JP6810186B2 - Server system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a server system that manages a user's virtual currency account and executes payment processing from the account in response to a billing request for game content from a terminal device.

Conventionally, so-called commercial game devices operated in store facilities such as arcades have basically paid for play by inserting coins. However, in recent years, when playing on a commercial game device, by inputting a user ID registered in advance instead of inserting coins, the virtual currency (electronic money) of the user (player) associated with the user ID is used. An electronic payment method for performing electronic payment by deducting play consideration from the account of the above has also been used (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

In the electronic payment method, in the process of game participation registration (entry into a game), if an IC card (so-called user card) storing a user ID or a medium ID associated with the user ID is read by a business game device, The play consideration will be paid automatically. There is no need to carry coins, and there is no need to insert coins each time you enter.

JP-A-2010-262389 Japanese Patent No. 2010-262390

In recent years, major game companies (game makers, game management companies, etc.) have released multiple game titles, some of which have adopted the electronic payment method described above, but somehow between different game contents. In some cases, they have adopted a content mix strategy that sets associations.

Examples of content mixes include, for example, the same player character appearing between different game contents, or a relationship between a comrade, a colleague, an acquaintance, a relative, a master and a servant, etc., although the main character of each game content is different. Can be mentioned. Further, the relationship between different game contents may be a parallel world. In addition, one game content is used as game play content for operating a player character to earn points or perform missions, and the other game content is used for training or purchasing items for improving the ability of the player character. It may be related to the content other than the game play.

A player can enjoy a plurality of game contents of such a content mix while walking alone with one identification information such as a user ID and a player character's name in a certain game associated with the user ID. It is popular because you can enjoy the game world from all angles rather than playing the complete game content, and you can enjoy the game world in a much more three-dimensional manner.

An object of the present invention is to improve the convenience of a game system using electronic payment by making it possible to simultaneously use a plurality of game contents registered for use with a user ID that can be used for electronic payment.

The first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is to manage a user's virtual currency (for example, electronic money) account, and to process payment from the account in response to a billing request for game content from a terminal device (for example, electronic money). For example, a server system that executes billing processing using virtual currency)
When the first billing request is received from the first terminal device and the second billing request is received from the second terminal device, the timing of both billing requests does not satisfy the predetermined co-play timing condition. In this case (for example, the billing request timing T1 in FIG. 5, NO → S60 in step S56 in FIG. 13), or the game contents related to the billing requests of both satisfy the co-play time condition and have a predetermined relationship. In a server system provided with a payment processing means (for example, billing request timing T2 in FIG. 5 and YES → S60 in step S58 in FIG. 13) that executes payment processing for both billing requests when the related content conditions shown are satisfied. is there.

According to the first invention, when the co-play time condition is satisfied and the related content condition is satisfied, a plurality of game contents registered for use with the same user ID that can be used for electronic payment can be simultaneously used, and electronically. It is possible to improve the convenience of a game system that uses payment. Of course, if the same user ID is not used in advance, the game content can be executed as desired at any time as before, regardless of the possibility of simultaneous use.

The second invention rejects payment processing for one or both billing requests when the payment processing means satisfies the joint play time condition and does not satisfy the related content condition (for example,). For example, the billing request timing T3 in FIG. 6, step S68 in FIG. 13, and the server system of the first invention.

According to the second invention, even if another game content that cannot satisfy the related content condition is to be executed later with the user ID, if the co-play time condition is satisfied, the payment process related to the other game content is performed. Is not done. Even if it is a type with only in-content billing, the content will not function substantially. Of course, if the type is charged when the content is executed, the other game content will not be executed in the first place. As a result, even if the user ID is misused, it is possible to avoid the situation where the regular user of the user ID is charged without knowing it as long as the game content is executed and charged first. it can.

The positioning of game contents that satisfy the related content conditions can be set as appropriate.
For example, as a third invention, the game play content (for example, the first in FIG. 4) in which one of the game contents related to the billing requests of both of them is executed by the first terminal device. The game content G1), and the other is the content executed on the second terminal device other than the game play that affects the game play of the game play content (for example, the fourth game content G4 in FIG. 4). With this as the related content condition, the server system of the first or second invention that determines whether or not the related content condition is satisfied can be configured.

Regarding the co-play period condition, for example, as the fourth invention, one or both of the game contents related to the billing requests of both are game play contents, and the payment processing means is the game play contents. It is possible to configure the server system of any one of the first to third inventions, which determines whether or not the co-playing time condition is satisfied by using the play period.

A fifth invention is a privilege granting means for executing a privilege granting process for granting a given privilege when the joint play time condition is satisfied and the related content condition is satisfied (for example, the end condition of FIG. 8). A server system according to any one of the first to third inventions, further comprising a relaxation control unit 240 and step S140 in FIG.

According to the fifth invention, the same user ID can be used to give an incentive to a play style using a plurality of game contents satisfying the related content conditions. Therefore, it is possible to encourage the player to use the game content.

In the sixth invention, the privilege granting means has a discount processing means (for example, discount processing unit 218 of FIG. 8 and steps S102 to S104 of FIG. 14) for discounting the value of one or both of the billing requests of both. This is the server system of the fifth invention.

According to the sixth invention, the same user ID can be used to give an incentive to a play style in which a plurality of game contents satisfying the related content conditions are used in the same manner. Therefore, it is possible to further encourage the player to use the game content.

The content of the discount can be set as appropriate.
For example, as the seventh invention, the discount processing means can configure the server system of the sixth invention, which changes the discount contents based on the timing of the billing requests of both parties.

Further, as an eighth invention, one of the game contents related to the billing request of both parties is game play content and the other is content other than game play, and the discount processing means is the game play content. The server system of the sixth invention may be configured in which the discount content is changed based on the number of times or the billing amount of the billing request for the content other than the game play is made during the game play.

And the privilege content can be set as appropriate.
For example, as a ninth invention, one or both of the game contents related to the billing requests of both are game play contents, and the privilege granting means performs a process of extending the game play time of the game play contents. A server system according to any one of the fifth to eighth inventions, which is executed as the privilege granting process, can be configured.

