JP6803032B2 - Game systems, terminal-mounted game programs, and server-mounted game programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention includes a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. A game system composed of, a terminal-mounted game program, and a server-mounted game program, for example, a game that gives points that can be used for other games, a competition game that competes for the size of earned points, and a customer's It can be used for competition games that compete for the degree of achievement of the purpose and artistry of the movement route by walking, and games that accompany the pedometer system.

Generally, a game using location information (referred to as a location information game, a location game, etc.) is performed by a customer carrying a mobile device such as a smartphone and actually going to a location set by the game operator. There are things like getting stamps and various items on site.

In addition, when a customer who owns a game terminal visits the store after seeing an advertisement in the store, the game terminal receives a beacon signal transmitted from a beacon device installed in the store, and the game terminal receives the beacon signal. , A game system that executes a check-in process by an application in response to this beacon signal is known (see Patent Document 1).

In each of these location-based games, some result (value) is obtained by actually going to a certain place, but in order to obtain the result of some visit, the place is actively searched. Whether you're walking while walking, or if you happen to reach the location while walking and get the results of your visit, the customer is aware of where they were able to achieve the results. .. In other words, the place where some result (value) was obtained by the visit is clearly grasped by the customer, and the customer usually knows what kind of result was obtained from which place he / she visited. You will be aware of it when you visit.

JP-A-2017-228305 (paragraph [0027], FIG. 1)

As mentioned above, in the conventional location-based game, what kind of result (value) was obtained from which place the customer visited, that is, the visit to a specific place and the result (value). Since I have a clear understanding of the relationship with, in the customer's consciousness, as long as I remember visiting the place, I feel a sense of accomplishment and usually that the result (value) was obtained. Although there is joy, it does not cause any more strong emotions such as surprise, mystery, profit, great joy, impression, and upset. This is because the facts (acquisition of results) caused by the actions taken (visiting a specific place) did not exceed the range of normal expectations and expectations, and the visit was made to that place. Therefore, the consciousness that it is natural to obtain the result (value) works.

Therefore, in a location-based game, a situation in which the fact (acquisition of results) that occurs due to an action taken by a customer (movement of a place by walking, etc.) exceeds the range of normal expectations and expectations ( If you can easily predict, foresee, imagine, and unpredict the results, that is, create a situation where the customer does not take it for granted (a situation that avoids the naturalness and inevitability of the result). If this is possible, it is possible to evoke consciousness and emotions that are different from the consciousness and emotions obtained when the conventional game is executed, and it is possible to increase the fun and usefulness of the game.

On the other hand, some game programs are installed on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet terminals but have never been used, and some have been used once but have not been used for a long period of time. .. Therefore, it would be convenient for the game operator if the customer's motivation to execute such a game program could be motivated, and the customer could also effectively utilize and enjoy the installed game program. So it is convenient. Furthermore, downloading, acquiring, installing, and running a game program that has not yet been installed poses even higher barriers, and in order to achieve this, it is necessary to further motivate customers. is there.

In such a case, as described above, in the location-based game, a situation that exceeds the range of normal expectations and expectations (a situation in which the result cannot be easily predicted, predicted, imagined, or predicted), that is, the customer achieves the result (value). If it is possible to create a situation in which the acquisition of (things) is not taken for granted (a situation in which the naturalness / inevitability of the result is avoided), the customer's emotions generated by the situation can improve the customer's willingness to play the game. It can also be possible to motivate customers to run the game.

An object of the present invention is to create a situation that exceeds the range of ordinary expectations and expectations, avoid the naturalness and inevitability of results, improve the motivation of customers to execute a game, and provide motivation for executing a game. It is a place to provide a game system, a game program for terminals, and a game program for servers.

The present invention creates a hidden spot that does not actually exist and is not displayed on the screen, determines whether or not the current position of the customer terminal has entered the area of the hidden spot, and determines that the hidden spot has entered. In addition, the above-mentioned purpose is achieved by giving points to the customer, and the main processes of creating hidden spots, determining visits to hidden spots, and giving points are executed on the customer terminal side. Depending on whether the game is executed on the game providing server side, three basic configurations (for example, in the case of FIGS. 1, 13, and 15 described later) can be roughly classified as follows.

The game according to the present invention is a kind of location-based game because when a customer moves his / her place of residence by walking or the like while holding a customer terminal, he / she can earn points by visiting a hidden spot. is there.

<The first basic configuration of the present invention: When all the processes of the hidden spot creation process, the visit determination process to the hidden spot, and the point awarding process are executed on the customer terminal side: For example, in the case of FIG. 1 described later>

That is, the present invention comprises a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It is a game system configured to include
Customer terminal
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of a customer terminal consisting of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
A process of determining whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creation means by using the current position information of the customer terminal acquired from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal. Hidden spot visit judgment means to execute,
When it is determined by the hidden spot visit determination means that the customer has entered the hidden spot area, points are given to the customer, and the number of the given points is stored in the acquired point storage means provided in the customer terminal. , A customer of the game providing server after transmitting to the game providing server via a communication line to store in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server, or storing and storing in the acquired point storage means of the customer terminal. It is characterized in that it is provided with a point giving means for executing a process of transmitting to a game providing server via a communication line for storing in the point storage means.

Here, the "points" given by the "point giving means" are quantified valuables. Generally, virtual value items (items in a broad sense) used in games are virtual items, weapons, currencies, etc., but among them, the ones that can be grasped as quantity are the "points" here. Corresponds to. Therefore, virtual currency, virtual coins, etc. are also included in the "points" here, and the unit is called "~ coin" instead of "~ point", or a unit using the name of the virtual currency, etc. May be.

Also, for example, a pistol in a game can be thought of as a virtual article or a virtual weapon, but a pistol bullet can be regarded as a quantified value if it is counted as "~". In such a case, it corresponds to the "point" here. If the pistol itself is counted as "~ cho", it corresponds to the "point" here. Instead of counting the number of points given as "~ points", these are simply units of quantity because they are counted as "~ cho" and "~ departure" by imitating the unit with a pistol or its bullets. It's just a difference in how they are called. Therefore, even when the unit is fictitious and counted as "~ watt", "~ gram", "~ carat", "~ looks", "~ light year", etc., it corresponds to the "point" here. To do.

Similarly, things that are usually thought of as virtual objects, such as cars and airplanes, have different personalities if they lose their individuality as cars, airplanes, etc. (for example, car A, car B, ...). If it is just a set of cars of the same type, not a car), it can be regarded as a quantified value by counting it as "~ stand" or "~ machine", so it is a "point" here. Applicable. In addition, people, animals, birds, etc. do not regard each person, one animal, one bird, one bird as a character with individuality, but "~ people", "~ animals", and "~ feathers". If you think of it as a set of things of the same kind and simply count it by comparing it to a person, animal, bird, etc., it corresponds to the "point" here.

Furthermore, even if the virtual value has individuality, if there can be multiple virtual value objects of the same type with that individuality (it can be said that it can no longer be called individuality). , The virtual value corresponds to the "point" here. Specifically, for example, when the hidden spots V1, V2, and V3 are visited, the car A can be acquired, and when the hidden spots V4, V5, and V6 are visited, the car B can be acquired. If you visit V1 and V4, you will get cars A and B with different personalities, but on the other hand, if you visit the hidden spots V1, V2, V3, you will get three cars A. Also, if you visit the hidden spot V1 three times at different times, you will get three cars A, and you will be in a state of getting multiple cars of the same type, so car A in such a case , Car B, respectively, correspond to the "points" referred to here. That is, in the present invention, different types of points may be prepared as valuables to be given to the customer, and in the above example, the number of the points held is held by the car A as "~ units". , Car B is only in a state of being owned by "~ units". Therefore, for example, the number of points of class A points (the number of cars A, the number of pistols, etc.) can be used only for other games X, and the number of points of class B points (the number of cars B, etc.) The number of cannon gates, etc. may be used only for other games Y, and the number of C-type points (the number of cars C, the number of battleships, etc.) may be used for other games X, Y. The range of available uses may be changed for each type of point, such as being available for both.

Further, in the process by the "point giving means", when "stored in the earned point storage means provided in the customer terminal", the stored earned points are stored on the premise that the stored points are later transmitted to the game providing server. This includes not only the case where the points are stored but also the case where the points are stored in the acquired point storage means of the customer terminal without being transmitted to the game providing server. In the latter case, for example, when processing the use of the acquired points, the processing is performed at the customer terminal.

Further, in the processing by the "point giving means", the case of "transmitting to the game providing server via the communication line for storing in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server" means that each time points are acquired. This is the case when sending to the game providing server. On the other hand, the case of "sending to the game providing server via the communication line for storing in the customer point storing means of the game providing server after accumulating and storing in the acquired point storage means of the customer terminal" means that the acquired points. Is temporarily stored and stored on the customer terminal side, and then collectively transmitted to the game providing server. The transmission timing at this time is arbitrary, for example, a predetermined cycle (for example, every 10 minutes, 30 minutes). This includes the case of transmitting the game every other hour, etc., and the case of transmitting the game to the game providing server at the end of the game of the day. In any of these cases, when the session with the game providing server is not held, the "point giving means" indicates the number of points given to the game providing server together with the customer ID (customer identification information). Send to.

In addition, the "hidden spot area" is the area inside the closed figure, for example, a figure with a closed shape such as a circle or a quadrangle (draw a line so that it does not intersect with a single stroke, and return to the first point. It is a region of finite size surrounded by a figure). Therefore, for example, it means that it is not an infinitely expanding area such as the entire area on the north side of a certain line (line indicated by latitude / longitude), the entire area on the east side, and the like. The same applies to the following inventions.

<Action / Effect of First Basic Configuration of the Present Invention>

In such a game system of the present invention (for example, in the case of FIG. 1), the hidden spot to be created is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, so that the current position of the customer terminal is not displayed. However, even if they enter the hidden spot area and the points are awarded to the customer, the customer does not know when and where the points were awarded to him / her. It becomes a state, and the relationship between the visited place and the points earned in the visit is not grasped. Also, while visiting a hidden spot, he is not aware that he is visiting the hidden spot.

Therefore, when the customer moves his / her place of residence by walking or the like while holding the customer terminal, points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge. And, depending on the movement route, it may be possible to earn many points.

Therefore, in the location-based game (location-based game related to visiting hidden spots) according to the present invention, a situation that exceeds the range of normal predictions and expectations (a situation in which the result cannot be easily predicted / predicted / imagined / assumed). That is, it is possible to create a situation in which the customer does not take it for granted to acquire points (values) that are the result of the visit (a situation in which the naturalness / necessity of the result is avoided), and the customer caused by such a situation. It is possible to improve the customer's motivation to execute the game and to motivate the customer to execute the game.

Further, the position information game (position information game related to the visit of a hidden spot) according to the present invention can be an independent game like various competition games involving the movement of the customer (customer terminal) by walking or the like. Alternatively, it can be an auxiliary game attached to another position information game or a game other than the position information game (for example, a mahjong game), and further, a game system other than a game system such as a pedometer system. It can also be an auxiliary game attached to the system, and in each case, the effect of the present invention can be exerted.

For example, when the location-based game according to the present invention is an auxiliary game accompanying another game, the points earned in the location-based game according to the present invention can be used for other games. , Can give a good deal to customers. In other words, because the points are accumulated without knowing it, it makes me feel like I have earned it, and if I do not use the points I earned for other games, it is a waste, so other games (for example, installed but A game that has never been executed, a game that has not been executed for a long period of time, etc.) will be tried to be executed, and the motivation to execute other games can be improved. In addition, even if you have not installed other games yet, you will have accumulated points, so you will feel like downloading and running them, and you can motivate them to run other games.

Further, when the location-based game according to the present invention is an auxiliary game attached to a system other than the game system such as a pedometer system, the present invention is made while promoting health by using a pedometer system or the like. It is possible to accumulate points in the location information game according to the invention. Then, the accumulated points may be used for various services such as health-related services by the provider or operator of the pedometer system or the like, or may be used for presenting a souvenir or the like. However, if it is made available to other games, it will be an auxiliary game attached to the pedometer system as well as an auxiliary game attached to other games.

Further, when the location information game according to the present invention is an independent game such as various competition games involving the movement of a customer (customer terminal), for example, a jogging competition, a marathon competition, a hiking competition, a swimming competition, etc. (However, in the case of swimming, take waterproof measures such as using a waterproof mobile device.), Triathlon competition, stamp rally competition (However, the stamp will be given to the participants, not the hidden spots. By making a game such as (), etc., it is possible to earn points by visiting hidden spots while enjoying exercise and group activities such as walking, biking, and swimming. Therefore, while achieving the original purpose of competitions (holding competitions, meetings, etc.) such as health promotion and fellowship, the location-based game according to the present invention can be enjoyed at the same time.

In this case, if the winning or losing or ranking of the location-based game according to the present invention is determined by the size of the points earned by the customers who are participants in the competition, for example, the customer who finishes the earliest in the athletic competition or the most. Even for customers who have collected stamps, there may be cases where the points earned in the location-based game according to the present invention are small, and vice versa. Therefore, when the victory or defeat or ranking in the time, food intake, number of stamps acquired, weight loss, etc. in the athletic competition and the victory or defeat or ranking in the acquired points in the location information game according to the present invention are determined, those results. Do not always match, so you can create a variety of ways to enjoy yourself.

As for athletic competitions, customers who are participants in the competition can predict and predict the victory or defeat and ranking of themselves and others during the competition, and expectation by prediction in the middle of the competition. You can also have, and usually you are aware of the circumstances and progress that resulted in the result (win or lose or ranking). On the other hand, in the location-based game according to the present invention, which is progressing at the same time, since it is not recognized when and where the points were accumulated, the result (win / loss or ranking) is predicted. And it is difficult to predict. Since two types of competitions having different properties proceed at the same time, various ways of enjoying can be realized depending on how the two types of competition results are combined.

Further, the points earned by visiting a hidden spot in a competition game may be used not only for determining the outcome of the competition or the ranking, but also for other games. In that case, the present invention The location-based game according to the above is an independent game and is also an auxiliary game accompanying other games. Therefore, while customers are enjoying exercise and group action, points are accumulated without knowing it, so it feels like they have gained, and as mentioned above, it is a waste not to use the earned points, so it's a big deal. It will be used for other games, it will be possible to improve the motivation to execute other games, and it will be possible to motivate customers to execute other games. Is achieved.

<Second basic configuration of the present invention: When all the processes of the hidden spot creation process, the visit determination process to the hidden spot, and the point awarding process are executed on the game providing server side: For example, in the case of FIG. 13 described later. ＞

Further, the present invention comprises a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It is a game system configured to include
Customer terminal
A current position information transmitting means that acquires the current position information of the customer terminal from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal and executes a process of transmitting the acquired current position information of the customer terminal to the game providing server via the communication line. Configured to
The game providing server is
A current location information receiving means that executes a process of receiving the current location information of the customer terminal transmitted from the customer terminal via a communication line, and
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of a customer terminal consisting of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
Using the current position information of the customer terminal received by the current position information receiving means, a process of determining whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creating means is executed. Hidden spot visit judgment means and
When it is determined by this hidden spot visit determination means that the player has entered the hidden spot area, points are given to the customer, and the number of the given points is associated with the customer ID to provide a customer provided on the game providing server. It is characterized in that it is provided with a point giving means for executing a process of storing in the point storage means.

Here, the "current position information transmitting means" transmits the current position information of the customer terminal to the game providing server together with the customer ID when the session with the game providing server is not held.

In such a game system of the present invention (for example, in the case of FIG. 13), the hidden spot to be created is similar to the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention described above (for example, in the case of FIG. 1). Since it is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, even if the current position of the customer terminal enters the area of the hidden spot and points are given to the customer, the customer, You are not aware of when and where you visited and when you were awarded points. Therefore, when the customer moves his / her place of residence by walking or the like while holding the customer terminal, points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge. Therefore, as in the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention described above. Similarly, it is possible to create a situation that exceeds the range of normal expectations and expectations, avoid the naturalness and inevitability of the result, increase the motivation to execute the game, and give motivation to execute the game.

In the case of the second basic configuration of the present invention (for example, the case of FIG. 13), the present invention is also the same as the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention (for example, the case of FIG. 1) described above. The location-based game may be an independent game, an auxiliary game attached to another game, an auxiliary game attached to a system other than the game system such as a pedometer system, and they may be used. It may be a game in which

<Third basic configuration of the present invention: When the hidden spot creation process and the visit determination process to the hidden spot are executed on the customer terminal side and the point awarding process is executed on the game providing server side: For example, it will be described later. In the case of FIG. 15>

Further, the present invention comprises a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It is a game system configured to include
Customer terminal
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of a customer terminal consisting of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
A process of determining whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creation means by using the current position information of the customer terminal acquired from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal. Hidden spot visit judgment means to execute,
When it is determined that the hidden spot has entered the area of the hidden spot by the hidden spot visit determination means, the hidden spot ID or the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered is transmitted to the game via the communication line. It is configured with a visit judgment result transmission means that executes the process of transmitting to the providing server.
The game providing server is
Receives the position information of the hidden spot ID or hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot transmitted from the customer terminal via the communication line, and corresponds to the received position information of the hidden spot ID or hidden spot creation reference point. It is configured to include a point giving means for giving points to a customer, associating the number of given points with a customer ID, and executing a process of storing the points in a customer point storage means provided in the game providing server. It is characterized by being.

Here, the "visit determination result transmitting means" creates a hidden spot ID (hidden spot identification information) or a hidden spot for the hidden spot determined to have entered when the session with the game providing server is not held. The position information of the reference point is transmitted to the game providing server together with the customer ID.

In such a game system of the present invention (for example, in the case of FIG. 15), the hidden spot to be created is similar to the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention described above (for example, in the case of FIG. 1). Since it is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, even if the current position of the customer terminal enters the area of the hidden spot and points are given to the customer, the customer, You are not aware of when and where you visited and when you were awarded points. Therefore, when the customer moves his / her place of residence by walking or the like while holding the customer terminal, points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge. Therefore, as in the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention described above. Similarly, it is possible to create a situation that exceeds the range of normal expectations and expectations, avoid the naturalness and inevitability of the result, increase the motivation to execute the game, and give motivation to execute the game.

In the case of the third basic configuration of the present invention (for example, in the case of FIG. 15), the present invention is similar to the case of the first basic configuration of the present invention (for example, in the case of FIG. 1) described above. The location-based game may be an independent game, an auxiliary game attached to another game, an auxiliary game attached to a system other than the game system such as a pedometer system, and they may be used. It may be a game in which

<Point usage pattern: When the points are used for other games, the point usage processing means provided on the game providing server calculates the number of points to be used from the customer point storage means provided on the game providing server. Configuration to reduce>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIGS. 1, 13, 15, 15 and the like),
The game providing server is
When there is a customer's request to exchange the points earned for virtual value used in other games, or when there is a customer's request to allocate to equivalent points used in other games , Receives the customer's request sent from the customer terminal via the communication line, and from the number of points of the customer stored in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server, the points to be used While reducing the number, the quantity of value value or value value ID obtained by the conversion process for exchange or the number of points to be applied is transferred to the server-side data storage means for other games provided in the game providing server as the customer ID. It is possible to have a configuration provided with a point utilization processing means for executing a process of adding or adding and storing in association with.

Here, "Customer's request to exchange the earned points for virtual value used in other games, or customer's request to allocate to equivalent points used in other games" The point usage request acceptance process when accepting is on the customer terminal is executed as a process of "another game" (including a case where the "other game" is installed but has never been used). Alternatively, it may be executed as the processing of the game according to the present invention (processing by the point use request receiving means provided in the customer terminal). The same applies to the following inventions.

When the process of "other game" is performed as in the former case, the process of accepting the point usage request by the customer's selection operation when installing the downloaded "other game" program on the customer terminal is included. Is done.

In the case of processing the game according to the present invention as in the latter case, it may be a process of handling the use of points for one specific "other game", and handling the use of points for a plurality of "other games". This shared processing may be such that the customer selects one "other game" that uses the earned points from a plurality of "other games", and a plurality of "other games" may be selected. Requests for distributed use of earned points for "other games" may be accepted.

In addition, "virtual value used in other games" can be exchanged for non-equivalent points used in "other games", that is, points given by the point giving means of the present invention at a fixed ratio. Points are also included. The same applies to the following inventions.

Further, the present invention is a game system corresponding to a "game using location information" (so-called location information game) in that points are given using location information, but the "other game" referred to here. Does not necessarily have to be a location-based game, and may be, for example, a mahjong game. The same applies to the following inventions.

Further, the present invention is a location-based game system as described above, but as described above, it may be an independent game (for example, a competition game used in a jogging competition for good legs), or referred to here. It may be an auxiliary game that accompanies "another game". An independent game is a case where the customer aims to enjoy the game itself according to the present invention, while an auxiliary game accompanying "another game" is a game itself according to the present invention by the customer. Instead, it is a case where the points acquired in the game according to the present invention are used for the "other game" when the main purpose is to enjoy the "other game". Therefore, in the case of an auxiliary game accompanying the "other game", the terminal-mounted game program constituting the game system of the present invention executes the background processing dedicated to one "other game". It may be a program part (hidden spots are not displayed on the screen, so it can be used as background processing). In such a case, since the present invention is a part that executes background processing, it is apparently foreground processing. Although it seems to be integrated with "another game" that executes the game, in the present application, the part that distinguishes these and executes the background processing is the game according to the present invention, and the part that executes the foreground processing is It is supposed to be "another game". The same applies to the following inventions.

