JP7566316B2 - Game system, game control method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to games.

For example, various technologies have been proposed for providing users with games that can be played in exchange for spending gaming value such as medals. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a game system in which other users who are friends with each of multiple users who play medal games are registered. Users who visit a gaming facility can see their friends who are located within the facility.

Patent No. 6265290

However, the technology in Patent Document 1 only allows each user to know the friends who are present within the gaming facility. In consideration of the above, one aspect of the present invention aims to enable multiple users who have registered a specific relationship to easily share gaming experiences.

In order to solve the above problems, a game system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a relationship registration unit that registers relationships between multiple users, and a participation processing unit that executes a participation process including an acceptance process that accepts the use of gaming value in a game played by a first user among the multiple users from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, and an awarding process that awards a reward to the second user depending on the result of the game played by the first user.

A game control method according to one aspect of the present invention executes a participation process that includes a reception process for registering relationships between a plurality of users and receiving, from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, a request for use of gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users, and a granting process for granting a reward to the second user according to the outcome of the game played by the first user.

A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer system to function as a relationship registration unit that registers relationships between multiple users, and a participation processing unit that executes a participation process including an acceptance process that accepts the use of gaming value in a game played by a first user among the multiple users from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, and an award process that awards a reward to the second user according to the result of the game played by the first user.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game device. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of a game process. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of user data. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the control system. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game system. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game system. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a candidate list. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game system. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a friend list. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of a participation process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of a normal participation process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of a special participation process. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of reservation data. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a game image in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a normal game according to the fourth embodiment.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below includes various technically suitable limitations. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments exemplified below.

[First embodiment]
1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game system 1 according to a first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the game system 1 according to the first embodiment is an information system including a plurality of game devices 10 (10a, 10b) and a control system 20.

Each of the multiple game devices 10 is installed in a different gaming facility. The gaming facility may be, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. Each game device 10 is a computer system that provides games to users U (Ua, Ub) in the gaming facility. Of the multiple game devices 10, FIG. 1 illustrates, for convenience, game device 10a used by user Ua and game device 10b used by user Ub. User Ua is an example of a "second user," and user Ub is an example of a "first user."

The control system 20 is a computer system for controlling the operation of each of the multiple game devices 10. For example, a server system installed outside the gaming facility is used as the control system 20. Each of the multiple game devices 10 communicates with the control system 20 via a communication network 2 such as the Internet.

Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of each game device 10. As illustrated in Figure 2, the game device 10 includes a control device 11, a storage device 12, a communication device 13, an operation device 14, a display device 15, a lottery device 16, and a reception device 17. Note that the game device 10 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 11 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the game device 10. Specifically, the control device 11 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The communication device 13 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2.

The storage device 12 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 11 and various data used by the control device 11. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 12. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the game device 10, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 11 can write to or read from via the communication network 2, for example, may also be used as the storage device 12.

The operation device 14 is an input device that accepts operations by the user U. The operation device 14 is, for example, a plurality of operators operated by the user U, or a touch panel that detects contact by the user U. The display device 15 displays images under the control of the control device 11. For example, various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) panel are used as the display device 15.

The reception device 17 receives a value medium from the user U. The value medium is, for example, a physical medal (token) or an electronic medal. Specifically, the reception device 17 is equipped with a transport path for transporting the physical medals supplied to the insertion port by the user U, and a counter for counting the physical medals. In addition, a communication device that communicates with a management server device (not shown) that manages the account of the electronic medal for each user U may be used as the reception device 17. For example, the reception device 17 executes a withdrawal process for transferring the electronic medal from an account managed by the management server device to the game device 10, and a deposit process for transferring the electronic medal to the account of the management server device. In addition, a reader that transfers the electronic medal from a recording medium such as an IC card on which the electronic medal is recorded to the game device 10 may be used as the reception device 17. The game value of the amount corresponding to the amount of the value medium received by the reception device 17 is set in a state that can be used by the user U. The game value is value (credit) for the user U to play the game.

The lottery device 16 is a mechanism that executes a physical lottery that randomly selects one of a number of lottery numbers. Whether the user U wins (succeeds) or loses (fails) is determined based on the result of the physical lottery. For example, the lottery device 16 may be a rotating wheel (roulette) that causes a lottery object such as a sphere to enter one of a number of lottery holes, or a lottery machine that causes one of a number of lottery objects to enter one or more lottery holes. Note that an electronic lottery that determines whether the user U wins or loses through calculations by the control device 11 may be used instead of a physical lottery. In a configuration in which an electronic lottery is executed, the lottery device 16 may be omitted.

In the game device 10 of the first embodiment, multiple types of lottery games, including a normal game and a special game, are executed. A lottery device 16 is used for the lottery games. The normal game is a lottery game that the user U plays regularly or repeatedly. The special game is executed when a predetermined condition (hereinafter referred to as an "execution condition") is met as a result of the normal game. The execution condition is, for example, that the number of specific items acquired by the user U in the normal game reaches a predetermined value. On the other hand, the special game is a lottery game in which a lottery is used to determine whether the user U will win or lose a special prize (jackpot) that awards a large number of rewards.

Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a play screen G displayed by the display device 15 for the normal game. As illustrated in Figure 3, the play screen G includes a game image G1 and a character G2. The game image G1 is an image showing the progress of the normal game. The normal game in the first embodiment is a bingo game that uses a lottery card on which multiple lottery numbers are arranged in a matrix. The game image G1 is an image showing the lottery card. When the lottery numbers selected sequentially by physical lottery using the lottery device 16 among the multiple lottery numbers on the lottery card are arranged in a row (vertical/horizontal/diagonal), it is determined that the user U has won. The character G2 is an object for presentation owned by the user U.

Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the process S (hereinafter referred to as "game process") executed by the control device 11 of each game device 10.

User U acquires gaming value by inserting a value medium into the reception device 17. User U can instruct the use of a desired amount of gaming value (hereinafter referred to as "usage amount") by operating the operation device 14. The use of gaming value means that user U consumes gaming value (i.e., bets) to play the normal game and to obtain rewards in the event of a win. The control device 11 accepts an instruction to use gaming value from user U (S101). Specifically, the control device 11 subtracts the usage amount from the amount of gaming value held by user U.

When the game value is accepted, the control device 11 proceeds with the normal game (S102). Specifically, the control device 11 executes a physical lottery by controlling the lottery device 16 while displaying the play screen G on the display device 15. In addition, the control device 11 grants an item to the user U when a predetermined condition is met during the physical lottery process. The control device 11 determines whether the user U has won or lost according to the result of the physical lottery (S103). If the user U wins the normal game (S103: YES), the control device 11 grants the user U a quantity of game value corresponding to the amount of use as a reward (S104). That is, the amount obtained by multiplying the amount of use by a coefficient (odds) is added as a reward to the amount of game value held by the user U. On the other hand, if the user U loses the normal game (S103: NO), the granting of a reward to the user U (S104) is not executed.

The control device 11 determines whether the conditions for executing the special game are met (S105). For example, the control device 11 determines whether the number of items acquired by the user U has reached a predetermined value. If the conditions for execution are met (S105: YES), the control device 11 progresses the special game (S106). The content of the special game is arbitrary, but for example, a lottery game using a physical lottery by the lottery device 16 is executed. As can be understood from the above explanation, the control device 11 functions as an element (progress control unit) that progresses the lottery game (S102, S106). On the other hand, if the conditions for execution are not met (S105: NO), the control device 11 does not execute the special game.

In the special game, the control device 11 determines whether user U has won or lost (S107). If user U has won the special game (S107: YES), the control device 11 grants a large amount of gaming value to user U as a reward (S108). For example, the amount of gaming value accumulated each time a normal game is played is granted to user U as a reward for the special game. If user U has lost the special game (S107: NO), the granting of a reward to user U (S108) is not executed. Note that a predetermined amount of gaming value may be granted to user U who lost the special game.

The control device 11 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (S109). The end condition is, for example, an instruction to end the operation of the game device 10 via an operation on the operation device 14. If the end condition is not met (S109: NO), the control device 11 transitions the process to step S101. On the other hand, if the end condition is met (S109: YES), the control device 11 ends the game process S. The game process S exemplified above is executed in each of the multiple game devices 10.

Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of control system 20. As illustrated in Figure 5, control system 20 is realized by a computer system including a control device 21, a storage device 22, and a communication device 23. Note that control system 20 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 21 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the control system 20. Specifically, the control device 21 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The communication device 23 communicates with each game device 10 via the communication network 2.

