JP7739701B2 - Program, information processing device and system - Google Patents

Description

Application of Article 30, Paragraph 2 of the Patent Act. Publication by sale, latest date: May 11, 2020, https://play. google. com/store/apps/details? id=jp. co. capcom. android. mhpuzzle (2 others)

This disclosure relates to a program, an information processing device, and a system.

Technology for games that feature character objects in virtual space has been available. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a game in which animal characters that can be placed in normal areas are invited to a campsite.

JP 2019-076190 A

The game described in Patent Document 1 leaves room for improvement in terms of its entertainment value. This disclosure makes it possible to improve the entertainment value of the game.

The first aspect is a program that causes a computer to function as: progression means for progressing a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; determination means for determining whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; first movement means for moving the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means that movement is possible; and display means for displaying at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displaying the first game content moving from the first area toward the second area.

In a first aspect, the second area includes one or more sections in each of which an object is set, and the computer can further function as a first determination means that determines the progress status based on the object set in each of the one or more sections.

In a first aspect, one or more second game media different from the first game media are placed in the second area, and the first identification means can identify the progress status further based on the number of the one or more second game media.

In a first aspect, the computer further functions as a second identification means that identifies a first number, which is a reference for the number of game media that can be placed in the second area, based on objects set in each of one or more sections, and a second number, which is the number of game media that can be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area in excess of the first number, and the first identification means can identify the progress status based on the first number, the second number, and the number of one or more second game media.

In a first aspect, the game media placed in the second area may include owned game media associated with the user by the user progressing through a second game different from the first game, and non-owned game media not associated with the user, and the game media that may be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area may include owned game media.

In the first aspect, the computer is further caused to function as a third identification means that identifies the number of game media that can be moved to the second area based on objects placed in each of one or more sections, and the first identification means can identify the progress status based on the number of game media that can be moved to the second area identified by the third identification means and the number of game media that have moved from other areas to the second area, among the one or more second game media.

In the first aspect, the computer can further function as a second movement means for moving the first game content within the first area before it is moved by the first movement means.

In a first aspect, the first area includes one or more sections in each of which an object is set, and a movement position for moving the first game medium to the second area, and the second movement means is capable of moving the first game medium to a destination of the first game medium determined from among the one or more sections and movement positions.

The second aspect is an information processing device comprising: a progression unit that progresses a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; a determination unit that determines whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; a first movement unit that moves the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination unit that movement is possible; and a display unit that displays at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displays the first game content moving from the first area toward the second area.

A third aspect is a system comprising: a progression unit that progresses a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; a determination unit that determines whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; a first movement unit that moves the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination unit that movement is possible; and a display unit that displays at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displays the first game content moving from the first area toward the second area.

This disclosure can improve the entertainment value of games.

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the system 1. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of hardware of each device in the system 1.

An embodiment of the system 1 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the system 1 shown in FIG. 1, a server device 3 and multiple terminal devices 2 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a communication network 4, and a game is executed on the terminal devices 2.

The game of this embodiment is an online game executed on system 1, and is a combination of a puzzle game in which pieces placed on a puzzle board are eliminated, and a simulation game in which a virtual game space can be developed. Such a game is executed using a terminal device 2, which may be a home game console such as PlayStation (registered trademark), a portable game console such as Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), or an electronic device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet. The following example illustrates a case in which terminal device 2 is a smartphone.

<1. Overview of System 1>
[Overview of the configuration of System 1]
The system 1 is made up of a server device 3 and a plurality of terminal devices 2. The server device 3 stores game programs and game data, and manages the game data of the terminal devices 2, more specifically, manages the game data for each account.

The terminal device 2 executes the game based on user operations. To do this, the terminal device 2 receives, specifically downloads and installs, the game program and game data from the server device 3 via the communications network 4. Each user is assigned account information, including identification information and a password, that is associated with the terminal device 2. This account information is sent from the terminal device 2 to the server device 3 when logging in, and is used to authenticate the user on the server device 3.

After user authentication, the server device 3 and terminal device 2 can communicate with each other. After logging in, the terminal device 2 receives data necessary for game progress, such as data related to the game progress status, from the server device 3, and then progresses the game while outputting game images and sounds based on the user's operations.

[Overview of the game executed in System 1]
Next, an overview of the games executed in the system 1 will be described. A user can select and play either a puzzle game or a simulation game by operating the terminal device 2. The puzzle game and the simulation game are typically executed by the same application software.

In a puzzle game, for example, players must line up a predetermined number of pieces of the same color on a puzzle board to eliminate them from a series of multicolored pieces that appear one after another on the game screen. The virtual game space where the puzzle board on which the puzzle game can be played is displayed can also be referred to as the puzzle game space or the first virtual space. Multiple quests are prepared in advance for the puzzle game. Each quest has a different puzzle board and a clearing condition that must be met on that puzzle board. Clearing conditions include, for example, clearing a predetermined number of pieces within a predetermined time from the start of the puzzle game, clearing a specific piece, or achieving a score equal to or greater than a predetermined value at the end of the puzzle game. When a user operates the terminal device 2 to play a puzzle game corresponding to a predetermined quest and achieves the clearing condition corresponding to that quest, the user is granted a predetermined reward, including game media. Game media is electronic data representing elements related to the game. Hereinafter, the reward granted to a user for a quest is referred to as a "quest reward." Game media included in the quest reward includes game media corresponding to a puzzle game, game media corresponding to a simulation game, etc.