Further, the "point use processing means" provided in the game providing server receives the customer's point use request from the customer terminal together with the customer ID when the session with the customer terminal is not held.

Furthermore, the "addition" when "adding or adding to the server-side data storage means for other games in association with the customer ID and storing it" is other than the quantity, such as the value ID for the virtual value. Information is stored, and "addition" is a case where information as a quantity is added and stored, such as the quantity of virtual value objects and the number of points to be applied. The same applies to the following inventions.

When the game providing server is provided with the point usage processing means for executing the point usage for other games in this way, it is wasteful not to use the acquired points, so the customer is conscious of using it for other games. As a result, it becomes possible to improve the motivation to execute other games, and it is possible to give the customer motivation to execute other games.

<Point usage pattern: When the points are used for other games, the point usage processing means provided on the customer terminal reduces the number of points to be used from the earned point storage means provided on the customer terminal. ＞

Further, in the game system described above (first basic configuration: for example, in the case of FIG. 1),
Customer terminal
When there is a customer's request to exchange the points earned for virtual value used in other games, or when there is a customer's request to allocate to equivalent points used in other games , The number of points to be used is subtracted from the number of points stored in the acquired point storage means provided in the customer terminal, and the quantity or value ID of the value obtained by the conversion process for exchange. The configuration may be configured to include a point utilization processing means for executing a process of adding or adding the number of points to be allocated to the terminal-side data storage means for another game provided in the customer terminal and storing the points.

When the customer terminal is provided with the point use processing means for executing the point use for other games in this way, it is wasteful not to use the acquired points as in the case of providing the point use processing means for the game providing server described above. Therefore, since the customer is motivated to use it for other games, it is possible to improve the motivation to execute other games, and it is possible to motivate the customer to execute other games. ..

<Use of points: When using for competition games>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIGS. 1, 13, 15, etc.),
The game providing server is
By comparing the magnitude of the number of points of a plurality of customers stored in the customer point storage means, the configuration can be configured to include the competition means for executing the process of determining the winning or losing or the ranking of the competition game.

In this way, when a competition means is provided in which the points earned by the customer are used in the competition game, the customer can participate in a competition that involves movement and enjoy exercise and group activities such as walking, biking, and swimming. , Since points can be earned by visiting hidden spots, while achieving the original purpose of competitions (holding competitions, meetings, etc.) such as health promotion and fellowship, the location information game according to the present invention can be enjoyed at the same time. It becomes possible.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot visit determination means>

Then, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIGS. 1, 13, 15, 15 and the like),
Hidden spot visit judgment means
In addition to determining whether or not you have entered the hidden spot area, you can also determine whether or not you have left the hidden spot area that you entered.
The time of entering the hidden spot area and the time of exiting the hidden spot area are acquired, the staying time of the hidden spot is calculated from the difference between these times, and the calculated staying time is a predetermined threshold value. If it is less than or less than or equal to, it is desirable that the configuration is such that a process of determining that the visit does not correspond to a hidden spot is executed.

Here, the "time of entering the hidden spot area" and the "time of exiting the hidden spot area" are when the hidden spot visit determination means is provided in the customer terminal (first and third basic configurations). : For example, in the case of FIGS. 1 and 15), it is the system time of the customer terminal, while the hidden spot visit determination means is provided in the game providing server (second basic configuration: for example, for example. In the case of FIG. 13 and the like), the system time of the game providing server or the generation time of the current position information (acquisition time from the positioning means) together with the current position information of the customer terminal is the communication line from the customer terminal. In the case of being transmitted to the game providing server via the above, it is the system time of the customer terminal.

When the staying time of the hidden spot is calculated in this way, it is possible to adjust the definition of the visit to the hidden spot according to the purpose of the location information game according to the present invention. Specifically, when targeting visits by walking, momentary visits by means of transportation such as trains, planes, automobiles, and buses are excluded, and visits by human-powered transportation such as bicycles and rickshaws, It is possible to exclude rush visits. It is also possible to allow visits by human-powered transportation such as bicycles and rickshaws, and visits by rushing, while excluding momentary visits by transportation such as trains, airplanes, automobiles, and buses. Furthermore, it is possible to target visits by swimming or rowing boats, and exclude visits by motor boats or the like. This means that the movement speed at the time of visit is limited (the momentary passage is not a visit) due to the relationship between the size of the created hidden spot and the staying time. In addition, if only the edge of the hidden spot area is grabbed, it means that the visit is not applicable.

When the size of the hidden spot is changed with time or when hidden spots of different sizes are created, the threshold value for determining the staying time may or may not be switched according to the size. At this time, assuming that the moving speed of the customer (customer terminal) is the same and the hidden spot passes through the central position, the larger the size of the hidden spot, the longer the staying time of the hidden spot. In other words, assuming that the staying time is the same and the hidden spot passes through the center position, the larger the size of the hidden spot, the faster the customer (customer terminal) moves. .. Therefore, if the threshold value for determining the staying time is not switched in response to a change in size, a visit at a high moving speed is allowed for a hidden spot having a large size (for example, a standard size hidden spot). So, while only allowing visits by walking, for large hidden spots, allowing visits by running or biking, etc.), or for large hidden spots, the edge of the hidden spot area It will also allow visits that graze the department. Therefore, the size of the hidden spot can be changed for the purpose of making such an adjustment. That is, it is possible to prepare a hidden spot having a high probability of being determined to have visited and a hidden spot having a low probability of being visited when entering the hidden spot area.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot creation means: Configuration to create hidden spots using hidden spot distribution pattern>

Then, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
Hidden spot creation means
Position information of at least one starting point, a pattern reference point prepared in advance and stored in a pattern storage means provided in a customer terminal or a game providing server, and a relative to the pattern reference point. By applying a pattern that matches the pattern reference point with the starting point using a hidden spot distribution pattern consisting of multiple pattern dependent points determined by the position, multiple hidden spots with each of the multiple pattern dependent points as the hidden spot creation reference point can be created. It is desirable to have a configuration that executes the process to be created.

Here, the "starting point" may be, for example, the position of an actual event venue such as a jogging tournament, the position of a specific spot that actually exists, or the current position of the customer terminal at the start of the game or at a preset time. , The position of latitude / longitude arbitrarily selected and determined by a random number or the like, the position of latitude / longitude consisting of sharp numerical values may be used, and in short, the position may be set according to the purpose of the game. The position of this "starting point" may be a fixed position that does not change with time, or a position that changes with time (depending on the time zone). The switching timing when the position of the "starting point" is changed with time as in the latter case is arbitrary. For example, it may be switched between morning and afternoon, daytime and nighttime, and every 10 minutes, 30 It may be switched at preset time intervals such as every minute and every hour.

Further, the "hidden spot distribution pattern" may be a pattern that spreads infinitely (for example, see FIG. 4), such as a pattern consisting of intersections of grid lines arranged in a grid pattern, and a pattern of a finite size (for example, see FIG. 4). , FIGS. 5 to 10 and 17). In the former case, for example, the pattern covers the whole of Japan.

Further, since it is "at least one starting point", the number of "starting points" may be one or a plurality, but the meaning of a plurality of starting points here means that the position of the starting point is changed with time. It does not mean that there may be multiple starting points at the same time (at the same time), for example, it means that there may be starting points in each of Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka. Specifically, for example, when jogging competitions are held at the same event venues in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, the starting point is the position of each event venue. As described above, when the hidden spot distribution pattern is a pattern that spreads infinitely, for example, it is a pattern that covers the whole of Japan, so it is usually necessary to set a plurality of starting points at the same time. Although there are few, hidden spots can be created from a plurality of starting points when the pattern has a finite size. Further, when using an infinitely wide hidden spot distribution pattern, a plurality of starting points can be used. In this case, the hidden spot distribution patterns overlap at the same time in the same area. Therefore, for example, one hidden spot distribution pattern is set as a pattern in which the position is fixed without changing the starting point, and another hidden spot distribution pattern is set as a moving pattern by changing the starting point. You may perform the process of superimposing the patterns of.

Further, the "starting point" may be an individual starting point set for each customer, or may be a common starting point set common to all customers. The former individual starting point is, for example, the case where the current position of the customer terminal at a certain point in time is the starting point, the case where the starting point is the position of a specific real spot specified by the customer, and the case where the latter common starting point is, for example. , The starting point is an event venue such as a jogging tournament where a large number of customers gather, or the starting point is the position of a specific real spot designated by the game operator. For example, when a customer is present at an event venue or a specific spot specified by the game operator (when there is a customer terminal), the current location information of the customer terminal can be obtained at that location. It is also possible to use the acquired current location information of the customer terminal as the starting point. In this case, the location of the event venue or the location of a specific actual spot specified by the game operator is not a common starting point but an individual starting point. In this case, if you think that many customers gather at the same place at the same time and get almost the same current location information at that time (that is, if you think that the size of the venue can be ignored) , It can be said that the individual starting point of each customer is close to the common starting point. In addition, when the current position of the customer terminal at a certain point in time is used as the starting point (a type of individual starting point), if the customer moves, the starting point will move. Therefore, for example, periodically (10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1). The position of the starting point may be moved by using the current position of the customer terminal at that time (at a predetermined time interval such as time).

Further, when the "hidden spot creating means" is provided in the customer terminal (first and third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIGS. 1 and 15), it is necessary to create the hidden spot. The hidden spot creation instruction information (including the position information of the starting point) may be acquired from the game providing server. That is, the game providing server is provided with a hidden spot creation instruction means for executing a process of transmitting the hidden spot creation instruction information (including the position information of the starting point) to the customer terminal via the communication line, and the customer terminal is provided with the hidden spot creation instruction means. The “hidden spot creation means” may be configured to receive hidden spot creation instruction information (including the position information of the starting point) transmitted from the game providing server via the communication line. Here, as the hidden spot creation instruction information, in addition to the position information of the starting point, for example, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern and the value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern (for example, the grid spacing and the pattern reference point) are used. The distance between the pattern dependent points, the size information of the hidden spots, the information on the number of hidden spots, etc.) may be included.

Further, since the "hidden spot distribution pattern" is said to be "consisting of a pattern reference point and a plurality of pattern-dependent points determined by positions relative to the pattern reference point", it is necessary to have a plurality of pattern-dependent points. However, when a plurality of hidden spot distribution patterns are connected by applying continuous patterns (see, for example, FIG. 11), the connected hidden spot distribution patterns have only one pattern dependent point. Since no hidden spot distribution pattern may be mixed, in such a case, it does not mean that all hidden spot distribution patterns have a plurality of pattern dependency points, but a hidden spot having a plurality of pattern dependency points. The idea is that at least one distribution pattern is required.

When the hidden spots are created using the hidden spot distribution pattern in this way, it is possible to easily diversify the arrangement form of the hidden spots, and by switching the hidden spot distribution pattern, the hidden spots can be hidden. It becomes possible to easily realize the time variation of the spot arrangement position.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot creation means: Configuration of connecting hidden spot distribution patterns by applying continuous patterns: For example, in the case of FIG. 11>

Further, in the case where the hidden spot is created by using the above-mentioned hidden spot distribution pattern,
Hidden spot creation means
As the first process, the positions of the plurality of pattern-dependent points are obtained by applying the first pattern in which the pattern reference points for the hidden spot distribution pattern are matched with the starting points, and the obtained positions are first. Create multiple hidden spots as the reference point for creating the second hidden spot
After that, when N is an integer of 2 or more, as the Nth process, the (N-1) th (N-1) is set at each position of the plurality of pattern dependent points obtained by applying the (N-1) th pattern. By applying the Nth pattern, which matches the pattern reference points for the same or different hidden spot distribution patterns as the hidden spot distribution pattern applied in the second process, the positions of each of the plurality of pattern dependent points were obtained. Create multiple hidden spots with each position as the Nth hidden spot creation reference point,
By repeating the pattern application while increasing N by 1, the process of creating a plurality of hidden spots may be executed.

In the case where the hidden spot distribution patterns are connected by continuous pattern application in this way (for example, in the case of FIG. 11), the hidden spot distribution pattern is wide without preparing a large or complicated hidden spot distribution pattern. It is possible to create hidden spots arranged in various states in the area.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot creation means: Configuration that uses the current position information of the customer terminal when connecting hidden spot distribution patterns by applying continuous patterns>

Further, in the case where the hidden spot distribution patterns are connected by applying the above-mentioned continuous pattern (for example, in the case of FIG. 11),
Hidden spot creation means
When applying the second and subsequent patterns, the current position information of the customer terminal is used to select from a plurality of pattern dependent points used as reference points for creating hidden spots that have already been created. Select pattern-dependent points within a predetermined distance from the current position of the customer terminal, and match the pattern reference points for the hidden spot distribution pattern to be applied next to each position of the selected pattern-dependent points. It is desirable that the configuration is such that the pattern is applied.

When the hidden spot distribution patterns are connected by continuous pattern application in this way (see, for example, FIG. 11), when the current position information of the customer terminal is used, the position far from the current position of the customer terminal is used. For the pattern dependent points in, the pattern is not applied to the next hidden spot distribution pattern (that is, the next hidden spot distribution pattern is not concatenated), so the customer (customer) is based on the movement speed of the customer. Since it is possible to avoid the creation of hidden spots that cannot be entered by the terminal), it is possible to improve the efficiency of the hidden spot creation process and the subsequent visit determination process.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot creation means: When creating a hidden spot using a hidden spot distribution pattern, each time the pattern is applied, the position of the starting point is moved using the current position information of the customer terminal: For example, the figure. In case of 17 etc.>

In addition, in the case where the hidden spot is created by using the hidden spot distribution pattern described above,
Hidden spot creation means
By using the current position information of the customer terminal as the starting point, the process of moving the starting point position may be executed each time the pattern is applied using the hidden spot distribution pattern.

The "hidden spot creation means" here is designed to "move the starting point position each time a pattern is applied", and the starting point at that time should be the "current position of the customer terminal". This does not mean that the starting point is moved each time the current position information of the customer terminal is acquired. If the position of the starting point is moved and the pattern is applied each time the current position information of the customer terminal is acquired, the customer (customer terminal) will permanently reach the hidden spot created based on the pattern dependency point. It is natural that the game cannot be established because it cannot be done. Therefore, here, for example, as shown in FIG. 17, after using the current position information of the customer terminal at the time T100 as the starting point in pattern application, the current position of the customer terminal at the subsequent times T101, T102, T103, ... After acquiring the information and performing the hidden spot visit determination process and using the current position information of the customer terminal at the subsequent time T200 as the starting point in the next pattern application, the customer at the subsequent times T201, T202, T203, ... It means that the current position information of the terminal is acquired, the hidden spot visit determination process is performed, and such a process is repeated.

When a hidden spot is created using the hidden spot distribution pattern in this way, the position of the starting point is moved using the current position information of the customer terminal each time the pattern is applied (for example, in the case of FIG. 17). Etc.), a hidden spot is created by applying the hidden spot distribution pattern to the current position of the customer terminal each time the pattern is applied, so that the customer (customer terminal) can enter from the movement speed of the customer. Since it is possible to avoid the creation of non-sexual hidden spots, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the hidden spot creation process and the subsequent visit determination process. In this case, since the position of the starting point moves, it is possible to improve the above efficiency without connecting the hidden spot distribution patterns.

<Detailed configuration of hidden spot creation means: Configuration that realizes variability and diversity of hidden spot area size>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
Hidden spot creation means
At least one process of changing the size of the area of all or part of the hidden spots to be created with time and the process of creating a plurality of hidden spots having different area sizes. It may be configured to be executed.

In the configuration that realizes the variability and diversity of the size of the hidden spot area in this way, it is possible to realize various arrangements of the hidden spots, and when entering the hidden spot area, the staying time It is possible to adjust the probability that the intrusion is determined to be a visit to the hidden spot.

<Detailed configuration of point awarding means: A configuration in which the number of points awarded by visiting each hidden spot is not uniform>

Then, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
The means of giving points is
When it is determined by the hidden spot visit determination means that the current position of the customer terminal has entered the area of the hidden spot,
When the hidden spot determined to have entered corresponds to a predetermined specific hidden spot among a plurality of hidden spots created by the hidden spot creation means, a larger number of points than other hidden spots are given. Processing to give and
It is determined whether or not the area of the hidden spot determined to have entered includes a predetermined specific spot in existence, and if the specific spot in existence is included, a larger number than other hidden spots. And the process of giving points
It is judged whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered is within the predetermined virtual fence, and if it is determined that the hidden spot is included, it is larger than the other hidden spots. The process of giving a number of points and
It is determined whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time for the hidden spot determined to have entered are within the predetermined virtual fence and within the predetermined time zone, and both are determined. A process that gives a larger number of points than other hidden spots when it is determined to meet
At least one of the processes of varying the number of points given when entering these hidden spots with respect to all or part of the hidden spots created by the hidden spot creating means. It is desirable that the configuration is such that one process is executed.

In this way, if the number of points given by visiting each hidden spot is not uniform, it is possible to cause the customer to have stronger emotions (surprise, profit, impression of hitting, etc.). Therefore, it is possible to improve the motivation to execute the game and to give motivation to execute the game even more reliably.

<Details of point awarding process: A configuration that uses the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point when the number of points given by the point giving means is changed after the fact by the point adding means>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
The means of giving points is
A process of associating the number of points given and the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered with the customer ID and storing them in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server is executed. It is configured to
The game providing server is
Using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means, it is determined whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point is within the predetermined virtual fence, and the entry is made. A process of adding points when it is determined that the item is used, or when the number of hidden spot creation reference points determined to be included is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value. May be configured to include a point addition means for executing.

When the point adding means is provided in the game providing server in this way, the points can be added after the fact, not when the points are given by the point giving means, by using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point.

<Details of point awarding process: A configuration that uses the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time when the number of points given by the point giving means is changed after the fact by the point adding means>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
The means of giving points is
The number of points given, the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to be entered, and the visit time are stored in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server in association with the customer ID. It is configured to execute processing,
The game providing server is
Using the location information of the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means,
It is judged whether the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time are within the predetermined virtual fence and within the predetermined time zone, and if it is judged that both are satisfied, points are added. As a configuration provided with a point addition means for executing a process of adding points when the number of hidden spot creation reference points determined to satisfy both is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value. May be good.

When the point addition means is provided in the game providing server in this way, the points are added after the fact, not when the points are given by the point giving means, using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time. Can be done.

<Details of point awarding process: Whether or not the visiting route draws characters, symbols, constellations or other figures when the number of points given by the point giving means is changed after the fact by the point adding means. Configuration to judge>

Further, in the game system described above (first, second, third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIG. 1, FIG. 13, FIG. 15, etc.),
The means of giving points is
A customer point storage means provided in the game providing server in association with the number of points given, the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered, the visit time or the visit order, and the customer ID. It is configured to execute the process of storing in
The game providing server is
Using the location information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means and the visit time or visit order,
A line connecting the positions of the hidden spot creation reference points for the hidden spots visited by the customer in the order of visit determines whether or not to draw a predetermined character, symbol, constellation or other figure, and determines that the line is drawn. If this is the case, the configuration may include a point addition means for executing the process of adding points.

Whether or not the visit route to the hidden spot draws letters, symbols, constellations, or other figures when the number of points given by the point giving means is changed after the fact by the point adding means. In the case of the judgment configuration, the hidden spot is not displayed on the screen, so that the customer cannot recognize the fact (the fact that he / she visited) when visiting the hidden spot, but under such a situation. However, when a certain proposition (for example, the proposition of walking in a constellation such as Hokuto Seven Stars at a starry sky jogging tournament held at night) is given in advance, somehow, how to walk according to that proposition By doing so, the number of points that can be earned may increase, which will increase the fun of the game. At this time, since the customer cannot recognize the visit to the hidden spot, it is impossible to surely walk according to the proposition, so he / she does not make more effort than necessary, and even if he / she gets additional points. Even if it is not possible, many customers think that it is normal, and conversely, when the points to be added are obtained, stronger emotions (surprise, profit, impression of winning, etc.) will be born. Therefore, it is possible to further surely realize the improvement of the motivation to execute the game and the motivation to execute the game. Also, if a proposition (for example, walking in a constellation) is kept secret rather than given to the customer in advance, the customer's behavior is to walk according to the proposition. However, even in that case, the above-mentioned strong emotions (surprise, profit, impression of hitting, etc.) are created, so the same effect can be obtained.

<Invention of the program>

Further, the terminal-mounted game program of the present invention is a smartphone or other arithmetic processing as a customer terminal constituting the above-mentioned game system (first and third basic configurations: for example, in the case of FIGS. 1 and 15). Is for the functioning of mobile devices capable of.

Further, the server-mounted game program of the present invention is for making a computer function as a game providing server constituting the above-mentioned game system (second basic configuration: for example, in the case of FIG. 13).

The terminal-mounted game program, the server-mounted game program, or a part thereof described above may be, for example, an optical magnetic disk (MO), a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), or a flexible disk. Disk (FD), magnetic tape, read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable and rewritable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, random access memory (RAM), hard disk drive (HDD), solid state It is possible to record on a recording medium such as a drive (SSD) or flash disk for storage, distribution, etc., and for example, a wired network such as LAN, MAN, WAN, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, or a wireless communication network. Furthermore, it is possible to transmit using a transmission medium such as a combination of these, and it is also possible to carry it on a carrier. Further, the terminal-mounted game program and the server-mounted game program described above may be a part of another program, or may be recorded on a recording medium together with a separate program.