The storage device 22 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 21 and various data used by the control device 21. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 22. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the control system 20, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 21 can write to or read from via the communication network 2, for example, may also be used as the storage device 22.

The storage device 22 stores user data X for each of a plurality of users U. The user data X for each user U is data in which a plurality of pieces of information relating to that user U are registered. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of user data X. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the user data X includes identification information x1, game data x2, situation information x3, relationship information x4, interaction points x5, and candidate information x6.

The identification information x1 is a code sequence for identifying the user U. The identification information x1 is given to the user U who has registered in advance and is stored in a recording medium (e.g., an IC card) possessed by the user U. Each game device 10 starts a lottery game using user data X including the identification information x1 received from the recording medium of the user U, and updates the user data X as the lottery game progresses.

The game data x2 is information related to the game played by the user U. Specifically, the results of games played by the user U in the past, the player name set by the user U, the character name of the character G2 owned by the user U, parameters related to the character G2, etc. are registered as the game data x2. Examples of parameters related to the character G2 include items equipped to the character G2 or the ability values of the character G2. Note that it is not necessary for the character G2 to appear in the game played by the user U. In other words, the parameters related to the character G2 may be omitted from the game data x2. The game data x2 can also be said as data representing the progress of the lottery game (for example, items acquired by the user U, etc.).

The status information x3 is data that represents the current status of the user U. Specifically, whether the user U is currently playing or not, and the name of the gaming facility where the user U is located are registered in the user data X as the status information x3.

Each user U can build a specified relationship (hereinafter referred to as "friend relationship") with other users U in the lottery game. The friend relationships of each user U are divided into one-way friend relationships and two-way friend relationships. Focusing on users Ua and Ub, a one-way friend relationship is a relationship in which user Ua follows user Ub, but user Ub does not follow user Ua. On the other hand, a two-way friend relationship is a relationship in which user Ua and user Ub follow each other. In other words, for example, a relationship in which user Ua follows user Ub and user Ub follows user Ua is a two-way friend relationship (follow-follower relationship).

Relationship information x4 is information that represents a friend relationship between users U. In the first embodiment, relationship information x4 includes following information x41 and follower information x42. Following information x41 of each user U includes identification information x1 of other users U that the user U follows. Furthermore, follower information x42 of each user includes identification information x1 of other users U that follow the user U. When a bidirectional friend relationship is established between users Ua and Ub, both following information x41 and follower information x42 in the user data X of each of users Ua and Ub include identification information x1 of the other user U.

The exchange points x5 are an in-game value granted to each user U due to the friend relationship between the users U. For example, the user U can change the ability value or equipment of the character G2 owned by the user U in exchange for spending the exchange points x5. For example, the user U can acquire an item such as an ornament equipped by the character G2 owned by the user U by spending a certain amount of the exchange points x5. Note that in a form in which the character G2 does not appear in the lottery game, various rewards are granted to the user U instead of the exchange points x5. For example, rewards such as an item that allows the lottery game to progress advantageously, or the right to play a specific game such as a special game, may be granted to the user U instead of (or together with) the exchange points x5.

The candidate information x6 is information indicating other users U (hereinafter referred to as "candidate users U") who are candidates for a friend relationship when each user U establishes a friendship. Although details will be described later, other users U with whom each user U has participated in past lottery games (particularly normal games) are registered as candidate users U in the candidate information x6. Specifically, the identification information x1 of the candidate user U is registered as the candidate information x6. Note that, in the first embodiment, an example is shown in which users U who have participated in past lottery games are registered as candidate users U, but the candidate users U may also be determined according to the actions of the user U while the user U is playing the lottery game.

Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the control system 20. As illustrated in Figure 7, the control device 21 of the control system 20 realizes multiple functions (a relationship registration unit 31, a participation processing unit 32, and a status notification unit 33) by executing a program stored in the storage device 22.

The relationship registration unit 31 registers friend relationships between users U. Specifically, the relationship registration unit 31 registers friend relationships between users U by updating the relationship information x4 in the user data X of each user U.

Each user U can participate in lottery games (normal games and special games) played by other users U. If a user U wins a lottery game, the other users U who participated in the lottery game are given a reward. The participation processing unit 32 in FIG. 7 controls the participation of each user U in a lottery game. In other words, participation in a lottery game by a user U means a game for winning a reward according to the outcome of a lottery game played by other users U. Whether or not a user U participates in a lottery game does not affect the outcome of the lottery game itself. However, it is also possible that the outcome of the lottery game will be affected by whether or not a user U participates, or the number of participants.

The participation processing unit 32 in the first embodiment executes a participation process Q (see FIG. 13). The participation process Q is a process that controls the participation of a user U in a lottery game. The participation process Q includes a normal participation process Q1 and a special participation process Q2. The normal participation process Q1 is a process that controls the participation of a user U in a normal game. On the other hand, the special participation process Q2 is a process that controls the participation of a user U in a special game. In the first embodiment, only users U who have a two-way friend relationship with the user U can participate in the special game of the user U. On the other hand, any user U can participate in the normal game played by the user U, regardless of the presence or absence and the type (one-way/two-way) of the relationship with the user U.

The status notification unit 33 in FIG. 7 notifies other users U who are participating in the lottery game of the status of the lottery game (normal game or special game) played by user U. Therefore, users U who are participating in the lottery game can check the progress status of the lottery game.

The operation of the game system 1 in the first embodiment is described below. In the following description, it is assumed that a user Ua participates in a lottery game of another user U. The specific steps of the processing executed by the control device 21 of the control system 20 and the control device 11 of the game device 10a used by the user Ua are illustrated below.

Figure 8 shows a specific example of the operation of the game system 1 when a user Ua participates in a lottery game of another user U without making use of a friend relationship between the users U. The processing of Figure 8 can also be said to be processing executed in an initial state in which a friend relationship has not been established between the user Ua and the other user U.

By operating the operation device 14, the user Ua instructs the game device 10a to participate in the regular game of the other user U. When the instruction to participate is received from the user Ua (Sa101), the control device 11 transmits a notification M11 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa102). The notification M11 is a message requesting that the user Ua participate in the regular game of the other user U.

The control device 21 of the control system 20 receives the notification M11 sent by the game device 10a via the communication device 23 (Sb101). Upon receiving the notification M11, the control device 21 selects one of the multiple users U whose user data X is recorded in the storage device 22 (hereinafter referred to as the "selected user U") (Sb102). For example, the control device 21 randomly selects a user U from the multiple users U. Note that the control device 21 may select a user U according to a predetermined condition. The control device 21 transmits a notification M12 indicating the selected user U from the communication device 23 to the requesting game device 10a (Sb103). The notification M12 includes the user data X of the candidate user U.

The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the notification M12 sent by the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Sa103). The control device 11 displays the information represented by the user data X in the notification M12 (e.g., game data x2) on the display device 15 (Sa104). The user Ua checks the information of the selected user U by visually checking the display on the display device 15. The user Ua then operates the operation device 14 to instruct the game device 10a to participate in the normal game played by the selected user U. Upon receiving the instruction to participate from the user Ua (Sa105), the control device 11 transmits a notification M13 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa106). The notification M13 includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua and the identification information x1 of the selected user U.

The control device 21 of the control system 20 receives the notification M13 sent by the game device 10a via the communication device 23 (Sb104). Upon receiving the notification M13, the control device 21 executes a normal participation process Q1 that allows the user Ua to participate in the normal game played by the selected user U (Sb105). The specific steps of the normal participation process Q1 will be described later.

When the normal participation process Q1 is executed, the control device 21 registers the identification information x1 of the currently selected user U in the candidate information x6 in the user data X of the user Ua (Sb106). That is, the selected user U who played the normal game in which the user Ua participated is registered as a candidate user U in the user data X of the user Ua. By repeating the above process, two or more users U who participated in the normal game with the user Ua among the multiple users U are registered as candidate users U for the user Ua. Note that, although the above explanation has exemplified a form in which the control system 20 selects one selected user U, the control system 20 may select multiple users U, and the user Ua may select a desired selected user U from the multiple users U.

Figure 9 shows a specific example of the operation of the game system 1 when a user Ua establishes a friend relationship with another user U. The user Ua operates the operation device 14 to instruct the game device 10a to present candidate users U. Upon receiving the instruction from the user Ua (Sa201), the control device 11 transmits a notification M21 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa202). The notification M21 is a message requesting the presentation of candidate users U, and includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua.

