from the VIP area, and so a detailed description will be omitted here. Also, the operational process of event registration according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and so a detailed description will be omitted here.

<<3-2. Seat purchase by users (audiences)>>
The user may purchase seats for the event registered by the above process. When purchasing seats, a simulation of the view from the selected seat and the view from other areas to the selected seat is displayed. Seat purchases in the second embodiment are similar to those in the first embodiment described with reference to Figures 9 to 12, except that VIP seats are added to the seats available for purchase.

<<3-3. Entry to the event venue>>
Next, a description will be given of a user's entry into an event venue according to the second embodiment.

Figures 18 and 19 show an example of a screen that accepts operations related to a user's entry into an event venue in the second embodiment.

First, the user selects an event to enter from a list of events available for entry on the available event list screen 810 shown on the left side of Figure 18. Once an event is selected, an available seat screen 820 is displayed, which shows seats available for the user at the selected event, as shown on the right side of Figure 18. Seats available for the user are, for example, seats that the user has already purchased. In the second example, it is assumed that the user has already purchased a VIP seat. Once the user has confirmed their seat, they select the confirm button 821.

When the decision button 821 is selected, the avatar appearance screen 830 shown on the left in FIG. 19 is then displayed. In this embodiment, as shown in screen 730 in FIG. 17, the appearance of the avatar in the VIP area is set to "(3) User himself selectable". Therefore, on the avatar appearance screen 830, the user can select the appearance of his or her avatar sitting in the VIP seat. The appearance of the avatar may be selected for each viewpoint type (e.g., stage, VIP, arena, and stands). The appearance of the avatar can be selected from a setting in which the avatar's figure is displayed as is, and a setting in which the avatar is displayed anonymously (specifically, displayed as a human-shaped silhouette).

Once the user has decided how the avatar will look, they select the decision button 831. When the decision button 831 is selected, the available seats screen 840 shown on the right of FIG. 19 is then displayed. When the user places the cursor on their own seat on the available seats screen 840, a simulation display button 841 is displayed. By selecting the simulation display button 841, the user can check the view of the surroundings from the user's seat and the view from the surroundings of that seat before entering. The simulation displayed here is similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 in the first embodiment, except that the view from the VIP area has been added, so a detailed description will be omitted. Once the user has checked the simulation, they select the entry button 842 and enter the event venue.

4. Third Example
Next, a flow of holding an event according to a third example of the present embodiment will be described. In the third example, a case will be described in which "live broadcast" and "recording" of an event can be set, and "live broadcast" and "recording" are added to viewpoint types.

<<4-1. Event settings by administrator>>
20 and 21 are diagrams showing examples of a screen that accepts various settings related to events by an administrator in the third embodiment.

The administrator selects the venue to be used for the event on the setting screen 910 shown on the left side of FIG. 20. Once the venue has been decided, the administrator then registers the seat type and camera type on screen 920 shown on the right side of FIG. 20. Camera types include "live broadcast" and "recording." "Live broadcast" means that the event is broadcast to viewers in real time. "Recording" means that the event is archived so that it can be viewed at a later date. In this embodiment, we will continue to explain the case where arena seats and stand seats are registered as seat types, and live broadcast and recording are registered as camera types.

Once the seat type and camera type have been registered, the administrator then sets the avatar display method (appearance display type) for each spectator area for each viewpoint type on screen 930 shown on the left of Figure 21. Viewpoint types include not only spectator areas but also cameras. Although only a portion of them are displayed on screen 930, in this embodiment, the avatar display method (appearance display type) for each area (stage, arena, and stands) is set for the stage viewpoint, arena viewpoint, stand viewpoint, live broadcast camera, and recording camera.

Once the avatar display method (appearance display type) has been set, the administrator then assigns seat types on screen 940 shown on the right of Figure 21. In the example shown on screen 940, the central seat block is set to the arena, and the surrounding seat blocks are set to the stands. The administrator can also select the area in which they want to display a simulation, and select the displayed simulation display button 941 to display a simulation of how the selected area is seen from the selected area and how the selected area is seen from other areas.

In addition, in this embodiment, by selecting the "Display live camera" button 942 displayed on screen 940, a simulation of the live camera's viewpoint can be displayed. By selecting the "Display recorded camera" button 943 displayed on screen 940, a simulation of the recorded camera's viewpoint can be displayed. For example, the camerawork expected for live broadcasting or recording may be registered in advance, and the simulation of each camera may be presented as a video of about 10 seconds using such camerawork.

<<4-2. User purchase of seats and entry to the event venue>>
The seat purchase and entry to the event venue by the user in the third embodiment is similar to that described in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted here. In this embodiment, the user can also check the appearance from the live broadcast camera viewpoint and the appearance from the recording camera viewpoint in a simulation provided to the user when purchasing a seat or entering the venue. This allows the user to check in advance how their own avatar will look in the live broadcast or recording.

5. Modifications
Next, a modification of this embodiment will be described.

(Setting how your favorite character looks)
In the present embodiment, the user can set the appearance display type of the avatar so that the user's avatar stands out based on a "favorite" that the user has chosen. A "favorite" is a favorite performer that the user supports.

Figure 22 shows an example of a screen that accepts operations related to setting how the avatar appears to the favorite according to a modified example. The setting of how the avatar appears to the favorite can be performed by the user, for example, at the time of entrance.

First, when entering an event, the user selects the event to enter from a list of events available for entry, as in the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. 13, and then checks available seats for the user on the seating chart for the venue where the event is being held. Next, the user can set how the avatar appears to their favorite idol.

Specifically, on screen 950 shown on the left of FIG. 22, the user can set how their avatar will be seen by their favorite idol. For example, the user can set which members of the idol group appearing at the target event will see their avatar in "Favorite Mode" or not (Favorite Mode ON/OFF). On screen 950, the way idol A sees them is set to "Favorite Mode ON."

When "Oshi Mode ON" is set, the display is controlled so that the user's avatar stands out in the image of the virtual space where the target "Oshi" (performer) is the main viewpoint (i.e., the image of the virtual space seen by the performer). There are no particular limitations on the way the user's avatar is displayed when "Oshi Mode ON" is set, but examples include making the area around the avatar glow or displaying an effect around the avatar. This allows the user to appeal to their Oshi, and also makes it easier for performers to find fans who support them, making it possible to achieve two-way communication. Users who can set their Oshi in this way may be preset by the administrator, such as only users who have purchased VIP seats.

After checking how the avatar appears, the user selects the decision button 951. When the decision button 951 is selected, the available seats screen 960 shown on the right of Figure 22 is then displayed. When the user places the cursor on their own seat on the available seats screen 960, a simulation display button 961 is displayed.

By selecting the simulation display button 961, the user can check the view of the surroundings from the user's seat and the view from the surroundings of the seat before entering. In addition to the simulations displayed here that have been described with reference to Figures 10 and 11, it is also possible to check the display in the "oshi" mode from the perspective of the performers on stage.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a simulation display of how an avatar appears to an idol according to a modified example. In the simulation display screen 970 shown in FIG. 23, of the appearances from each idol (an example of a performer) performing on stage, the appearance from "Idol A" for which the user has set the idol mode ON is selected, and a simulation of that appearance is displayed. In such a simulation, the user's avatar may be used. As an example of the idol mode display, the simulation display screen 970 in FIG. 23 displays an effect around the user's avatar 972. This allows the user to check how their avatar appears to their idol in the idol mode. After checking the simulation, the user selects the enter button 962 and enters the event venue.

(Setting how you are seen by acquaintances)
The settings for the appearance of the user's avatar according to the target are not limited to the above-mentioned target of the favorite person, but may also be set to target, for example, the user's acquaintances.

The user can set how their avatar appears to acquaintances at the event venue. An "acquaintance" is, for example, another user who is registered as a friend by the user.

Figure 24 shows an example of a screen that accepts operations related to setting how an avatar is viewed by acquaintances in a modified example. Settings for how an avatar is viewed by acquaintances can be performed by the user, for example, upon entering the venue.

On screen 980 shown in FIG. 24, the user can set how their avatar will be seen by acquaintances, for example, between an effect display that makes the avatar stand out, a normal display that leaves the avatar unchanged, and an anonymous display that prevents identification. Users participating in an event may have different needs, such as wanting their avatar to stand out so that acquaintances can find them, or not wanting to be seen by acquaintances. By allowing users to arbitrarily select how their avatar will be seen, user convenience can be increased.

＜6. Supplementary Information＞
Although the preferred embodiment of the present disclosure has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present technology is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field of the present disclosure can conceive of various modified or amended examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally belong to the technical scope of the present disclosure.

For example, one or more computer programs can be created to cause hardware such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM built into the above-mentioned server 20, user terminal 10, or administrator terminal 12 to perform the functions of the server 20, user terminal 10, or administrator terminal 12. Also provided is a computer-readable storage medium that stores the one or more computer programs.

Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely descriptive or exemplary and are not limiting. In other words, the technology disclosed herein may achieve other effects that are apparent to a person skilled in the art from the description in this specification, in addition to or in place of the above effects.

The present technology can also be configured as follows.
(1)
For one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar is set in association with a viewpoint type;
controlling display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
An information processing device comprising a control unit.
(2)
The information processing device according to (1), wherein the viewpoint type is a type of area in which an avatar of a user who is the viewpoint subject viewing the video in the virtual space is located.
(3)
The information processing device according to (2), wherein the types of areas include at least one of a stage, a VIP, an arena, and a stand.
(4)
The viewpoint type is a type of camera that captures the virtual space,
The information processing device according to (1), wherein the types of the cameras include at least one of a camera that broadcasts live the state of the virtual space and a camera that records the state of the virtual space.
(5)
The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the appearance display type includes a setting for displaying the appearance of the avatar as is without changing it.
(6)
The information processing device described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit controls, for an area where the appearance display type corresponding to the viewpoint type of the viewpoint subject of the image of the virtual space is set to anonymous display, to replace the appearance of all avatars in the area with the same specified appearance and display them.
(7)
The information processing device according to (6), wherein the specified appearance is a display manner in which the avatar cannot be individually identified from its appearance.
(8)
The information processing device according to (6) or (7), wherein the specified appearance is a human-shaped silhouette, a mosaic, or a predetermined character.
(9)
The information processing device described in any one of (1) to (8), wherein the control unit performs control to display a simulation of the view from any seat in the area or the view from another area of the seat based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type.
(10)
The information processing device according to (9), wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts settings of the appearance display type by an administrator.
(11)
The information processing device according to (9), wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts seat purchases by users participating in the event.
(12)
The information processing device according to (9), wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts entry to the event by users participating in the event.
(13)
The information processing device described in any one of (1) to (12), wherein the control unit, in response to user operation, sets the appearance of the user's avatar to a specific performer appearing at the event so that the avatar appears prominently.
(14)
The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the control unit sets how the user's avatar appears to the user's acquaintances in response to a user operation.
(15)
The processor:
Setting an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar in association with a viewpoint type for one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space;
Controlling the display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
An information processing method comprising:
(16)
Computer,
For one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar is set in association with a viewpoint type;
controlling display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
Functioning as a control unit,
program.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system 10 User terminal 12 Administrator terminal 20 Server 210 Communication unit 220 Control unit 221 Setting unit 222 Display control unit 230 Storage unit 231 Setting information DB
30 Network

Claims (16)

For one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar is set in association with a viewpoint type;
controlling display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
An information processing device comprising a control unit. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the viewpoint type is the type of area in which an avatar of a user who is the viewpoint subject viewing the video in the virtual space is located. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the area types include at least one of a stage, a VIP, an arena, and a stand. The viewpoint type is a type of camera that captures the virtual space,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the types of the cameras include at least one of a camera that broadcasts a live broadcast of the virtual space and a camera that records the virtual space. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the appearance display type includes a setting to display the avatar's appearance as is without changing it. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls, for an area in which the appearance display type associated with the viewpoint type of the viewpoint subject of the image of the virtual space is set to anonymized display, the appearances of all avatars in that area are replaced with the same specified appearance and displayed. The information processing device according to claim 6, wherein the specified appearance is a display mode in which the avatar cannot be individually identified from its appearance. The information processing device of claim 6, wherein the specified appearance is a human silhouette, a mosaic, or a specified character. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs control to display a simulation of the view from any seat in the area or the view from another area of the seat based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts settings of the appearance display type by an administrator. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts seat purchases by users participating in the event. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the simulation to be displayed on a screen that accepts entry to the event by users participating in the event. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, in response to a user's operation, sets the appearance of the user's avatar to a specific performer appearing at the event so that the avatar stands out. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets how the user's avatar appears to the user's acquaintances in response to a user operation. The processor:
Setting an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar in association with a viewpoint type for one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space;
Controlling the display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
An information processing method comprising: Computer,
For one or more areas in an event held in a virtual space, an appearance display type including at least an anonymous display of an avatar is set in association with a viewpoint type;
controlling display of the appearance of the avatar in each area shown in the image of the virtual space based on the correspondence between the viewpoint type and the appearance display type;
Functioning as a control unit,
program.

Images