As described above, according to the present invention, the hidden spot to be created is not an actual spot and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal. Therefore, the customer moves the location by walking or the like to move the hidden spot area. Even if you go inside and get points for your customers, they don't know when and where they visited and why they got points for you, without your knowledge. Since points are accumulated, creating situations that exceed the range of normal expectations and expectations, avoiding the naturalness and inevitability of results, and increasing the motivation to play the game due to the customer's unique feelings caused by them, It has the effect of being able to provide motivation for game execution.

The whole block diagram of the game system of 1st Embodiment of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the hidden spot of 1st Embodiment, and the situation of in-out to the area of a hidden spot. An explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the hidden spot area of the first embodiment and a specific real spot or virtual fence. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P1) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P2) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P3) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P4) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P5) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P6) of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram of the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P7) of 1st Embodiment. Explanatory drawing which shows the situation of continuous pattern application about the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P2 ~ P7 etc.) of the finite size of 1st Embodiment. The figure of the flowchart which shows the processing flow of the position information game by the game system of 1st Embodiment. The whole block diagram of the game system of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The figure of the flowchart which shows the processing flow of the position information game by the game system of 2nd Embodiment. The whole block diagram of the game system of 3rd Embodiment of this invention. The figure of the flowchart which shows the processing flow of the position information game by the game system of 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P8) showing a modified form of the present invention.

Each embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. 1 to 12 are drawings of the game system 10 of the first embodiment, FIGS. 13 and 14 are drawings of the game system 200 of the second embodiment, and FIGS. 15 and 16 are views of the third embodiment. It is a drawing of the game system 300 of the form, and FIG. 17 is a drawing which shows the form of those variants. All of these first, second, and third game systems 10, 200, and 300 create hidden spots that do not exist and are not displayed on the screen, and the current positions of the customer terminals 50, 250, and 350 are set. , It is a location information game system that determines whether or not the customer has entered the hidden spot area, and if it is determined that the user has entered the area, points are given to the customer.

[First Embodiment]

FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of the game system 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the composition of hidden spots and the situation of in / out to the hidden spot area, and FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the hidden spot area and a specific real spot or virtual fence. Has been done. Further, FIGS. 4 to 10 show the configuration of a hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P1 to P7), and FIG. 11 shows a finite size hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P2 to P7, etc.). The status of continuous pattern application for) is shown. Further, FIG. 12 shows a flow chart of the processing flow of the position information game by the game system 10.

<Overall configuration of game system 10 (including hardware configuration)>

In FIG. 1, the game system 10 is a game providing server 20 that executes a process necessary for a service that provides a location-based game according to the present invention and stores data necessary for the process, and a customer who plays a location-based game. One or more (usually many) customer terminals 50 to be operated are connected to each other via a network 1 which is a communication line.

Here, the network 1 is, for example, an environment for connecting to the Internet or a wired network centered on the Internet, which is combined with an intranet, an extranet, LAN, MAN, WAN, etc., and a wired network centered on the Internet or the Internet. It is composed of a carrier network (a packet communication network managed by a carrier (a communication company such as a mobile phone company)) and a wireless communication network such as a public wireless LAN.

The game providing server 20 is composed of one or a plurality of computers, and includes a program transmitting means 21, a game setting data transmitting means 22, a hidden spot creation instruction means 23, a point management means 24, and a point adding means 25. , Point utilization processing means 26, competition means 27, server-side processing means 31 of another game X, server-side processing means 32 of another game Y, provision program storage means 41, and pattern storage means 42. , Real spot information storage means 43, virtual fence information storage means 44, hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45, customer point storage means 46, server-side data storage means 47 for another game X, and other It is configured to include a server-side data storage means 48 for the game Y.

Of these, the means 21 to 27, 31, and 32 for executing each process define a central processing unit (CPU) provided inside the computer main body constituting the game providing server 20, and an operation procedure of the CPU. It is realized by one or more programs, working memory (main memory and cache memory), and the like.

Further, the storage means 41 to 48 are preferably realized by, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc., but as long as there is no problem in the storage capacity, access speed, etc., for example. , USB memory, DVD, MO, magnetic tape and other recording media may be adopted. The data storage format in each of the storage means 41 to 48 is arbitrary, and may be a database or a file system.

The customer terminal 50 is composed of mobile devices such as a smartphone (multifunctional mobile phone), a tablet terminal, and a notebook-type or book-type portable personal computer. Since these mobile devices are used while being carried by the customer who plays the game, a terminal (in a broad sense) capable of wireless data communication with the game providing server 20 and capable of arithmetic processing for the position information game. Computer), central processing unit (CPU), work memory (main memory and cache memory), non-volatile memory, display means such as liquid crystal display, touch panel, touch pad, trackball, stylus pen, It is equipped with input means such as a mouse and a keyboard.

In the present embodiment, the customer terminal 50 is composed of a general-purpose machine that can be used for purposes other than games, and a terminal-mounted game program for executing the location information game according to the present embodiment from the game providing server 20. Although it is designed to be downloaded, the customer terminal of the present invention may be a dedicated machine on which the terminal-mounted game program is installed from the beginning.

Then, the customer terminal 50 includes a program acquisition means 51, a positioning means 52, another game X terminal side processing means 53, another game Y terminal side processing means 54, a game processing means 60, and an acquisition program. Storage means 71, pattern storage means 72, actual spot information storage means 73, virtual fence information storage means 74, acquisition point storage means 75, terminal-side data storage means 76 for another game X, and other It is configured to include a terminal-side data storage means 77 for the game Y.

Further, the game processing means 60 includes a game setting data acquisition means 61, a hidden spot creating means 62, a hidden spot visit determination means 63, a point giving means 64, a possessed point notification means 65, and a point use request receiving means. It is configured to include 66, a point utilization processing means 67, and a competition result display means 68.

In the above, the means 51 to 54, 60 (61 to 68) for executing each process are a central processing unit (CPU) provided inside the customer terminal 50, and one or one that defines an operation procedure of the CPU. It is realized by multiple programs and main memory. Of these, the positioning means 52 includes a GPS module and the like.

Further, the acquisition program storage means 71 is a non-volatile memory, and when the customer terminal 50 is a smartphone (multifunctional mobile phone), a relatively small tablet terminal, or the like, for example, a flash memory, an EEPROM, or the like. When the customer terminal 50 is a notebook-type or book-type portable personal computer, a relatively large tablet terminal, or the like, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or the like. Then, the storage means 72 to 75 used for the progress of the position information game according to the present invention by the game processing means 60, the terminal side data storage means 76 for the other game X used for the progress of the other game X, and The terminal-side data storage means 77 for another game Y used for the progress of the other game Y is, for example, a RAM or the like, but a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory may be used.

<Configuration of game providing server 20, program transmitting means 21, game setting data transmitting means 22>

The program transmission means 21 receives the program acquisition request signal by the customer transmitted from the customer terminal 50 via the network 1, and various games stored in the provided program storage means 41 (position information game according to the present invention). , Other games X, Y, etc.) is executed via the network 1 to transmit the terminal-mounted game program (terminal application) to the customer terminal 50 that has requested the program acquisition. In the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the program transmission means 21 and the provided program storage means 41 are provided on the same server as the means 22 to 27, 31, 32 and the other storage means 42 to 48 that execute other processes. Although it is described as described above, it may be provided on another server for providing the program.

The game setting data transmitting means 22 connects the network 1 from the customer terminal 50 after starting the terminal-mounted game program for executing the position information game according to the present embodiment (however, the background processing is started). In response to the acquisition request of the game setting data transmitted via the pattern storage means 42, the hidden spot distribution pattern information (pattern data) and the actual spot information storage means 43 are stored. The process of transmitting the spot information and the virtual fence information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44 to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 is executed.

If the information (pattern data) of the hidden spot distribution pattern is described in the terminal-mounted game program for executing the position information game according to the present embodiment, it is necessary to transmit it to the customer terminal 50. In that case, it is not necessary to install the pattern storage means 42 and the pattern storage means 72 of the customer terminal 50. Therefore, it is described by a two-point chain line in FIG.

Further, when the point awarding means 64 of the customer terminal 50 does not perform the point awarding process using the information of the actual specific spot or the information of the virtual fence, it is necessary to transmit these information to the customer terminal 50. In that case, the installation of the actual spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence information storage means 74 of the customer terminal 50 can be omitted. On the other hand, the existing spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence information storage means 44 need to be installed if the point addition means 25 of the game providing server 20 performs the ex post facto point addition process, but the point addition means. If the ex post facto point addition process according to 25 is not performed, the installation can be omitted.

Further, the information of the actual spot and the information of the virtual fence are acquired by the other games X and Y for use in the other games X and Y, and the real spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence of the customer terminal 50 are obtained. If the information is already stored in the information storage means 74, the information may be diverted, so that it is not necessary to transmit the information to the customer terminal 50 by the game setting data transmission means 22.

Then, when it is not necessary to transmit the information of the hidden spot distribution pattern, the information of the actual specific spot, and the information of the virtual fence to the customer terminal 50, the game setting data transmission means 22 and the customer. Installation of the game setting data acquisition means 61 of the terminal 50 can be omitted.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / Hidden spot creation instruction means 23>

The hidden spot creation instruction means 23 acquires the hidden spot creation instruction information (including the position information of the starting point) required for the hidden spot creation process on the customer terminal 50 from the hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45. The process of transmitting to the hidden spot creating means 62 of the customer terminal 50 is executed via the network 1.

Here, as the hidden spot creation instruction information, in addition to the position information of the starting point, for example, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern to be used and the value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern (for example, grid spacing, pattern reference point). The distance between and each pattern dependent point, hidden spot size information, information on the number of hidden spot points, etc.) may be included. Examples of the parameterized portion of the pattern data are shown in FIGS. 4 to 10. This hidden spot creation instruction information is input and set by the game operator from the operator terminal (not shown) and stored in the hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45.

The transmission timing of the hidden spot creation instruction information by the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 is such that the position information of the starting point is used when applying the pattern, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern, and the parameters included in the hidden spot distribution pattern. If the value of is not determined, the pattern cannot be applied in the first place, so this is the timing before the pattern is applied. Therefore, in the case where the pattern application is repeated, if it is necessary to move the starting point position, switch the pattern type, and switch the parameter value to apply the pattern, a hidden spot is created each time such a pattern is applied. Instruction information will be transmitted.

The location information of the starting point needs to be transmitted to the customer terminal 50 when a common starting point that is set in common to all customers is adopted as the starting point. For example, a large number of customers gather at the event venue. This is a case where it is necessary to transmit information having the same conditions to a plurality of customer terminals 50, such as when a competition is held. On the other hand, when an individual starting point set for each customer is adopted, the starting point may be set in each customer terminal 50, so that it is not always necessary to transmit the position information of the starting point to the customer terminal 50. Since the common starting point and the individual starting point have already been described in detail, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

Further, for the same reason, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern and the value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern also need to be transmitted to the customer terminal 50 mainly for a plurality of customer terminals 50. This is the case when it is necessary to send information that meets the same conditions. In addition, when there is only one type of hidden spot distribution pattern in the first place, or when there is no parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern and it is a fixed pattern, it is necessary to transmit this information to the customer terminal 50. There is no.

The hidden spot distribution pattern is stored in the pattern storage means 42, 72 or described in the program, but the default value (initial setting value) of the parameter when the parameter is included in the pattern is also the pattern. It is stored in storage means 42, 72 or described in the program. Therefore, the "value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern" transmitted by the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 to the customer terminal 50 as the hidden spot creation instruction information is a value other than the default value, and is other than the default value. It is transmitted when the hidden spot creation process or point awarding process is performed using the parameter values. When the parameter is included in the pattern, the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 is used in the case where the default value of the parameter is not stored in the pattern storage means 42 and 72 and is not described in the program. , The default value of the parameter may be transmitted as the hidden spot creation instruction information.

Further, in the case where the parameter is included in the pattern and the value of the parameter is changed with time, the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 sets the hidden spot creation instruction information as the hidden spot creation instruction information according to the timing of the change. The "value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern" may be transmitted to the customer terminal 50, but some values (one or more) other than the default value (initial setting value) of the parameter may be transmitted. As the value for switching, it may be stored in the pattern storage means 42 and 72, or may be described in the program. It should be noted that the value for switching in such a case is also considered to be a kind of default value (initial setting value), and it may be considered that there are a plurality of default values, and further, these multiple default values are In a certain case, when it is necessary to use a value other than these plurality of default values, the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 includes the hidden spot creation instruction information as "hidden spot distribution pattern" according to the timing of variation. The value of the parameter to be used may be transmitted to the customer terminal 50.

Specifically, for example, in the case of the north-south east-west pattern (pattern type = P2), which is an example of the hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size shown in FIG. 5, the information (pattern data) of the hidden spot distribution pattern is used. , Stored in the pattern storage means 42, 72, or described in the program, the pattern dependence in which the north, south, east, and west patterns are arranged at a distance ΔE2 from the pattern reference point B2 in the east direction from B2. Only the point E2, the pattern dependent point W2 arranged westward from B2 by the distance ΔW2, the pattern dependent point S2 arranged southward from B2 by the distance ΔS2, and the pattern dependent point S2 arranged northward from B2 only the distance ΔN2. It is data or the like which shows that it is composed of the pattern dependent point N2 arranged apart from each other.

Further, in the example of FIG. 5, the distance between the pattern reference point B2 and each pattern dependent point E2, W2, S2, N2 is parameterized. For example, ΔE2 = 40m, ΔW2 = 20m, ΔS2 = 20m, ΔN2 = Since it is 50 m, ΔE2, ΔW2, ΔS2, and ΔN2 are parameters. On the other hand, the numerical values of 40 m, 20 m, 20 m, and 50 m are parameter values, which are default values (initial setting values) or values after switching.

Further, in the example of FIG. 5, the size of the hidden spot area is parameterized, for example, the radius R of M size is 2 m, the radius R of L size is 3 m, and the radius R of S size is 1 m. Therefore, the radius R of the M size, the radius R of the L size, and the radius R of the S size are the parameters. On the other hand, the numerical values of 2m, 3m, and 1m are parameter values, which are default values (initial setting values) or values after switching.

Then, for example, the application point of the L size is set to "pattern dependent point E2 in the application of the odd-numbered pattern", the application point of the S size is set to "none", and the application point of the M size is all the others. Since it is a pattern-dependent point, the L size application point and the S size application point are parameters, and "pattern dependence point E2 in odd-numbered pattern application" and "none" are parameter values.

Further, in the example of FIG. 5, the number of points given by visiting the hidden spot is parameterized. For example, the standard number of points given = 1 point, the number of hits given = 5 points, and the number of big hits given = 10 points. Since the number of lost points is 0 points, the parameters are the standard number of grants, the number of hits, the number of big hits, and the number of lost points. On the other hand, the numerical values of 1 point, 5 points, 10 points, and 0 points are parameter values, which are default values (initial setting values) or values after switching.

Then, for example, the applicable point of the number of hits is set to "pattern dependent point N2 in the application of the third pattern", the point of application of the number of jackpots is set to "none", and the point of application of the number of lost hits is set to "none". Since it is set as "None" and the standard grant points are all other pattern dependent points, the hit grant points, jackpot grants, and loss grants are applicable. It is a parameter, and "pattern dependency point N2 in the third pattern application", "none", and "none" are parameter values.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / Point management means 24>

The point management means 24 receives the customer acquisition point information (including the number of acquisition points) transmitted from the customer terminal 50 together with the customer ID via the network 1 by the point granting means 64 of the customer terminal 50, and receives the acquisition. The process of associating the point information with the customer ID and storing it in the customer point storage means 46 is executed.

Here, the acquired point information includes the hidden spot ID (hidden spot identification information) for the hidden spot determined to be visited (hereinafter, the hidden spot) and the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hereinafter, the hidden spot). Latitude / longitude), the number of the pattern application for the hidden spot (when continuous pattern application is performed (see FIG. 11), what number of the hidden spot is the hidden spot created by the pattern application? Information indicating), size information of the hidden spot (classification of L, M, S, etc., radius, etc.), in time to the hidden spot (visit time), out time from the hidden spot, of the hidden spot Obtained by staying time (time of difference between out time and in time), visit order of the hidden spot (information indicating the number of the hidden spot visited), and visit to the hidden spot The number of points (initial stage) etc. are included.

At this time, the point management means 24 receives the customer acquisition point information transmitted via the network 1 each time the points are given by the point giving means 64 of the customer terminal 50, and the customer point storage means 46. Or, as shown by the two-point chain line in FIG. 1, after being accumulated and stored in the acquired point storage means 75 by the point giving means 64 of the customer terminal 50, they are collectively transmitted via the network 1. The acquired point information of the accumulated state may be received and stored in the customer point storage means 46.

Further, the point management means 24 uses the number of points held by the customer stored in the customer point storage means 46 or the information indicating that the points are accumulated as the holding point notification information of the customer terminal 50 via the network 1. The process of transmitting to the possessed point notification means 65 is also executed.

At this time, the transmission timing to the customer terminal 50 may be periodically transmitted, for example, once a day, once a week, etc., or the number of possessed points has reached a certain number. When a new game is released, or when the non-use period of the games X and Y exceeds a certain period, the game may be transmitted at an appropriate timing.

In addition, when the number of points given to the customer by the point giving means 64 is only stored in the acquired point storage means 75 of the customer terminal 50 and is not transmitted to the game providing server 20, this point management is performed. Installation of the means 24 and the customer point storage means 46 can be omitted.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / point addition means 25>

The point adding means 25 uses the visit information of the customer to the hidden spot stored in the customer point storing means 46 to ex post facto (that is, after the points are given by the point giving means 64 of the customer terminal 50) to give points. It is determined whether or not the condition for adding the points is satisfied, and if the addition condition is satisfied, a process of storing the number of points to be added in the customer point storage means 46 is executed.

Specifically, the point adding means 25 creates a hidden spot by using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46. It is determined whether or not the reference point is within the predetermined virtual fence, and if it is determined that [1] is included, points are added or it is determined that [2] is included. When the number of hidden spot creation reference points is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value, a process of adding points is executed. In short, it is a process of determining whether or not a visit to a hidden spot also corresponds to a visit inside a virtual fence, and if so, points are added.

However, the addition process related to this virtual fence does not mean that the same process is performed repeatedly in the point granting means 64, but the point granting means 64 adds points related to the virtual fence. If this is not performed, the point addition means 25 performs the point addition process related to the virtual fence. The state in which the hidden spot creation reference point is inside the virtual fence is as shown in FIG. Judging the inclusion relationship between areas (areas) complicates the process, so the hidden spots are represented by the hidden spot creation reference point.

In the case of [1], it means that there are K hidden spots in which the hidden spot creation reference points are contained in the virtual fence (K hidden spot creation reference points are contained in one virtual fence). Rather, it means that each of the K hidden spot creation reference points is inside one of the virtual fences.) For each of those K hidden spots, it is predetermined. The number of points is added. In the case of [2], there are K hidden spots in which the reference points for creating hidden spots are contained in the virtual fence, and when the K hidden spots are equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value or exceed the threshold value, K pieces are present. A predetermined number of points is added to the customer, not to each of the hidden spots.

Here, the predetermined virtual fence is a virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44. This virtual fence is a virtual fence (fence) set in the real area (the fence itself is not the real thing, but it means that it divides the real area indicated by latitude and longitude), so-called geo. It is similar to a virtual fence set up for fencing. Therefore, this virtual fence is also called a geopoint, but even if it is called a point, it is defined as an area (area) having a certain area, not a certain point. The shape and size of the virtual fence are arbitrary. Further, the virtual fence is similar to the hidden spot in that it is an area (area) set in the actual area, but the virtual fence is set and prepared in advance (at least in the present embodiment). At the start of the location-based game, the hidden spot is stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44), whereas the hidden spot does not exist from the beginning and is the location according to the present embodiment. The difference is that it is created by the processing of the information game. The virtual fence may be a virtual fence prepared for the location-based game of the present embodiment, a virtual fence prepared for use in other games X and Y, and in the latter case, another. The virtual fence prepared for the games X and Y of the above will be diverted in the position information game of the present embodiment.

The number of points to be added in the case of [1] is the number of points for each virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44 in association with each of the virtual fences (each virtual fence ID) (that is, which virtual fence should be entered). , The number of points to be added is determined for each virtual fence.) It may be a uniform number of points determined regardless of which virtual fence the player entered. The number of points to be added in the case of [2] may be the number of points according to the number of hidden spot creation reference points (K points) judged to be inside the virtual fence, and is a uniform point irrelevant to K points. It may be a number.

Further, the point adding means 25 uses the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time (in time) for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46. , When it is judged whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time are within the predetermined virtual fence and within the predetermined time zone, and [1] both are satisfied. , Points are added, or [2] When the number of hidden spot creation reference points determined to satisfy both is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value, a process of adding points is executed. May be.

Here, the predetermined time zone may be a time zone for each virtual fence associated with each of the virtual fences (each virtual fence ID) and stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44, and may be in any virtual fence. A uniform time zone determined regardless of whether or not you entered (for example, a time zone determined according to the purpose of the game, etc., specifically, for example, a specific time zone in the morning, noon, or night, etc. During the time period from 1 hour to 2 hours after the start of an event such as a competition, during the broadcast time of a specific TV program, the date, week, month, and month of a specific sports competition such as baseball and soccer It may be during the holding period, play time, etc.), and a time zone determined for each customer (in this case, individual information for each customer stored in the customer information storage means (not shown) in association with the customer ID is required. The customer's birthday, birth week, birth month, customer's job type, address, gender, age, family structure, etc., time zone, customer's normal commuting time zone, etc.) may be used.