The relationship registration unit 31 of the control system 20 receives the notification M21 sent by the game device 10a via the communication device 23 (Sb201). Upon receiving the notification M21, the relationship registration unit 31 extracts multiple candidate users U related to the user Ua (Sb202). Specifically, the relationship registration unit 31 searches the storage device 22 for the user data X of the user Ua corresponding to the identification information x1 in the notification M21, and identifies multiple candidate users U indicated by the candidate information x6 of the user data X. In other words, multiple candidate users U who have participated in the regular game in the past by the user Ua are identified. The relationship registration unit 31 transmits a notification M22 indicating the multiple candidate users U from the communication device 23 to the requesting game device 10a (Sb203). The notification M22 includes the user data X of each of the multiple candidate users U.

The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the notification M22 sent by the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Sa203). The control device 11 displays an image (hereinafter referred to as a "candidate list") L1 representing each user data X in the notification M22 on the display device 15 (Sa204). As can be understood from the above explanation, the relationship registration unit 31 of the control system 20 displays the candidate list L1 including multiple candidate users U on the display device 15 of the game device 10a.

Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the candidate list L1. As illustrated in Figure 10, the candidate list L1 is an image in which information on user data X is arranged for each of multiple candidate users U. For example, the player name and character name indicated by the game data x2 of the user data X, the gaming facility indicated by the situation information x3, and the value of the interaction points x5 are displayed for each candidate user U.

In addition, a follow image F1 is displayed for candidate users U who are following user Ua among the multiple candidate users U. The follow image F1 is an image that indicates that the candidate user U is following user Ua. Specifically, the control device 11 displays the follow image F1 for candidate users U whose follow information x41 of the relationship information x4 includes the identification information x1 of user Ua among the multiple candidate users U. As can be understood from the above explanation, the relationship registration unit 31 presents to user Ua multiple candidate users U who were involved with user Ua in past regular games. Note that the follow image F1 may be displayed for candidate users U who are being followed by user Ua. User Ua can terminate the follow relationship with a candidate user U who is being followed by user Ua.

The user Ua can select one of the multiple candidate users U displayed in the candidate list L1 by operating the operation device 14. The selection of a candidate user U by the user Ua corresponds to an instruction from the user Ua to follow the candidate user U. When the selection of a candidate user U is accepted from the user Ua (Sa205), the control device 11 transmits a notification M23 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa206), as illustrated in FIG. 9. The notification M23 includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua and the identification information x1 of the candidate user U selected by the user Ua.

The relationship registration unit 31 of the control system 20 receives the notification M23 transmitted by the game device 10a through the communication device 23 (Sb204). Upon receiving the notification M23, the relationship registration unit 31 registers the relationship between the user Ua and the candidate user U (Sb205). Specifically, the relationship registration unit 31 searches the storage device 22 for user data X corresponding to the identification information x1 of the user Ua in the notification M23, and registers the identification information x1 of the candidate user U in the notification M23 in the follow information x41 of the user data X. In addition, the relationship registration unit 31 registers the identification information x1 of the user Ua in the follower information x42 of the user data X of the candidate user U. As can be understood from the above explanation, the relationship registration unit 31 registers the relationship between the user U selected by the user Ua from among the multiple users U and the user Ua. The above process is repeated for each of the multiple users U, and a friend relationship (one-way friend relationship or two-way friend relationship) is established between the multiple users U. That is, in the first embodiment, user Ua can build a friend relationship with a candidate user U who has participated in a past lottery game.

Figure 11 shows a specific example of the operation of the game system 1 when a user Ua participates in a lottery game of another user U by utilizing a friend relationship between the users U. The user Ua operates the operation device 14 to instruct the game device 10a to present other users U (hereinafter referred to as "registered users U") who have established a friend relationship with the user Ua. Upon receiving the instruction from the user Ua (Sa301), the control device 11 transmits a notification M31 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa302). The notification M31 is a message requesting the presentation of the registered user U, and includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua.

The participation processing unit 32 of the control system 20 receives the notification M31 sent by the game device 10a through the communication device 23 (Sb301). Upon receiving the notification M31, the participation processing unit 32 extracts a plurality of registered users U related to the user Ua (Sb302). Specifically, the participation processing unit 32 searches the storage device 22 for the user data X of the user Ua corresponding to the identification information x1 in the notification M31, and identifies a plurality of registered users U whose identification information x1 is registered in the relationship information x4 of the user data X. That is, a plurality of registered users U who have either a follow relationship or a follower relationship (one-way friend relationship) or both (two-way friend relationship) with the user Ua are identified. The participation processing unit 32 transmits a notification M32 indicating the plurality of registered users U from the communication device 23 to the requesting game device 10a (Sb303). The notification M32 includes the user data X of each of the plurality of registered users U.

The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the notification M32 sent by the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Sa303). The control device 11 causes the display device 15 to display an image (hereinafter referred to as the "friend list") L2 representing each user data X in the notification M32 (Sa304). As can be understood from the above explanation, the participation processing unit 32 of the control system 20 causes the display device 15 of the game device 10a to display the friend list L2 including multiple registered users U.

Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the friend list L2. As illustrated in Figure 12, the friend list L2 is an image in which information on user data X is arranged for each of a plurality of registered users U. In the first embodiment, the friend list L2 displays information on user data X for one or more registered users U who are currently playing the lottery game among the plurality of registered users U. For example, similar to the candidate list L1, the player name and character name indicated by the game data x2 of the user data X, the gaming facility indicated by the status information x3, and the numerical value of the exchange points x5 are displayed for each registered user U. Note that registered users U who have finished playing the lottery game may be deleted from the friend list L2.

In addition, a relationship image F2 is displayed for each registered user U. The relationship image F2 is an image that represents the relationship between the user Ua and each registered user U. Specifically, the relationship image F2 represents whether the relationship between the registered user U and the user Ua is a one-way friend relationship (a follow relationship or a follower relationship) or a two-way friend relationship. For example, the relationship image F2 of a registered user U with whom a one-way friend relationship has been established and the relationship image F2 of a registered user U with whom a two-way friend relationship has been established are displayed in different ways.

By operating the operation device 14, the user Ua can select one of the multiple registered users U displayed in the friend list L2. That is, the user Ua selects a registered user U who is currently playing the lottery game. Furthermore, by operating the operation device 14, the user Ua can instruct the selected registered user U to participate in the lottery game being played. Specifically, for a registered user U with whom a one-way friend relationship has been established, the user Ua can instruct the registered user U to participate in a regular game being played by that registered user U. That is, the control device 11 accepts an instruction from the user Ua to participate in a regular game for a registered user U who has a one-way friend relationship with the user Ua. The control device 11 does not accept an instruction to participate in a special game for a registered user U who has a one-way friend relationship with the user Ua.

On the other hand, for a registered user U with whom a two-way friend relationship has been established, user Ua can instruct the registered user U to participate in a normal game or a special game played by that registered user U. Specifically, user Ua operates the operation device 14 to select the lottery game in which user Ua wishes to participate, from the normal game and the special game. In other words, the control device 11 accepts an instruction from user Ua to participate in a normal game or a special game for registered user U with whom the registered user Ua has a two-way friend relationship. As can be understood from the above explanation, user Ua is prohibited from participating in a special game with registered users U with whom the registered user Ua has a one-way friend relationship, but is permitted to participate in a special game with registered users U with whom the registered user Ua has a two-way friend relationship.

When the control device 11 receives the selection of the registered user U and an instruction to participate in the lottery game from the user Ua (Sa305), the control device 11 transmits a notification M33 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Sa306), as illustrated in FIG. 11. The notification M33 includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua, the identification information x1 of the candidate user U selected by the user Ua, and information indicating the lottery game (normal game/special game) selected by the user Ua.

The participation processing unit 32 of the control system 20 receives the notification M33 sent by the game device 10a via the communication device 23 (Sb304). Upon receiving the notification M33, the participation processing unit 32 executes the participation process Q (Sb305). As described above, the participation process Q is a process for having the user Ua participate in the lottery game being played by the registered user U.

Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of the participation process Q. When the participation process Q is started, the control device 21 of the control system 20 determines whether the lottery game instructed by the user Ua to participate is a normal game (Sc101). That is, it is determined whether the normal game or the special game is specified in the notification M33. If the user Ua selects the normal game (Sc101: YES), the control device 21 executes the normal participation process Q1 (Sc102). On the other hand, if the user Ua selects the special game (Sc101: NO), the control device 21 executes the special participation process Q2 (Sc103). As can be understood from the above explanation, if the user Ua selects a registered user U who has a one-way friend relationship with the user Ua, the normal participation process Q1 is executed, and if the user Ua selects a registered user U who has a two-way friend relationship with the user Ua, the normal participation process Q1 or the special participation process Q2 is executed. In the following explanation, it is assumed that user Ua participates in a lottery game played by user Ub using game device 10a.

Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the normal participation process Q1. When the normal participation process Q1 starts, the status notification unit 33 of the control system 20 acquires status data representing the progress of the normal game from the game device 10b (Q101). Specifically, the status notification unit 33 inquires about the status of the normal game from the game device 10b, and receives the status data transmitted from the game device 10b via the communication device 23. The status notification unit 33 transmits the status data of the normal game from the communication device 23 to the game device 10a (Q102). The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the status data transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Sd101), and causes the display device 15 to display the progress represented by the status data (Sd102).

The status notification unit 33 of the control system 20 determines whether the normal game has ended by referring to the status data received from the game device 10b (Q103). If the normal game has not ended (Q103: NO), the status notification unit 33 transitions the process to step Q101. That is, the operation of notifying the game device 10a of the progress of the normal game (Q101-Q102) is repeated until the normal game ends. On the other hand, if the normal game has ended (Q103: YES), the participation processing unit 32 determines whether the user Ub has won the normal game (Q104).

As explained with reference to FIG. 4, the control device 11 of the game device 10b grants a reward to the user Ub who wins the normal game (S104). If the user Ub wins the normal game (Q104: YES), the participation processing unit 32 grants a reward to the user Ua who participated in the normal game (Q105). For example, a predetermined amount of game value is granted to the user Ua as a reward.

In the normal participation process Q1 (Sb105) illustrated in FIG. 8, a friend relationship (one-way friend relationship and two-way friend relationship) has not been established between user Ua and user Ub (selected user U). In addition, in the normal participation process Q1 (Sc102) illustrated in FIG. 13, a one-way friend relationship or two-way friend relationship has been established between user Ua and user Ub (registered user U). When a reward is awarded to user Ua due to user Ub winning the normal game (Q104: YES), the participation processing unit 32 determines whether a two-way friend relationship has been established between user Ua and user Ub (Q106).

When a two-way friend relationship has not been established between user Ua and user Ub (Q106: NO), this includes when a friend relationship has not been established between user Ua and user Ub, and when a one-way friend relationship has been established between user Ua and user Ub. When a two-way friend relationship has not been established (Q106: NO), the participation processing unit 32 determines whether a one-way friend relationship has been established between user Ua and user Ub (Q107).

If a one-way friend relationship has been established (Q107: YES), the participation processing unit 32 adds a predetermined value to the exchange points x5 of the user Ua, who is a participant of the normal game (Q108). On the other hand, if a friend relationship has not been established between the users Ua and Ub (S107: NO), the participation processing unit 32 does not grant the exchange points x5 to the user Ua (Q108).

If a two-way friend relationship has been established (Q106: YES), the participation processing unit 32 adds a predetermined value to both the exchange points x5 of the user Ub playing the normal game and the exchange points x5 of the participating user Ua (Q109). If the user Ub loses the normal game (Q104: NO), the granting of the game value and the exchange points x5 (Q105-Q109) is not executed. Even if the user Ub loses the normal game, the exchange points x5 may be granted to the user Ua (and user Ub). That is, as a privilege for participating in the normal game, the exchange points x5 may be granted to the user Ua (and user Ub) regardless of the result of the normal game by the user Ub. On the other hand, it is preferable that the granting of the game value to the user Ua is controlled depending on whether the user wins or loses the normal game.

As can be understood from the above examples, if a two-way friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub (Q106: YES), exchange points x5 are awarded to both user Ua and user Ub, whereas if a two-way friend relationship is not established (Q106: NO), exchange points x5 are awarded only to user Ua. Furthermore, if a friend relationship is not established between user Ua and user Ub (Q107: NO), exchange points x5 are not awarded to either user Ua or user Ub. In other words, if a friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub, user Ua is allowed to earn exchange points x5 on the condition that user Ub wins, whereas if a friend relationship is not established between user Ua and user Ub, user Ua is not allowed to earn exchange points x5. As can be understood from the above explanation, the actions permitted for a user Ua who is not registered as a friend with user Ub in the normal game are restricted compared to the actions permitted for a user Ua who is registered as a friend with user Ub in the normal game. On the other hand, if user Ub wins in the normal game, the reward (game value) is given to both user Ua and user Ub, regardless of the presence or absence and the nature of the friend relationship between user Ua and user Ub (one-way friend relationship/two-way friend relationship).

The status notification unit 33 transmits status data representing the result of the normal game to the game device 10a (Q11). The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the status data transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Sd103), and causes the display device 15 to display the result of the normal game represented by the status data (Sd104). The specific steps of the normal participation process Q1 are as described above.

Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the special participation process Q2. When user Ua selects user Ub, who has a two-way friend relationship, from friend list L2 (Figure 11: Sa305), the user Ua can specify the desired amount of use by operating the operation device 14 to instruct the game device 10a to use the gaming value. The use of gaming value means that user Ua consumes gaming value (i.e., bets) in exchange for participating in the special game played by user Ub and obtaining a reward if user Ub wins.

The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives an instruction to use gaming value from the user Ua (Se101). Specifically, the control device 11 subtracts the amount used from the quantity of gaming value held by the user Ua. The control device 11 transmits a notification M41 from the communication device 13 to the control system 20 (Se102). The notification M41 is a message indicating that the user Ua will use gaming value for the special game of the user Ub, and includes the identification information x1 of the user Ua and the amount of gaming value used.

The participation processing unit 32 of the control system 20 executes the reception process R1 (Q201). The reception process R1 is a process for receiving, from the user Ua, the use of the game value in the special game played by the user Ub. Specifically, the reception process R1 is a process in which the participation processing unit 32 receives, via the communication device 23, a notification M41 including the amount of game value used.

The status notification unit 33 of the control system 20 acquires status data representing the progress of the special game from the game device 10b (Q202). Specifically, the status notification unit 33 inquires about the status of the special game from the game device 10b, and receives the status data transmitted from the game device 10b via the communication device 23. The status notification unit 33 transmits the status data of the special game from the communication device 23 to the game device 10a (Q203). The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the status data transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Se103), and causes the display device 15 to display the progress represented by the status data (Se104).

The control device 11 of the game device 10a determines whether the special game has ended by referring to the status data received from the control system 20 (Se105). If the special game has not ended (Se105: NO), the control device 11 transitions the process to step Se101. That is, until the special game played by user Ub ends, the process of accepting instructions from user Ua to use game value (including instructions on the amount of use) (Se101, Se102) and displaying the status of the special game (Se103, Se104) is repeated. That is, user Ua can adjust (e.g. increase) the amount of game value used in the special game while checking the status of the special game at any time on the display device 15.

The status notification unit 33 of the control system 20 determines whether the special game has ended by referring to the status data received from the game device 10b (Q204). If the special game has not ended (Q204: NO), the status notification unit 33 transitions the process to step Q201. That is, until the special game ends, the acceptance of participation by user Ua (Q201) and the operation of notifying the game device 10a of the progress of the special game (Q202-Q203) are repeated. On the other hand, if the special game has ended (Q204: YES), the participation processing unit 32 determines whether user Ub has won the special game (Q205).

If user Ub wins the special game (Q205: YES), the participation processing unit 32 executes the granting process R2 (Q206). The granting process R2 is a process for granting a reward to user Ua due to user Ub's win in the special game. The participation processing unit 32 in the first embodiment grants a game value to user Ua as a reward in an amount corresponding to the amount of use specified by user Ua (hereinafter referred to as the "reward amount"). For example, the amount of reward is calculated by multiplying the amount of use by a predetermined coefficient. In addition, in the granting process R2, the participation processing unit 32 grants exchange points x5 to both user Ua and user Ub. Specifically, a predetermined value is added to the exchange points x5 of each of user Ua and user Ub. On the other hand, if user Ub loses the special game (Q205: NO), the participation processing unit 32 does not execute the granting process R2.