Game media corresponding to puzzle games include consumable media that can be used in the puzzle game. These consumable media are, for example, consumable items that can be used to progress through the puzzle game with an advantage. Such consumable items include pre-game consumable items that can be selected for use before starting the puzzle game, and in-game consumable items that can be used while playing the puzzle game.

Game media corresponding to a simulation game include, for example, non-player characters that can be placed in the simulation game and progression items necessary to progress through the simulation game. A simulation game develops a virtual game space by, for example, placing fixed game objects such as facilities within the virtual game space and increasing the number of resident characters, which are non-player characters, that exist in the virtual game space. The virtual game space in which a simulation game is executed can also be referred to as a simulation game space or a second virtual space. In the following description, the virtual game space in which a simulation game is executed will be referred to as a simulation game space.

Resident characters are placed in the simulation game space. When the user operates the terminal device 2 to select a resident character, they can accept a task from that resident character. The user can complete the resident character's tasks by consuming progress items acquired in the puzzle game. When the user consumes multiple progress items and completes all tasks requested by the resident character, a facility corresponding to that resident character is newly placed in the simulation game space. Furthermore, each time a new facility is placed in the simulation game space, a new resident character appears in the simulation game space.

Therefore, in the game of this embodiment, players can play the puzzle game to obtain progress items, and then consume those progress items in the simulation game to increase the number of facilities and resident characters in the simulation game space, allowing them to enjoy the development of the simulation game space.

Note that resident characters granted to users as quest rewards for the puzzle game described above are also placed in the simulation game space. These resident characters are special characters that are granted to users as quest rewards for the puzzle game with a certain probability, and therefore will be referred to below as "special resident characters." In contrast, resident characters that appear by placing facilities in the simulation game space are characters that users can easily obtain as the simulation game progresses, and therefore will be referred to below as "regular resident characters." Furthermore, special resident characters and regular resident characters will be collectively referred to as "resident characters."

As mentioned above, special resident characters are resident characters that are placed in the simulation game space on the condition that they have been assigned to the user. On the other hand, regular resident characters are resident characters that are placed in the simulation game space even if they have not been assigned to the user. Therefore, special resident characters can also be said to be owned characters owned by the user, and regular resident characters can also be said to be unowned characters. Special resident characters can also be said to be unique characters whose designs (i.e., the appearance of the special resident character) and names do not overlap with other resident characters. On the other hand, regular resident characters can also be said to be non-unique characters, or mob characters, whose designs and names may overlap with other resident characters.

In addition to clearing the quests described above, users can also obtain game media such as various items that can be used in puzzle games and simulation games by purchasing them at shops or by a lottery method known as gacha. Gacha is a method of selecting game media such as items by lottery based on a predetermined selection ratio. The selected game media is then awarded to the user. Game media consumed to play gacha include, for example, "paid stones," which are paid game media awarded to users through a payment operation, and "free stones," which are free game media awarded to users through gameplay. Free stones can be obtained, for example, as a quest reward in a puzzle game.

Note that "granting game content to a user" can also be rephrased as "associating the game content with identification information identifying the user." Furthermore, "the user owns the game content" can also be rephrased as "the game content is associated with identification information identifying the user." Users can acquire various game content by spending paid stones and unpaid stones. Game content that can be acquired by spending paid stones includes the above-mentioned progression items, as well as game content that can be used in puzzle games and simulation games. Furthermore, even if a user fails to meet the clearing conditions when performing a quest in the above-mentioned puzzle game, they can retry the quest by spending paid stones.

The simulation game and puzzle game can also be referred to as the first game and the second game, respectively.

[Structure of simulation game space]
The simulation game space includes multiple island spaces. Each island space includes multiple areas. Each area includes multiple partitions. In this way, the simulation game space has a tree structure with the simulation game space as the root node and the partitions as leaf nodes. Each of these will be explained in detail below.

A resident character is placed in each of the multiple island spaces. In a simulation game, for example, the first island space is initially open, and the other island spaces are not. In this state, if the first island space is developed to a predetermined condition, such as by placing multiple buildings in the first island space or increasing the number of resident characters in the first island space to a predetermined number, the next island space, the second island space, is opened. This allows the user to accept new tasks from resident characters in the second island space, and by completing these tasks, the second island space can be further developed. In other words, by developing an opened island space, multiple island space areas can be developed sequentially. The user can move between the multiple opened island spaces by operating the terminal device 2.

The island's resident characters are scattered across each of the multiple areas. Just like the island, there are unlocked and closed areas, and by developing unlocked areas, multiple areas can be developed sequentially.

The multiple sections include unlocked and unlocked sections. Users can place facilities in unlocked sections. On the other hand, users cannot place facilities in unlocked sections. Users can unlock unlocked sections by spending progress items that can be acquired as quest rewards, for example.

In one embodiment, a resident character placed in an area moves toward one of one or more open sections. When the resident character arrives at a section, it performs an action corresponding to that section. For example, if a section has a swing as a facility, the resident character that arrives at that section will play on the swing. Alternatively, if a section does not have a facility (i.e., the section is vacant), the resident character may do exercises or take a nap in that section. Note that unreleased sections may be excluded from the list of possible destinations for the resident character, thereby preventing the resident character from reaching those sections. Alternatively, if a resident character can move to an unreleased section, the resident character that arrives at that section may perform a general action other than the special action set for that section, as in the case of arriving at an vacant section described above.

In one embodiment, resident characters placed in an area move not only to plots but also to a travel position set in the area. When a resident character arrives at a travel position, it travels to another area corresponding to that travel position. Typically, a resident character cannot travel to other areas from any location other than the travel position.