Further, the point adding means 25 provides position information and size information (when the size is variable) of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46. The hidden spot is created and reproduced ex post facto (calculating the position information of the area of the hidden spot) by using the distinction of L, M, S, etc. in the above, the radius, etc.), and the reproduced hidden spot When it is determined whether or not a specific actual spot (defined by one point as shown in FIG. 3) is included in the area, and if it is determined that it is included [3], When points are added or [4] the number of hidden spots determined to be included exceeds or exceeds a predetermined threshold value, a process of adding points is executed. In short, it is a process of determining whether or not a visit to a hidden spot also corresponds to a visit to a specific spot in reality, and if so, points are added.

However, this addition process for a specific spot in existence does not mean that the same process is performed repeatedly in the point awarding means 64, but the point awarding means 64 does not mean that the process is performed repeatedly. This means that when the point addition process for a spot is not performed, the point addition means 25 performs the point addition process for a specific spot that actually exists. The state in which a specific real spot is included in the hidden spot area is as shown in FIG.

In the case of [3], if there are K hidden spots including a specific real spot, a predetermined number of points is added to each of the K hidden spots. In the case of [4], there are K hidden spots containing a specific real spot, and when the K number is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value, the K hidden spots A predetermined number of points is added to the customer, not to each.

Here, the number of points to be added in the case of [3] is the number of points for each specific real spot (each spot ID) stored in the real spot information storage means 43 in association with each of the specific real spots (each spot ID). In other words, it may be determined for each specific spot in reality how many points should be added if it contains a specific spot in any reality.) Which real specific spot is included. A uniform number of points may be set regardless of the number of points. Further, since the hidden spot area is a relatively small area (area), it is unlikely that a state in which a plurality of actual specific spots are included in one hidden spot area is likely to occur. When such a situation occurs, for example, the number of points corresponding to a specific spot in a plurality of realities is summed, the average value is taken, and the largest or smallest number of points is adopted. Just do it. The number of points to be added in the case of [4] may be the number of points according to the number of hidden spots (K points) including a specific real spot, or may be a uniform number of points irrelevant to K points.

Further, the point adding means 25 provides position information and size information (when the size is variable) of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46. The hidden spot is created and reproduced ex post facto (calculating the position information of the area of the hidden spot) by using the distinction of L, M, S, etc. in the above, the radius, etc.), and the reproduced hidden spot is further generated. Using the spot and the visit time (in time) to the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means 46, a specific spot that actually exists is included in the area of the hidden spot reproduced, and the hidden spot is hidden. Judge whether the visit to the spot is a visit in a predetermined time zone, and if it is judged that both [3] are satisfied, points are added or [4] it is judged that both are satisfied. When the number of the hidden spots is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold or exceeds the threshold, a process of adding points may be executed.

Further, the point adding means 25 uses the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46 and the visit time or visit order. A line connecting the positions of the hidden spot creation reference points for the hidden spots visited by the customer in the order of visit draws predetermined characters, symbols, constellations or other figures (hereinafter referred to as target figures, etc.). If it is determined whether or not to draw, and if it is determined to draw, the process of adding points is also executed.

Here, in addition to the constellations, the figures include logo marks of event organizers, game operators, etc., artistic figures, historical or mysterious figures such as the Nazca Lines. Therefore, by giving a theme to a target figure or the like, it is possible to realize a competitive game in which the degree of achievement of the purpose and artistry of the movement route by the customer's walking or the like is competed.

At this time, the point adding means 25 can execute, for example, a pattern recognition process to determine whether or not to draw a target figure or the like. Note that the process by the point adding means 25 is not a process during movement such as walking (a process that requires real-time performance) but a post-process, and therefore may be a process that requires a certain amount of time.

In the case of pattern recognition, for example, from among the hidden spots (hidden spots determined to have been visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46, the number of consecutive visits according to the shape of the target figure or the like. The information of the hidden spots is taken out, a line connecting the positions of the hidden spot creation reference points for those hidden spots in the order of visit is drawn, and the line is imaged to obtain image data. Then, a plurality of image data are obtained while shifting the first hidden spot at the time of taking out one by one. For example, there are a total of 100 hidden spots V1, V2, V3, ..., V100 determined to have been visited in the order of visits in this order, and at least 7 hidden spots are required to draw the desired figure or the like. In such a case (for example, since it is the Big Dipper of the constellation, at least 7 are required), V1 is at the beginning, 7 of V1 to V7, 8 of V1 to V8, 9 of V1 to V9, 10 of V1 to V10. Then, with V2 at the beginning, 7 pieces of V2 to V8, 8 pieces of V2 to V9, 9 pieces of V2 to V10, 10 pieces of V2 to V11, ... , V3 to V9, 7 pieces, ... Are repeated to image each of them, and a plurality of image data are obtained.

Then, the obtained plurality of image data are sequentially input to the pattern recognizer configured by the point adding means 25, and the likelihood indicating the degree of similarity to the target figure or the like is output, and among the output likelihoods. In addition, when there is a likelihood of exceeding or exceeding a predetermined threshold value, it is determined that the target figure or the like is drawn. This pattern recognizer stores a model (parameter) obtained by prior learning performed using a large amount of training data in a model storage means (not shown), and uses the model (parameter) to perform a pattern. Execute recognition processing. The algorithm for pattern recognition processing is arbitrary, but for example, a neural network, a linear classifier, or the like can be adopted. The target figure, etc. is not limited to one, and may be multiple. Therefore, each target figure, etc. is learned in advance, and each model (parameter) is prepared to prepare a plurality of pattern recognizers. Or the likelihood that a single image is the target figure A, the probability that it is the target figure B, and the probability that it is the target figure C. It may be a single pattern recognizer by performing prior learning so as to output the degrees, ...

Further, the point adding means 25 may execute a process of determining whether or not to draw a target figure or the like by a process other than the pattern recognition process. For example, for a line connecting the positions of hidden spot creation reference points for hidden spots visited by a customer in the order of visit, the angle between adjacent line segments among the line segments constituting the line (polyline) and adjacent to each other. It may be determined whether or not it corresponds to the target figure or the like by using the ratio of the lengths of the line segments. For example, as in the case of the pattern recognition process described above, the process of extracting information on some hidden spots is repeated while shifting the first hidden spots one by one. Next, normalization processing is performed for each of them so that the length of the first line segment is 1, 1 → (89 degrees) → 1.8 → (95 degrees) → 3.3 → (-124 degrees) → ... Etc. (route data obtained by digitizing a line connecting the positions of hidden spot creation reference points for a plurality of hidden spots in which the order of visit is continuous). Then, when the obtained route data includes the route data in which the difference from the route data obtained by normalizing the target figure or the like is less than or equal to the threshold value, the target figure or the like is drawn. to decide. The route data obtained by normalizing the target figure or the like is stored in a figure or the like storage means (not shown). In addition, since the same figure or the like can be drawn even if the route data follows the reverse order, the route data obtained by normalizing the target figure or the like should be prepared in the reverse order and one of the route data. If the difference between and is less than or equal to the threshold value, it is determined that the target figure or the like is drawn.

The process of determining whether or not to draw a target figure or the like by the point adding means 25 is more effective when combined with the competition means 27, and the customer feels that he / she does not experience in a normal game. Can occur. For example, at a walking tournament while looking at the starry sky, if a target figure or the like (for example, a constellation) can be drawn, the point addition means 25 can obtain additional points, so that a large number of points can be obtained. As a result, the competition results (win / loss and ranking) of the location-based game according to the present embodiment are improved, and the acquired points can be used for other games X and Y. At the same time, it is possible to improve health and to promote friendship with other customers who are participants in the competition. Furthermore, if the actual content of the competition is to compete for the size of weight loss, Some kind of competition result can be obtained there as well. Therefore, various situations are mixed. On the other hand, even if the customer is given the proposition of drawing a certain figure (for example, a constellation) in advance, he / she cannot recognize the visit to the hidden spot, so he / she somehow draws the desired figure or the like. You may walk along the route, but make no further effort. In other words, we do not think about trying desperately or trying to follow the path along the target figure. This is because it is impossible to trace it reliably. Therefore, even if the points added by the point adding means 25 cannot be obtained, many customers think that it is normal, and the results of participating in the tournament etc. can be obtained from another viewpoint, and the significance can be found. Many customers think about it. Therefore, as a result, it is possible to walk along the route along the target figure, etc., and when additional points are obtained, stronger emotions (surprise, profit, impression of hitting, etc.) are given. Since it will occur, it is possible to further surely realize the improvement of the motivation to execute the game and the motivation to execute the game. The above can be said even if the proposition of drawing a certain figure or the like (for example, a constellation) is kept secret rather than given to the customer in advance.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / Point usage processing means 26>

The point utilization processing means 26 is a customer's request for exchanging the acquired points for virtual value values used in other games X and Y, or equivalent points used in other games X and Y. When there is a customer's request to allocate to, the customer's request (including the customer ID) transmitted from the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 is received and stored in the customer point storage means 46. The number of points to be used (the number of points related to the customer's usage request) is subtracted from the number of points of the customer concerned, and the quantity or value ID or appropriation of the value obtained by the conversion process for exchange. The process of adding or adding the number of points to the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for other games X and Y in association with the customer ID and storing them is executed.

Further, when the point usage processing means 26 receives the customer's point usage request from the customer terminal 50, [α] the terminals of the other games X and Y of the customer terminal 50 are processed as processing of the other games X and Y. When receiving a customer request transmitted from the side processing means 53 and 54, and when [β] the customer's request transmitted from the point use request receiving means 66 of the customer terminal 50 is processed as the processing of the position information game of the present embodiment. You may receive a request. In any case of [α] and [β], the customer's point use request includes a request to use all of the customer's points and a request to use a part of the customer's points.

In the case of [α], another game X (for example, a position information game different from the position information game of the present embodiment) and another game Y (for example, a mahjong game) are installed, but still 1. It may be in an unused state. It also includes a case of receiving a point use request by a customer's selection operation when installing a terminal-mounted game program of another game X or Y downloaded from the provided program storage means 41 of the game providing server 20 on the customer terminal 50. Is done. For example, when a message such as "Do you want to use your points?" Is displayed on the screen during installation, and "YES" is selected there.

In the case of [β], it may be a process for handling the use of points for one specific "other game" (for example, only another game X or only another game Y), and a plurality of "other games" (for example, only another game Y). For example, it may be a shared process that can handle the use of points for other games X and Y), and in the case of the present embodiment, the latter shared process is performed.

Therefore, the point use processing means 26 receives a request to use all or a part of the possessed points for another game X as a customer's request transmitted from the point use request receiving means 66 of the customer terminal 50. In some cases, when receiving a request to use all or part of the possessed points for another game Y, and when receiving a request to distribute all or part of the possessed points to other games X and Y. There are cases where it is done.

Specifically, the point utilization processing means 26 uses the number of points related to the customer's usage request, which is subtracted from the number of points owned by the customer stored in the customer point storage means 46, in the other games X and Y. The process of converting to the quantity of virtual value value is performed, and the quantity of value value obtained by conversion is associated with the customer ID and added to the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for other games X and Y. Data storage means 47 for other games X and Y by associating the value ID of the virtual value corresponding to the number of points related to the customer's usage request with the customer ID. In order to store it in addition to 48 or to allocate the number of points related to the customer's usage request to the equivalent points used in other games X and Y, the other game X, is associated with the customer ID. A process of adding and storing data to the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for Y is executed.

Here, the virtual value objects used in other games X and Y are virtual items, weapons, currencies, etc. that can be used in the game, such as items, weapons, specific coupons, etc. Virtual currencies, etc., including items with specified uses (items in a narrow sense) and items with unspecified uses such as currencies and discount coupons (however, discount coupons that can be used for anything or many things) It is synonymous with an item in a broad sense when including. In addition, although the virtual value includes points, the points acquired in the position information game of this embodiment are equivalent to the points used in other games X and Y (the ratio of values is 1: 1). ), The conversion process using the conversion ratio is performed, while if they are equivalent, the number of points related to the customer's usage request is directly applied to the points used in other games X and Y.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / competition means 27>

The competition means 27 determines the outcome or ranking of the competition game by comparing the number of points of a plurality of customers stored in the customer point storage means 46, and determines the competition result (win / loss or ranking). The process of storing the competition result in the customer point storage means 46 in association with the customer ID and transmitting the competition result to the competition result display means 68 of the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 is executed.

Further, the competition means 27 may be configured to perform management processing such as payment of the participation fee collected from the customer before the start of the competition, and fund transfer processing such as remittance generated according to the competition result.

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / Server-side processing means 31, 32 of other games X and Y>

The server-side processing means 31 of the other game X communicates with the terminal-side processing means 53 of the other game X of the customer terminal 50 via the network 1, so that the server-side data storage means 47 for the other game X The processing of another game X (for example, a position information game other than the position information game of the present embodiment) is executed by using the data stored in.

The server-side processing means 32 of the other game Y communicates with the terminal-side processing means 54 of the other game Y of the customer terminal 50 via the network 1, so that the server-side data storage means 48 for the other game Y The processing of another game Y (for example, a mahjong game, etc.) is executed by using the data stored in.

For convenience of explanation, the server-side processing means 31 and 32 of the other games X and Y and the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for the other games X and Y are the processes for the position information game of the present embodiment. It is described that they are installed on the same server as the means 22 to 27 and the storage means 42 to 46 for executing the above, but these are different servers (servers for other games X, other games). It may be installed on the server for Y).

<Configuration of game providing server 20 / Each storage means 41 to 48>

The provided program storage means 41 stores the position information game according to the present embodiment and a terminal-mounted game program for executing other games X and Y.

The pattern storage means 42 stores information (pattern data) of the hidden spot distribution pattern. Details of this pattern data are illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 10. When a parameter is included in the hidden spot distribution pattern (see FIGS. 4 to 10), the default value (initial setting value) of the parameter is also stored in the pattern storage means 42. However, this pattern data and the default value (initial setting value) of the parameter when the parameter is included in the pattern are in the terminal-mounted game program (terminal application) for executing the position information game of the present embodiment. In that case, since the installation of the pattern storage means 42 can be omitted, it is shown by a two-point chain line in FIG. In the case where the hidden spot creation process is executed on the game providing server 20 side as in the second embodiment (see FIG. 13) described later, when the installation of the pattern storage means 42 is omitted, the pattern data or When the parameter is included in the pattern, the default value (initial setting value) of the parameter is described in the server-mounted game program (server application) instead of the terminal application.

The real spot information storage means 43 stores information on a specific real spot. The existing spot information storage means 43 may be prepared for other games X and Y. A specific spot in reality, unlike a hidden spot, is not an area, but a point. Information on a specific spot in reality includes, for example, spot ID, spot position information (latitude / longitude), spot type (convenience store, restaurant, park, etc.), and the number of points to be given when visiting a spot. (The number of points in the initial stage used by the point giving means 64) or the number of points to be added after the fact (the number of added points used by the point adding means 25) and the like are included.

The virtual fence information storage means 44 stores the information of the virtual fence. The virtual fence information storage means 44 may be prepared for other games X and Y. Since the virtual fence is described in detail in the description of the point adding means 25, detailed description thereof will be omitted here. The information of the virtual fence includes, for example, the virtual fence ID, the position information (latitude / longitude) for defining the virtual fence, and the number of points to be given when entering the virtual fence (initial used in the point giving means 64). The number of points in the stage) or the number of points to be added after the fact (the number of points to be added used in the point adding means 25) and the like are included. The size of the virtual fence is arbitrary, and the shape is also arbitrary such as circular, oval, sector, quadrangle, triangle, etc. For example, if it is circular, the center position information (latitude / longitude) and radius A virtual fence can be defined, and if it is a quadrangle, the virtual fence can be defined by the position information (latitude / longitude) of four corners, and the definition format of such a virtual fence is also arbitrary.

The hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45 uses, for example, the position information (latitude / longitude) of the starting point, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern to be used, and the value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern (for example,) as the hidden spot creation instruction information. , Grid spacing, distance between pattern reference point and each pattern dependent point, hidden spot size information, information on the number of hidden spot points, etc.) is stored.

The customer point storage means 46 includes a hidden spot ID (hidden spot identification information) for a hidden spot determined to have been visited (hereinafter, the hidden spot), and position information (latitude / latitude) of a hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot. (Longitude), the number of pattern application for the hidden spot (in the case of continuous pattern application (see FIG. 11), the number of the hidden spot created by the pattern application) is shown. Information), size information of the hidden spot (L, M, S, etc., radius, etc.), in-time (visit time) to the hidden spot, out time from the hidden spot, staying time of the hidden spot (Time of difference between out time and in time), order of visits to the hidden spot (information indicating the number of hidden spots visited by the hidden spot), number of points earned by visiting the hidden spot (Initial stage), information for each hidden spot such as the number of points added ex post facto for the visit to the hidden spot is stored in association with the customer ID, and visits to a plurality of hidden spots (initial stage). The number of points added after the fact to the set of visits), the total number of points earned by the customer, the event ID of the competition in which the customer participated, and the competition result (win / loss and ranking), etc. Such collective information and overall information are stored in association with the customer ID.

The hidden spot ID (hidden spot identification information) is a hidden spot ID common to all customers when a common starting point is adopted, but when an individual starting point is adopted, the hidden spot is limited to that customer. It becomes an ID. Further, when an infinitely expanding hidden spot distribution pattern such as a grid type is adopted (see FIG. 4), an array such as grid coordinates (i, j) or the like (planar spread is handled, so that it is usually used. Is a two-dimensional array.) The information becomes the hidden spot ID. In this case, if the starting point moves, the combination of the starting point position information (latitude / longitude) and the array information is the hidden spot. It becomes an ID. On the other hand, when a hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size is adopted, the pattern is applied regardless of whether the patterns are connected (see FIG. 11) or not connected (see FIG. 17). By repeating this multiple times, the range of hidden spots created will be expanded (and the range of hidden spots created will differ depending on the situation at that time, for example, depending on the customer's travel route. (Because it is performed), even if a serial number corresponding to the hidden spot ID is temporarily assigned to the created hidden spot during the processing of each customer terminal 50, the temporary hidden spot ID is given. Is not necessarily stored in the customer point storage means 46, and in such a case, the hidden spot ID may be substituted with the position information (latitude / longitude) of the hidden spot creation reference point.

The server-side data storage means 47 for the other game X stores the data used in the processing of the other game X.

The server-side data storage means 48 for the other game Y stores the data used in the processing of the other game Y.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / program acquisition means 51, positioning means 52>

The program acquisition means 51 is realized by a program for accessing a market site mounted on the customer terminal 50 (usually pre-installed when the customer terminal 50 is a smartphone, tablet terminal, etc.), and is realized in the present embodiment. Various terminal applications including a terminal-installed game program for executing the position information game and other games X and Y are provided on a market site server for a fee or free of charge (in this embodiment, the game is provided for convenience of explanation). The program (which is said to be the server 20) is downloaded from the customer terminal 50 to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 and acquired, and the acquired program (the terminal-installed game program for the position information game and other games X and Y according to the present embodiment). ) Is stored in the acquisition program storage means 71.

The positioning means 52 executes a process of measuring the current position of the customer terminal 50. The positioning means 52 includes a GPS module that performs positioning by a global positioning system (GPS: Global Positioning System). Further, as the positioning means 52, a position information providing system using base station information may be used or may be used in combination. In this location information providing system, the customer terminal 50 captures the base station information and communicates with the location information providing server installed by the mobile phone company or the like to execute a process of acquiring the current location information.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / Terminal-side processing means 53, 54 of other games X and Y>

The terminal-side processing means 53 of the other game X communicates with the server-side processing means 31 of the other game X of the game providing server 20 via the network 1 to store the terminal-side data storage means for the other game X. Using the data stored in 76, processing of another game X (for example, a position information game other than the position information game of the present embodiment) is executed.

The terminal-side processing means 54 of the other game Y communicates with the server-side processing means 32 of the other game Y of the game providing server 20 via the network 1, so that the terminal-side data storage means for the other game Y Using the data stored in 77, the processing of another game Y (for example, a mahjong game) is executed.

The terminal-side processing means 53 and 54 of these other games X and Y are realized by a terminal-mounted game program for executing the other games X and Y stored in the acquisition program storage means 71. is there.

<Configuration of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / game setting data acquisition means 61>

The game processing means 60 is realized by a terminal-mounted game program for executing the position information game of the present embodiment stored in the acquisition program storage means 71.

The game setting data acquisition means 61 acquires the game setting data after the terminal-mounted game program for executing the position information game according to the present embodiment is started (however, the background processing is started). The request is transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1, and is stored in the game setting data transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1, that is, the pattern storage means 42 of the game providing server 20. Receives information on the hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern data), information on a specific spot actually stored in the real spot information storage means 43, and information on the virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44. Each of the received information is stored in the pattern storage means 72, the actual spot information storage means 73, and the virtual fence information storage means 74, respectively.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / hidden spot creating means 62>

The hidden spot creating means 62 executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 50 in a background process. This hidden spot is an area (separated area) set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot (for example, convenience store, restaurant, park, etc.).