Specifically, in the awarding process R2, the participation processing unit 32 transmits a notification M42 indicating the reward amount of the game value from the communication device 23 to the game device 10a. After the special game ends (Se105: YES), the control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the notification M42 transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Se106). The control device 11 adds the reward amount indicated in the notification M42 to the amount of game value held by the user Ua (Se107). In other words, the game value that the user Ua can use for the lottery game is increased.

When the awarding process R2 is executed, or when user Ub loses the special game (Q205: NO), the status notification unit 33 transmits status data indicating the result of the special game (win/lose) to the game device 10a (Q207). The control device 11 of the game device 10a receives the status data transmitted from the control system 20 via the communication device 13 (Se108), and causes the display device 15 to display the special game result indicated by the status data (Se109). The specific steps of the special participation process Q2 are as described above.

As described above, in the first embodiment, a user Ua who has a registered relationship (two-way friend relationship) with a user Ub can participate in a special game played by the user Ub. Specifically, the user Ua participates in a special game by using game value and earns a reward according to the outcome of the special game played by the user Ub. Therefore, the user Ua can easily share the experience of the special game with the user Ub who has a registered relationship with the user Ua.

In addition, in the first embodiment, user Ua can participate in a special game while checking the status of the special game played by user Ub. Therefore, user Ua can participate in the special game while checking the status of the special game played by user Ub. For example, user Ua can determine the amount of game value to be used (bet amount) while checking the status of the game played by user Ub.

As illustrated in the first embodiment, a user Ua who has a two-way friend relationship with a user Ub is allowed to participate in a special game played by the user Ub. On the other hand, a user Uc (third user) who does not have a two-way friend relationship with the user Ub is not allowed to participate in a special game played by the user Ub. As can be understood from the above explanation, the actions allowed for the user Uc in the lottery game in relation to the user Ub are restricted compared to the actions allowed for the user Ua in the lottery game in relation to the user Ub. The user Ua is a user U whose relationship with the user Ub (specifically, a two-way friend relationship) is registered, and the user Uc is a user U whose relationship with the user Ub is not registered. According to the above configuration, the restriction on the actions allowed in the lottery game is relaxed by registering the relationship with the user Ub. Therefore, the registration of the relationship between the users U is promoted.

[Second embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that, in each of the following exemplary embodiments, for elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be used and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

In the first embodiment, an example was given of a form in which user Ua participates in a special game that user Ub is currently playing. However, it is entirely conceivable that user Ub may not play the special game during the period in which user Ua is playing the lottery game. Taking the above into consideration, in the second embodiment, user Ua can reserve participation in a special game that user Ub will play in the future. In other words, even if user Ub does not play the special game during the period in which user Ua is playing the lottery game, user Ua can use the play value for user Ub's special game and earn a reward according to the result of the special game.

When user Ua selects the desired registered user U from the friend list L2 (Sa305) and specifies the amount of game value to be used in the special game (Se101), the participation processing unit 32 of the second embodiment executes the reception process R1 (Q201). User Ua's selection of registered user U and specification of the amount of game value to be used correspond to a reservation instruction for participation in the special game. When the reservation instruction is given, user Ua can finish the lottery game without waiting to participate in the special game.

In the reception process R1 of the second embodiment, the participation processing unit 32 stores reservation data D representing a reservation participation by user Ua in the storage device 22. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the reservation data D includes identification information x1 of user Ua, identification information x1 of user Ub selected by user Ua to participate in the special game, and the amount of game value used Zb. After the reservation data D is stored, the special game played by user Ub starts. Then, when the special game ends, the participation processing unit 32 adds data representing the result of the special game to the reservation data D, as illustrated by the dashed line in FIG. 16. Furthermore, if user Ub wins in the special game, the participation processing unit 32 also adds the reward amount Zp of the game value to be given to user Ua as a reward to the reservation data D.

At any time after the special game ends (e.g., at a later date), the user Ua starts the lottery game. For example, the lottery game starts when the user Ua logs in to the game system 1. When the participation processing unit 32 of the control system 20 detects the start of the lottery game by the user Ua, the participation processing unit 32 executes the granting process R2. In the granting process R2 of the second embodiment, the participation processing unit 32 transmits a notification M42 indicating the reward amount Zp added to the reservation data D to the game device 10a (Q206). As in the first embodiment, the control device 11 of the game device 10a adds the reward amount Zp indicated by the notification M42 to the amount of play value held by the user Ua (Se107). In addition, the status notification unit 33 transmits status data indicating the result of the special game added to the reservation data D to the game device 10a (Q207). The control device 11 of the game device 10a causes the display device 15 to display the result of the special game indicated by the status data (Se108, Se109).

As can be understood from the above explanation, in the second embodiment, when a reservation participation instruction is received from user Ua, the participation processing unit 32 executes the reception process R1 and then executes the awarding process R2 when user Ua starts using the game system 1. That is, the awarding process R2 is executed after user Ua starts using the game system 1 (e.g., logs in). Therefore, user Ua does not need to be using the game system 1 during the period in which user Ub's special game progresses. For example, user Ua can return home after receiving a reservation participation instruction and obtain a reward according to the result of the special game after resuming use of the game system 1, for example, the next day or later. Furthermore, the second embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment.

[Third embodiment]
In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a situation (hereinafter referred to as "situation A") in which the user Ua and the user Ub use the game devices 10 (10a, 10b) in different gaming facilities is assumed, but the relationship between the user Ua and the user Ub and the game devices 10 is not limited to the above examples. For example, a situation (hereinafter referred to as "situation B") in which the user Ua and the user Ub use different game devices 10 in one gaming facility, or a situation (hereinafter referred to as "situation C") in which the user Ua and the user Ub use one game device 10 is also assumed. Situation B can be rephrased as a situation in which the game device 10a and the game device 10b are installed in one gaming facility. Moreover, situation C can be rephrased as a situation in which the game device 10a used by the user Ua and the game device 10b used by the user Ub constitute a single device. The participation processing unit 32 can recognize which of situations A to C the situation of the user Ua and the user Ub corresponds to by referring to the situation information x3 of each user data X.

The participation processing unit 32 of the third embodiment changes the mode of the participation process Q depending on which of the above-mentioned situations A to C the user Ua and user Ub are in. Specifically, the participation processing unit 32 makes the maximum amount of game value that the user Ua can use for the special game played by the user Ub (hereinafter referred to as the "maximum usage amount") different depending on the situation of the user Ua and user Ub. For example, the participation processing unit 32 notifies the game device 10 of the maximum usage amount according to the situation of the user Ua and user Ub. The control device 11 of the game device 10 limits the usage amount Zb received from the user Ua and user Ub to a range below the maximum usage amount notified by the participation processing unit 32. For example, the maximum usage amount is set individually for each situation so that the maximum usage amount in situation C exceeds the maximum usage amount in situation B and the maximum usage amount in situation B exceeds the maximum usage amount in situation A. That is, with regard to participation in the special game, situation C is treated more favorably than situation B, and situation B is treated more favorably than situation A. Therefore, rather than users Ua and Ub visiting different gaming facilities (situation A), users Ua and Ub are encouraged to visit the same gaming facility together (situation B or C). Also, rather than users Ua and Ub using different gaming devices 10 (situation B), users Ua and Ub are encouraged to play together on the same gaming device 10 (situation C).

The third embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, the third embodiment has the advantage that the mode of the participation process Q is diversified according to the relationship between the user Ua and the user Ub and the game system 1 (the positional relationship between the user Ua and the user Ub).

[Fourth embodiment]
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a game image G1 used in a normal game in the fourth embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the game image G1 in the fourth embodiment is an image in which a plurality of lottery numbers N selected by the lottery device 16 are arranged in a plane. The plurality of lottery numbers N are divided into a first group N1 and a second group N2. The plurality of lottery numbers N constituting the first group N1 are arranged in a circular ring shape. On the other hand, the plurality of lottery numbers N constituting the second group N2 are arranged in a circular ring shape within an area surrounded by the first group N1. The control device 11 moves the plurality of lottery numbers N of the second group N2 in a circumferential direction in response to an instruction from the user U to the operation device 14. On the other hand, the position of each lottery number N of the first group N1 is fixed. However, a configuration in which the plurality of lottery numbers N of the first group N1 move in a circumferential direction is also assumed.