In other words, resident characters basically move around one or more sections within an area, and when they arrive at a destination, they move towards another area. In this way, users can enjoy watching resident characters move around the island space and perform various actions according to the sections.

<2. Functional configuration of system 1>
The functions of the terminal device 2 and the server device 3 included in the system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Terminal device 2]
The terminal device 2 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 14, a network interface unit 18, and a bus 16. The control unit 10, the storage unit 14, and the network interface unit 18 are electrically connected via the bus 16.

(Storage unit 14)
The storage unit 14 stores various information for executing the game and various programs executed by the control unit 10, which will be described later.

(Control unit 10)
The control unit 10 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 14 to function as a progression means 100, a determination means 106, a movement means 102, a display means 108, and a specification means 104.

-Progress means 100-
The progression means 100 progresses the game in the virtual space. In one embodiment, the progression means 100 progresses the puzzle game in the puzzle game space, and progresses the simulation game in the simulation game space and the island space. Progressing the game can also be referred to as running the game.

-Transportation 102-
The moving means 102 includes a first moving means 102a and a second moving means 102b.

The first movement means 102a moves the resident character between areas. Specifically, the first movement means 102a moves the resident character from the first area toward the second area. Note that the first area and the second area are both areas included in a predetermined island space in the simulation game space. In one embodiment, the first movement means 102a moves the resident character from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means 106, described below, that the resident character is able to move.

In one embodiment, a resident character that can move from an area different from the second area to the second area is a special resident character. The first movement means 102a may restrict the movement of normal resident characters between areas, and may move special resident characters between areas.

The second movement means 102b moves the resident character within the area. In one embodiment, the second movement means 102b moves the resident character within the first area before the resident character is moved from the first area to the second area by the first movement means 102a. In one embodiment, the second movement means 102b moves the resident character toward a destination determined from one or more sections and movement positions in the first area.

In one embodiment, the movement means 102 moves the resident character autonomously (i.e., without user operation).

In one embodiment, the movement means 102 moves the resident character in a manner that corresponds to the resident character's movement-related actions. For example, the movement means 102 moves the resident character at a walking speed and in a walking direction that corresponds to the resident character's walking actions.

In one embodiment, the moving means 102 moves the resident character along a route from the starting position to the destination. More specifically, the moving means 102 moves the resident character to the destination while sequentially passing through multiple coordinates on the route from the starting position to the destination.

-Identification means 104-
The identifying unit 104 includes a first identifying unit 104a, a second identifying unit 104b, and a third identifying unit 104c.

The first identification means 104a identifies the progress of the simulation game.

In one embodiment, the first identification means 104a identifies the progress of the simulation game based on the objects placed in each of one or more sections included in the second area. In this case, the progress of the simulation game can also be said to be the development level of the second area.

In one embodiment, the first identification means 104a identifies the progress of the simulation game based on the number of resident characters placed in the second area. The first identification means 104a may identify the progress of the simulation game based in particular on the standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents to be exceeded, as well as the number of resident characters placed in the second area. In this case, the progress of the simulation game can also be said to be the degree of congestion in the second area.

The number of resident characters placed in the second area is calculated, for example, using the following formula:
(Number of resident characters initially placed in the second area) + (Number of resident characters that have moved from other areas to the second area) - (Number of resident characters that have moved from the second area to other areas)

In one embodiment, the first identification means 104a identifies the progress of the simulation game based on the maximum number of acceptances described below and the number of resident characters that have moved from other areas to the second area among the game media placed in the second area. In this case, the progress of the simulation game can also be considered the utilization rate of the acceptance capacity of the second area.

The number of resident characters that have moved from other areas to the second area among the game media placed in the second area is calculated, for example, using the following formula.
(Number of resident characters who moved from another area to the second area) - (Number of resident characters who moved from another area to the second area and then moved to another area)

The second identification means 104b identifies a standard resident number, which is the standard for the number of resident characters that can be placed in the second area. The second identification means 104b also identifies an excess upper limit, which is the number of resident characters that can move to the second area from an area different from the second area in excess of the standard resident number. The sum of the standard resident number and the excess upper limit is the upper limit of resident characters that can be placed in a specified area. The standard resident number and the excess upper limit can also be referred to as the first number and the second number, respectively.

In one embodiment, the second identification means 104b identifies the standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents that can be exceeded based on the objects placed in each of one or more sections included in the second area. For example, the higher the number of objects placed in the second area, the higher the identified standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents that can be exceeded. Conversely, for example, the fewer the number of objects placed in the second area, the lower the identified standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents that can be exceeded.

The third identification means 104c identifies an upper limit on the number of resident characters that can move from an area different from the second area to the second area. The upper limit on the number of resident characters that can move from an area different from the second area to the second area can also be referred to as a third number.

In one embodiment, the third identification means 104c identifies the upper limit number of objects to be accepted based on the objects placed in each of one or more sections included in the second area. For example, the greater the number of objects placed in the second area, the greater the identified upper limit number of objects to be accepted. Conversely, for example, the fewer the number of objects placed in the second area, the smaller the identified upper limit number of objects to be accepted.

-Determination means 106-
The determination means 106 determines whether or not the resident character can move from the first area to the second area. In one embodiment, the determination means 106 determines whether or not the resident character can move from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the simulation game.

In one embodiment, the determination means 106 determines whether a resident character can move from the first area to the second area based on whether or not the objects placed in each of one or more sections included in the second area satisfy a predetermined condition (i.e., whether or not the development level of the second area satisfies a predetermined condition).