Here, as shown in FIG. 2, each hidden spot has a hidden spot creation reference point (a point having no area), and is created with reference to the hidden spot creation reference point. In the case of a standard hidden spot, the shape is circular, and the center of the circle is used as the hidden spot creation reference point, and the area is separated by a radius R from the reference point. The radius R is arbitrary, and therefore the size of the hidden spot area is arbitrary, but is usually not very large, for example, the radius R is on the order of 1 meter to several meters. In the present embodiment, the radius R is made variable by parameterizing, and a plurality of types of sizes (as shown in FIGS. 4 to 10 are prepared as an example of three sizes of L size, M size, and S size). In addition, each type of size can be set freely.

Further, the shape of the hidden spot is not limited to a circle, and is arbitrary, and in the case of a non-standard hidden spot, various shapes such as a quadrangle, an ellipse, and a fan can be adopted. However, from the viewpoint of facilitating the process of creating hidden spots, facilitating definition, etc., it is preferable to use a standard circular hidden spot or a simple quadrangular hidden spot. In addition, even in the case of a non-standard hidden spot having a shape other than a circle, the size is arbitrary, and a plurality of types of sizes may be prepared as variable sizes.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the positional relationship between the hidden spot creation reference point and a figure such as a circle or a quadrangle that defines the outer shape of the hidden spot (the shape of the boundary line inside and outside the hidden spot) is arbitrary and not necessarily. The center or center position of a figure such as a circle or a quadrangle does not have to be a reference point for creating a hidden spot. For example, in the case of a quadrangular hidden spot, the hidden spot creation reference point may be not the center but the corner, the inside near the corner, the inside other than the center, the end, the outside, and the like. However, as shown in FIG. 3, when determining whether or not the user has entered the virtual fence indicated by the dotted line in the figure, the hidden spot having an area can be represented by one point called the hidden spot creation reference point. Therefore, it is preferable that the hidden spot creation reference point is at the center or the center of the figure.

Specifically, the hidden spot creating means 62 uses at least one position information (latitude / longitude) of the starting point and the hidden spot distribution pattern, and applies the hidden spot distribution pattern to the starting point. Performs the process of creating hidden spots in.

More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 10, the hidden spot distribution pattern is composed of a pattern reference point and a plurality of pattern dependent points determined by positions relative to the pattern reference point, so that the pattern reference point is the starting point. By applying a pattern that matches the above, each position (latitude / longitude) of a plurality of pattern-dependent points is obtained, and a process of creating a plurality of hidden spots is executed using each of the obtained positions as a hidden spot creation reference point. When the pattern is applied, not only a plurality of hidden spots corresponding to a plurality of pattern dependent points are created, but also a hidden spot corresponding to the pattern reference point (that is, the position of the pattern reference point is set as a hidden spot creation reference). Hidden spots to be points) may be created.

This hidden spot distribution pattern is prepared in advance and described in the terminal-mounted game program (terminal application), or is stored in the pattern storage means 72 and 42 provided in the customer terminal 50 or the game providing server 20. ing. When the hidden spot creation process is executed on the game providing server 20 side as in the second embodiment (see FIG. 13) described later, the hidden spot distribution pattern is a server-mounted game program (server application). ) Will be described.

Only one type of hidden spot distribution pattern may be prepared, but in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 10, a plurality of types of hidden spot distribution patterns (pattern type = P1 to P7) are prepared. There is. Broadly speaking, there are hidden spot distribution patterns that spread infinitely and hidden spot distribution patterns of finite size. In the latter case, a wide range is achieved by connecting multiple hidden spot distribution patterns by applying continuous patterns. You can create hidden spots in the area. As shown in FIG. 17, which will be described later, even in the case of a hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size, hidden spots can be created in a wide range without connecting the patterns.

FIG. 4 shows a grid-type hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P1) as an example of an infinitely expanding hidden spot distribution pattern. However, it means that it can spread infinitely as the definition of the pattern, and when performing the visit determination process of the hidden spot for any one customer (one customer terminal 50), all the infinitely widened hidden spots are all. It does not mean to create (for example, create hidden spots all over Japan). For example, it is not necessary to create a hidden spot in Osaka when performing a visit determination process for a hidden spot for a customer (customer terminal 50) walking in Tokyo, but if it is created within the range of movement by walking in Tokyo, etc. It is enough. Therefore, when creating the hidden spot, the current position information (latitude / longitude) of the customer terminal 50 acquired from the positioning means 52 is used, the moving speed of the customer due to walking or the like is taken into consideration, and the current position of the customer terminal 50 is created. It suffices to create a hidden spot around the (eg, within a certain radius of the current position). This means that after applying the hidden spot distribution pattern, when creating each hidden spot corresponding to a plurality of pattern dependent points constituting the hidden spot distribution pattern, at the same time or substantially at the same time (that is, at a certain time). It shows that it is not necessary to create (concentrated), but to follow the movement of customers and gradually create hidden spots. For this reason, if one customer (one customer terminal 50) walks all over Japan, a hidden spot will be created all over Japan as a result, but it is not created at the same time, but a long time. It will be created over a period of time.

In FIG. 4, in the grid type hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P1), the intersection positions of the vertical and horizontal grid lines arranged in a grid pattern are the pattern reference point (0, 0) and each pattern dependent point (i, j). Here, i and j of each pattern dependent point are integers (including negative integers), and (0,0) is excluded because it is a pattern reference point. The grid coordinates (i, j) function as a hidden spot ID. Further, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 4, if this grid-type hidden spot distribution pattern is applied again after the position of the starting point is moved (after moving from the starting point at time T1 to the starting point at time T2) ( That is, if the position of the pattern reference point (0,0) is moved), the position of each pattern dependent point (i, j) is naturally moved. In this case, the position information of the starting point (latitude). The combination of (longitude) and grid coordinates (i, j) functions as a hidden spot ID. Since the hidden spot ID has already been described in detail in the description of the customer point storage means 46, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

As the pattern data (data stored in the pattern storage means 42 and 72), for example, there is a grid interval. In the present embodiment, it is parameterized, and the horizontal arrangement interval (interval between vertical grid lines) is, for example, ΔX = 50 m, and the vertical arrangement interval (interval between horizontal grid lines) is, for example, ΔY. = 40m. These values may vary over time.

If the grid spacing is specified as the pattern data in this way and the position information (latitude / longitude) of the starting point to which the pattern is applied is available, the position of the grid coordinates (i, j) is determined, so that each pattern dependent point ( The positions of i and j), that is, the positions of the hidden spot creation reference points for each hidden spot are determined. The position of the pattern dependent point (i, j) is a position moved by i × ΔX in the X direction and j × ΔY in the Y direction from the starting point.

In addition, as pattern data, there is the size of the hidden spot area. This data is for defining hidden spots rather than defining patterns, but since the position where hidden spots are created is determined by the pattern, it is included in the pattern data. In the present embodiment, parameters are prepared, and three types of sizes are prepared. For example, the radius R of M size is 2 m, the radius R of L size is 3 m, and the radius R of S size is 1 m. These values may vary over time.

Then, for example, the applicable point of the L size is set to "pattern dependent point where i = j", the applied point of the S size is set to "none", and the applied point of the M size is set to all other pattern dependent points. It has become. These may vary with time.

Further, as pattern data, there is a number of points given by visiting a hidden spot. This data is also not data for defining a pattern, but it is included in the pattern data because the number of points to be given depends on which hidden spot is visited and the position where the hidden spot is created is determined by the pattern. ing. In the present embodiment, the parameters are set, for example, the standard number of grants = 1 point, the number of hits granted = 5 points, the number of jackpot grants = 10 points, and the number of lost losses = 0 points. These values may vary over time.

The applicable point of the number of hits is "a pattern-dependent point in which i is a multiple of 5 and j is a multiple of 3", and the applicable point of the number of jackpots is "a pattern-dependent point (7, 7). ), (-7, -7), (28, -21) ”, the applicable point of the number of lost grants is“ none ”, and the applicable point of the standard number of grants is dependent on all other patterns. It is a point. These may vary with time.

FIG. 5 shows an east-west north-south pattern (pattern type = P2) in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in four directions of north, south, east, and west as an example of a hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size. This east-west north-south pattern includes a pattern reference point B2, a pattern-dependent point E2 arranged eastward from B2 by a distance ΔE2, and a pattern-dependent point W2 arranged westward from B2 by a distance ΔW2. It is composed of a pattern-dependent point S2 arranged southward from B2 by a distance ΔS2 and a pattern-dependent point N2 arranged northward from B2 by a distance ΔN2.

The pattern data (data stored in the pattern storage means 42 and 72) includes, for example, a distance between the pattern reference point B2 and each pattern dependent point E2, W2, S2, N2. In this embodiment, it is parameterized, for example, ΔE2 = 40m, ΔW2 = 20m, ΔS2 = 20m, ΔN2 = 50m. These values may vary over time.

In addition, as pattern data, there is the size of the hidden spot area. In the present embodiment, it is parameterized, for example, the radius R of M size is 2 m, the radius R of L size is 3 m, and the radius R of S size is 1 m. These values may vary over time.

Then, for example, the application point of the L size is set to "pattern dependent point E2 in the application of the odd-numbered pattern", the application point of the S size is set to "none", and the application point of the M size is all the others. It is a pattern dependency point. These may vary with time.

Further, as pattern data, there is a number of points given by visiting a hidden spot. In the present embodiment, the parameters are set, for example, the standard number of grants = 1 point, the number of hits granted = 5 points, the number of jackpot grants = 10 points, and the number of lost losses = 0 points. These values may vary over time.

Then, for example, the applicable point of the number of hits is set to "pattern dependent point N2 in the application of the third pattern", the point of application of the number of jackpots is set to "none", and the point of application of the number of lost hits is set to "none". It is set to "None", and the applicable point of the standard grant number is all other pattern dependent points. These may vary with time.

FIG. 6 shows an east-west-north pattern (pattern type = P3) in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in three directions of east-west-north as an example of a finite-sized hidden spot distribution pattern. This east-west-north pattern includes a pattern reference point B3, a pattern-dependent point E3 arranged eastward from B3 by a distance ΔE3, and a pattern-dependent point W3 arranged westward from B3 by a distance ΔW3. It is composed of a pattern dependent point N3 arranged at a distance ΔN3 in the north direction from B3. The pattern data is substantially the same as the case of the north-south east-west pattern of FIG. 5, and there is only no data in the south direction of the north-south east-west.

FIG. 7 shows an east-west-south pattern (pattern type = P4) in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in three directions of east-west-south as an example of a finite-sized hidden spot distribution pattern. This east-west south pattern includes a pattern reference point B4, a pattern-dependent point E4 arranged eastward from B4 by a distance ΔE4, and a pattern-dependent point W4 arranged westward from B4 by a distance ΔW4. It is composed of a pattern dependent point S4 arranged at a distance ΔS4 in the south direction from B4. The pattern data is substantially the same as the case of the north-south east-west pattern in FIG. 5, and there is only no data in the north direction of the north-south east-west.

FIG. 8 shows an east-south-north pattern (pattern type = P5) in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in three directions of east-south-north as an example of a finite-sized hidden spot distribution pattern. This north-south pattern includes a pattern reference point B5, a pattern-dependent point E5 arranged eastward from B5 by a distance ΔE5, and a pattern-dependent point S5 arranged southward from B5 by a distance ΔS5. It is composed of a pattern dependent point N5 arranged at a distance ΔN5 in the north direction from B5. The pattern data is substantially the same as in the case of the north-south east-west pattern in FIG.

In FIG. 9, as an example of a hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size, a north-south pattern (pattern type = P6) in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in three directions of north-south-west is shown. This north-south pattern includes a pattern reference point B6, a pattern-dependent point W6 arranged westward from B6 by a distance ΔW6, and a pattern-dependent point S6 arranged southward from B6 by a distance ΔS6. It is composed of a pattern dependent point N6 arranged at a distance ΔN6 in the north direction from B6. The pattern data is substantially the same as the case of the north-south east-west pattern in FIG. 5, and there is only no data in the east direction among the north, south, east, and west.

In the above, the four-direction pattern (pattern type = P2) and the four types of three-direction patterns (pattern type = P3 to P6) have been described, but even if a two-direction pattern or a one-direction pattern is prepared. Good. FIG. 10 illustrates a two-way Tohoku pattern (pattern type = P7). The same applies to the other two-direction patterns (northwest, southwest, southeast, east-west, and north-south patterns).

Further, if only the pattern in one direction is prepared, the arrangement position of the hidden spot extends only in one direction, and it is difficult to obtain the spread. Therefore, when preparing the pattern in one direction, the pattern in multiple directions is prepared. It is preferable to combine with. If multiple types of one-way patterns with different directions are prepared, it is possible to expand the arrangement positions of hidden spots in multiple directions, but this is an inefficient process, so it is possible to use multiple directions. Preferably combined with the pattern.

Further, the hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size is limited to a pattern in which each pattern dependent point is arranged in the north, south, east, and west directions when viewed from the pattern reference point as described above (see FIGS. 5 to 10). Instead, for example, as shown in FIG. 17 described later, each pattern dependent point may be arranged in an arbitrary direction when viewed from the pattern reference point. Although the example of FIG. 17 is not an example of connecting a plurality of hidden spot distribution patterns by applying continuous patterns, patterns as shown in FIG. 17 may be connected. On the contrary, the north, south, east, and west patterns as shown in FIG. 5 may be utilized by applying the pattern as shown in FIG. 17 without connecting them.

Further, although FIG. 4 shows a grid-type infinitely spreading hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P1), a grid-type hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size may be prepared. As a result, the hidden spots can be arranged so as to place a go stone on the grid (the intersection of a plurality of lines drawn vertically and horizontally on the board).

Further, the hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size may not be a fixed or semi-fixed pattern as described above, but may be a random pattern randomly formed by using random numbers at any given time. For example, using the (r, θ) coordinates, with (0,0) as the pattern reference point, the range of r = 20m (minimum radius) to 50m (maximum radius), and the range of θ = 0 to 2π (360 degrees). Then, by creating a plurality of (U = for example, 10) pattern-dependent points using random numbers, a hidden spot distribution pattern of a finite size consisting of a pattern reference point and U pattern-dependent points is formed. can do. Regarding the size of the hidden spot area and the number of points to be given by visiting the hidden spot, for example, the number of pattern dependent points created out of U is set to L size, the number of hits to be given, and the like. You just have to do. As a result, although random numbers are used, it is possible to prepare what can be called a pattern formed according to a predetermined rule.

The hidden spot creating means 62 performs a process of creating a plurality of hidden spots by continuously applying a pattern and connecting a plurality of patterns using the hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size described above. Can be executed.

More specifically, the hidden spot creating means 62 first applies a first pattern that matches the pattern reference point for the hidden spot distribution pattern with the starting point as the first process, thereby performing a plurality of pattern dependent points. Each position of is obtained, and a plurality of hidden spots are created by using each of the obtained positions as the first hidden spot creation reference point.

After that, when N is an integer of 2 or more, the hidden spot creating means 62 sets each position of the plurality of pattern dependent points obtained by applying the (N-1) th pattern as the Nth process. , Each position of the plurality of pattern dependent points by applying the Nth pattern that matches the pattern reference points for the same or different hidden spot distribution patterns as the hidden spot distribution pattern applied in the (N-1) th process. By creating a plurality of hidden spots using each of the obtained positions as the Nth hidden spot creation reference point and repeating such pattern application while increasing N by 1, a plurality of hidden spots are obtained. Execute the process of creating.

Further, when applying the second and subsequent patterns, the hidden spot creating means 62 uses the current position information of the customer terminal 50 acquired from the positioning means 52, and the hidden spot for the hidden spot that has already been created. From the plurality of pattern-dependent points used as the creation reference points, the pattern-dependent points within a predetermined distance from the current position of the customer terminal 50 are selected, and each position of the selected pattern-dependent points is set. It is preferable that the pattern is applied so that the pattern reference points of the hidden spot distribution pattern to be applied next are matched.

FIG. 11 shows a situation in which a continuous pattern application is performed on a hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P2 to P7, etc.) having a finite size. However, after the pattern is applied, many points overlap and it is difficult to explain. Therefore, FIG. 11 shows the state immediately before the pattern is applied.

In the example of FIG. 11, first, the first pattern application is performed in which the pattern reference point B2 for the north-south east-west pattern (pattern type = P2, see FIG. 5) is matched with the starting point. As a result, after the application of the first pattern, the positions of the four pattern dependent points E2, W2, S2, and N2 of the north, south, east, and west for the north, south, east, and west patterns are determined. Two hidden spots are created.

When applying the second and subsequent patterns, the north, south, east, and west patterns used in the first pattern application (pattern type = P2, see Fig. 5) may be used repeatedly, but the placement position of the hidden spots may be continued. From the viewpoint of avoiding the overlap as much as possible, in the present embodiment, when the second and subsequent patterns are applied, the patterns are applied using different types of patterns instead of the north, south, east, and west patterns. ..

For example, when applying a pattern to a pattern-dependent point N2 arranged in the north direction when viewed from the pattern reference point B2, an east-west-north pattern without a pattern-dependent point arranged in the south direction (pattern type = P3, (See FIG. 6) is used to apply a second pattern that matches the pattern reference point B3 for the north-east pattern with the pattern-dependent point N2.

Further, when applying the pattern to the pattern-dependent point S2 arranged in the south direction when viewed from the pattern reference point B2, the east-west south pattern (pattern type = P4,) having no pattern-dependent point arranged in the north direction. (See FIG. 7) is used to apply a second pattern that makes the pattern reference point B4 for the southeastern east-west pattern coincide with the pattern-dependent point S2.

Further, when applying the pattern to the pattern dependent point E2 arranged in the east direction when viewed from the pattern reference point B2, the north-south pattern without the pattern dependent point arranged in the west direction (pattern type = P5, (See FIG. 8) is used to apply a second pattern that matches the pattern reference point B5 for the north-south pattern with the pattern-dependent point E2.

Then, when applying the pattern to the pattern-dependent point W2 arranged in the west direction when viewed from the pattern reference point B2, the north-south pattern without the pattern-dependent point arranged in the east direction (pattern type = P6, (See FIG. 9) is used to apply a second pattern that matches the pattern reference point B6 for the northwestern pattern with the pattern dependent point W2.

In this way, even in the application of the third, fourth, ... Patterns, when the pattern is applied to the pattern dependent points arranged in a certain direction when viewed from the pattern reference point, the direction is the same. Pattern application is performed using a pattern that is arranged in the opposite direction and has no pattern dependency points.

Further, when a plurality of patterns are connected by continuous pattern application as shown in FIG. 11, the arrangement positions of hidden spots may overlap. That is, the positions (latitude / longitude) of the hidden spot creation reference points may overlap. For this reason, it is necessary to establish rules for overlapping cases. This rule is, for example, a rule that gives priority to the newly created hidden spot information or gives priority to the old hidden spot information. Such a rule is necessary because the size of the hidden spot area and the number of points awarded for visiting the hidden spot differ depending on whether it is new or old. Therefore, the size and the number of points for the hidden spots prioritized (selected) by the rules will be adopted.

Specifically, for example, a pattern dependent point (or a hidden spot created by using it as a hidden spot creation reference point) obtained by applying the first pattern and a pattern obtained by applying the third pattern. When the dependent point (or the hidden spot created using it as the hidden spot creation reference point) overlaps (when the latitude and longitude match perfectly), it was created when the first pattern was applied. Select the size and number of hidden spots, or select the size and number of hidden spots created when applying the third pattern.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / hidden spot visit determination means 63>

The hidden spot visit determination means 63 uses the current position information of the customer terminal 50 acquired from the positioning means 52 to see if the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the hidden spot area created by the hidden spot creating means 62. The process of determining whether or not it is performed is executed in the background process.

Further, the hidden spot visit determination means 63 executes not only determining whether or not the user has entered the hidden spot area, but also determining whether or not the user has entered the hidden spot area, and is shown in FIG. In this way, the time of entering the hidden spot area (in time, visit time) and the time of exiting the hidden spot area (out time) are obtained, and the staying time of the hidden spot is calculated from the difference between these times. If the calculated stay time is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value, a process of determining that the visit does not correspond to a hidden spot is also executed.

At this time, the in time and the out time may be acquired from the system time held by the customer terminal 50, but may be the time associated with the current position information from the positioning means 52 used for the in determination and the out determination. , It may be the time when it is determined that the vehicle has entered or when it is determined that the vehicle has exited.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / point giving means 64>

When the point giving means 64 determines that the hidden spot visit determination means 63 has entered the hidden spot area, the point giving means gives points to the customer, and the number of points given to the customer is used as the customer's acquired point information. It is transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 together with the ID, or is stored and stored in the acquired point storage means 75 as shown by the two-point chain line in FIG. 1, and then sent to the game providing server 20 via the network 1. It executes the process of sending. The point awarding means 64 may be configured such that the customer's earned point information is not transmitted to the game providing server 20 but is simply stored in the earned point storage means 75.

Here, the earned point information transmitted to the game providing server 20 includes various information in addition to the number of points given to the customer (the number of points earned by the customer). For details, refer to the game providing server 20. Since it has already been described in the description of the point management means 24 of the above, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

Further, when the point giving means 64 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the hidden spot area by the hidden spot visit determining means 63, the hidden spot determined to have entered is the hidden spot creating means 62. When a predetermined hidden spot among the plurality of hidden spots created by is applicable, a process of giving a larger number of points than the other hidden spots is executed. In the present embodiment, this process is realized by including information on the number of points given by visiting the hidden spot in the pattern data (see FIGS. 4 to 10). In the examples of FIGS. 4 to 10, in addition to the standard number of points given, the number of hits and the number of big hits are provided, the number of points given in multiple stages (three or more stages) is set, and the number of lost points is also given. It is set.

The number of lost losses is usually a small positive number or zero, but may be a negative number. If the number is negative, if you visit a hidden spot by walking etc., the number of points you have will decrease. Therefore, for example, if you do not use the points early, the number of points you have will decrease. It is possible to send a notification (notification by the possessed point notification means 65) that encourages the use of points, such as "It may disappear. Please use it as soon as possible." Therefore, it is possible to improve the motivation to execute the other games X and Y and to give the motivation for the execution. However, if the negative number (absolute value) is made too large, the customer will not use the location-based game of the present embodiment in the first place. To prevent this, the negative number (absolute value) is standard. It is preferable to set the number to be smaller or the same as the number of grants, or to reduce the number of points to which the number of lost grants is applied.When walking around, points are usually accumulated more and more, but if you are unlucky, it may occasionally decrease a little. It is preferable to set to.

Even if the expiration date is set for the points to be given, the same effect as when the number of negative losses is set can be obtained, so that the expiration date may be set. The expiration date is, for example, within days and weeks from the grant date (visit date of the hidden spot), within months from the grant month (visit month of the hidden spot), and the like. The expiration date is managed by storing the in-time (in-date and time) to the hidden spot as the acquired point information in the customer point storage means 46 and the acquired point storage means 75, so that the visit time, visit date, and visit month can be managed.・ Since the year of visit can be grasped, management can be performed using this. However, since it is unclear when the points will be reduced by setting the number of lost points to a negative number rather than setting the expiration date, the use of points may be promoted.

Further, when the point awarding means 64 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the hidden spot area by the hidden spot visit determining means 63, the actual spot information is provided in the hidden spot area determined to have entered. It is determined whether or not a predetermined specific spot of existence stored in the storage means 73 is included, and when the specific spot of existence is included, a larger number of points than other hidden spots are given. Execute the process to be performed.

Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the actual specific spot is defined by a point rather than an area (area), and is, for example, a convenience store or a restaurant. The information of the actual specific spot stored in the real spot information storage means 73 is the same information as the information stored in the real spot information storage means 43, and is already detailed in the description of the real spot information storage means 43. Since it is done, detailed explanation is omitted here.

The meaning of "giving a larger number of points than other hidden spots" here is a visit to another hidden spot (a hidden spot that does not include a specific real spot) and is determined by the pattern data. If only the number (one of the standard number of grants, the number of hits, the number of jackpots, the number of losses, etc.) can be obtained, it means that more points can be obtained, and it is a hidden spot. This means that there is a difference in the number of points to be awarded depending on whether the visit is also a visit to a specific spot in reality or not. The number of points corresponding to the difference here (the number of points that increase when a visit to a hidden spot also corresponds to a visit to a specific actual spot) is added by the point addition means 25 of the game providing server 20. Similar to the case of the number of points, the number of points for each specific spot in existence (stored in the actual spot information storage means 73 for each specific spot in existence) may be used, or a uniform number of points may be used.

The processing related to the actual specific spot by the point giving means 64 is substantially the same as the processing related to the actual specific spot by the point adding means 25 of the game providing server 20, and the point adding means 25 is a post-processing. On the other hand, the processing of the point giving means 64 is different in that it is a processing at the time of visiting a hidden spot.

More specifically, the point adding means 25 provides the position information and size of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46 of the game providing server 20. Using the information, the hidden spot is created and reproduced after the fact (the position information of the area of the hidden spot is calculated), and the reproduced specific spot is included in the area of the hidden spot. By judging whether or not, points are added after the fact. On the other hand, in the point giving means 64, since the hidden spot is created by the hidden spot creating means 62, it is not necessary to reproduce the hidden spot after the fact, and the point giving means 64 is in a state of being created by the hidden spot creating means 62. Points are awarded by determining whether or not a specific spot in existence is included in the area of a certain hidden spot.

Further, when the point awarding means 64 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the hidden spot area by the hidden spot visit determining means 63, the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered is determined. However, it is determined whether or not it is inside the predetermined virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 74, and if it is determined that it is inside, a larger number of points than other hidden spots are given. Execute the process to be given.

Further, when the point awarding means 64 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the area of the hidden spot by the hidden spot visit determining means 63, the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered is determined. And whether or not the visit time (in time) is within the predetermined virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 74 and within the predetermined time zone, and both are determined. When it is determined that the condition is satisfied, a process of giving a larger number of points than other hidden spots may be executed.

Here, the virtual fence is an area (area) as shown by a dotted line in FIG. 3, and the details thereof have already been described in the description of the point adding means 25, so detailed description thereof will be omitted here. The predetermined virtual fence information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 74 is the same information as the information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44, and is already detailed in the description of the virtual fence information storage means 44. Since it is described, detailed description is omitted here.

The meaning of "giving a larger number of points than other hidden spots" here is a pattern of visits to other hidden spots (hidden spots whose reference point for creating hidden spots is not inside the virtual fence). It means that if you can only get the number of points determined by the data (one of the standard number of points given, the number of hits given, the number of big hits given, the number of lost points, etc.), you can get more points. , It means that there is a difference in the number of points to be given depending on whether the visit to the hidden spot also corresponds to the virtual fence-in or not. The number of points corresponding to the difference here (the number of points increased when the visit to the hidden spot also corresponds to the virtual fence-in) is the number of points added by the point adding means 25 of the game providing server 20. Similarly, the number of points for each virtual fence (stored in the virtual fence information storage means 74 for each virtual fence) may be used, or a uniform number of points may be used.

The process related to the virtual fence by the point giving means 64 is substantially the same as the process related to the virtual fence by the point adding means 25 of the game providing server 20, whereas the point adding means 25 is an ex post facto process. The processing of the point giving means 64 is different in that it is a processing at the time of visiting a hidden spot.

More specifically, the point adding means 25 uses the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) stored in the customer point storage means 46 of the game providing server 20. Then, it is determined ex post facto whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point is within the predetermined virtual fence stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44, and points are added ex post facto. On the other hand, in the point giving means 64, the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to be visited) in the state created by the hidden spot creating means 62 is the virtual fence information storage means 74. Points are awarded by determining whether or not the player is inside the predetermined virtual fence stored in.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / possessed point notification means 65>

The possessed point notification means 65 is the possessed point notification information (the number of points owned by the customer or the fact that points are accumulated) transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1 by the point management means 24 of the game providing server 20. Information) is received and a process of displaying it on the screen of the customer terminal 50 is executed.

Further, the possessed point notification means 65 uses the acquired point information (including the acquired points) stored in the acquired point storage means 75 to obtain the number of points owned by the customer or the information that the points are accumulated. , The process of displaying on the screen of the customer terminal 50 may be executed. In particular, if the acquired point information is not transmitted to the game providing server 20 but is only stored in the acquired point storage means 75, it is necessary to perform this display process.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / point use request receiving means 66>

The point use request receiving means 66 receives a customer's point use request, transmits the received request to the point use processing means 26 of the game providing server 20 via the network 1, or sends the received request to the customer terminal. The process of passing to the point utilization processing means 67 of 50 is executed. Since this process accepts the customer's operation, it is a foreground process, and this point is different from each process executed by the hidden spot creating means 62, the hidden spot visit determining means 63, and the point giving means 64 executed in the background process. ing.

Since the processing by the point use request receiving means 66 is executed as the processing of the position information game of the present embodiment (processing by the game processing means 60), the processing of other games X and Y (of other games X and Y). Dedicated reception processing for each of the other games X and Y executed as processing means 53 and 54 on the terminal side (processing of another game X that accepts use for other game X, use for other game Y) It is not the processing of another game Y that accepts. Therefore, a process shared by all other games including other games X and Y is executed. The customer's point usage request includes a request to use all of the customer's points and a request to use a part of the customer's points.

As described above, the point use request receiving means 66 receives the point use request as a process shared by all other games including other games X and Y, so that all or part of the possessed points can be used by other games. Request to use for game X, request to use for other game Y, request to use distributed for other games X and Y (for example, 50 points out of 100 points held are used for other game X , A request to use 30 points for another game Y and keep the remaining 20 points, etc.) can be accepted. The same applies when there are other games other than the other games X and Y, and it is possible to accept a usage request for one other game and a distributed usage request for a plurality of other games.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / point utilization processing means 67>

The point utilization processing means 67 is a customer's request for exchanging the acquired points for virtual value values used in other games X and Y, or equivalent points used in other games X and Y. When there is a customer's request to allocate to, the number of points to be used (the number of points related to the customer's usage request) is calculated from the number of points of the customer stored in the acquired point storage means 75. Along with the reduction, the quantity of the value value or the value value ID or the number of points to be applied obtained by the conversion process for exchange is added or added to the terminal side data storage means 76, 77 for other games X and Y. It executes the process of storing.

The point utilization processing means 67 has substantially the same function as the point utilization processing means 26 of the game providing server 20. The difference is that since the point utilization processing means 26 is provided in the game providing server 20, the number of possessed points stored in the customer point storing means 46 of the game providing server 20 is reduced and corresponds to the reduced amount. The virtual value (including points) is added to or added to the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for the other games X and Y of the game providing server 20 and stored, whereas the point utilization processing means 67 stores. , Since it is provided in the customer terminal 50, it handles information stored in the earned point storage means 75 provided in the customer terminal 50 and the terminal side data storage means 76 and 77 for other games X and Y. Is.

Since the point utilization processing means 67 includes the point utilization processing means 26 of the game providing server 20, the installation may be omitted, and in that sense, it is shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. However, if the earned point information is only stored in the earned point storage means 75 without being transmitted to the game providing server 20, the customer point storing means 46 of the game providing server 20 is not installed, and therefore, Since the point utilization processing means 26 is not installed either, in that case, it is necessary to install the point utilization processing means 67.

Further, the point utilization processing means 67, like the point utilization processing means 26 of the game providing server 20, when receiving the customer's point utilization request, [α] another game X as processing of the other games X and Y. , Y There are cases where the customer's request from the terminal side processing means 53 and 54 is accepted, and there are cases where [β] the customer's request from the point use request receiving means 66 is accepted as the processing of the position information game of the present embodiment. .. In any case of [α] and [β], the customer's point use request includes a request to use all of the customer's points and a request to use a part of the customer's points.

Specifically, the point utilization processing means 67 uses the number of points related to the customer's usage request, which is subtracted from the number of points owned by the customer stored in the acquired point storage means 75, in the other games X and Y. The process of converting to the quantity of virtual value value is performed, and the quantity of value value obtained by conversion is added to the terminal side data storage means 76 and 77 for other games X and Y and stored. The value value ID for the virtual value value corresponding to the number of points related to the customer's usage request is additionally stored in the terminal side data storage means 76 and 77 for other games X and Y, or the customer's A process of adding and storing the number of points related to the usage request to the terminal-side data storage means 76 and 77 for other games X and Y in order to allocate them to equivalent points used in other games X and Y. To execute.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / game processing means 60 / competition result display means 68>

The competition result display means 68 receives the competition result (win / loss or ranking of the competition game) transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1 by the competition means 27, and displays the received competition result on the screen of the customer terminal 50. It executes the process displayed above.

<Structure of customer terminal 50 / each storage means 71-77>

The acquisition program storage means 71 stores the location information game according to the present embodiment downloaded and acquired by the program acquisition means 51, and a terminal-mounted game program (terminal application) including other games X and Y. ..

The pattern storage means 72 stores information having the same contents as the information stored in the pattern storage means 42 of the game providing server 20. The hidden spot distribution pattern information (pattern data) and the default values (initial setting values) of the parameters when the parameters are included in the pattern are for mounting on a terminal for executing the position information game of the present embodiment. It may be described in the game program, and in that case, since the installation of the pattern storage means 72 can be omitted, it is shown by a two-point chain line in FIG.

The real spot information storage means 73 stores information having the same contents as the information stored in the real spot information storage means 43 of the game providing server 20. If the point awarding means 64 does not perform the point awarding process in consideration of the visit to a specific real spot, the installation of the real spot information storage means 73 can be omitted. Even if the installation is omitted, if there is the actual spot information storage means 43 of the game providing server 20, the point addition means 25 can perform the same point addition process after the fact.

The virtual fence information storage means 74 stores information having the same contents as the information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44 of the game providing server 20. If the points awarding means 64 does not perform the point awarding process in consideration of intrusion into the virtual fence, the installation of the virtual fence information storage means 74 can be omitted. Even if the installation is omitted, if the virtual fence information storage means 44 of the game providing server 20 is provided, the point addition means 25 can perform the same point addition processing after the fact.

The acquired point storage means 75 stores information substantially similar to the information stored in the customer point storage means 46 of the game providing server 20, and refers to a hidden spot determined to have been visited (hereinafter, the hidden spot). Hidden spot ID (hidden spot identification information), position information (latitude / longitude) of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot, pattern application number for the hidden spot (when continuous pattern application is performed (continuous pattern application) (Refer to FIG. 11), information indicating the number of the hidden spot created by applying the pattern), size information of the hidden spot (classification of L, M, S, etc., radius, etc.) , In time to the hidden spot (visit time), out time from the hidden spot, stay time of the hidden spot (time of difference between out time and in time), visit order of the hidden spot (the hidden spot) Information indicating the number of hidden spots visited), the number of points acquired by visiting the hidden spot (initial stage), and other information for each hidden spot are stored.

When the acquired point information stored in the acquired point storage means 75 is transmitted to the game providing server 20 (when stored and stored in the customer point storing means 46 of the game providing server 20), the above-mentioned hidden It is sufficient to store the information for each spot, but when it is not transmitted to the game providing server 20 (when the processing for using the acquired points is performed on the customer terminal 50 using the information stored in the acquired point storage means 75). Collective information / overall information such as the total number of all points earned for the customer who operates the customer terminal 50, the event ID for the competition in which the customer participated, and the competition result (win / loss or ranking), etc. It is also preferable to remember.

The terminal-side data storage means 76 for the other game X stores the same information as the information stored in the server-side data storage means 47 for the other game X of the game providing server 20.

The terminal-side data storage means 77 for the other game Y stores the same information as the information stored in the server-side data storage means 48 for the other game Y of the game providing server 20.

<Flow of processing of location-based game by game system 10 of the first embodiment>

In such a first embodiment, the game system 10 executes the processing of the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) as follows.

In FIG. 12, first, a terminal-mounted game program (terminal application) required for executing a position-based game (location-based game related to a visit to a hidden spot) according to the present embodiment, or, if necessary, another game X, The process on the customer terminal 50 side (step S1) and the process on the game providing server 20 side (step S2) for acquiring the terminal application required for the execution of Y are executed. If the location-based game (location-based game related to visiting hidden spots) according to this embodiment is an auxiliary game associated with other games X and Y, the terminal application of the other games X and Y The terminal application of the location-based game according to the present embodiment will be acquired at the same time or substantially at the same time as the acquisition of.

Specifically, the program acquisition means 51 of the customer terminal 50 transmits an acquisition request of the terminal application to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 (step S1), and the program transmitting means 21 on the game providing server 20 side. After receiving the acquisition request, the terminal application related to the acquisition request stored in the provided program storage means 41 is transmitted to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 (step S2), and the program is performed on the customer terminal 50 side. The acquisition means 51 receives the transmitted terminal application and stores it in the acquisition program storage means 71 (step S1).

Subsequently, the processing (step S3) on the customer terminal 50 side and the game providing server for acquiring the game setting data necessary for executing the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) according to the present embodiment. The process on the 20 side (step S4) is executed. However, this is not an essential process.

Specifically, the game setting data acquisition means 61 of the customer terminal 50 transmits a game setting data acquisition request to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 (step S3), and the game providing server 20 side. After receiving the acquisition request by the game setting data transmitting means 22, the hidden spot distribution pattern information (pattern data) stored in the pattern storage means 42, and the actual spot information storage means 43 stored in the actual spot information storage means 43. Information on a specific spot and virtual fence information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44 are transmitted to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 as game setting data (step S4), and the customer terminal 50 side. The game setting data acquisition means 61 receives the transmitted game setting data and stores it in the pattern storage means 72, the actual spot information storage means 73, and the virtual fence information storage means 74 (step S3).

Then, the customer terminal 50 for acquiring the hidden spot creation instruction information (for example, the position information of the starting point, the type of the hidden spot distribution pattern, the value of the parameter included in the hidden spot distribution pattern, etc.) required for creating the hidden spot. The process on the side (step S5) and the process on the game providing server 20 side (step S6) are executed. However, this is not an essential process. Further, in FIG. 12, the acquisition timing of the hidden spot creation instruction information is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the acquisition process may be repeated each time the pattern is applied. Since the acquisition (transmission) timing is described in detail in the description of the hidden spot creation instruction means 23, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

Specifically, the hidden spot creating means 62 of the customer terminal 50 transmits a request for acquiring hidden spot creation instruction information to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 (step S5) before applying the pattern, and the game. After receiving the acquisition request by the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 on the providing server 20 side, the hidden spot creation instruction information stored in the hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45 is sent to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1. It is transmitted (step S6), and the hidden spot creation instruction information is received by the hidden spot creating means 62 on the customer terminal 50 side (step S5).

Then, in the customer terminal 50, the hidden spot creating means 62 acquires the current position information (latitude / longitude) of the customer terminal 50 from the positioning means 52 (step S7). In FIG. 12, this current position information acquisition process is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the position information game according to the present embodiment (position information game related to the visit of a hidden spot). It is done continuously during the execution of.

Subsequently, the hidden spot creating means 62 creates a hidden spot by applying the pattern using the starting point and the hidden spot distribution pattern (step S8). At this time, if necessary, the information stored in the pattern storage means 72 (default values of pattern data and parameters in the pattern) is used. Since the process of creating the hidden spot is described in detail in the description of the hidden spot creating means 62, detailed description thereof will be omitted here. The process of creating the hidden spot is described as once in FIG. 12 for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) according to the present embodiment. It is done continuously during execution.

Further, the current position of the customer terminal 50 is created by the hidden spot creating means 62 by using the current position information (latitude / longitude) of the customer terminal 50 acquired from the positioning means 52 by the hidden spot visit determining means 63. It is determined whether or not the person has entered the area of the spot (step S9). In FIG. 12, the visit determination process for the hidden spot is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location information game according to the present embodiment (location information game for visiting the hidden spot). ) Is being executed continuously.

Subsequently, when the hidden spot visit determining means 63 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 50 has entered the hidden spot area, the point giving means 64 gives points to the customer (step S10). At this time, if necessary, the information stored in the real spot information storage means 73 or the virtual fence information storage means 74 is used. In FIG. 12, this point-giving process is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location-based game (location-based game related to the visit of a hidden spot) according to the present embodiment is being executed. , Will be done continuously.

Then, the number of points given to the customer by the point giving means 64 is transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 together with the customer ID as the customer's earned point information each time the points are given. As shown by the two-point chain line in FIG. 1, the points are stored and stored in the acquired point storage means 75, and then transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 (step S11).

In the game providing server 20, the point management means 24 provides the customer's earned point information (including the number of earned points) transmitted from the customer terminal 50 to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 together with the customer ID by the point awarding means 64 of the customer terminal 50. The received point information is stored in the customer point storage means 46 in association with the customer ID (step S12).

Further, by the point adding means 25, the visit information of each customer to the hidden spot stored in the customer point storing means 46 and the information stored in the existing spot information storing means 43 and the virtual fence information storing means 44 are stored. After the fact (that is, after the points are given by the point giving means 64 of the customer terminal 50), it is determined whether or not the conditions for adding points are satisfied, and if the conditions for adding points are satisfied, the points are added. The number of points to be performed is stored in the customer point storage means 46 (step S13). However, this is not an essential process.

After that, when the competition game is not played, the point management means 24 uses the information stored in the customer point storage means 46 to notify the points held (the number of points held by the customer) at an appropriate timing. , Or information indicating that points have been accumulated) is transmitted to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 (step S14).

On the customer terminal 50 side, the possessed point notification means 65 receives the possessed point notification information transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1, and the number of possessed points of the customer or information indicating that the points are accumulated. Is displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 50 (step S15). In addition, the possessed point notification means 65 uses the information stored in the acquired point storage means 75 of the customer terminal 50 to display the number of possessed points of the customer or the information indicating that the points are accumulated on the screen of the customer terminal 50. It may be displayed above.

Subsequently, the customer terminal 50 receives the customer's point use request by the point use request receiving means 66, and transmits the accepted request to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 (step S16).

On the game providing server 20, the point usage processing means 26 receives the customer's point usage request transmitted from the customer terminal 50 via the network 1, and is stored in the customer point storage means 46 according to the request. From the number of points of the customer, the number of points to be used (the number of points related to the customer's usage request) is subtracted, and the quantity or value ID of the value obtained by the conversion process for exchange or the points to be applied Is added or added to and stored in the server-side data storage means 47 and 48 for other games X and Y in association with the customer ID (step S17).

The customer's point use request transmitted from the customer terminal 50 via the network 1 is transmitted by the terminal-side processing means 53 and 54 of the other games X and Y, as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. Since there is also a requested request, the same process is executed by the point utilization processing means 26 in that case as well (step S17).

Further, in step S16 described above, when the customer's point usage request is received by the point usage request receiving means 66, the received request is not transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1, but the customer terminal. It may be passed to 50 point utilization processing means 67.

In this case, the amount to be used from the number of points of the customer stored in the acquired point storage means 75 according to the request received from the point use request receiving means 66 by the point use processing means 67 in the customer terminal 50. For other games X and Y, reduce the number of points (the number of points related to the customer's usage request), and use the quantity of value or value ID or the number of points to be applied in the conversion process for exchange. It is added or added to the terminal side data storage means 76 and 77 of the above and stored (step S18).

In the customer terminal 50, the customer's point use request received by the point use processing means 67 also includes a request received from the terminal side processing means 53 and 54 of the other games X and Y. Therefore, in that case as well, the point use processing means According to 67, the same process is executed (step S18).

Further, after performing the process of step 13 described above, in the case of a competition game, the competition means 27 compares the number of points of a plurality of customers stored in the customer point storage means 46. The winning or losing or ranking of the competition game is determined, and the determined competition result (winning or losing or ranking) is stored in the customer point storage means 46 in association with the customer ID, and the competition result is transmitted to the customer terminal 50 via the network 1. (Step S19). In addition, the competition means 27 executes a fund transfer process such as remittance generated according to the competition result, if necessary.

On the customer terminal 50 side, the competition result display means 68 receives the competition result (win / loss or ranking of the competition game) transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1, and the received competition result is received by the customer terminal 50. Is displayed on the screen of (step S20).

<Effect of the first embodiment>

According to such a first embodiment, there are the following effects. That is, since the game system 10 includes the hidden spot creating means 62, the hidden spot visit determining means 63, and the point giving means 64, the hidden spot is created and the current position of the customer terminal 50 is the area of the hidden spot. It is possible to determine whether or not the customer has entered, and if it is determined that the customer has entered, points can be given to the customer.

At this time, since the hidden spot to be created is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 50, the current position of the customer terminal 50 enters the area of the hidden spot and points to the customer. Even if the points are awarded, the customer is unaware of when and where the points were awarded to him / her. Therefore, when the customer moves the location by walking or the like with the customer terminal 50, it is possible to create a state in which points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge, and depending on the movement route, many points are acquired. Can give you the opportunity to be.

Therefore, in the location-based game (location-based game related to visiting hidden spots) according to the present embodiment, a situation that exceeds the range of normal predictions and expectations (a situation in which the result cannot be easily predicted / predicted / imagined / assumed). That is, it is possible to create a situation in which the customer does not take it for granted to acquire points (values) that are the result of the visit (a situation in which the naturalness / inevitability of the result is avoided), and the customer caused by such a situation. The feelings of the customer can improve the motivation of the customer to execute the game, and can motivate the customer to execute the game.

Further, since the game system 10 includes the point utilization processing means 26 and 67, the customer can obtain points acquired in the location information game (location information game related to the visit of a hidden spot) according to the present embodiment in another game X. , Y can be used. Then, in the location-based game according to the present embodiment, as described above, it is possible to create a situation that exceeds the range of normal expectations and expectations, and to avoid the naturalness and inevitability of the result. Because it is a waste not to use, the consciousness to use it for other games X and Y is stronger and it occurs in the customer, so it is possible to improve the motivation to execute other games X and Y, and the customer On the other hand, it is possible to motivate the execution of other games X and Y.

For example, it is possible to give a customer a sense of profit that does not occur in a normal game. That is, since the points are accumulated without knowing it, it makes me feel like I have earned it, and if I do not use the points I have earned for other games X and Y, it is a waste, so other games X and Y (for example, You will try to run a game that is installed but has never been run, a game that has not been run for a long time, etc.), and you can improve your motivation to run other games X and Y. .. Furthermore, even if you have other games X and Y that you have not installed yet, you will have accumulated points, so you will feel like downloading and running them, and motivate you to run other games X and Y. Can be given.

The game system 10 includes a point use request receiving means 66, and the point use request receiving means 66 is configured to receive a point use request as a process shared by all other games including other games X and Y. Therefore, the customer can easily make various point usage requests. Specifically, the customer requests that all or part of the points held be used for another game X, a request for another game Y, and a request for distributed use for other games X and Y ( For example, out of 100 points held, 50 points can be used for another game X, 30 points can be used for another game Y, and the remaining 20 points can be easily made. ..

Further, since the game system 10 includes the competition means 27, it is possible to determine the outcome or ranking of the competition game by comparing the magnitude of the number of points earned by the plurality of customers.

For this reason, by participating in athletic competitions that involve movement, customers can enjoy exercise and group activities such as walking, biking, and swimming, while earning points by visiting hidden spots, thus improving their health. While achieving the original purpose of competitions (holding competitions, meetings, etc.) such as and fellowship, the location information game (location information game related to visiting hidden spots) according to this embodiment can be enjoyed at the same time.

For example, the location-based game according to this embodiment can be used for jogging competitions, marathon competitions, hiking competitions, swimming competitions (however, in the case of swimming, waterproof measures such as using a waterproof mobile device are used), and triathlon competitions. , Stamp rally tournament (However, the stamp is not a hidden spot, but a place clearly indicated to the participants), etc. By making it a competitive game, exercise by walking, biking, swimming, etc. You can earn points by visiting hidden spots while enjoying group activities.

In this case, for example, even the customer who scored the earliest goal in the athletic competition or the customer who collected the most stamps may have a small number of points earned in the location-based game according to the present embodiment, and vice versa. .. Therefore, when the victory or defeat or ranking in the time, food intake, number of stamps acquired, weight loss, etc. in the athletic competition and the victory or defeat or ranking in the acquired points in the location information game according to the present embodiment are determined, those The results do not always match, so you can create a variety of ways to enjoy yourself.

As for athletics, customers who are participants in the competition can predict and predict the victory or defeat and ranking of themselves and others during the competition, and have expectations in the middle of the competition. It can also be done, and is usually aware of the circumstances and course of the outcome (win / loss or ranking). On the other hand, regarding the location-based game (location-based game related to the visit of hidden spots) according to the present embodiment, which is proceeding at the same time, it is in a state of not recognizing when and where the visit was made and the points were accumulated. Therefore, it is difficult to predict or predict the result (win / loss or ranking). Since two types of competitions having different properties proceed at the same time, various ways of enjoying can be realized depending on how the two types of competition results are combined.

Furthermore, the points earned by visiting the hidden spots in the competition game can be used not only for determining the outcome of the competition and the ranking, but also for other games X and Y. And while customers are enjoying exercise and group action, points will be accumulated without knowing it, so it feels like they have gained, and as mentioned above, it is a waste not to use the earned points. Because of this, we decided to use it for other games X and Y, which could improve the motivation to execute other games X and Y, and also motivate customers to execute other games X and Y. Can be given.

Further, the hidden spot visit determination means 63 calculates the staying time of the hidden spot by executing the determination of whether or not the player has entered the hidden spot area and the determination of whether or not the player has entered the hidden spot area. Since it is configured, the definition of a visit to a hidden spot (definition of what form the game is intended for) should be adjusted according to the purpose of the location-based game according to this embodiment. Can be done.

Specifically, when targeting visits by walking, momentary visits by means of transportation such as trains, planes, automobiles, and buses are excluded, and visits by human-powered transportation such as bicycles and rickshaws, Rush visits can also be excluded. In addition, it is possible to exclude visits by means of transportation such as trains, airplanes, automobiles, and buses, while allowing visits by means of human power such as bicycles and rickshaws and visits by rushing. Furthermore, visits by swimming, rowing boats, etc. can be targeted, and visits by motor boats, etc. can be excluded.

Further, since the hidden spot creating means 62 is configured to create hidden spots using the hidden spot distribution pattern, it is possible to easily diversify the arrangement form of the hidden spots, and the hidden spot distribution pattern. By switching between, it is possible to easily realize a temporal variation in the arrangement position of the hidden spot.

Further, the hidden spot creating means 62 is configured to connect hidden spot distribution patterns having a finite size (for example, pattern types in FIGS. 5 to 10 = patterns P2 to P7, etc.) by applying continuous patterns. Therefore, it is possible to create hidden spots arranged in various states in a wide area without preparing a large or complicated hidden spot distribution pattern.

Further, since the hidden spot creating means 62 is configured to use the current position information of the customer terminal 50 when connecting the hidden spot distribution patterns of a finite size by applying the continuous pattern, the customer terminal 50 For pattern dependent points far from the current position of, the pattern is not applied to the next hidden spot distribution pattern (that is, the next hidden spot distribution pattern is not concatenated), so the customer's movement speed Therefore, it is possible to avoid the creation of a hidden spot where the customer (customer terminal 50) cannot enter. Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the hidden spot creation process and the subsequent visit determination process.

Further, since the hidden spot creating means 62 is configured to realize the variability and diversity of the size of the hidden spot area, it is possible to realize various arrangements of the hidden spots and to enter the hidden spot area. In that case, it is possible to adjust the probability that the intrusion is determined to be a visit to the hidden spot by the determination based on the staying time.

Further, the point giving means 64 has a configuration in which the number of points given by visiting each hidden spot is not uniform (for example, in addition to the standard number given, the number of hits, the number of big hits, and the number of lost points are set. Since it is defined as (composition, etc.), it is possible to make the customer feel stronger (surprise, profit, impression of hitting, etc.). Therefore, it is possible to further surely realize the improvement of the motivation to execute the game and the motivation to execute the game.

Further, since the game system 10 includes the point adding means 25, the points can be added after the fact, not when the points are given by the point giving means 64. Then, when this point is added, it is judged whether or not it corresponds to a visit to a specific real spot or a virtual fence-in, so this also gives a stronger feeling (surprise / o) to the customer. It can give a good feeling, an impression of hitting, etc.).

Further, since the point adding means 25 is configured to determine whether or not the visit route to the hidden spot draws a character, a symbol, a constellation, or other figures, the customer visits the hidden spot. Sometimes I can't recognize the fact (the fact that I visited) myself, but even under such circumstances, draw a constellation such as Hokuto Shichisei at a certain proposition (for example, a starry sky jogging tournament held at night). When a proposition (such as the proposition of walking to) is given in advance, somehow, by walking according to that proposition, the number of points that can be earned may increase, which can increase the fun of the game. it can. At this time, since the customer cannot recognize the visit to the hidden spot, it is impossible to surely walk according to the proposition, so he / she does not make more effort than necessary, and even if he / she gets additional points. Even if it is not possible, many customers think that it is normal, and conversely, when the points to be added are obtained, stronger emotions (surprise, profit, impression of winning, etc.) will be born. Therefore, it is possible to further surely realize the improvement of the motivation to execute the game and the motivation to execute the game. Also, if a proposition (for example, walking in a constellation) is kept secret rather than given to the customer in advance, the customer's behavior is to walk according to the proposition. However, even in that case, the above-mentioned strong emotions (surprise, profitability, impression of hitting, etc.) are created, so the same effect can be obtained.

Then, in this way, the point adding means 25 determines whether or not the visit route to the hidden spot draws characters, symbols, constellations, or other figures, so that the purpose of the movement route by walking or the like of the customer is achieved. You can also play competitive games that compete for degree and artistry.

[Second Embodiment]

FIG. 13 shows the overall configuration of the game system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Further, FIG. 14 shows a flowchart of the processing flow of the location information game by the game system 200.

<Configuration of game system 200>

The game system 200 has many parts having the same functions and configurations as the game system 10 of the first embodiment, and mainly performs a hidden spot creation process, a visit determination process to a hidden spot, and a point awarding process. Since the only difference is that the game is not executed on the terminal 250 side but is executed on the game providing server 220 side, the same parts as the game system 10 of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. However, in the following, the explanation will focus on the different parts.

In the game system 10 of the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the customer terminal 50 is provided with the hidden spot creating means 62, the hidden spot visit determining means 63, and the point giving means 64. In the game system 200 of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the hidden spot creating means 222, the hidden spot visit determining means 223, and the point giving means 224 are provided on the game providing server 220 instead of the customer terminal 250. Is provided.

In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the hidden spot creating means 62 acquires the current position information of the customer terminal 50 directly from the positioning means 52 provided in the customer terminal 50. .. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, first, the current position information transmitting means 261 provided in the customer terminal 250 is transferred from the positioning means 52 provided in the customer terminal 250 to the customer terminal 250. The current position information of the current position information is acquired, and the current position information transmitting means 261 transmits the acquired current position information of the customer terminal 250 together with the customer ID to the game providing server 220 via the network 1, and then the game is provided. The current position information receiving means 221 provided in the server 220 receives the current position information of the customer terminal 250 transmitted from the customer terminal 250 together with the customer ID via the network 1, and then the hidden spot creating means 222 receives the hidden spot creating means 222. The current position information of the customer terminal 250 is acquired from the current position information receiving means 221.

From the viewpoint of reducing the load on the game providing server 220, the process of transmitting the current position information of the customer terminal 250 to the game providing server 220 by the current position information transmitting means 261 is performed by the hidden spot creating means 62 of the first embodiment. It may be performed at a longer time interval than the process of acquiring the current position information of the customer terminal 50 from the positioning means 52 (see FIG. 1).

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the hidden spot creating means 62 is transmitted from the game providing server 20 via the network 1 by the hidden spot creating instruction means 23 provided in the game providing server 20. It was supposed to receive incoming hidden spot creation instruction information (starting point position information, etc.). On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, since the hidden spot creating means 222 is provided in the game providing server 220, the hidden spot creation instruction information storage provided in the game providing server 220 is stored. Hidden spot creation instruction information (position information of the starting point, etc.) is acquired from the means 45. Therefore, the game providing server 220 of the second embodiment is not provided with the one corresponding to the hidden spot creation instruction means 23 of the first embodiment.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the hidden spot creating means 62 acquires the pattern data and the default value of the parameter in the pattern from the pattern storage means 72 provided in the customer terminal 50. Or, pattern data or the like was described in the terminal-mounted game program (terminal application). On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, does the hidden spot creating means 222 acquire pattern data or the like from the pattern storage means 42 provided in the game providing server 220? Alternatively, pattern data or the like is described in the server-mounted game program (server application). Therefore, the customer terminal 250 of the second embodiment is not provided with the pattern storage means 72.

The hidden spot creating means 222 of the second embodiment is the same as the hidden spot creating means 62 of the first embodiment in other processing contents.

The hidden spot visit determination means 223 of the second embodiment is the same as the hidden spot visit determination means 63 of the first embodiment in terms of processing content.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the point giving means 64 uses the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence information storage means 74 provided in the customer terminal 50. The points are given, and the information such as the given points (acquired point information) is transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 together with the customer ID, or is stored in the acquired point storage means 75. .. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the point giving means 224 is stored in the actual spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence information storage means 44 provided in the game providing server 220. Points are given using the information, and information (acquired point information) such as the number of given points is associated with the customer ID and stored in the customer point storage means 46 provided in the game providing server 220. .. Therefore, the customer terminal 250 of the second embodiment is not provided with the actual spot information storage means 73, the virtual fence information storage means 74, and the acquisition point storage means 75.

The point awarding means 224 of the second embodiment is the same as the point awarding means 64 of the first embodiment in other processing contents.

Further, as described above, the customer terminal 250 (see FIG. 13) of the second embodiment is not provided with the pattern storage means 72, the actual spot information storage means 73, and the virtual fence information storage means 74. Therefore, there is no provision corresponding to the game setting data acquisition means 61 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment for acquiring the information stored in them. Along with this, the game providing server 220 (see FIG. 13) of the second embodiment is not provided with a device corresponding to the game setting data transmitting means 22 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. ..

Further, the possessed point notification means 65 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment can also notify the number of possessed points and the like by using the information stored in the acquired point storage means 75. .. On the other hand, the possessed point notification means 262 (see FIG. 13) of the second embodiment does not have such a function because the customer terminal 250 is not provided with the acquired point storage means 75. Regarding other processing contents, the possession point notification means 262 (see FIG. 13) of the second embodiment is the same as the possession point notification means 65 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the customer terminal 50 is provided with the point utilization processing means 67. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, since the customer terminal 250 is not provided with the earned point storage means 75, the point utilization process is performed using the information stored therein. There is no equivalent of the point utilization processing means 67 to be performed. Along with this, the point use request receiving means 66 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment also has a function of passing the received customer's point use request to the point use processing means 67. The point usage request receiving means 263 (see FIG. 13) of the embodiment does not have such a function.

<Flow of processing of location-based game by game system 200 of the second embodiment>

In such a second embodiment, the game system 200 executes the processing of the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) as follows.

In FIG. 14, the processes of steps S31 and S32 are the same as the processes of steps S1 and S2 of the first embodiment (see FIG. 12). In the second embodiment (see FIG. 14), the process corresponding to the processes of steps S3 to S6 (see FIG. 12) of the first embodiment is not performed.

Subsequently, in the customer terminal 250, the current position information transmitting means 261 acquires the current position information of the customer terminal 250 from the positioning means 52, and the acquired current position information of the customer terminal 250 is acquired together with the customer ID via the network 1. Is transmitted to the game providing server 220 (step S33). The process of transmitting the current location information of the customer terminal 250 is described as once in FIG. 14 for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location information game (related to the visit of a hidden spot) according to the present embodiment is described. It is played continuously during the execution of the location information game). However, from the viewpoint of reducing the load on the game providing server 220, it takes a longer time than the process of acquiring the current position information of the customer terminal 50 from the positioning means 52 by the hidden spot creating means 62 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. It may be done at intervals.

On the game providing server 220 side, the current position information receiving means 221 receives the current position information of the customer terminal 250 transmitted from the customer terminal 250 together with the customer ID via the network 1 (step S34).

Subsequently, in the game providing server 220, the hidden spot creation means 222 acquires the current position information of the customer terminal 250 from the current position information receiving means 221 and, before applying the pattern, the hidden spot creation instruction information storage means 45. Read the stored hidden spot creation instruction information (starting point position information, etc.). Then, the hidden spot creation means 222 creates a hidden spot by applying the pattern using the starting point and the hidden spot distribution pattern (step S35 in FIG. 14). At this time, if necessary, the information stored in the pattern storage means 42 (default values of pattern data and parameters in the pattern) is used. The hidden spot creation process is the same as that of the hidden spot creating means 62 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. The process of creating the hidden spot is described as once in FIG. 14 for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) according to the present embodiment. It is done continuously during execution.

Further, the current position of the customer terminal 250 is created by the hidden spot creating means 222 by using the current position information (latitude / longitude) of the customer terminal 250 acquired from the current position information receiving means 221 by the hidden spot visit determining means 223. It is determined whether or not the user has entered the area of the hidden spot (step S36). The visit determination process for the hidden spot is the same as that of the hidden spot visit determination means 63 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. In FIG. 14, the visit determination process for the hidden spot is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location information game according to the present embodiment (location information game for visiting the hidden spot). ) Is being executed continuously.

Subsequently, when the hidden spot visit determining means 223 determines that the current position of the customer terminal 250 has entered the hidden spot area, the point giving means 224 gives points to the customer, and the number of points given, etc. Is stored in the customer point storage means 46 in association with the customer ID as acquired point information each time it is given (step S37). At this time, if necessary, the information stored in the real spot information storage means 43 or the virtual fence information storage means 44 is used. The point awarding process is the same as the point awarding means 64 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. In FIG. 14, this point-giving process is described as once for convenience of explanation, but in reality, the location-based game (location-based game related to the visit of a hidden spot) according to the present embodiment is being executed. , Will be done continuously.

The processing of steps S38 to S44 in FIG. 14 is substantially the same as the processing of steps S13 to S20 of FIG. 12 of the first embodiment, except that the processing of step S18 is not performed.

<Effect of the second embodiment>

According to such a second embodiment, there are the following effects. That is, in the game system 200, as in the game system 10 of the first embodiment, the hidden spot to be created is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 250. Therefore, the customer terminal 250 Even if the current position enters the hidden spot area and points are awarded to the customer, the customer recognizes when and where the customer visited and the points were awarded to him / her. It will be in a state where it is not. Therefore, when the customer moves the location by walking or the like with the customer terminal 250, points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge. Therefore, as in the case of the first embodiment, the customer usually accumulates points. It is possible to create a situation that exceeds the range of expectations and expectations, avoid the naturalness and inevitability of the result, increase the motivation to execute the game, and give motivation to execute the game.

[Third Embodiment]

FIG. 15 shows the overall configuration of the game system 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Further, FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of the processing flow of the position information game by the game system 300.

<Configuration of game system 300>

The game system 300 has many parts having the same functions and configurations as the game system 10 of the first embodiment, and mainly, the point awarding process is not executed on the customer terminal 350 side, but on the game providing server 320 side. Since the same parts as those of the game system 10 of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different parts will be mainly described below.

In the game system 10 of the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the customer terminal 50 is provided with the point giving means 64, but in the game system 300 of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. The point giving means 322 is provided on the game providing server 320 instead of the customer terminal 350.

Therefore, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the point giving means 64 receives the information of the hidden spot determined to have been visited from the hidden spot visit determination means 63 provided in the customer terminal 50. It was. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, first, the visit determination result transmitting means 362 provided in the customer terminal 350 is hidden from the hidden spot visit determination means 63, which is determined to have visited. Upon receiving the spot information, the visit determination result transmitting means 362 provides the information of the hidden spot determined to have been visited (hidden spot ID for the hidden spot, position information of the hidden spot creation reference point, etc.) to the customer. The hidden spot is transmitted to the game providing server 320 together with the ID via the network 1, and then on the game providing server 320 side, the point giving means 322 is transmitted from the customer terminal 350 together with the customer ID via the network 1. Information (hidden spot ID for the hidden spot determined to have been visited, position information of a hidden spot creation reference point, etc.) is received.

The information of the hidden spot transmitted from the visit determination result transmitting means 362 to the point giving means 322 via the network 1 (information of the hidden spot determined to have been visited) includes the hidden spot about the hidden spot. In addition to the ID (hidden spot identification information) and the position information (latitude / longitude) of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot, the pattern application number for the hidden spot (when continuous pattern application is performed). (See FIG. 11), information indicating the number of the hidden spot created by applying the pattern), size information of the hidden spot (classification of L, M, S, etc., radius, etc.). ), In time to the hidden spot (visit time), out time from the hidden spot, stay time of the hidden spot (time of difference between out time and in time), visit order of the hidden spot (hidden) Information indicating the number of hidden spots visited) and the number of points to be awarded for visits to the hidden spots (provisional) are included.

In the above list, the number of points (provisional) to be given in the last visit to the hidden spot is included in the pattern data in the present embodiment. Therefore, in the process of the hidden spot visit determination means 63, when it is determined that the visit to any of the hidden spots is made, the number of points to be given for the visit to the hidden spot is determined. Further, "the number of points (provisional)" is described to the customer by using the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence information storage means 44 by the point awarding means 322. When the number of points to be given is changed (change to increase the number of points given to customers by the number of points obtained by visiting a specific spot in the real world or corresponding to virtual fence-in) This is because, even if this change is not made, the point adding means 25 may perform the ex post facto point addition processing for the visit to the hidden spot.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the point giving means 64 uses the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence information storage means 74 provided in the customer terminal 50. The points are given, and the information such as the given points (acquired point information) is transmitted to the game providing server 20 via the network 1 together with the customer ID, or is stored in the acquired point storage means 75. .. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, the point giving means 322 is stored in the actual spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence information storage means 44 provided in the game providing server 320. Points are given using the information, and information (acquired point information) such as the number of given points is associated with the customer ID and stored in the customer point storage means 46 provided in the game providing server 320. .. Therefore, the customer terminal 350 of the third embodiment is not provided with the actual spot information storage means 73, the virtual fence information storage means 74, and the acquisition point storage means 75.

Further, the point awarding means 322 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment is networked from the visit determination result transmitting means 362 when giving points using the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 43. Using the position information (latitude / longitude) of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot included in the information of the hidden spot (hidden spot determined to have been visited) received via 1, the hidden spot The processing for reproducing the area is performed, and this processing is the same as the reproduction processing by the point adding means 25. This is because, in the first embodiment (see FIG. 1), the customer terminal 50 has information on the hidden spot area created by the hidden spot creating means 62, so that the point giving means 64 can use the information. On the other hand, in the third embodiment (see FIG. 15), since the game providing server 320 does not have the information of the hidden spot area created by the hidden spot creating means 62, it is reproduced by the point giving means 322. Because it is necessary. The point giving means 322 gives the position information (latitude) of the hidden spot creation reference point received from the visit determination result transmitting means 362 when giving points using the information stored in the virtual fence information storing means 44. -Litude) may be used to perform the process of determining whether or not the virtual fence-in is applicable, so that there is no difference from the process of the point awarding means 64 of the first embodiment.

The point-giving means 322 of the third embodiment is the same as the point-giving means 64 of the first embodiment in other processing contents.

Further, as described above, since the customer terminal 350 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment is not provided with the actual spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence information storage means 74, the first embodiment While the game setting data acquisition means 61 (see FIG. 1) is supposed to execute the acquisition process of the information stored in them, the game setting data acquisition means 361 (FIG. 15) of the third embodiment is used. (See) executes the acquisition process of the information stored in the pattern storage means 72, but does not execute the acquisition process of the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 73 and the virtual fence information storage means 74.

Therefore, the game setting data transmission means 22 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment has come to execute the transmission processing of the information stored in the actual spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence information storage means 44. On the other hand, the game setting data transmitting means 321 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment executes the transmission processing of the information stored in the pattern storage means 42, but the actual spot information storage means 43. And the transmission process of the information stored in the virtual fence information storage means 44 is not executed.

Further, the point management means 24 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment is obtained point information transmitted from the customer terminal 50 together with the customer ID via the network 1 by the point giving means 64 provided in the customer terminal 50. (Number of points earned, etc.) was to be received. On the other hand, the point management means 323 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment does not execute the reception processing of the acquired point information (number of acquired points, etc.), and the acquisition is stored in the customer point storage means 46. Using the point information (number of acquired points, etc.), the possessed point notification information (the number of points owned by the customer or the points are accumulated) is directed to the possessed point notification means 363 provided on the customer terminal 350 via the network 1. All you have to do is send the information to that effect.

Further, the possessed point notification means 65 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment can also notify the number of possessed points and the like by using the information stored in the acquired point storage means 75. .. On the other hand, the possessed point notification means 363 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment does not have such a function because the customer terminal 350 is not provided with the acquired point storage means 75. Regarding other processing contents, the possession point notification means 363 (see FIG. 15) of the third embodiment is the same as the possession point notification means 65 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the customer terminal 50 is provided with the point utilization processing means 67. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, since the customer terminal 350 is not provided with the earned point storage means 75, the point utilization process is performed using the information stored therein. There is no equivalent of the point utilization processing means 67 to be performed. Along with this, the point use request receiving means 66 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment also has a function of passing the received customer's point use request to the point use processing means 67. The point usage request receiving means 364 (see FIG. 15) of the embodiment does not have such a function.

<Flow of processing of location-based game by the game system 300 of the third embodiment>

In such a third embodiment, the game system 300 executes the processing of the location information game (location information game related to the visit of the hidden spot) as follows.

In FIG. 16, the processes of steps S61 to S69 are substantially the same as the processes of steps S1 to S9 of the first embodiment (see FIG. 12), and in steps S63 and S64, the existing spot information storage means 43 and the virtual fence The only difference is that the information transmission / reception processing of the information stored in the information storage means 44 is not performed.

After performing the process of the hidden spot visit determination means 63 (step S69), the visit determination result transmission means 362 receives the information of the hidden spot determined to have been visited from the hidden spot visit determination means 63, and receives the information. Information on the hidden spot (hidden spot ID for the hidden spot, position information of the hidden spot creation reference point, etc.) is transmitted to the game providing server 320 via the network 1 together with the customer ID (step S70).

On the game providing server 320 side, the information of the hidden spot transmitted from the customer terminal 350 together with the customer ID via the network 1 by the point giving means 322 (the hidden spot ID of the hidden spot determined to have been visited) and , Hidden spot creation reference point position information, etc.) is received. Then, the point giving means 322 gives points using the information stored in the real spot information storing means 43 and the virtual fence information storing means 44, and the information (acquired point information) such as the number of given points is given to the customer. It is associated with the ID and stored in the customer point storage means 46 (step S71).

The processing of steps S72 to S78 in FIG. 16 is substantially the same as the processing of steps S13 to S20 of FIG. 12 of the first embodiment, except that the processing of step S18 is not performed.

<Effect of the third embodiment>

According to such a third embodiment, there are the following effects. That is, in the game system 300, as in the game system 10 of the first embodiment, the hidden spot to be created is not a spot that actually exists and is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal 350. Therefore, the customer terminal 350 Even if the current position enters the hidden spot area and points are awarded to the customer, the customer recognizes when and where he / she visited and the points were awarded to himself / herself. It will be in a state where it is not. Therefore, when the customer moves the location by walking or the like with the customer terminal 350, points are accumulated without the customer's knowledge. Therefore, as in the case of the first embodiment, the customer usually accumulates points. It is possible to create a situation that exceeds the range of expectations and expectations, avoid the naturalness and inevitability of the result, increase the motivation to execute the game, and give motivation to execute the game.

[Deformation form]

The present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and modifications and the like within a range in which the object of the present invention can be achieved are included in the present invention.

For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, a plurality of hidden spot distribution patterns having a finite size (such as patterns of pattern types P2 to P7 shown in FIGS. 5 to 10) are connected by continuous pattern application. , It was prepared on the premise that the process of increasing the number of hidden spots (see FIG. 11) is performed.

However, the hidden spot distribution pattern having a finite size is not a pattern that is premised on continuous pattern application (see FIG. 11) from one starting point as used in each of the above embodiments. By starting from the current positions of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350, for example, the position of the starting point is moved each time a pattern is applied at predetermined time intervals, and one pattern is applied to one starting point. The pattern may be based on the assumption that only the operation is performed.

FIG. 17 shows a finite-sized hidden spot distribution pattern (pattern type = P8), that is, 1 on the premise of such usage (a usage in which the position of the starting point is moved each time the pattern is applied). An example of a pattern that does not assume continuous pattern application from one starting point is shown.

In each of the above embodiments, the movement of the starting point is allowed, but the starting point is fixed while a plurality of patterns are connected to increase the number of hidden spots. (See FIG. 11) In a state where the starting point is fixed, the pattern application is repeated and the patterns are connected one after another to expand the arrangement range of the hidden spots. On the other hand, the usage of the pattern shown in FIG. 17 is different in that the starting point moves, but the pattern is applied only once for each starting point.

The pattern (pattern type = P8) in FIG. 17 is a pattern defined using (r, θ) coordinates, with (0,0) as the pattern reference point and patterns other than (0,0) as pattern-dependent points. It is set to (r, θ). The number of pattern dependent points (r, θ) is arbitrary, and the maximum value of r is also arbitrary. However, if the number of pattern-dependent points (r, θ) is increased too much or the maximum value of r is increased too much, the amount of processing increases. Therefore, how to use the pattern as shown in FIG. 17 (starting point each time a pattern is applied). The effect of adopting (the usage of moving the position of) is reduced, which is not preferable.

However, although the maximum value of r is arbitrary, it must be determined in relation to the moving speed of the customer (customer terminals 50, 250, 350), and if it is made too small, the customer (customer terminals 50, 250, 350) The current position of 350) will soon be out of the range of the pattern, and the visit to the hidden spot will not be established. Therefore, the maximum amount of r is set so that the amount of movement of the customer (customer terminals 50, 250, 350) within the time interval for moving the starting point (within the time for moving from one starting point to the next starting point) is within the range of the pattern. You just have to decide the value.

Therefore, the maximum value of r may be determined so that the following state continues. In FIG. 17, for example, first, a pattern is applied starting from the current position of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 at the time T100 and matching the pattern reference point (0,0) with the starting point, and then the time T101, T102. , T103, T104, ... Acquire the current position information of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350, and while repeating the visit determination to the hidden spot, the pattern is applied to the starting point at the time T100. There are customers within the range of. Next, a pattern is applied starting from the current position of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 at the time T200 and matching the pattern reference point (0,0) with the starting point, and then the time T201, T202, T203, T204, ... While acquiring the current position information of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 and repeating the visit determination to the hidden spot, the customer is within the range of the pattern to which the pattern is applied to the starting point at the time T200. Will be in a state of being. Then, a pattern is applied starting from the current position of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 at the time T300 and matching the pattern reference point (0,0) with the starting point, and then the time T301, T302, T303, T304, ... In the process of acquiring the current position information of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 and repeating the visit determination to the hidden spot, the customer is within the range of the pattern to which the pattern is applied to the starting point at the time T300. Become in a state of being. It is sufficient to make such a state continue.

Further, when the pattern is used as described above (the position of the starting point is moved each time the pattern is applied), the hidden spot distribution pattern of a finite size to be prepared is as shown in FIG. 17 (r). , Θ) It is not necessary to be a pattern defined using coordinates (pattern type = P8). For example, a pattern in which pattern-dependent points are arranged in the north, south, east, and west directions as in each of the above embodiments (FIGS. 5 to 5). The pattern of pattern types P2 to P7 shown in 10) may be used, or a pattern in which pattern dependent points are arranged at the positions of the grids may be used.

Then, when the pattern is used as described above (the position of the starting point is moved each time the pattern is applied), it is hidden at the current position of the customer terminals 50, 250, 350 each time the pattern is applied. By applying the spot distribution pattern, hidden spots are created, so it is possible to avoid creating hidden spots that customers (customer terminals 50, 250, 350) may not enter due to the moving speed of the customer. , It is possible to improve the efficiency of the hidden spot creation process and the subsequent visit determination process.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the game systems 10, 200, and 300 are auxiliary games associated with the other games X and Y in that the acquired points can be used for the other games X and Y. Although it was an independent game in that it was possible to play a competitive game, the position information game (position information game related to visiting a hidden spot) according to the present invention is a game system such as a pedometer system. It may be an auxiliary game attached to a system other than the above.

As described above, the game system, the terminal-mounted game program, and the server-mounted game program of the present invention are, for example, a game for giving points that can be used for other games, and a competition game for competing for the size of acquired points. , It is suitable for use in competitive games competing for the degree of achievement of the purpose and artistry of the movement route by walking of the customer, games attached to the pedometer system, and the like.

1 Network which is a communication line 10,200,300 Game system 20,220,320 Game providing server 25 Point adding means 26 Point utilization processing means provided in the game providing server 27 Competition means 42,72 Pattern storage means 46 Customer point storage Means 47 Server-side data storage means for other game X 48 Server-side data storage means for other game Y 50, 250, 350 Customer terminals 52 Positioning means 62, 222 Hidden spot creation means 63, 223 Hidden spot visit determination means 64,224,322 Point awarding means 67 Point utilization processing means provided in the customer terminal 75 Acquisition point storage means 76 Terminal side data storage means for another game X 77 Terminal side data storage means for another game Y

Claims (12)

It is configured to include a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It ’s a game system,
The customer terminal is
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, which consists of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
Whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creating means by using the current position information of the customer terminal acquired from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal. Hidden spot visit determination means that executes the process of determining whether
When it is determined by the hidden spot visit determination means that the customer has entered the hidden spot area, points are given to the customer, and the number of the given points is stored in the acquired point storage means provided in the customer terminal. It is made to be sent to the game providing server via a communication line in order to store it in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server, or stored and stored in the acquired point storage means of the customer terminal. A point giving means for executing a process of transmitting to the game providing server via a communication line for later storing in the customer point storing means of the game providing server is provided .
The hidden spot creating means
The position information of at least one starting point, the pattern reference point prepared in advance and described in the program, or stored in the pattern storage means provided in the customer terminal or the game providing server, and the pattern reference point. By applying a pattern that matches the pattern reference point with the starting point using a hidden spot distribution pattern consisting of a plurality of pattern-dependent points determined by relative positions to, each of the plurality of pattern-dependent points is set as a hidden spot creation reference point. A game system characterized in that it is configured to execute a process of creating a plurality of the hidden spots . It is configured to include a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It ’s a game system,
The customer terminal is
The current position that acquires the current position information of the customer terminal from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal and transmits the acquired current position information of the customer terminal to the game providing server via a communication line. Configured with information transmission means
The game providing server is
A current position information receiving means that executes a process of receiving the current position information of the customer terminal transmitted from the customer terminal via a communication line, and
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, which consists of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
Using the current position information of the customer terminal received by the current position information receiving means, it is determined whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creating means. Hidden spot visit determination means to execute the process
When it is determined by the hidden spot visit determination means that the player has entered the area of the hidden spot, points are given to the customer, and the number of the given points is associated with the customer ID and provided in the game providing server. It is configured with a point giving means that executes a process of storing in the customer point storage means .
The hidden spot creation means
The position information of at least one starting point, the pattern reference point prepared in advance and described in the program, or stored in the pattern storage means provided in the customer terminal or the game providing server, and the pattern reference point. By applying a pattern that matches the pattern reference point with the starting point using a hidden spot distribution pattern consisting of a plurality of pattern-dependent points determined by relative positions to, each of the plurality of pattern-dependent points is set as a hidden spot creation reference point. A game system characterized in that it is configured to execute a process of creating a plurality of the hidden spots . It is configured to include a customer terminal consisting of a smartphone or other mobile device carried and operated by a customer who plays a game using location information, and a game providing server connected to the customer terminal via a communication line. It ’s a game system,
The customer terminal is
A hidden spot creation means that executes a process of creating a hidden spot that is not displayed on the screen of the customer terminal, which consists of an area set in the real area without assuming the existence of the real spot.
Whether or not the current position of the customer terminal is within the area of the hidden spot created by the hidden spot creating means by using the current position information of the customer terminal acquired from the positioning means provided in the customer terminal. Hidden spot visit determination means that executes the process of determining whether
When it is determined that the hidden spot has entered the area of the hidden spot by the hidden spot visit determination means, the hidden spot ID or the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot determined to have entered is transmitted via the communication line. It is configured to include a visit determination result transmitting means that executes a process of transmitting to the game providing server.
The game providing server is
The position information of the hidden spot ID or the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot transmitted from the customer terminal via the communication line is received, and the received hidden spot ID or the hidden spot creation reference point is used. A point granting hand that grants points corresponding to position information to a customer, associates the number of granted points with a customer ID, and executes a process of storing the points in a customer point storage means provided in the game providing server. Constructed with steps ,
The hidden spot creating means
The position information of at least one starting point, the pattern reference point prepared in advance and described in the program, or stored in the pattern storage means provided in the customer terminal or the game providing server, and the pattern reference point. By applying a pattern that matches the pattern reference point with the starting point using a hidden spot distribution pattern consisting of a plurality of pattern-dependent points determined by relative positions to, each of the plurality of pattern-dependent points is set as a hidden spot creation reference point. A game system characterized in that it is configured to execute a process of creating a plurality of the hidden spots . The hidden spot creating means
As the first process, by applying the first pattern in which the pattern reference point for the hidden spot distribution pattern is matched with the starting point, the positions of the plurality of pattern-dependent points are obtained and obtained. A plurality of the hidden spots are created with the position as the first hidden spot creation reference point, and the hidden spots are created.
After that, when N is an integer of 2 or more, as the Nth process, the (N-1) th (N-1) is set at each position of the plurality of pattern dependent points obtained by applying the (N-1) th pattern. By applying the Nth pattern that matches the pattern reference points for the hidden spot distribution pattern that is the same as or different from the hidden spot distribution pattern applied in the second process, the positions of the plurality of pattern-dependent points are obtained. A plurality of the hidden spots are created by using each of the created positions as the Nth hidden spot creation reference point.
The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the process of creating a plurality of the hidden spots is executed by repeating the pattern application while increasing N by 1. Game system. The hidden spot creating means
When applying the second and subsequent patterns, the current position information of the customer terminal is used to determine the plurality of pattern-dependent points used as the hidden spot creation reference points for the hidden spots that have already been created. About the hidden spot distribution pattern to be applied next to each position of the selected pattern dependent points by selecting the pattern dependent points within a predetermined distance from the current position of the customer terminal. The game system according to claim 4 , wherein the pattern is applied so as to match the pattern reference points of the above. The hidden spot creating means
By using the current position information of the customer terminal as the starting point, the process of moving the position of the starting point is executed each time the pattern is applied using the hidden spot distribution pattern. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the game system is configured. The point awarding means
When it is determined by the hidden spot visit determination means that the current position of the customer terminal has entered the area of the hidden spot,
When the hidden spot determined to have entered corresponds to a predetermined specific hidden spot among the plurality of hidden spots created by the hidden spot creating means, a larger number than the other hidden spots. The process of giving points and
It is determined whether or not the area of the hidden spot determined to have entered includes a predetermined specific real spot, and if the specific real spot is included, a larger number than other hidden spots. And the process of giving points
Wherein regarding the hidden spots is determined to have entered the hiding spots created reference point, and determines whether or not entered within a predetermined virtual fence, if it is determined to have entered, than the other hidden spots The process of giving a large number of points and
The hidden spots created reference point and visiting time for the hidden spots is determined that contains enters within a predetermined virtual fence and determines whether or not entered the predetermined time period, both When it is judged that the condition is satisfied, a larger number of points than other hidden spots are given, and
Among the processes of changing the number of points given to all or some of the hidden spots created by the hidden spot creating means when entering the hidden spots with time. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the game system is configured to execute at least one process of the above. The point awarding means
Applying the number of points, and the position information of the hidden spots created reference point for the determined the hidden spots to have entered in association with the customer ID, stored in the customer point storage means provided in the game providing server It is configured to execute the process of
The game providing server is
Whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point is within a predetermined virtual fence is determined by using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means. When it is judged and it is judged that it is included, points are added, or when the number of the hidden spot creation reference points judged to be included is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the game system is configured to include a point addition means for executing a process of adding points. The point awarding means
The number of granted the points, as well, the hidden position information and time of the appointment of the spot created reference point for the hidden spots is determined to have entered in association with the customer ID, the customer point storage provided in the game providing server It is configured to execute the process of storing in the means,
The game providing server is
Using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means,
If it is determined whether or not the hidden spot creation reference point and the visit time are within the predetermined virtual fence and within the predetermined time zone, and if it is determined that both are satisfied, the point is given. A point addition means for executing a process of adding points when the number of hidden spot creation reference points determined to be added or both are satisfied is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the game system is configured. The point awarding means
The number of granted the points, as well, the hidden spot position information creating reference points and visiting time or visiting order for the hidden spots is determined to have entered in association with the customer ID, provided in the game providing server wherein It is configured to execute the process of storing in the customer point storage means.
The game providing server is
Using the position information of the hidden spot creation reference point for the hidden spot stored in the customer point storage means and the visit time or visit order,
Determines and draws whether the line connecting the positions of the hidden spot creation reference points for the hidden spot visited by the customer in the order of visit draws a predetermined character, symbol, constellation or other figure. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the game system is configured to include a point addition means for executing a process of adding points when it is determined. A terminal-mounted game program for operating a smartphone or other mobile device capable of arithmetic processing as the customer terminal constituting the game system according to claim 1 or 3. A server-mounted game program for operating a computer as the game providing server constituting the game system according to claim 2.

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