Further, as a tenth invention, one of the game contents related to the billing request of both parties is game play content and the other is content other than game play, and the privilege giving means is content other than the game play. It is also possible to configure the server system of any of the fifth to eighth inventions, in which the privilege is variably set according to the value of the billing request according to the above.

The eleventh invention is a server system according to any one of the first to tenth inventions, wherein the execution of the game content is managed by using the user ID, and the account is managed in association with the user ID of the user. Is.

According to the eleventh invention, the execution of the game content and the management of the account can be centrally managed by using the user ID.

As a twelfth invention, the settlement processing may be realized by the settlement processing means consuming the virtual currency having a value corresponding to the billing request from the account.

The figure which shows an example of the structure of a game system. A perspective external view showing a configuration example of a commercial game device (terminal device). The external view which shows the structural example of the smartphone (terminal device). Diagram to show the relationship of content mix. The figure for demonstrating the principle of payment processing. The figure for demonstrating the principle of payment processing. Diagram to explain the benefits. A functional block diagram showing an example of functional configuration of a server system. The figure which shows the example of the program and data which the server storage part stores. The figure which shows the data structure example of the game content billing history. The figure which shows the data structure example of the game content execution history. A flowchart for explaining the flow of processing in the terminal device. A flowchart for explaining the processing flow in the server system. The flowchart which continues from FIG. The flowchart which continues from FIG.

[First Embodiment]
As an embodiment to which the present invention is applied, a game play consideration is paid using an electronic payment medium on a commercial game device, and while playing a certain game content, the same electronic payment is used on a smartphone. An example of executing another game content having a content mix relationship using a medium will be described.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a game system according to the present embodiment. The game system of the present embodiment includes a server system 1100 that can be connected to a communication line 9, a commercial game device 1300 that allows a player to register a player and pay a play consideration using an electronic payment medium 6, and electronic payment. Includes a smartphone 1500 equipped with a medium reader 1544 for the medium 6. Although the media reader 1544 is shown as an external type, it may be built in the smartphone 1500.

The electronic payment medium 6 stores key data for using an electronic payment system using electronic money (virtual currency). The key data can be read by using a dedicated reading device connected to a computer. The electronic payment medium 6 can be realized by, for example, an IC card or a smartphone that activates a predetermined electronic payment application. In the present embodiment, the business game device 1300 and the smartphone 1500 each have a medium reading device 1344 and a medium reading device 1544 corresponding to the electronic payment medium 6, and function as a consideration payment installation device.

As the key data, for example, a unique user ID set at the time of user registration, a unique medium ID (for example, a card ID for an IC card, a MAC address for an information device such as a smartphone), and the like can be appropriately set. it can. Incidentally, in the electronic payment medium 6 of the present embodiment, the medium ID is stored, but the data corresponding to the monetary value is not stored.

In the present embodiment, when the player registers as a user and obtains a user ID through a predetermined procedure in advance, he / she purchases and deposits electronic money into his / her own account, and further obtains a unique medium ID of the electronic payment medium 6 separately. Can be registered in association with its own user ID. By registering the electronic payment medium 6 in association with the user ID, the electronic payment medium 6 can be used for payment of the play consideration as if it were a prepaid card.

The communication line 9 means a communication path capable of data communication. That is, the communication line 9 includes a telephone communication network, a cable network, a communication network such as the Internet, as well as a LAN (Local Area Network) using a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection and Ethernet (registered trademark). It is meaningful, and the communication method may be wired or wireless.

The server system 1100 includes, for example, a main unit 1101, a keyboard 1106, a touch panel 1108, and a storage 1140.
A control board 1150 is mounted on the main body device 1101. The control board 1150 includes various microprocessors such as CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1151, GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), VRAM, RAM, ROM and the like. An IC memory 1152 and a communication device 1153 are mounted.

Then, the server system 1100 manages the registration information including the user registration process and the virtual currency account by performing arithmetic processing on the control board 1150 based on a predetermined program and data, and makes a billing request for the game content. On the other hand, the "user registration management function" that executes payment processing from the account and the "game management function" that provides the data necessary to execute game content to the business game device 1300 and smartphone 1500. Realize.

In the example of FIG. 1, the server system 1100 is described as a single unit, but it is equipped with a plurality of blade servers that share the user registration management function and the game management function, and can communicate data with each other via the internal bus. It may be a configuration connected to. Alternatively, a configuration may be configured in which a plurality of independent servers installed at remote locations perform data communication via the communication line 9 to function as the server system 1100 as a whole.

FIG. 2 is a perspective external view showing a configuration example of the commercial game device 1300.
The commercial game device 1300 is a computer and electronic device (electronic device) capable of connecting to a communication line 9 and accessing the server system 1100, and is a first type used by a player to execute game contents. It is a terminal device.

The commercial game device 1300 of the present embodiment can be replaced with a device classified into a portable game device, a stationary home-use game device, and a game controller of a stationary home-use game device. Further, it may be a device classified into a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a wearable computer, etc., which can execute an application program for realizing a function as a terminal device.

The commercial game device 1300 according to the present embodiment includes a joystick 1302, a button switch 1304, a touch panel 1306 that functions as an image display device and a contact position input device, a speaker 1310, a control board 1350, and an electronic payment medium 6. A medium reading device 1344 capable of reading data is provided.

The control board 1350 is equipped with various microprocessors such as CPU 1351 and GPU, DSP, various IC memories 1352 such as ASIC, VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a wireless communication module 1353 for communication connection to the communication line 9. There is. In addition, so-called I / F control such as a driver circuit of the touch panel 1306, a circuit for receiving signals from the joystick 1302 and the button switch 1304, an output amplifier circuit for outputting an audio signal to the speaker 1310, and a signal input / output circuit for the medium reader 1344. IC1357 (interface circuit) and the like are mounted. Each element mounted on the control board 1350 is electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and is connected so as to be able to read / write data and send / receive signals.