In one embodiment, the determination means 106 determines whether a resident character can move from the first area to the second area based on whether the number of resident characters that have moved from other areas to the second area, among the game media placed in the second area, has reached the upper limit of the number that the second area can accommodate (i.e., whether the utilization rate of the second area's accommodation capacity has reached 100%).

In one embodiment, the determination means 106 determines whether a resident character can move from the first area to the second area based on whether the number of resident characters placed in the second area has reached the sum of the standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents that can be exceeded.

-Display means 108-
The display means 108 displays at least a part of the first area and at least a part of the second area in a list, and also displays a resident character moving from the first area toward the second area. Displaying at least a part of the first area and at least a part of the second area in a list by the display means 108 includes displaying both at least a part of the first area and at least a part of the second area so that they fit on one screen of the display screen of the terminal device 2.

In one embodiment, the display means 108 displays, in a list, the portion of the first area that includes the first movement position and the portion of the second area that includes the second movement position that corresponds to the first movement position, as shown in Figure 10 described below.

Displaying a resident character moving from the first area toward the second area includes displaying the resident character crossing the boundary between the first and second areas and entering the second area, as shown in Figure 10, which will be described later.

(Network interface unit 18)
The network interface unit 18 realizes communication with other devices via the communication network 4 .

[Server device 3]
The server device 3 transmits to the terminal device 2 various types of information required to execute the game.

[Communication Network 4]
The communication network 4 realizes communication between the terminal device 2 and the server device 3. The communication network 4 realizes communication based on, for example, the TCP/IP protocol.

3. Operation of Terminal Device 2
An example of the operation of the terminal device 2 will be described with reference to Figures 2-10. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 2 when the user plays a part in a puzzle game in which a quest reward is obtained (hereinafter referred to as the "puzzle part") and a part in a simulation game in which the user observes resident characters moving within and between areas of the island space (hereinafter referred to as the "simulation part"). Figures 3-6 are diagrams showing an example of a display screen of the terminal device 2 in the puzzle part. Figures 7-8 and 10 are diagrams showing example of a display screen of the terminal device 2 in the simulation part. Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a method for moving a resident character.

[Puzzle part actions]
First, the terminal device 2 starts up the application software relating to the game, and then displays a menu screen (S10).

Figure 3 shows an example of the menu screen display. The example display screen in Figure 3 displays the title d1, gacha button Mb1, quest button Mb2, island button Mb3, and shop button Mb4.

The title d1 indicates the title of the display screen. In the example display screen of Figure 3, it displays "Menu." The gacha button Mb1 is a button for transitioning to a screen for executing gacha. The quest button Mb2 is a button for transitioning to a screen for selecting a quest in a puzzle game. The island button Mb3 is a button for transitioning to a screen for selecting an island space in a simulation game. The shop button Mb4 is a button for transitioning to a shop screen. In this example, it will be explained assuming that the user presses the quest button Mb2.

Returning to Figure 1, the terminal device 2 then accepts a quest selection from the user (S12).

Figure 4 shows an example of a display screen when the terminal device 2 accepts a quest selection from the user. The example display screen in Figure 4 displays a title d100, a first quest selection button Qb1, a second quest selection button Qb2, a third quest selection button Qb3, a fourth quest selection button Qb4, status d102, status d104, status d106, and status d108.

The title d100 indicates the title of the display screen. In the example display screen of FIG. 4, "Quest Selection" is displayed. The first quest selection button Qb1, the second quest selection button Qb2, the third quest selection button Qb3, and the fourth quest selection button Qb4 are buttons for starting puzzle games relating to the first to fourth quests, respectively. Note that while the first quest selection button Qb1, the second quest selection button Qb2, and the third quest selection button Qb3 can be pressed, pressing the fourth quest selection button Qb4 will not start the puzzle game relating to the fourth quest. The statuses d102-d108 are elements that display the completion status of the first to fourth quests, respectively. The statuses d102-d108 display "Cleared," "Retired," "First Time," and "Not Opened," respectively. In this example, the user will be assumed to press the third quest selection button Qb3.

Returning to Figure 1, the terminal device 2 then starts the puzzle game related to the third quest (S14).

Figure 5 shows an example of a display screen when the terminal device 2 is playing a puzzle game related to the third quest. The example display screen in Figure 5 displays a title d200, an enemy character icon d202, a target d204, and a puzzle display area d206.

The title d200 indicates the title of the display screen. In the example display screen of FIG. 5, "Quest Q3" is displayed. Note that "Quest Q3" corresponds to the third quest. The enemy character icon d202 is the icon of the enemy character corresponding to the quest. The goal d204 is the condition for determining that the third quest has been cleared. In the example display screen of FIG. 5, the condition for clearing is displayed as removing 15 pieces marked with a "△" symbol. The puzzle display area d206 displays multiple pieces marked with a "△" symbol, a "○" symbol, and a "☆" symbol. The user can switch the position of one of the pieces with the piece adjacent to it by pressing and swiping on the piece. In this example, the user is assumed to clear the third quest.

Return to Figure 1. Next, the terminal device 2 awards the user a quest reward for completing the third quest (S16).

Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen when the terminal device 2 displays quest rewards. The example display screen in Figure 6 displays a title d300, an enemy character icon d302, a quest reward display area d304, and a back button d310. Of these, the title d300 and enemy character icon d302 are the same as the title d200 and enemy character icon d202 described with reference to the example display screen in Figure 5, and therefore will not be described below.

The quest reward display area d304 is an area that displays the game content granted to the user by clearing a quest. The quest reward display area d304 displays a progress item icon d306 and a resident character icon d308. This indicates that the user has been granted a progress item and a resident character. The resident character granted here is a special resident character (also called a owned character). The back button d310 is a button for transitioning to the menu screen. In this example, the user will be described as pressing the back button d310 after clearing the third quest.