Each of the multiple lottery numbers N is adjacent to two or more other lottery numbers N. For example, each lottery number N of the second group N2 is adjacent to two lottery numbers N of the second group N2 located on both sides of the second group N2 in the circumferential direction and one lottery number N of the first group N1. In addition, a specific lottery number N (specifically, "1" to "5") in the first group N1 is adjacent to two lottery numbers N of the first group N1 located on both sides of the first group N1 in the circumferential direction, and the remaining lottery numbers N of the first group N1 (specifically, "6" to "15") are adjacent to one lottery number N of the first group N1 and one lottery number N of the second group N2.

Each of the multiple lottery numbers N is set to either a valid state or an invalid state. A valid lottery number N and an invalid lottery number N are displayed in different ways. In the initial stage immediately after the start of the normal game, as illustrated in FIG. 17, certain lottery numbers N (specifically, "1" to "5") among the multiple lottery numbers N are set to a valid state, and the remaining lottery numbers N (specifically, "6" to "25") are set to an invalid state.

In a normal game, the lottery device 16 repeats a lottery operation for randomly selecting one of a number of lottery numbers N (hereinafter referred to as "selected number N") a predetermined number of times. If the selected number N is in an invalid state, the control device 11 transitions the selected number N from the invalid state to a valid state. For example, if the lottery number N "7" which is in an invalid state as in state 1 of Figure 18 is selected by lottery, the lottery number N "7" transitions from the invalid state to the valid state as in state 2.

In addition, when the selected number N is already in a valid state, the control device 11 sets one or more lottery numbers N adjacent to the selected number N to a valid state. For example, as in state 2 of FIG. 18, when the lottery number N "1" that is already in a valid state is selected by lottery, the lottery number N "6" adjacent to the lottery number N "1" transitions from an invalid state to a valid state as in state 3. In addition, when the lottery number N adjacent to the selected number N in a valid state is already in a valid state, the control device 11 also sets the other lottery numbers N adjacent to the lottery number N to a valid state. For example, as in state 2 of FIG. 18, when the lottery number N "7" adjacent to the lottery number N "1" in a valid state is already in a valid state, the other lottery number N "17" adjacent to the lottery number N "7" also transitions from an invalid state to a valid state. As described above, when the lottery number N adjacent to the selected number N is already in a valid state, the other lottery numbers N adjacent to the lottery number N are also set to a valid state in a chain reaction.

The control device 11 counts the number of lottery numbers N that are in a valid state when the physical lottery by the lottery device 16 has been repeated a predetermined number of times, and grants a reward to the user U according to the number. For example, an amount according to the number of lottery numbers N in a valid state is added to the amount of gaming value held by the user U.

The fourth embodiment also achieves the same effect as the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, there is a possibility that multiple lottery numbers N may transition to a valid state in a chain reaction. In other words, the result of a single physical lottery may cause a large number of lottery numbers N to transition to a valid state all at once. Therefore, a highly entertaining regular game can be provided to the user U.

[Modification]
Each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments may be modified in various ways. Specific modified embodiments that may be applied to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are exemplified below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be combined to the extent that they are not mutually contradictory.

(1) The method for establishing a friend relationship between users U is not limited to the above-mentioned exemplary forms. For example, when user Ub approves a request from user Ua, the control device 21 of the control system 20 may register a friend relationship (e.g., a two-way friend relationship) between user Ua and user Ub.

Also, for example, a friend relationship between user Ua and user Ub may be registered using an authentication code consisting of numbers or letters. Specifically, game device 10a presents the authentication code to user Ua by displaying it on display device 15. User Ua notifies user Ub, who is, for example, an acquaintance of user Ua, of the authentication code presented by game device 10a. Any method, such as e-mail or SMS (Short Message Service), may be used to notify user Ub of the authentication code. User Ub inputs the authentication code notified by user Ua into game device 10b. If the authentication code presented to user Ua matches the authentication code input by user Ub, control device 21 of control system 20 registers the friend relationship between user Ua and user Ub.

The total number of users U with whom each user U can establish a friend relationship may be limited to a range below a predetermined value. It is also possible to envision a form in which friend relationships between users U can be dissolved in response to an instruction from each user U. It is also preferable to have a lock function that does not accept an instruction to dissolve a friend relationship between users U, which can be set for each friend relationship between users U.

(2) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the establishment of a two-way friend relationship between user Ua and user Ub is exemplified as a condition for user Ua to participate in a special game played by user Ub. However, the relationship required between user Ua and user Ub for user Ua to participate in user Ub's special game is not limited to a two-way friend relationship. For example, user Ua's participation in user Ub's special game may be permitted on the condition that a one-way friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub. In other words, the condition for user Ua's participation is a relationship in which user Ua follows user Ub, or a relationship in which user Ua is followed by user Ub.

(3) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a user U who played a regular game in which user Ua participated was registered as a candidate user U, but the conditions for a candidate user U are not limited to the above examples. For example, another user U who participated in a regular game played by user Ua may be registered as a candidate user U. In other words, a user U who was involved with user Ua in a past game (e.g., a regular game) is selected as a candidate user U who is a candidate for establishing a friend relationship with user Ua. However, prior involvement with user Ua is not a necessary condition for a candidate user U. In other words, any user U who has not been involved with user Ua in the past may be selected as a candidate user U.

(4) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, when user Ub wins a special game, a reward amount of gaming value according to the amount of usage specified by user Ua is granted to user Ua. However, the amount of reward granted to user Ua according to the result of user Ub's special game is not limited to the above examples. For example, user Ua may be granted a reward amount of gaming value according to the amount of gaming value acquired by user Ub by winning the special game. For example, a form is envisioned in which the amount of reward granted to user Ua increases as the amount of gaming value acquired by user Ub by winning the special game increases.

(5) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a gaming value is awarded as a reward to user Ua who participates in user Ub's special game, but the type of reward awarded to user Ua is not limited to the above examples. For example, user Ub may be awarded a type of gaming value different from the gaming value used (bet) by user Ub in the special game, an object such as an item or character that can be used in a lottery game, or the right to play a specified game as a reward for participating in the special game.

(6) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a user Ua who has a two-way friend relationship with a user Ub is allowed to participate in a special game played by the user Ub, but the operation of the user Ua, the permission of which is controlled depending on the presence or absence of a relationship with the user Ub, is not limited to participation in a special game. For example, a form is assumed in which the exchange of messages between the user Ua and the user Ub is permitted on the condition that a specific relationship (e.g., a one-way friend relationship or a two-way friend relationship) is established between the user Ua and the user Ub. Also, a form is assumed in which a ranking among multiple users U including the user Ua and the user Ub is displayed on the display device 15 of each game device 10 on the condition that a specific relationship is established between the user Ua and the user Ub. The control device 21 of the control system 20 may calculate the total value of the amount of game value acquired in a group including the user Ua and the user Ub, and display the ranking on each display device 15 by comparing the total value with other groups.

The degree of action permitted for each user U may be controlled in stages according to the relationship between the users U. A preferable embodiment is one in which the upper limit (maximum usage) of the amount of game value permitted for user Ua in a special game played by user Ub changes according to the relationship between user Ua and user Ub. For example, the control device 21 controls the maximum usage amount according to the relationship between user Ua and user Ub, so that the maximum usage amount when a two-way friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub exceeds the maximum usage amount when a one-way friend relationship is established between the two users. Also, for example, a form in which the types or number of characters of messages that can be exchanged between user Ua and user Ub are increased when a two-way friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub, compared to when a one-way friend relationship is established, is also envisioned.

(7) The information displayed in the friend list L2 is not limited to the information exemplified in FIG. 12. For example, the friend list L2 may display whether or not each registered user U is playing a game. In addition, in a situation where a registered user U uses a game device 10 that allows the user to selectively play one of multiple game modes, the game mode selected by the registered user U may be displayed in the friend list L2. Note that a form in which a user U participating in a lottery game can select which of multiple game modes to participate in is also envisioned.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, an example is given in which user Ua and user Ub play the same type of lottery game, but the above embodiments are also applicable when user Ua and user Ub play different types of games. In other words, the game provided by game device 10a and the game provided by game device 10b may be different types of games. In the above embodiments, the type of game currently being played by each registered user U may be displayed in friend list L2.

(9) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a configuration was exemplified in which the amount of game value used was a variable value according to instructions from user Ua, but the quantity (amount used) of game value used by user Ua in user Ub's special game may be a fixed value that does not depend on instructions from user Ua. Similarly, the amount of reward granted to user Ua may be a fixed value that does not depend on the outcome of the special game. Similarly, for the regular game played by user Ub, both a form in which user Ua can specify the amount of game value used and a form in which the amount of game value used is a fixed value may be adopted. Therefore, the amount of game value granted to user Ua (Q105) when user Ub wins the regular game may be either a variable value or a fixed value.

(10) In each of the above embodiments, a form in which user Ua participates in a special game played by user Ub has been exemplified, but the type of lottery game in which user Ub participates is not limited to special games. For example, a form in which user Ua can participate in games other than normal games and special games is also envisioned. As can be understood from the above examples, a form in which any user Ua can participate in games other than the special game played by user Ub, regardless of whether or not they have a friend relationship with user Ub, can participate in the special game, while a form in which only users Ua who have a registered friend relationship (one-way friend relationship or two-way friend relationship) with user Ub can participate in the special game is preferable. Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, a lottery game has been exemplified, but the type of game in the present invention is not limited to the above examples.

(11) In each of the above-mentioned forms of the normal game, if a friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub, exchange points x5 are awarded to one or both of user Ua and user Ub, and if a friend relationship is not established, exchange points x5 are not awarded to user Ua and user Ub. The configuration of differentiating the reward for user U depending on whether or not a friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub is not limited to the above examples. For example, the amount of game value awarded to user Ua (Q105) when user Ub wins the normal game may be different depending on whether or not a friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub. For example, a form is envisioned in which the amount of game value awarded to user Ua when a friend relationship is established between user Ua and user Ub exceeds the amount of game value awarded to user Ua when a friend relationship is not established.

(12) In each of the above embodiments, the game device 10a and the game device 10b are configured as separate entities, but the game device 10a and the game device 10b may be configured as an integrated unit. For example, a game unit having a lottery unit equipped with a lottery device 16 and multiple stations used by different users U is assumed. One of the multiple stations corresponds to the game device 10a, and the other station corresponds to the game device 10b. Situation C in the third embodiment can also be expressed as a situation in which one of the multiple stations of the game unit (game device 10a) is used by user Ua, and the other station (game device 10b) is used by user Ub.

(13) In each of the above embodiments, the user Ua indicates the amount of game value to be used in the special game, but a form in which user Ua participating in user Ub's special game can select one of multiple options is also envisioned. For example, user Ua may select one of multiple amounts of game value to be used. In the reception process R1, the participation processing unit 32 accepts the selection of the amount to be used by user Ub as an instruction to use game value. If user Ub wins in the special game, user Ua is granted a reward amount of game value corresponding to the amount selected by user Ua.

In addition, in a form in which user Ub wins one of a plurality of lottery prizes in a special game, a form is also assumed in which user Ua participating in the special game can select one of a plurality of lottery prizes. The participation processing unit 32 may vary the amount of reward given to user Ua depending on the difference between the lottery prize won by user Ub and the lottery prize selected by user Ua. As can be understood from the above example, a form in which user Ua participating in a special game selects one of a plurality of options and user Ua is given a reward depending on the result of the special game played by user Ub is preferable. For example, if user Ua and user Ub select a common lottery prize, user Ua will also be given a reward if user Ub wins in the special game. In addition, if user Ua and user Ub select different lottery prizes, a situation may occur in which one of user Ua and user Ub wins but the other loses. For example, it is conceivable that user Ua may be awarded a reward due to winning, while user Ub may not be awarded a reward due to losing, or that user Ub may be awarded a reward due to winning, while user Ua may not be awarded a reward due to losing.

(14) In each of the above embodiments, a game system 1 having a control system 20 separate from the multiple game devices 10 has been exemplified, but it is also possible to envision a form in which the functions of the control system 20 exemplified in each of the above embodiments are installed in one of the multiple game devices 10, or a form in which the functions are installed in a distributed manner in the multiple game devices 10. In other words, a control system 20 configured separately from the multiple game devices 10 is not essential. In addition, some of the functions of the control system 20 may be installed in one or more game devices 10.

(15) The functions of the control system 20 according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are realized by the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 21 and the program stored in the storage device 22. The programs according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be provided in a form stored in a computer-readable recording medium and installed in the computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and a good example is an optical recording medium (optical disk) such as a CD-ROM, but also includes any known type of recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. Note that a non-transitory recording medium includes any recording medium except for a transient, propagating signal, and does not exclude volatile recording media. In addition, in a configuration in which a distribution device distributes a program via the communication network 2, the recording medium that stores the program in the distribution device corresponds to the non-transitory recording medium described above.

[Additional Notes]
From the above description, for example, preferred embodiments of the present invention can be understood as follows. In order to facilitate understanding of each embodiment, reference numerals in the drawings are written in parentheses for convenience, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments.

[Appendix 1]
A game system (1) according to one aspect (Supplementary Note 1) of the present invention includes a relationship registration unit (31) that registers relationships between multiple users (U), a reception process (R1) that receives the use of play value in a game played by a first user (Ub) among the multiple users (U) from a second user (Ua) whose relationship with the first user (Ub) is registered, and a participation process (32) that executes a participation process including a granting process (R2) that grants a reward to the second user (Ua) according to the result of the game played by the first user (Ub). According to the above aspect, the second user (Ua) whose relationship with the first user (Ub) is registered can participate in the game played by the first user (Ub). Specifically, the second user (Ua) participates in a game by using play value and acquires a reward according to the result of the game played by the first user (Ub). Therefore, a second user (Ua) can easily share game experiences with a first user (Ub) whose relationship with the second user (Ua) is registered.

A "relationship" between multiple users (U) is, for example, a relationship established by a one-way request from one user A to the other (one-way friend relationship), or a relationship established by a two-way request between user A and user B (two-way friend relationship). Examples of one-way friend relationships include a follow relationship or a follower relationship.

The type of "game" is arbitrary. For example, a lottery game in which a lottery process (e.g., physical lottery or electronic lottery) is executed to determine whether a user (U) wins or loses is an example of a "game". However, the present invention can be applied to any game, such as a competitive game in which a first user (Ub) competes against other users, a competitive game in which a first user (Ub) competes against other users (U) in sports or board games, a music game in which a first user (Ub) moves in time with music, an action game in which a first user (Ub) achieves various objectives by controlling a character, and a search game in which a first user (Ub) explores various places by controlling a character.

"Game value" is tangible or intangible value used as payment for playing a game. Tangible game value is, for example, physical medals (token coins), currency (coins) or tickets. Intangible game value is, for example, electronic medals, electronic currency (electronic money), credits or points.

"Using" gaming value means consuming gaming value as payment for playing a game or as payment to obtain a reward. The act of using gaming value as payment to obtain a reward is also referred to as "betting."

The "reward" is a value given to the second user (Ua) as compensation for participating in the game. The type of "reward" is arbitrary, but an example of a "reward" is the same type of play value as the play value used by the user (U). However, the type of play value used by the second user (Ua) to participate in the game may differ from the type of reward given to the second user (Ua). For example, a virtual object (e.g., an item or character) that the user (U) can use in the game, or points that can be used in the game, may be given to the second user (Ua) as a "reward". In addition, the right to play a specific game, or a tangible object such as an item related to the game may be given to the second user (Ua) as a "reward".

"Granting the second user (Ua) a reward according to the outcome of the game" means that the presence or absence or amount of a reward for the second user (Ua) changes depending on the outcome of the game. For example, a reward may be granted to the second user (Ua) if the first user (Ub) wins the lottery game, and no reward may be granted to the second user (Ua) if the first user (Ub) loses the lottery game. The amount of reward granted to the second user (Ua) may change depending on the amount of gaming value used by the second user (Ua), or may be a fixed amount.

[Appendix 2]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note 2) of Supplementary Note 1, the actions permitted for the third user (U) among the multiple users (U) who has not registered a relationship with the first user (Ub) in the game in relation to the first user (Ub) are restricted compared to the actions permitted for the second user (Ua) in the game in relation to the first user (Ub). According to the above aspect, the restrictions on the actions permitted for each user (U) are relaxed by registering the relationships between the users (U). Therefore, the registration of relationships between the users (U) is promoted.