The control board 1350 executes a game program to execute arithmetic processing, and controls each part of the commercial game device 1300 in response to operation input from the joystick 1302, the button switch 1304, and the touch panel 1306 to enable game play. .. The commercial game device 1300 of the present embodiment stores necessary programs and various setting data in advance in the IC memory 1352, but may be configured to be downloaded from the server system 1100 each time it is started.

Under the control of the control board 1350, the commercial game device 1300 sequentially transmits the result of the operation input via the joystick 1302, the touch panel 1306, etc. to the server system 1100, while the server system 1100 to the first game content (game play). It is possible to receive various data for executing (contents for), generate an image of a game screen and display it on the touch panel 1306, generate a sound signal of a sound effect or an operation sound, and emit sound from the speaker 1310. .. That is, the player can enjoy the game play of the first game content by operating the joystick 1302 or the like while watching the game screen displayed on the touch panel 1306 and listening to the game sound flowing from the speaker 1310.

FIG. 3 is an external view showing a configuration example of the smartphone 1500 according to the present embodiment.
The smartphone 1500 of the present embodiment is a computer capable of executing an application program, and is a second terminal device used for executing a second game content.

In this embodiment, the device is classified as a mobile phone capable of executing an application program, but as long as it is a computer capable of executing an application program for executing a second game content, it is not limited to the form of a smartphone, but a personal computer. It may be a device classified into a tablet computer, a wearable computer, or the like.

The smartphone 1500 in this embodiment includes a direction input key 1502, a button switch 1504, a touch panel 1506 that functions as an image display device and a contact position input device, a speaker 1510, a microphone 1512, a control board 1550, and electronic payment. A medium reading device 1544 capable of reading data from the medium 6 is provided. In addition, a power button, a volume control button, etc. (not shown) are provided.

The control board 1550 is equipped with various microprocessors such as CPU 1551, GPU, and DSP, various IC memories 1552 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a wireless communication module 1553 for communication connection to the communication line 9. In addition, a driver circuit for the touch panel 1506, a circuit for receiving signals from the direction input key 1502 and the button switch 1504, an output amplifier circuit for outputting an audio signal to the speaker 1510, and an input signal for generating an audio signal collected by the microphone 1512. A so-called I / F control IC 1557 (interface circuit) such as a generation circuit and a signal input / output circuit to the medium reader 1544 is mounted. Each element mounted on the control board 1550 is electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and is connected so as to be able to read / write data and send / receive signals.

The control board 1550 temporarily stores the second game program and data related to the second game content in the IC memory 1552. Then, the program is executed to execute arithmetic processing, and each part of the smartphone 1500 is controlled according to the operation input from the direction input key 1502, the button switch 1504, and the touch panel 1506, and the second game content can be executed. To.

In the present embodiment, the smartphone 1500 is configured to acquire necessary programs and various setting data from the server system 1100, but it may be configured to be read from a storage medium such as a separately obtained memory card 1540. Further, the medium reading device 1544 is not limited to the external type, and may have a configuration built in the device main body.

[About the content mix]
FIG. 4 is a diagram for showing the relationship of the content mix in the present embodiment.
A plurality of game contents that can be executed by connecting the business game device 1300 or the smartphone 1500 to the server system 1100 are prepared. In the present embodiment, there are four types of the first game content G1 to the fourth game content G4, but the number can be appropriately set as long as the two types in which the relationship of the content mix is set are included.

The first game content G1 and the third game content G3 are so-called online games for the purpose of game play, and the play consideration is charged at the start of content execution (at the start of game play), and even within the game play. Includes billing elements.

The first game content G1 and the third game content G3 are independent game contents, and have no commonalities or relationships other than being able to play with the same user ID. For example, in an action game or RPG (role-playing game) in which the first game content G1 fights against an enemy character 61 using the player character 41, the third game content G3 organizes a player unit 73 corresponding to the player character. It is a strategy simulation game that engages with enemy unit 83. Of course, the genre of each game content can be set as appropriate. It may be a car race, a love simulation game, a training game, a puzzle game, or the like.

On the other hand, the second game content G2 and the fourth game content G4 have a "content mix" relationship with the first game content G1.
The content mix relationship refers to a relationship in which different contents have something in common. For example, 1) the relationship in which the parameter values related to each game content influence each other, 2) when some or all of the characters appearing between different game contents are common, and 3) one is the other. It is conceivable that one constitutes a part of the game world, 4) one mainly plays the game, and the other plays the role of a man-machine interface related to elements other than the game play of the other game content.

The "character that appears" here is not necessarily the character that is displayed on the game screen. For example, if the main player character in one game content is a combat weapon and the pilot is not displayed on the screen, but the main player character in the other game content is this pilot, it can be said that there is a content mix relationship. .. In addition, not only the player character that operates according to the operation input, but also the player character's friends, allies, familiars, NPCs (non-player characters) who are considered to be servants, and equipment with growth elements (for example, attack power) It can also be read as an increasing magic sword character). If the content mix is explained in terms of data, it can be said that it is a game content group in which some data (for example, parameters) used for the game content is commonly used by each other.

Explaining with the example of FIG. 4, the first game content G1 sets the ability parameter values such as HP (hit points) and MP (magic points) in the player character 41, and the game progress is controlled based on them. Is.

Assuming that the second game content G2 is a game in which the same player character 42 as the player character 41 appears and the ability parameter value (MP in the illustrated example) is restored according to the speed and number of repeated button presses, the first game content G1 and the second game content G2 form a content mix relationship.
Of course, "the same character" here means exactly the same, but for example, one is a combat robot equipped with optional weapons and the other is a combat robot not equipped. The parts also have a common meaning.

Further, the fourth game content G4 is content that manages the purchase, sale, composition, and the like of items such as weapons that can be used by the player character 41 in the game. Therefore, the first game content G1 and the fourth game content G4 form a content mix relationship.