[Operations in the simulation part]
Returning to Fig. 1, the terminal device 2 then displays a menu screen in response to the user pressing the back button d310 (S20). An example of the menu screen display has been described with reference to Fig. 3. In this example, the user is assumed to then press the island button Mb3.

The terminal device 2 starts the simulation game and accepts the user's selection of an island space (S22).

Figure 7 shows an example of a display screen when the terminal device 2 accepts the selection of an island space. The example display screen in Figure 7 displays the title d400, island selection button Ib1, island selection button Ib2, and island selection button Ib3.

The title d400 indicates the title of the display screen. In the example display screen of Figure 7, it displays "Island Selection." The island selection buttons Ib1-Ib3 are buttons for selecting island space Isp1, island space Isp2, and island space Isp3, respectively. In this example, the user is assumed to press island selection button Ib1 (i.e., select island space Isp1).

Returning to Figure 1, the terminal device 2 then loads data for the island space Isp1 (S24). The data loaded here includes various information necessary for displaying the island space Isp1 on the terminal device 2. The data loaded here includes, for example, information about the open areas in the island space Isp1, information about the open sections of each area, information about the objects located in each section, and information about the initial placement of resident characters in each area.

In one embodiment, the initial placement of resident characters is determined according to the ratio of the base number of residents in each area. For example, if a total of 18 resident characters are to be placed in island space Isp1, and the ratio of the base number of residents in the three areas of island space Isp1 is 1:2:3, then three, six, and nine resident characters will be initially placed in the three areas, respectively.

Next, the terminal device 2 displays the appearance of the resident characters in the island space Isp1 (S26).

Figure 8 shows an example display screen for island space Isp1. Island space Isp1 includes areas Ar1, Ar2, and Ar3. Note that in Figure 8, special resident characters are represented by white cat icons, and regular resident characters are represented by black cat icons.

Area Ar1 includes section Se10, section Se12, movement position Mp10, and movement position Mp12. A "school" object is located in section Se10. A "factory" object is located in section Se12. Movement position Mp10 corresponds to area Ar3. Movement position Mp12 corresponds to area Ar2. Additionally, special resident character Ac10 is located in area Ar1. Special resident character Ac10 is the special resident character assigned by the user in S16.

Area Ar2 includes sections Se20, Se22, Se24, Se26, movement positions Mp20, and Mp22. A "kiln" object is placed in section Se20. Section Se22 is open, but no objects are placed there. A "beach" object is placed in section Se24. A "sofa" object is placed in section Se26. Movement position Mp20 corresponds to area Ar3. Movement position Mp22 corresponds to area Ar1. Additionally, special resident character Ac20, special resident character Ac22, special resident character Ac24, regular resident character Nc20, and regular resident character Nc22 are placed in area Ar1. Users can place objects in section Se22 by using progress items granted as quest rewards.

Area Ar3 includes sections Se30, Se32, Se34, Se36, movement positions Mp30, and Mp32. A "store" object is located in section Se30. A "windmill" object is located in section Se32. A "castle" object is located in section Se34. Section Se36 is not unlocked. Movement position Mp30 corresponds to area Ar1. Movement position Mp32 corresponds to area Ar2. Additionally, special resident character Ac30, special resident character Ac32, normal resident character Nc30, and normal resident character Nc32 are located in area Ar3. The user can unlock section Se36 by using progress items granted as quest rewards.

Each resident character autonomously (i.e., without user input) determines their destination and roams the island space Isp1. Figure 9 is a flowchart explaining an example of how resident characters move. The following explanation focuses on the movement of special resident character Ac10 in area Ar1.

First, the terminal device 2 determines the destination of special resident character Ac10 from one or more sections and movement positions within area Ar1 (S100). Because special resident character Ac10 is located in area Ar1, the terminal device 2 determines one of section Se10, section Se12, movement position Mp10, and movement position Mp12 as the movement destination. For example, the terminal device 2 determines section Se10, section Se12, movement position Mp10, and movement position Mp12 as the movement destination with equal probability (i.e., 25% each).

Next, the terminal device 2 determines whether the determined destination is the destination position (S102).

(Resident character movement within the area)
If the determined destination is not a destination position (NO in S102), that is, if the determined destination is a section, the terminal device 2 moves the special resident character Ac10 toward the section (S104). In this example, the terminal device 2 moves the special resident character Ac10 toward the section Se10.

After special resident character Ac10 arrives at section Se10, the terminal device 2 causes special resident character Ac10 to perform an action corresponding to section Se10. In this example, because a "school" object is located in section Se10, the terminal device 2 displays special resident character Ac10 performing the "study" action in section Se10.

After the action by special resident character Ac10 is completed, the terminal device 2 again determines the destination of special resident character Ac10 from one or more sections and movement positions within area Ar1 (S100).

In steps S104-106, the movement of special resident character Ac10 is completed within area Ar1. Therefore, such movement can also be referred to as movement within the area.

(Resident character movement between areas)
On the other hand, if the movement destination determined in S100 is the movement position (YES in S102), the terminal device 2 determines whether or not the special resident character Ac10 can move to the area corresponding to the movement position (S108). In this example, it is assumed that the movement position Mp12 is determined as the movement destination in S100. That is, the terminal device 2 determines whether or not the special resident character Ac10 can move to the area Ar2 corresponding to the movement position Mp12.