"The actions permitted for a third user (U) who has not registered a relationship with a first user (Ub) in relation to the first user (Ub) in relation to a game are restricted compared to the actions permitted for a second user (Ua) in relation to the first user (Ub)" includes, for example, [Aspect 1] actions that are not permitted for the third user (U) are permitted for the second user (Ua), or [Aspect 2] specific actions are permitted for both the second user (Ua) and the third user (U), but the third user (U) is restricted in terms of the manner or extent of the actions compared to the second user (Ua). Specific examples of Aspect 1 include, for example, a form in which participation in a game played by the first user (Ub) is permitted for the second user (Ua) but not permitted for the third user (U), or a form in which dialogue (exchange of messages) between the first user (Ub) and the second user (Ua) but not permitted for the third user (U). As a specific example of aspect 2, a form is envisaged in which the amount of game value available to a third user (U) in a game played by a first user (Ub) is limited to a range below a predetermined value, while a second user (Ua) can use an amount of game value that exceeds the predetermined value.

[Appendix 3]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note 3) of Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2, the relationship registration unit (31) presents, to one of the multiple users (U), two or more users (U) who were involved with the one user (U) in a past game, and registers a relationship between the one user (U) and a user (U) selected by the one user (U) from among the two or more users (U). According to the above aspect, each user (U) can register a relationship between the user (U) and the user (U) who was involved in the past game.

[Appendix 4]
The game system (1) according to any one of the specific examples (Supplementary Note 4) of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 3 includes a status notification unit (33) that notifies the second user (Ua) of the progress status of the game played by the first user (Ub). According to the above aspect, the second user (Ua) can participate in the game played by the first user (Ub) while checking the status of the game. For example, the second user (Ua) can determine the amount of game value to be used (amount of bet) while checking the status of the game played by the first user (Ub).

[Appendix 5]
In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note 5) of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 4, when the second user (Ua) instructs to participate in a reservation, the participation processing unit (32) executes the awarding process (R2) when the second user (Ua) starts using the game system (1) after executing the reception process (R1). According to the above aspect, the awarding process (R2) is executed after the second user (Ua) starts using the game system (1) (e.g., logs in). Therefore, it is not necessary for the second user (Ua) to use the game system (1) during the period in which the game of the first user (Ub) progresses. For example, the second user (Ua) can return home after receiving the instruction to participate in a reservation, and can obtain a reward according to the result of the game after resuming use of the game system (1) on or after the next day.

[Appendix 6]
In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note 6) of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5, the participation processing unit (32) changes the mode of the participation processing depending on whether the first user (Ub) and the second user (Ua) use one game device (10), different game devices (10) in one facility, or game devices (10) in different facilities. According to the above mode, the mode of the participation processing can be diversified depending on the relative positions of the game devices (10) used by the first user (Ub) and the second user (Ua).

"Aspects of participation processing" are conditions or methods related to the participation processing. Examples of conditions related to the participation processing include the maximum amount of gaming value that the second user (Ua) can use (i.e., the maximum number of bets), or the range or conditions of the amount of reward granted to the second user (Ua) (e.g., the relationship with the amount of gaming value used). Examples of methods related to the participation processing include visual or auditory presentation methods related to the participation processing.

[Appendix 7]
A game control method according to one aspect (Appendix 7) of the present invention executes a participation process including a reception process (R1) for registering relationships between a plurality of users (U) and receiving, from a second user (Ua) whose relationship with the first user (Ub) is registered, the use of gaming value in a game played by a first user (Ub) among the plurality of users (U), and a granting process (R2) for granting a reward to the second user (Ua) depending on the result of the game played by the first user (Ub).

[Appendix 8]
A program relating to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix 8) causes a computer system to function as a relationship registration unit (31) that registers relationships between multiple users (U), and a participation processing unit (32) that executes participation processing including a reception process (R1) that accepts the use of gaming value in a game played by a first user (Ub) among the multiple users (U) from a second user (Ua) whose relationship with the first user (Ub) is registered, and an award process (R2) that awards a reward to the second user (Ua) depending on the result of the game played by the first user (Ub).

1...game system, 2...communication network, 10 (10a, 10b)...game device, 11...control device, 12...storage device, 13...communication device, 14...operation device, 15...display device, 16...lottery device, 17...reception device, 20...control system, 21...control device, 22...storage device, 23...communication device, 31...relationship registration unit, 32...participation processing unit, 33...status notification unit.

Claims (14)

a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users;
a participation processing unit that executes a participation process including a reception process that receives from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user a selection of a first user from the plurality of users and the use of gaming value in a game played by the first user, and a granting process that grants a reward to the second user according to the result of the game played by the first user and the amount of gaming value accepted for use from the second user in the reception process. The game system of claim 1, wherein the actions permitted for a third user among the plurality of users who has not registered a relationship with the first user in relation to the first user are restricted compared to the actions permitted for the second user in relation to the first user in relation to the game. a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users;
a participation processing unit that executes a participation process including an acceptance process for accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who is registered as having a relationship with the first user and who participates in the game, and an award process for awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user;
the games include a first game and a second game;
In the joining process,
Among the plurality of users, a user who has a two-way friend relationship with the first user is permitted to participate in the first game and the second game played by the first user;
A game system in which a user among the plurality of users who has a one-way friend relationship with the first user is permitted to participate in the first game played by the first user, but is not permitted to participate in the second game. a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users;
a participation processing unit that executes a participation process including an acceptance process for accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, and an award process for awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user;
In the granting process,
When a two-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, exchange points are given to the first user and the second user,
When a one-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, the interaction points are granted to the first user,
A game system in which, if a friend relationship is not established between the first user and the second user, the interaction points are not given to either the first user or the second user. The relationship registration unit is
presenting, to one of the plurality of users, two or more users who have been involved with the one user in a past game;
5. The game system according to claim 1, further comprising: registering a relationship between said one user and a user selected by said one user among said two or more users. 6. The game system according to claim 1, further comprising: a status notification unit that notifies the second user of a progress status of the game being played by the first user. A game system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the second user instructs participation in a reservation, the participation processing unit executes the granting process after the reception process is executed and when the second user starts using the game system. A game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the participation processing unit changes the mode of the participation processing depending on whether the first user and the second user are using a single game device, are using different game devices in a single facility, or are using game devices in different facilities. Registering relationships between multiple users;
A game control method implemented by a computer system that executes a participation process including: an acceptance process that accepts, from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, a selection of a first user from the plurality of users and the use of gaming value in a game played by the first user; and an award process that awards a reward to the second user according to the result of the game played by the first user and the amount of gaming value accepted for use from the second user in the acceptance process. Registering relationships between multiple users;
A game control method implemented by a computer system that executes a participation process including: an acceptance process for accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who is registered as having a relationship with the first user and who participates in the game; and an award process for awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user,
the games include a first game and a second game;
In the joining process,
Among the plurality of users, a user who has a two-way friend relationship with the first user is permitted to participate in the first game and the second game played by the first user;
A game control method in which a user among the plurality of users who has a one-way friend relationship with the first user is permitted to participate in the first game played by the first user, but is not permitted to participate in the second game. Registering relationships between multiple users;
A game control method implemented by a computer system that executes a participation process including: an acceptance process for accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user; and an award process for awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user,
In the granting process,
When a two-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, exchange points are given to the first user and the second user,
When a one-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, the interaction points are granted to the first user,
A game control method, in which if a friend relationship is not established between the first user and the second user, the interaction points are not awarded to either the first user or the second user. a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users; and
A program that causes a computer system to function as a participation processing unit that executes participation processing including: a reception process that receives, from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, a selection of a first user from the plurality of users and the use of gaming value in a game played by the first user; and a granting process that grants a reward to the second user according to the result of the game played by the first user and the amount of gaming value accepted for use from the second user in the reception process. a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users; and
a participation processing unit that executes participation processing including an acceptance process for accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who is registered as having a relationship with the first user and who participates in the game, and an award process for awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user,
the games include a first game and a second game;
In the joining process,
Among the plurality of users, a user who has a two-way friend relationship with the first user is permitted to participate in the first game and the second game played by the first user;
A program for permitting a user among the plurality of users who has a one-way friend relationship with the first user to participate in the first game played by the first user, but not to participate in the second game. a relationship registration unit for registering relationships between a plurality of users; and
a participation processing unit that executes participation processing including an acceptance process of accepting use of a gaming value in a game played by a first user among the plurality of users from a second user who has a registered relationship with the first user, and an award process of awarding a reward to the second user according to a result of the game played by the first user,
In the granting process,
When a two-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, exchange points are given to the first user and the second user,
When a one-way friend relationship is established between the first user and the second user, the interaction points are granted to the first user,
A program in which, if a friend relationship is not established between the first user and the second user, the exchange points are not given to either the first user or the second user.

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