The second game content G2 is charged for play at the start of content execution. The fourth game content G4 is not charged at the start of content execution, but deposits and withdrawals to and withdraws from the electronic money account are made according to the purchase of items and the like.

5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the principle of payment processing in the present embodiment.
The server system 1100 of the present embodiment determines whether or not to settle the billing requests (billing requests) from different game contents that are one after the other based on the time difference between the billing request timings and the presence or absence of the content mix relationship. to decide.

Specifically, the server system 1100 has a function of storing a history for each billing request. Then, it is assumed that the first billing request is received from the business game device 1300 and the second billing request is received from the smartphone 1500.

[Case 1] The server system 1100 executes a settlement process for both billing requests if the timings of the billing requests of both parties do not satisfy the predetermined co-play time condition. The co-play timing condition in the present embodiment is that "the second billing request timing is within the period from the first billing request timing related to the other game content executed in advance to the end of the game". .. In the example of FIG. 5, when the second billing request timing is timing T1, it is determined that the co-play timing condition is not satisfied and the settlement is performed.

When the co-play time condition is satisfied, [Case 2a] If the game content related to both billing requests satisfies the related content conditions, the settlement process for both billing requests is executed, but [Case 2b] If the related content conditions are not satisfied. Settlement processing for either or both billing requests is disabled. The related content condition in the present embodiment is that "a content mix relationship is set between the two".

In the example of FIG. 5, the second billing request timing related to the second game content G2 is the first billing of the first game content G1 executed in advance (billing for play consideration: first billing request timing). ) To the end of the game, that is, at timing T2 of the play period. Since the co-play time condition is satisfied and the first game content G1 and the second game content G2 are in a content mix relationship as described above, the settlement of the second billing request at the timing T2 is performed.

That is, according to the example shown in FIG. 5, the second game content G2 can be executed, and the MP of the player character 41 that also appears in the first game content G1 can be acquired depending on the result of the game play. If the second game content G2 is the fourth game content G4, the item can be purchased, and the newly purchased item can be used in the first game content G1.

On the other hand, in FIG. 6, the second billing request timing related to the third game content G3 is performed at the timing T3, which is within the period from the first billing of the previously executed game content to the end of the game. However, in this case, although the timing T3 satisfies the co-play time condition, the relationship of the content mix is not set between the first game content G1 and the third game content G3, so that the third game The settlement of the second billing request relating to the content G3 is rejected.

Therefore, according to the above case 2a, "improve the convenience of the game system using electronic payment by making it possible to simultaneously use a plurality of game contents registered for use with the same user ID that can be used for electronic payment". The purpose will be achieved. Of course, as in Case 1, if the same user ID is not used in advance, the game content can be used as usual at any time and without restrictions, regardless of whether it may be used at the same time. ..

However, even if the same user ID is used in advance and another game content that cannot satisfy the related content condition is later used with the user ID, the payment process related to the other game content is performed. Not done. If the type is charged when the content is executed, the other game content will not be executed in the first place. Even if it is a type with only in-content billing, the content will not function substantially.
As a result, even if the user ID is misused, if the legitimate user of the user ID is charged for playing the first game content G1 first, the user ID will be charged without knowing it. It will be possible to avoid such a situation.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the privilege according to [Case 2a].
In the present embodiment, a privilege can be given in the settlement in the above [Case 2a]. The content of the privilege in the present embodiment is limited to two types, that is, a discount on billing and a relaxation of the termination condition of the game content. For example, adding usable characters, adding items, adding / expanding playable game stages (playable songs for music games, equivalent to romance target characters for romance games), items already owned It is possible to appropriately set the contents of benefits such as improvement of the action effect and ability of the player character, improvement of the ability of the player character, granting of coupons that can be used for billing related to the game, cash back of electronic money, and the like. Relaxation of the end condition of the game content is immediate according to the game content, such as extending the playable time for time-based games and increasing the regulation value for games where the game is over when the number of mistakes reaches the regulation value. And set as appropriate. In this embodiment, the playable time is extended.

As shown in FIG. 7 (1) for the discount rate, and as shown in FIG. 7 (2) for the relaxation of the termination condition of the game content, the charge for the current execution of the game content related to the second charge request. The number of times, the amount charged each time, the total amount charged, etc. are set as parameters by a predetermined function as shown in the figure. Of course, the relationship between these parameter values and the calculated discount rate can be appropriately set in addition to the illustrated example.

[Explanation of functional configuration]
Next, an example of a functional configuration for realizing the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the server system 1100 according to the present embodiment. The server system 1100 in the present embodiment includes an operation input unit 100s, a server processing unit 200s, an image display unit 392s, a communication unit 394s, and a server storage unit 500s.

The operation input unit 100s is a means for inputting various operations for managing the server. In the example of FIG. 1, the keyboard 1106 corresponds.

The server processing unit 200s is realized by, for example, a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an electronic component such as an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), or an IC memory, and includes each functional unit including an operation input unit 100s and a server storage unit 500s. Data input / output control is performed between. Then, various arithmetic processes are executed based on predetermined programs and data, operation input signals from the operation input unit 100s, and data received from terminal devices such as the business game device 1300, and the operations of the server system 1100 are integrated. Control. In the example of FIG. 1, the control board 1150 corresponds.

The server processing unit 200s of the present embodiment includes a user registration management unit 210, a game content management unit 230, an image generation unit 292s, and a communication control unit 294s.

The user registration management unit 210 performs processing related to the user registration procedure, management of user registration data, and processing related to data management for each game content used by the user.
In the present embodiment, 1) issuance of a unique user ID to a user who has undergone a predetermined registration procedure, that is, a player, 2) linking processing of an electronic payment medium 6 used for electronic payment, and 3) an account for electronic payment. Settings, 3) Account deposit / attendance processing, that is, payment processing and payment history storage management,) 4) Data management for each content to be used (for example, management of save data, execution history, billing history, etc.), etc. It can be carried out.

The user registration management unit 210 of the present embodiment includes a payment processing unit 212 and a billing history management unit 220.