The terminal device 2 determines whether or not the special resident character Ac10 can move to the area Ar2, for example, by a series of processes shown in (1) to (4) below.
(1) Based on the number of objects placed in area Ar2, the standard number of residents, the upper limit number of residents in excess of area Ar2, and the upper limit number of residents that can be accepted in area Ar2 are determined.
(2) Determine whether the number of resident characters placed in area Ar2 has reached the sum of the standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents that can be exceeded.
(3) Determine whether the number of resident characters in area Ar2 who have moved from area Ar1 or area Ar3 to area Ar2 has reached the upper limit of the number that can be accepted.
(4) If a negative determination is made in both (2) and (3), it is determined that the special resident character Ac10 can move to the area Ar2. Otherwise, it is determined that the special resident character Ac10 cannot move to the area Ar2.

If it is determined that special resident character Ac10 cannot move to area Ar2 (S108 NO), the terminal device 2 stops the movement of special resident character Ac10 and again determines the movement destination of special resident character Ac10 from one or more sections and movement positions within area Ar1 (S100).

If it is determined that the special resident character Ac10 can move to area Ar2 (S108 YES), the terminal device 2 moves the special resident character Ac10 toward the movement position Mp12 (S110). Next, the terminal device 2 moves the special resident character Ac10 to area Ar2, which is the area corresponding to the movement position Mp12 (S112). Next, the terminal device 2 determines the next movement destination of the special resident character Ac10 from one or more sections within area Ar2 and the movement position (S100).

Figure 10 is an enlarged view of the island space Isp1, showing the area of frame Fr in Figure 8. An example of the display screen of the terminal device 2 in steps S110-112 and the subsequent step S100 will be described with reference to Figure 10.

The terminal device 2 displays at least a portion of area Ar1 and at least a portion of area Ar2 in a list, and also displays a special resident character Ac10 moving from area Ar1 toward area Ar2. More specifically, the terminal device 2 displays the special resident character Ac10 moving on foot from the starting position to the destination position Mp12 (S110), crossing the boundary between areas Ar1 and Ar2 and entering area Ar2 (S112), and moving toward the next destination within area Ar2 (S110).

In S108-112, the terminal device 2 moves the special resident character Ac10 from area Ar1 to area Ar2. This type of movement can also be referred to as inter-area movement.

In summary, a program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes the computer 70 of the terminal device 2 to function as: progression means 100 for progressing a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; determination means 106 for determining whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; first movement means 102a for moving the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means 106 that movement is possible; and display means 108 for displaying at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displaying the first game content moving from the first area toward the second area.

4. Effects of Terminal Device 2
The terminal device 2 can improve the entertainment value of the game. The terminal device 2 determines whether a resident character can move from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the simulation game, and moves the resident character based on the determination result. Therefore, the terminal device 2 can distribute the resident characters in a balanced manner across multiple areas. Furthermore, the terminal device 2 displays the resident character moving from the first area to the second area. Therefore, the user can enjoy watching the resident character roam freely within the island space. Furthermore, according to the above program, the resident character moves under certain restrictions, which can reduce the computational load on the terminal device 2.

In one embodiment, the second area includes one or more sections in each of which an object is placed, and the program further causes the computer 70 to function as a first determination means 104a that determines the progress status based on the object placed in each of the one or more sections.

With this configuration, whether a resident character can move to the second area is determined based at least on the objects placed in the second area. This allows the terminal device 2 to move the resident character according to the development level of each area, further increasing the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, one or more second game media different from the first game media are placed in the second area, and the first identification means 104a identifies the progress status further based on the number of the one or more second game media.

With this configuration, whether a resident character can move to the second area is determined based on at least the number of other resident characters placed in the second area. This allows the terminal device 2 to move resident characters depending on the level of excitement in each area, further increasing the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, the program further causes the computer 70 to function as a second identification means 104b that identifies a first number, which is a measure of the number of game media that can be placed in the second area, based on objects placed in each of one or more sections, and a second number, which is the number of game media that can be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area in excess of the first number; and the first identification means 104a identifies the progress status based on the first number, the second number, and the number of one or more second game media.

With this configuration, whether a resident character can move to the second area is determined based on at least the standard number of residents and the upper limit number of residents in the second area, and the number of other resident characters currently placed in the second area. This prevents the terminal device 2 from moving a resident character to an area where many other resident characters are already placed, thereby preventing uneven placement of resident characters between areas and further increasing the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, the game media placed in the second area include owned game media associated with the user by the user progressing through a second game different from the first game, and non-owned game media not associated with the user, and game media that can be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area include owned game media.

With this configuration, special resident characters will be included among the resident characters that move between areas. Furthermore, because special resident characters are resident characters that users have received as quest rewards, users often have stronger attachment to them than regular resident characters. This allows users to observe how special resident characters, to whom they have strong attachment, move between areas, thereby enabling the terminal device 2 to further increase the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, the program further causes the computer 70 to function as a third determination means 104c that determines the number of game media that can be moved to the second area based on the objects placed in each of the one or more sections, and the first determination means 104a determines the progress status based on the number of game media that can be moved to the second area and the number of one or more second game media.

With this configuration, whether a resident character can move to the second area is determined based on at least the second area's maximum capacity and the number of other resident characters that have moved into the second area from other areas. This prevents the terminal device 2 from moving a resident character into an area that already has a large number of other resident characters, thereby preventing uneven placement of resident characters between areas and further increasing the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, the program further causes the computer 70 to function as a second moving means 102b that moves the first game medium within the first area before it is moved by the first moving means 102a.

With this configuration, resident characters will roam not only between areas but also within areas. This allows users to observe resident characters roaming within areas, allowing the terminal device 2 to further increase the entertainment value of the game.

In one embodiment, the first area may include one or more sections in each of which an object is set, and a movement position for the first game medium to move to the second area, and the second movement means 102b may move the first game medium toward a destination of the first game medium determined from among the one or more sections and movement positions.

With this configuration, the resident character moves around objects within the area, for example, probabilistically moving to other areas. This allows the terminal device 2 to prevent the user from getting bored of observing the resident character.

Note that the effects of the terminal device 2 described above are merely examples and do not limit the scope of application of this disclosure.

5. Modified Examples
The matters described in the above embodiment can be changed as appropriate within a range that does not cause inconsistencies.

In the above embodiment, the terminal device 2 is described as executing the processing related to the present disclosure, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the same processing may be executed by the server device 3, and the terminal device 2 may display the results.

In the above embodiment, the standard number of residents, the upper limit on excess numbers, and the upper limit on acceptance numbers were described as being determined based on the number of objects placed in the second area, but this is not limited to this. The standard number of residents, the upper limit on excess numbers, and the upper limit on acceptance numbers may also be determined based on the level, rarity, and usage period of the objects placed in the second area, etc.

In the above embodiment, the movement position corresponds to one area (for example, movement position Mp12 corresponds to area Ar2), but the movement position may correspond to two or more areas. In this case, the terminal device 2 may move the resident character that has arrived at the movement position toward an area selected from the two or more corresponding areas based on probability, or may move the resident character toward an area selected based on the progress of the simulation game.

In the above embodiment, the terminal device 2 determines whether the resident character can move to the area corresponding to the movement position after determining the movement destination of the resident character, but this is not limited to this. For example, the terminal device 2 may store whether movement is possible for each of a plurality of areas, and exclude movement positions corresponding to areas to which movement is not possible from the candidate movement destinations.

In the above embodiment, when a resident character moves within an area, one or more sections and movement locations are determined as the movement destination with equal probability, but this is not limited to this. The resident character may travel between one or more sections and movement locations in a predetermined order. The movement destination may also be determined based on a probability determined based on the resident character's attributes and preferences.

In the above embodiment, the resident character was described as performing an action when arriving at a section, but this is not limited to this. The resident character may also perform a predetermined action (e.g., wiping sweat, taking a deep breath, starting to dance, etc.) while moving towards the destination.

If a resident character can move from a predetermined area to multiple other areas, the area to which the resident character moves may be determined based on the number of other resident characters placed in those multiple other areas. The terminal device 2 may, for example, preferentially move a resident character to an area where many other resident characters are placed (i.e., an area that is lively). The terminal device 2 may also, for example, preferentially move a resident character to an area where few other resident characters are placed (i.e., an empty area).

In the above embodiment, the resident characters are described as moving on foot, but this is not limited to this. Moving a resident character using the transportation means 102 includes having the resident character use an object corresponding to a transportation device (e.g., a car, a boat, a bicycle, etc.).

In the above embodiment, special resident characters were described as moving between areas, but the terminal device 2 may also allow regular resident characters to move between areas.

6. Hardware Configuration
11, an example of a hardware configuration in which each device including the above-described terminal device 2 is realized by a computer 70 will be described. Note that the functions of each device can also be realized by dividing them into multiple devices.

As shown in FIG. 11, the computer 70 includes a processor 700, a storage device 702, an input I/F 704, a data I/F 706, a communication I/F 708, and a display device 710.

The processor 700 controls various processes in the computer 70 by executing programs stored in the storage device 702. For example, the various functional units provided in the control unit 10 of the terminal device 2 can be realized by the processor 700 executing programs stored in the storage device 702.

The storage device 702 is a storage medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory). The RAM temporarily stores the program code of the program executed by the processor 700 and data required when the program is executed.

Storage device 702 may also be a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or flash memory. Storage device 702 stores an operating system and various programs for implementing the above-mentioned configurations. The storage medium storing these various programs may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Storage device 702 may also store tables that register various information and a database that manages these tables. Such programs and data are loaded into storage device 702 as needed and referenced by processor 700.

The input I/F 704 is a device for receiving input from the user. Specific examples of the input I/F 704 include a camera, buttons, a microphone, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, various sensors, and a wearable device. The input I/F 704 may be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus).

The data I/F 706 is a device for inputting data from outside the computer 70. A specific example of the data I/F 706 is a drive device for reading data stored on various storage media. The data I/F 706 may also be provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the data I/F 706 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

The communication I/F 708 is a device for performing data communication via the communication network 4, either wired or wirelessly, with devices external to the computer 70. The communication I/F 708 may also be provided external to the computer 70. In that case, the communication I/F 708 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

The display device 710 is a device for displaying various types of information. Specific examples of the display device 710 include a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and a display for a wearable device. The display device 710 may be provided external to the computer 70. In that case, the display device 710 is connected to the computer 70 via, for example, a display cable. Furthermore, if a touch panel is used as the input I/F 704, the display device 710 can be configured as an integrated part of the input I/F 704.

Furthermore, the components of the terminal device 2 described in the above embodiment are assumed to be implemented in cooperation with other hardware by the processor 700 executing a program stored in the storage device 702. In other words, these components can be considered as both software or firmware and the corresponding hardware, and in both of these concepts, they can also be referred to as "functions," "means," "parts," "processing circuits," "units," or "modules," and can be interpreted interchangeably.

7. Embodiments of the present disclosure
The present disclosure includes, for example, the following embodiments.

[Appendix 1]
A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer 70 to function as: a progression means 100 for progressing a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; a determination means 106 for determining whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; a first movement means 102a for moving the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means 106 that movement is possible; and a display means 108 for displaying at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displaying the first game content moving from the first area toward the second area.