The payment processing unit 212 executes payment processing in response to a billing request from a terminal device (business game device 1300 or smartphone 1500) connected by communication.
In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not to settle the billing requests from different game contents that are one after the other based on the time difference between the billing request timings and the presence or absence of the content mix relationship (FIGS. 5 to 7). reference). In connection with this, it has a joint play time condition determination unit 214, a related content condition determination unit 216, and a discount processing unit 218.

The co-play time condition determination unit 214 determines whether the billing request timing related to the game content used at the same time with the same user ID satisfies the sharing time condition. In the present embodiment, the billing request timing for the game content started later is from the first billing request timing of the game content started earlier to the end of the content, that is, within the play period (see FIG. 5). If so, it is judged as "affirmative". Of course, the co-play period is not limited to the play period, and may be simply a predetermined period (for example, 24 hours) from the first billing request timing.

The related content condition determination unit 216 determines whether the game contents used at the same time with the same user ID have a predetermined relevance. In the present embodiment, it is determined to be affirmative when it corresponds to the relationship of the content mix.

The discount processing unit 218 is the first privilege granting unit related to the payment processing of the present embodiment, and performs a process of calculating a discount rate (see FIG. 7) and applying it to the payment.

The billing history management unit 220 stores and manages the history of each payment process, that is, the billing history.

The game content management unit 230 controls to activate the game content requested to be executed from the terminal device, maintain communication with the terminal device, and provide data necessary for executing the content. The present embodiment includes a control unit for each game content to be provided (first game content control unit 231, second game content control unit 232, ...), And a game content end condition relaxation control unit 240.

The end condition relaxation control unit 240 is a second privilege granting unit related to the payment processing of the present embodiment, and determines and reflects the degree of relaxation of the end condition relaxation of the game content.

The image generation unit 292s can generate an image or the like related to the maintenance of the server system 1100 and output it to the image display unit 392s.

The image display unit 392s displays various images for system management based on the image signal input from the image generation unit 292s. For example, it can be realized by an image display device such as a flat panel display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, and a head-mounted display. In the example of FIG. 1, the touch panel 1108 corresponds.

The communication control unit 294s executes data processing related to data communication, and realizes data exchange with an external device via the communication unit 394s.

The communication unit 394s connects to the communication line 9 to realize communication. For example, it is realized by a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack of a wired communication cable, a control circuit, and the like. In the example of FIG. 1, the communication device 1153 corresponds.

The server storage unit 500s stores a system program for realizing various functions for the server processing unit 200s to control the server system 1100 in an integrated manner, a program necessary for managing the game, various data, and the like. Further, it is used as a work area of the server processing unit 200s, and temporarily stores the calculation results and the like executed by the server processing unit 200s according to various programs. Such functions are realized by, for example, IC memories such as RAM and ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, and optical disks such as CD-ROMs and DVDs. In the example of FIG. 1, the IC memory 1152 mounted on the main unit 1101, a storage medium such as a hard disk, and the storage 1140 correspond to this.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a program and data stored in the server storage unit 500s in the present embodiment.
The server storage unit 500s includes a server system program 501, a user registration management program 503, a game content management program 505, a plurality of program files 510, a plurality of initial setting files 512, related content setting data 530, and privilege setting. The data 532 and the data 532 are stored in advance. Further, the server storage unit 500s stores user registration data 600, content management data 610, and play data 700 as data that is sequentially generated and updated. Furthermore, other information such as timers, counters, and various flags can be stored as appropriate.

The server system program 501 is a system program for realizing the basic input / output functions required as a computer in the server system 1100 by reading and executing the server processing unit 200s.

The user registration management program 503 is a program for realizing the function as the user registration management unit 210 by being read and executed by the server processing unit 200s.

The game content management program 505 is a program for realizing the function as the game content management unit 230 in the server processing unit 200s, that is, the execution environment of the game content.

The program file 510 is prepared for each game content provided by the server system 1100. One program file 510 is associated with a unique content ID which is identification information of the game content, and is read and executed by the server processing unit 200s to read and execute each game content control unit (first game content control unit 231). A content control program for realizing the function as the second game content control unit 232, ...) Is stored.

Further, the program file 510 may be associated with a "client program for distribution" that should be executed on the terminal device side in order to execute the corresponding game content. The client program for distribution may be realized as a dedicated program, for example. Alternatively, if the game of this embodiment is realized as a web game, a web technology that actively controls the screen display by using Java (registered trademark), CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), etc. together with HTML based on a web browser. Or, it may be realized by using a plug-in such as Adobe (registered trademark) Flash. Of course, other methods may be used.

The initial setting file 512 is prepared for each game content provided by the server system 1100. One initial setting file 512 stores a content ID and various initial setting data necessary for executing the game content of the content ID. A part of it may be used for distribution to the terminal device.

The related content setting data 530 is prepared for each setting related to the content mix. In one related content setting data 530, the content ID of the related game content (“related content ID” in the figure) is stored in association with the unique content mix ID.

The privilege setting data 532 is data that defines the conditions for granting the privilege and the content of the privilege (see FIG. 7).

The user registration data 600 is prepared for each player registered as a user. One user registration data 600 includes, for example, 1) user ID 602, 2) authenticated medium ID 603 indicating the electronic payment medium 6 registered for authentication, 3) account balance 604 of the electronic payment account, and 5) payment history. 605 and. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate.

The content management data 610 is prepared for each player registered as a user and for each game content that has been used.
One content management data 610 includes, for example, user ID 612, authenticated medium ID 614, content ID 616 which is identification information of game content, save data 618, game content billing history 620, game content execution history 630, and the like. including. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 10, for example, the game content billing history 620 stores the billing date and time 622 when the settlement was made, the billing reason 624 which is the purpose of billing, and the billing amount 626 in association with each other.

As shown in FIG. 11, for example, the game content execution history 630 stores the start date and time 632 and the end date and time 636 in association with each other.

The play data 700 is prepared for each game content being executed, and stores various data describing the progress thereof. One of them includes the end condition parameter value 702 of the game content. The end condition parameter value 702 stores, for example, the time limit of the elapsed time from the start of execution in the case of time-based game content. If the game content has the number of operation mistakes as the end condition, the maximum number of times is stored, and the like is appropriately set according to the game content. When the end condition is relaxed as one of the privilege grants in connection with the charge for other game contents of the content mix, the end condition parameter value 702 is set as a predetermined value at the start of execution of the game content, and the end condition is set. The parameter value will be changed when mitigation is performed.

[Explanation of processing flow]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a processing flow in the commercial game device 1300, which is a terminal device. The processing flow in the smartphone 1500, which is another terminal device, is the same as this.

When the medium reading device 1344 reads the medium ID from the electronic payment medium 6 (step S2), the commercial game device 1300 controls to acquire the user ID associated with the ID from the server system 1100 (step). S4).
Specifically, the business game device 1300 transmits the read medium ID, the terminal ID unique to the player (for example, MAC address, IP address, etc.), and a predetermined collation request to the server system 1100. The server system 1100 searches for user registration data 600 having an authenticated medium ID 603 that matches the medium ID, and returns the user ID 602 (see FIG. 9).

The business-use game device 1300 sends the acquired user ID 602, the unique content ID of the game content executed by the player, and the predetermined billing amount as the play consideration to the server system 1100 together with the predetermined content execution request. Transmit (step S6). Let the transmission be "communication A". In addition, in the configuration in which the game content executed by the commercial game device 1300 is of a type in which the play consideration is free and the main charge is made in the content (for example, the item charge type content), the communication A does not include the charge amount. good.

Next, the business game device 1300 receives from the server system 1100 as "communication B" whether or not the game content requested to be executed is executed as a reply to the communication A. In the case of game content for which the play consideration is paid at the start of execution, the notification of whether or not the execution is possible, which is the communication B, is a substantial notification of whether or not the current charge can be settled.

Then, if the result of communication B is that the content execution is rejected or cannot be executed (NO in step S8), the commercial game device 1300 notifies the player that the game content cannot be executed, and performs a series of processes. finish.

If the result of the communication B is that the content can be executed (YES in step S8), the commercial game device 1300 starts the control for executing the game content (step S12).

When the in-content billing operation is detected after the start of control (YES in step S20), the business game device 1300 includes the in-content billing request, the terminal ID, the user ID, the content ID, the reason for billing, and the section. The amount and the amount are transmitted to the server system 1100 (step S22). Let the transmission be "communication C".

Next, the business game device 1300 includes "communication" including charging completion (= settlement possible: settlement completion) or charge refusal (= settlement impossible: settlement refusal) of the current content charge as a reply from the server system 1100 to the communication C. Upon receiving "D", the player is notified and controlled of the result of the notification (step S24).

Steps S20 to S26 are repeated until the game content end condition is satisfied, such as receiving "communication E" notifying the end of the game content from the server system 1100 or detecting a predetermined game content end operation on the own machine ( NO in step S26). If the game content end condition is satisfied, the communication connection to the server system 1100 is terminated (step S28), and the series of processes is terminated.

If the game content executed by the business game device 1300 is of a type that does not support in-content billing, steps S20 to S24 may be omitted.

13 to 15 are flowcharts for explaining the processing flow in the server system 1100 of the present embodiment, and the user registration management program 503 and the game content management are managed in a state where the server system 1100 executes the server system program 501. It is implemented by executing program 505.
Since the user registration can be realized in the same manner as the member registration and the user registration related to the known electronic payment method online game, the description here will be omitted. Then, it is assumed that a plurality of user registration data 600 are already stored.

As shown in FIG. 13, when communication A, that is, a content execution request is received from the terminal device (YES in step S50), the server system 1100 refers to the content management data 610 related to the request source user for the game content for which the execution request is made. Then, in the game content execution history 630, it is determined whether or not the game content is registered in the executing state (state in which the end date and time 636 is undecided: the state of NUML as shown in FIG. 11) (step S52).

If the game content is not registered during execution (NO in step S52) and the game content requested for execution is set to be charged at the time of execution (YES in step S54), the server system 110 will be charged. It is determined whether or not there is a past billing history that satisfies the co-play time condition for the current billing request related to the execution request (step S56).

The co-play timing condition in this embodiment is "the second billing request timing (billing request related to this execution request) is from the first billing request timing related to other game contents executed in advance to the end of the game. Within the period of ".
Therefore, specifically, first, the game content execution history 630 (see FIG. 11) of all the content management data 610 related to the request source user is referred to, and the game content different from the game content requested to be executed this time is supported. And, the game content execution history 630 whose end date and time 636 is "NULL" is searched. Further, the content management data 610 (see FIG. 9) corresponding to this is searched. The game content corresponding to this indicates "another game content that has been executed in advance". Next, the billing date and time 622 of the latest history is searched from the game content billing history 620 (see FIG. 10) of the searched content management data 610. This indicates the "first billing request timing".
Then, if there is no corresponding content management data 610 or billing date and time 622, step S56 is set to "denial". If both are present, step S56 is "affirmative".
If the "game end" of the co-play time condition is set to the "predetermined period", the step is performed when there are both and the time difference between the searched billing date and time 622 and the current date and time is within the predetermined period. S56 is "affirmative".

If step S56 is negative (NO in step S56), the server system 1100 executes the play consideration billing process (settlement process) for the requesting user, associates it with the user, and makes an execution request. The billing history is added to the game content billing history 620 of the game content, and the history is also added to the payment history 605 of the user registration data 600 of the requesting user (step S60).

Next, the server system 1100 registers the game content requested for execution in a state where the end date and time 636 is undecided, that is, registers it as being executed (step S62).
Then, the progress control of the requested game content is started for the request source terminal device (step S64), and the notification that the content can be executed is transmitted to the request source terminal device (step S66: communication B).

In the progress control of the game content, in the process of referring to the information related to the user (for example, save data 618), the user ID received together with the content execution request is collated with the user ID 612 of the content management data 610. You can search and refer to it. Of course, it is also possible to search and refer to the authenticated medium ID 603 corresponding to the received user ID by collating the authenticated medium ID 614 of the content management data 610 (see FIG. 9).

Even if step S56 is affirmative (YES in step S56), the server system 1100 has a content mix relationship between the game content requested to be executed and other game content related to the past billing history that satisfies the co-play time condition. That is, when the related content condition is satisfied (YES in step S58), steps S60 to S66 are similarly executed.

However, if step S58 is negative (NO in step S58), or if it is affirmed in step S52 in the first place (YE in step S52), the server system 1100 rejects the execution request and sends the request to the request source terminal device. A notification for refusing to execute the predetermined content is returned (step S68). In either case, the same user ID is used to execute the same game because there is a possibility of unauthorized use of the user ID.

Moving on to FIG. 14, next, when the server system 1100 receives the communication C, that is, the in-content billing request (YES in step S90), does the server system 1100 have a past billing history that satisfies the co-play time condition for the billing request? Determine (step S92).

Specifically, in the same manner as in step S56 above, first, referring to the game content execution history 630 (see FIG. 11) of the content management data 610 related to the billing request, what is the game content related to the current billing request? The content management data 610 that is different game content and whose end date and time 636 remains undecided is searched. Next, the billing date and time 622 of the latest history is searched from the game content billing history 620 (see FIG. 10). Then, if there is no corresponding content management data 610 or billing date and time 622, step S92 is set to "denial". If both are present, step S92 is "affirmative".

Then, if negative (NO in step S92), the server system 1100 charges the requesting user at a regular price (step S94). Then, the current billing history is left in the game content billing history 620 corresponding to the game content related to the current in-content billing request and the payment history 605 of the requesting user (step S110), and the billing to the requesting source is completed, that is, payment is made. Yes, a notification of payment completion is transmitted (step S112: communication D).

On the other hand, when step S92 is affirmative (YES in step S92), the server system 1100 has the game content related to the current in-content billing request and the other game content related to the past billing history satisfying the co-play time condition. It is determined whether there is a content mix relationship, that is, whether the related content condition is satisfied (step S100).

Then, in the case of affirmation (YES in step S100), the server system 1100 determines the discount rate (step S102), applies the determined discount rate, and executes the billing process for the requesting user (step S104). ). Then, the current billing history is left in the game content billing history 620 corresponding to the game content related to the current in-content billing request and the payment history 605 of the requesting user (step S110), and the billing to the requesting source is completed, that is, payment is made. Yes, a notification of payment completion is transmitted (step S112: communication D).

If it is negative (NO in step S100), a charge refusal, that is, a notification of payment failure or payment refusal is transmitted to the request source (step S114: communication D).

Moving to the flowchart of FIG. 15, loop A is executed for each user (for each player) who is currently executing the game content (steps S130 to S168).

In loop A, loop B is executed for each running game content related to the user to be processed (steps S132 to S166).

In loop B, the server system 1100 refers to the game content execution history 630 of the user registration data 600 of the user to be processed in loop A, and another game content having a relationship between the game content to be processed and the content mix is being executed. (Step S134).

If there is a corresponding other game content (YES in step S134), the server system 1100 further sets the billing date and time 622 of the latest billing history related to the game content to be processed in loop B and the corresponding other game content. It is determined whether or not the time difference of the latest charging history from the charging date and time 622 is equal to or less than a predetermined proximity time determination value (for example, 10 minutes or less) (step S136).

Then, if it is equal to or less than the proximity time determination value (YES in step S136), the server system 1100 then refers to the end condition parameter value 702 of the game content to be processed in loop B, and determines whether the end condition is relaxed. (Step S138).
If the referenced end condition parameter value 702 is not changed from the predetermined initial value of the content, it is determined that the end condition has not been relaxed yet (NO in step S138), and the server system 1100 terminates the game content. The condition is relaxed (step S142). For example, processing such as adding the time limit stored in the end condition parameter value 702 is performed so that the game content can be enjoyed for a longer time.

Next, the server system 1100 determines whether or not the end condition of the game content to be processed in the loop B is satisfied. When the end condition is satisfied (YES in step S142), and when the end condition is not satisfied and regular communication with the terminal device of the user to be processed in loop A is not maintained (NO in step S144). , The server system 1100 ends the game content to be processed in loop B (step S160).

Then, a predetermined game end notification is transmitted to the terminal device of the processing target user of the loop A (step S162: communication E), and the game content execution history 630 corresponding to the processing target game content of the loop B of the same user is terminated. The registration of the game content is deleted (step S164), and the loop B is terminated (step S166).

If loop B is executed for all the running game contents related to the processing target user of loop A, loop A is executed for the next processing target user. Then, when the loop A is executed for all the users who are executing the game content (step S168), the process returns to step S50 (see FIG. 13).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to simultaneously use a plurality of game contents registered for use with the same user ID that can be used for electronic payment, and improve the convenience of the game system using electronic payment. It becomes. In addition, as a side effect, even if the user ID is illegally used, as long as the legitimate user of the user ID has played the first game content G1 first, the first game content G1 due to the unauthorized use can be obtained. There is no disadvantageous effect, and the effect of avoiding the situation of being charged without knowing it can be obtained.

In addition, the user ID, account information (account balance 604 and payment history 605) can be managed in association with information related to the usage status of a plurality of game contents used by the user (content management data 610).

From the user's point of view, the play consideration is paid from the same account regardless of which game content is used, so even if multiple game contents are used, the management of deposits and withdrawals to the account can be centralized, so each game content It is much more convenient than managing deposits and withdrawals. From the operator's point of view, it is possible to centrally manage the confirmation of payment status and billing control such as refusal or suspension of billing, so it is easier to manage and control by game content. ..

[Modification example]
Although the embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described above, the embodiments to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and constituent elements can be added, omitted, or changed as appropriate.

[Part 1]
For example, in the above embodiment, the main processing related to the game progress control is executed by the server system 1100, but a part of the arithmetic processing can be distributed and executed by the business game device 1300. Is.

[Part 2]
In addition, the co-play timing condition is "the second billing request timing is within the period from the first billing request timing related to the other game content that is being executed in advance to the end of the game". The "game end" is referred to as "predetermined time (for example, 24 hours)", and the time of plus α after the end of the game, or the period from the first billing request timing to the elapse of the predetermined time is set as the co-play time condition. Can be set. For example, in the example of FIG. 4, a player who reflects on his / her own play after finishing the first game content G1 can obtain a privilege even if he / she promptly purchases a necessary item in the fourth game content G4. Become.

[Part 3]
Further, in case 2b (case of FIG. 6), the settlement (for example, in-content billing) related to the game content (third game content G3 in the example of FIG. 6) started to be executed later is rejected, while the payment is rejected. Payment (for example, in-content billing) related to the preceding game content (first game content G1 in the example of FIG. 6) is continuously permitted. However, after the execution of the third game content G3 is started, the payment of the first game content G1 may be rejected.

Specifically, a rejection flag is prepared in the content management data 610. The rejection flag is set to the initial value "0". Then, as a processing flow, when the settlement relating to the game content (third game content G3 in the example of FIG. 6) which is started to be executed later is rejected (NO in step S100 of FIG. 14), the process is related to step S92. A step of changing the rejection flag of the searched content management data 610 (see FIG. 9, corresponding to the first game content G1 in the example of FIG. 6) to "1" is added. Then, step S114 is executed through the added step. Further, between step S92 and step S94, the rejection flag of the game content for which the in-content billing request is requested may be referred to, and if the flag is "0", the game content may flow to step S94. It should be noted that a step is appropriately provided in which the rejection flag is returned to "0" when the game content started to be executed later is completed.

[Part 4]
In case 2a (case of FIG. 5), the discount privilege applied to the payment related to the game content (second game content G2 or fourth game content G4 in the example of FIG. 5) started later is preceded. It is also possible to apply the configuration to the payment related to the game content (the first game content G1 in the example of FIG. 5).
Specifically, a discount flag is prepared in the content management data 610. The discount flag has an initial value of "0". Then, as a processing flow, when the settlement related to the game content started to be executed later is permitted (YES in step S100 in FIG. 14), the discount flag of the content management data 610 searched in connection with step S92 is set. The configuration is such that the step to be changed to "1" is additionally executed. Then, the discount flag of the game content for which the in-content billing request is requested may be referred to between steps S92 and S94, and the discount may be applied in step S94 when the flag is "1". As the discount rate, the discount rate calculated in step S102 may be stored and referred to, or a predetermined value may be applied. It should be noted that a step is appropriately provided in which the discount flag is returned to "0" when the game content started to be executed later is completed.

[Part 5]
Further, it is also possible to replace "payment" and "billing" in the above embodiment with "granting benefits". In particular, it is possible to replace it with benefits that can be obtained by billing or benefits that are considered to be alternatives to billing (for example, coupon tickets, music games to be played are changed from standard to long version, etc.). is there.

2 ... Player 6 ... Electronic payment medium 200s ... Server processing unit 210 ... User registration management unit 212 ... Payment processing unit 214 ... Co-play time condition judgment unit 216 ... Related content condition judgment unit 218 ... Discount processing unit 220 ... Billing history management Unit 230 ... Game content management unit 231 ... 1st game content control unit 232 ... 2nd game content control unit 240 ... Termination condition relaxation control unit 500s ... Server storage unit 501 ... Server system program 503 ... User registration management program 505 ... Game content Management program 510 ... Program file 512 ... Initial setting file 530 ... Related content setting data 532 ... Bonus setting data 600 ... User registration data 602 ... User ID
603 ... Certified media ID
604 ... Account balance 605 ... Payment history 610 ... Content management data 610
612 ... User ID
616 ... Content ID
618 ... Save data 620 ... Game content billing history 622 ... Billing date and time 624 ... Billing reason 626 ... Billing amount 630 ... Game content execution history 632 ... Start date and time 636 ... End date and time 700 ... Play data 702 ... End condition parameter value 1100 ... Server system 1150 ... Control board 1300 ... Commercial game device 1344 ... Media reader 1350 ... Control board 1500 ... Smartphone 1544 ... Media reader 1550 ... Control board

Claims (8)

A server system that manages a user's virtual currency account and executes payment processing from the account in response to a billing request for game content from a terminal device.
After receiving the first billing request related to the first game content from the first terminal device that executes the first game content, the second terminal device that executes the second game content When the second billing request related to the game content is received, it is determined whether or not the co-play timing condition from the timing of the first billing request to the final timing based on the end of execution of the first game content is satisfied. Co-playing time condition determination means and
A related content condition determining means for determining whether or not the first game content and the second game content satisfy the related content condition indicating that the relationship is a game content group having data commonly used by each other. ,
A privilege granting means for executing a privilege granting process for granting a given privilege when the joint play time condition is satisfied and the related content condition is satisfied.
After performing the payment processing from the account for the first billing request, if the co-play time condition is satisfied and the related content condition is satisfied, the payment processing for the second billing request is performed. A payment processing means executed from the same account as the payment processing for the billing request of 1.
With
The privilege granting means includes a discount processing means for discounting the value of the first billing request.
Server system. The discount processing means changes the discount content based on the timing of the second billing request.
The server system according to claim 1. The discount processing means changes the content of the discount based on the number of times the second billing request is made or the billing amount.
The server system according to claim 1 or 2. If the payment processing means satisfies the joint play time condition and does not satisfy the related content condition, the payment processing means rejects the payment processing for the second billing request.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . The final timing of the joint play timing condition is a timing at which the execution of the first game content ends and a predetermined time elapses.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . The privilege granting means variably sets the privilege according to the value of the second billing request.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 . The execution of the game content is managed by using the user ID, and the account is managed in association with the user ID of the user.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . The payment processing means executes the payment processing by consuming the virtual currency having a price corresponding to the billing request from the account.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 .

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