[Appendix 2]
In the program described in Appendix 1, the second area may include one or more sections in each of which an object is placed, and the program may further cause the computer 70 to function as a first identification means 104a that identifies the progress status based on the object placed in each of the one or more sections.

[Appendix 3]
In the program described in Appendix 2, one or more second game media different from the first game media may be placed in the second area, and the first identification means 104a may identify the progress status further based on the number of the one or more second game media.

[Appendix 4]
The program described in Appendix 3 may further cause the computer 70 to function as a second identification means 104b that identifies a first number that is a reference for the number of game media that can be placed in the second area based on objects placed in each of one or more sections, and a second number that is the number of game media that can be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area in excess of the first number, and the first identification means 104a may identify the progress status based on the first number, the second number, and the number of one or more second game media.

[Appendix 5]
In the program described in Appendix 4, the game media placed in the second area may include owned game media associated with the user by the user progressing a second game different from the first game, and non-owned game media not associated with the user, and the game media that may be moved from an area different from the second area to the second area may include owned game media.

[Appendix 6]
The program described in Appendix 3 may further cause the computer 70 to function as a third identification means 104c that identifies the number of game media that can be moved to the second area based on objects placed in each of one or more sections, and the first identification means 104a may identify the progress status based on the number of game media that can be moved to the second area and the number of one or more second game media.

[Appendix 7]
The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6 may further cause the computer 70 to function as a second moving means 102b that moves the first game medium within the first area before it is moved by the first moving means 102a.

[Appendix 8]
In the program described in Appendix 7, the first area may include one or more sections in each of which an object is set, and a movement position for the first game medium to move to the second area, and the second movement means 102b may move the first game medium toward a destination of the first game medium determined from among the one or more sections and the movement position.

[Appendix 9]
An information processing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a progression unit that progresses a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game medium is placed and a second area different from the first area; a determination unit that determines whether the first game medium can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game; a first movement unit that moves the first game medium from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination unit that movement is possible; and a display unit that displays at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list and displays the first game medium moving from the first area toward the second area.

[Supplementary Note 10]
A system according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a progression unit that progresses a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area in which the first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area; a determination unit that determines whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress of the first game;
The game device includes a first movement unit that moves the first game medium from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination unit that the first game medium is movable, and a display unit that displays at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list and displays the first game medium moving from the first area toward the second area.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1...System 2...Terminal device 2...Information processing device 3...Server device 10...Control unit 14...Storage unit 70...Computer 100...Progress means 102...Moving means 102a...First moving means 102b...Second moving means 104...Identifying means 104a...First identifying means 104b...Second identifying means 104c...Third identifying means 106...Determining means 108...Display means

Claims (10)

Computer,
A progression means for progressing a first game in a virtual space,
the virtual space includes a first area in which a first game content is placed and a second area different from the first area;
the second area includes one or more sections in each of which an object is placed;
The means of progression;
a first determination means for determining a progress status of the first game based on objects placed in each of the one or more sections;
a determination means for determining whether the first game content can be moved from the first area to the second area based on the progress status;
a first moving means for moving the first game content from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means that the first game content is movable;
a display means for displaying at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displaying the first game medium moving from the first area toward the second area;
A program that functions as a one or more second game media are placed in the second area, the second game media being movable within the second area before the first game media moves toward the second area ;
The program according to claim 1 , wherein the first determination means determines the progress status further based on the number of the one or more second game media. The computer
and further functioning as a second specifying means for specifying, based on the objects placed in each of the one or more sections, a first number that is a reference for the number of game contents that can be placed in the second area, and a second number that is the number of game contents that can be moved from an area other than the second area to the second area in excess of the first number;
The program according to claim 2 , wherein the first determination means determines the progress status based on the first number, the second number, and the number of the one or more second game media. the game media placed in the second area include owned game media associated with the user by the user progressing a second game different from the first game, and non-owned game media not associated with the user;
The program according to claim 3 , wherein game media that can be moved to the second area from an area different from the second area include the owned game media. The computer
and further functioning as a third determination means for determining the number of game contents that can be moved relative to the second area based on the objects arranged in each of the one or more sections;
The program described in claim 2, wherein the first identification means identifies the progress status based on the number of game media that can be moved to the second area identified by the third identification means and the number of game media, among the one or more second game media, that have moved to the second area from other areas. The computer
The program according to claim 1 , further functioning as a second moving means for moving the first game medium within the first area before being moved by the first moving means. the first area includes one or more sections in each of which an object is set, and a movement position for the first game medium to move to the second area;
The program according to claim 6 , wherein the second movement means moves the first game medium toward a destination of the first game medium determined from among the one or more sections and the movement position. The computer used by the user
a progression means for progressing a first game in a virtual space, the virtual space including a first area through which the first game medium can move without operation by the user, and a second area different from the first area;
a determination means for determining whether the first game medium can be moved from the first area to the second area based on a progress status of the first game;
a first movement means for moving the first game medium from the first area toward the second area based on the determination by the determination means that the first game medium is movable, and after the first game medium has moved to the second area, the first game medium can move around in the second area without being operated by the user;
a display means for displaying at least a portion of the first area and at least a portion of the second area in a list, and displaying the first game medium moving from the first area toward the second area;
A program that functions as a a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of claims 1 to 8;
a control unit that executes the program;
An information processing device comprising: a storage unit that stores the program according to any one of claims 1 to 8;
a control unit that executes the program;
A system comprising: