JP7206689B2 - Game system and game program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to fee collection technology for computer games.

Arcade game machines (commercial game machines) that collect fees for each play have a history of more than 40 years. In arcade game machines in recent years, a fee collection method using electronic money has become widespread (see Patent Document 1). A player charges (precharges) an IC (Integrated Circuit) card with electronic money by paying a lump sum of cash, and holds the IC card over the game machine. The game machine subtracts electronic money for the usage fee from the IC card. The player can continue playing within the charged amount.

Patent Literature 2 discloses a technique for providing a player with a right to use a network service according to the number of games played on a game device. As a net service, for example, a service for viewing game scores on the web is assumed (see paragraph [0003] of Patent Document 2). The game device disclosed in Patent Document 2 is said to be able to collectively collect not only the play fee but also the usage fee of the Internet service when playing the game, so that it is easy to collect the operation cost of the Internet service (see paragraph [0109] of Patent Document 2). ). In addition, since the validity period of the right to use the game is determined by the outcome of the game, it is considered useful in motivating the player to play the game (see paragraph [0112] of Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent No. 4631705 Japanese Patent No. 5885116

The game device of Patent Literature 2 is premised on playing a game. Services other than games, in other words, providing services independent of games alone are not assumed.

Many of the current arcade game machines are connected to communication networks, and many of them have processing power that surpasses that of general personal computers. The inventors of the present invention focused on the fact that arcade game machines, which are high-performance computing resources, are scattered all over the world. I thought.

The present invention has been completed based on the recognition of the above problem, and its main purpose is to expand the opportunities for using various services through the game device, not limited to the games provided by the game device itself. .

A game system in one aspect of the present invention is connected to a settlement server that executes electronic settlement via a communication network.
This system includes an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID, a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game, and a payment server that receives the game or the external service. A payment instruction unit that transmits a payment instruction for a service usage fee together with a player ID, a payment completion reception unit that receives a payment completion notification from the payment server, and a payment completion notification for the game is received when the game is selected. a game control unit for executing the game on condition that

Note that the player ID transmitted to the settlement server may be any information that can identify the player, and may be another ID associated with the player ID acquired by the ID acquisition unit.

A game system in another aspect of the present invention is connected to a management server that provides external services via a communication network.
This system includes an ID acquisition section for acquiring a player ID, a service selection section for accepting a player's selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game, and a charge reception section for accepting payment of a charge. , when a game is selected, a game control unit executes the game on the condition of payment of the usage fee for the game; a service execution instructing unit that instructs the player identified by the ID to execute an external service.

Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, it becomes easier to increase opportunities for using various services through a game device.

It is a hardware block diagram of a game system. It is a screen figure of a service selection screen. It is a screen figure of a payment method selection screen. 1 is a functional block diagram of a game system; FIG. FIG. 10 is a data structure diagram of postpay setting information; 4 is a data structure diagram of allocation setting information; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process when a game execution instruction is given on the service selection screen; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process when applying for use of an external service on the service selection screen; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a movie ticket; FIG. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the game usage fee in a post-pay system; FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the usage fee for the external service in a post-pay system; FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the usage fee for an external service in a prepaid system; It is a screen figure of a continuation application screen. FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the process of processing when applying for continuation;

In the game device 110 (arcade game machine) of this embodiment, the player can not only enjoy the game, but also apply for the use of various external services. In other words, the game device 110 is a hybrid device having not only the original game function but also the function as an "automatic teller machine" (hereinafter referred to as "teller function"). The "external service" here means a service provided by the main body of the game device 110 itself (e.g., credits required for playing the game, items used in the game, electronic data such as videos of the game played, and data used in the game). (including sales of trading cards, etc.). For example, purchasing a movie ticket corresponds to an external service.
Hereinafter, the game executed by the game device 110 of this embodiment will be referred to as "game G1".

FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of the game system 100. As shown in FIG.
In the game system 100, a plurality of stores 108a, 108b, . , 104b, . The game server 102 is also connected to a plurality of management servers 116 a . Management server 116 provides various external services. The settlement server 114 is, for example, a server operated by a credit card company. The settlement server 114 may be configured as a collection of multiple settlement servers prepared for each type of credit card.

The user terminal 104 in this embodiment is assumed to be a smart phone. The user terminal 104 may be a tablet terminal, personal computer, wearable computer, or the like. The user terminal 104 and the Internet 106 are wirelessly connected, but may be wired.

The store 108 is assumed to be an amusement park, a game center, or the like. In the shop 108, a plurality of game devices 110a to 110f (hereinafter collectively referred to as "game devices 110" when not distinguished) and a relay device 112 are connected by a dedicated line. The game device 110 is a commercial game device called "satellite", a so-called arcade game machine. The relay device 112 is called a “terminal” and is a device that supports and assists the game play of one or more game devices 110 . The relay device 112 and the Internet 106 are connected by wire, but may be connected wirelessly.

The relay device 112 replays (or provides as a video) the results of the game play on the game device 110, creates a ranking from the results of multiple game plays, provides cards (items) that can be used in the game, and the like. Has a known support function. In general, the relay device 112 executes a support process as a process for making the game play on the game device 110 more interesting, such as game rendering and analysis.

A player is assigned a player ID (hereinafter also referred to as "PID"). The player ID is recorded on the game card. The player ID may be recorded in the user terminal 104 owned by the player. The player ID may be any information that can uniquely identify the player.

In the game system 100, the player can also receive services in a post-pay method using a credit card. The game system 100 also supports a prepaid system using cash or a precharged IC card. In order to use a credit card, the player must make a contract with a credit card company in advance and register the player ID and credit card number (hereinafter simply referred to as "card number") in the game server 102.例文帳に追加The game server 102 associates a player ID with a card number for each player and forms a list.

More specifically, when registering a player on the game server 102 , the player registers a card number on the game server 102 via the user terminal 104 or the game device 110 . The game server 102 instructs the relay device 112 to issue a game card in which the player ID is registered. Alternatively, the player ID may be registered in the player's user terminal 104 . In this embodiment, it is assumed that the game server 102 manages game data for each player.

At the store 108, a card vendor or the like may issue a game card with a unique card ID. The player transmits the card ID to the game server 102 by causing the game device 110 to read the game card. When the received card ID is unregistered (when the game card is new), the game server 102 may register this card ID as a player ID, or associate an unused player ID with the card ID. You can register it with After the above preprocessing, the player transmits the player ID and the card number to the game server 102 via the user terminal 104 or the game device 110, so that the player ID and the card number are associated and registered in the game server 102. may

FIG. 2 is a screen diagram of the service selection screen 120. As shown in FIG.
On the game device 110, a service selection screen 120 is displayed first. The service selection screen 120 displays a game button 122 for instructing the start of the game G1 and an external service button group 130 for instructing application for use of various external services. The player selects the game button 122 when he wants to play the game G1.

The external service button group 130 includes buttons corresponding to each of a plurality of types of external services. External service button group 130 of service selection screen 120 of FIG. The voice actor event button 124 is a button for instructing an application for participation in a talk show by the voice actor Z1 appearing in the game G1. The movie ticket button 126 is a button for applying to purchase a movie E ticket. The movie E may be a movie related to the game G1 or a movie completely unrelated to the game G1. The game member button 128 is a button for applying for membership as a game member (limited to one month).

By selecting the voice actor event button 124, the player can apply for participation in the talk show of voice actor Z1. In this embodiment, the player can apply for participation in the talk show (external service) without playing the game G1. That is, the player can use the window function for external services without using the game function of the game device 110 .

By becoming a game member, the player can acquire various contents related to the game G1 via the web. For example, by accessing the game server 102 from the user terminal 104, a player who has become a game member can receive various information providing services related to the game G1, such as the results of the game G1, special images, and event notifications. .

Some external services are one-time, such as movie ticket purchases, while others are ongoing services, such as game memberships. External services with continuity are described in detail in connection with FIG. 13 et seq.
Hereinafter, when the game G1 and the external service are collectively referred to, or when they are not particularly distinguished, they are simply referred to as "services."

FIG. 3 is a screen diagram of the payment method selection screen 140. As shown in FIG.
The game device 110 displays the payment method selection screen 140 next to the service selection screen 120 . On the payment method selection screen 140, the player selects a payment method for the usage fee of the service selected on the service selection screen 120. FIG. There are three payment methods: cash, an IC card (prepaid card) charged with electronic money, and a credit card. Cash and electronic money are classified as prepaid type, and credit cards are classified as postpaid type. That is, the player selects one of the games and one or more external services, and then selects a payment method, either prepaid or postpaid.

When paying the usage fee in cash, the player selects the cash button 142 and then inserts cash into a coin slot or bill slot provided in the game device 110 . When paying the usage fee with electronic money, after selecting the electronic money button 144 , the IC card (prepaid card) is held over the card reader of the game device 110 . When paying the usage fee with a credit card, after selecting the credit card button 146 , the game card is held over the card reader of the game device 110 . A player ID is registered in the game card, and the player ID is transmitted to the game server 102 . The details of the process of processing postpay by credit card will be described later.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the game system 100. As shown in FIG.
Each component of the game device 110 and the game server 102 included in the game system 100 includes computing units such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and various coprocessors, storage devices such as memory and storage, and wired or wireless communication that connects them. It is implemented by hardware including lines, and software and various data stored in a storage device for supplying processing instructions, parameters, and the like to computing units. A computer program may consist of a device driver, an operating system, various application programs located in their higher layers, and a library that provides common functions to these programs. Each block described below represents a functional block rather than a hardware configuration.

(Game device 110)
Game device 110 includes user interface processing unit 150 , communication unit 154 , data processing unit 152 and data storage unit 156 .
The user interface processing unit 150 receives operations from the player via input devices such as buttons, a joystick, and a touch panel, and is in charge of user interface processing such as image display and audio output. Communication unit 154 is in charge of communication processing with relay device 112 , game server 102 , settlement server 114 and management server 116 via Internet 106 . The data storage unit 156 stores various data. The data processing unit 152 executes various processes based on data acquired by the communication unit 154 and data stored in the data storage unit 156 . Data processing unit 152 also functions as an interface for communication unit 154 and data storage unit 156 .

The user interface processing unit 150 includes an input unit 158 that detects touch input on the screen and receives input from the player, and an output unit 160 that outputs various information such as images and sounds to the player.

Input unit 158 includes ID acquisition unit 162 , service selection unit 164 , payment method reception unit 165 , fee reception unit 166 and continuation application reception unit 168 .
The ID obtaining unit 162 detects a player ID from a game card or the like. The service selection unit 164 receives service selection from the player on the service selection screen 120 . The payment method accepting unit 165 accepts selection of a payment method for the usage fee from the player on the payment method selection screen 140 . A fee accepting unit 166 accepts payment of the usage fee by cash or IC card in the case of prepaid payment. The continuation application accepting unit 168 accepts continuation applications for external services. The continuation application will be described later.

Output unit 160 includes print processing unit 170 . The print processing unit 170 prints a payment certificate when the payment for the external service is completed. Payment certificates are described below in connection with FIGS. In addition, the print processing unit 170 prints various types of paper showing the play results of the game G1. Note that the print processing unit 170 may be provided in the relay device 112 inside the store 108 .

The data processing section 152 includes a game control section 172 and a payment control section 174 . The game control unit 172 executes the game G1 according to the game program. As described above, the game control unit 172 operates in cooperation with the game program of the game server. The payment control unit 174 controls prepaid and postpaid payments for services.

Communication unit 154 includes payment instruction unit 176 , payment completion reception unit 178 , payment notification unit 180 and play information transmission unit 182 .
The payment instruction unit 176 instructs the game server 102 to execute payment when postpay is selected. The settlement completion receiving unit 178 receives a settlement completion notification for postpay from the settlement server 114 via the game server 102 . The payment notification unit 180 notifies the payment completion to the payment server 114 or the management server 116 via the game server 102 when prepaid is selected. Note that the settlement completion notification may be transmitted directly from the game device 110 to the settlement server 114 or directly from the game device 110 to the management server 116 without going through the game server 102 .

The play information transmission unit 182 transmits the play information to the game server 102 together with the player ID. The play information referred to here may be any information indicating the progress or history of game play. Specifically, in addition to the character, equipment, and items possessed by the player, the levels achieved by the player, the stages cleared, the number and types of enemies defeated, and the like. Also, in the case of a multiplayer game, the play information may include a history of matching between players.

(Game server 102)
The game server 102 includes a communication section 200 , a data processing section 202 and a data storage section 204 .
Communication unit 200 is in charge of communication processing with relay device 112 , game device 110 , settlement server 114 , management server 116 and user terminal 104 via Internet 106 . A data storage unit 204 stores various data. The data processing unit 202 executes various processes based on data acquired by the communication unit 200 and data stored in the data storage unit 204 . The data processing unit 202 also functions as an interface between the communication unit 200 and the data storage unit 204 . The data storage unit 204 stores various information such as play information.

The data processing section 202 includes a play information management section 218 and a payment information management section 220 .
The payment information management unit 220 cooperates with the payment server 114 to execute payment processing. Also, the payment information management unit 220 manages the payment history for each player. The play information management unit 218 manages play information.

Communication unit 200 includes play information reception unit 206 , payment instruction unit 208 , payment completion reception unit 210 , payment completion notification unit 212 , instruction reception unit 214 and service execution instruction unit 216 .
The play information receiving section 206 receives play information from the play information transmitting section 182 of the game device 110 . The play information is stored in the data storage unit 204 in association with the player ID. The settlement instruction unit 208 requests the settlement server 114 to electronically settle the usage fee. Payment completion reception unit 210 receives a payment completion notification from game device 110 or payment server 114 . Payment completion notification unit 212 transmits a usage fee payment completion notification to game device 110 , payment server 114 , or management server 116 . Instruction receiving unit 214 receives a payment instruction from payment instruction unit 176 of game device 110 . The service execution instruction unit 216 instructs the management server 116 to execute an external service.

FIG. 5 is a data structure diagram of the postpay setting information 230. As shown in FIG.
Postpay setting information 230 is stored in the data storage unit 204 of the game server 102 . A player who wishes to pay by credit card registers the type of credit card and card number in the game server 102 in advance. Also, if a credit card is registered, continuous use of various external services can be applied from the game device 110 . Referring to FIG. 5, a player with player ID=P01 (hereinafter referred to as "player (P01)") holds an "R card" as a credit card. When a player (P01) registers a credit card in the game server 102, a game card with a registered player ID is issued.

In the following description, it is assumed that the game server 102 manages player IDs and card numbers in association with each other in this embodiment. As a modification, the game server 102 may manage player IDs in association with intermediate IDs. The settlement server 114 associates and manages the intermediate ID and the card number. In other words, the game server 102 manages not the card number itself but the intermediate ID that is associated with the card number on a one-to-one basis. The game server 102 transmits the intermediate ID to the settlement server 114 so that the settlement server 114 can specify the card number. According to such a control method, the game server 102 does not need to manage card numbers, so security can be easily enhanced.

As another modification, the settlement server 114 may manage player IDs and card numbers in association with each other instead of intermediate IDs and card numbers. Also in this case, the risk of the card number being leaked from the game server 102 can be reduced.

External services include, for example, services that can be used continuously by paying a monthly membership fee. Although the details will be described later, the player can also apply for continuation of such a continuous external service (hereinafter referred to as "continuous service"). According to the postpay setting information 230 shown in FIG. 5, the player (P01) has a contract with the continuous service X1, and the player (P02) has a contract with the continuous services X2 and X3. The payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 periodically instructs the payment server 114 to make payment (withdrawal and remittance) of the usage fee for the continuous service. For example, the game server 102 instructs the settlement server 114 to settle the monthly membership fee of the continuous service X1 for the player (P01)'s "R card" every month.

FIG. 6 is a data structure diagram of the allocation setting information 240. As shown in FIG.
Distribution setting information 240 is stored in data storage unit 156 of game device 110 . The distribution setting information 240 defines a distribution method for distributing usage fees for various services to one or more business operators. In the game G1, two types of usage fees are defined: a play fee (credit) and a purchase fee for items and the like. According to the distribution setting information 240 , 50% of the usage fee paid by the player is credited to the store operator, and 50% is credited to the manufacturer of the game device 110 . The same applies to item purchase fees.

On the other hand, for the external service X1, 10% of the usage fee is the income of the shop operator, and 90% is the income of the manufacturer. As the external service X1, for example, provision of information by a member site of the game G1 can be considered. 5% of the usage fee of the external service X2 is the income of the store operator, 5% is the income of the manufacturer, and 90% is the income of the operator Y1. The external service X2 is assumed to be a service mainly provided by the business operator Y1, such as a car sharing service. Business operator Y1 returns a part of the usage fee to the shop operator and the manufacturer as compensation for expanding opportunities to use its own service through game device 110 .

Of the usage fees for the external service X3, 30 yen is the income of the store operator, 20 yen is the income of the manufacturer, and the rest is the income of the operator Y2. The business operator Y2 returns part of the usage fee of the external service X3 to the store business operator or the like in a fixed amount. In this way, in the case of an external service that causes a large difference in the usage fee returned to each business operator, a fixed amount may be returned instead of the rate.

Although the details will be described later, the payment instruction unit 176 transmits a payment instruction after designating the distribution method to the game server 102 according to the distribution setting information 240 , and the game server 102 sends the designated distribution method to the payment server 114 . instruct. Note that the allocation setting information 240 may be stored in the data storage unit 204 of the game server 102 instead of the game device 110 .

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the process when the execution of the game G1 is instructed on the service selection screen 120. As shown in FIG.
When prepaid is selected on the payment method selection screen 140 (Y of S10), in other words, when the player pays the usage fee with cash or an IC card, the game control unit 172 immediately executes the game G1 (S16). .

On the other hand, when post-pay is selected (N of S10), in other words, when the player selects payment of the usage fee by credit card, the settlement instruction unit 176 sends the player ID, the game ID for identifying the game G1, and the store 108. A payment instruction is sent to the game server 102 together with the store ID to be identified, the usage fee, and the allocation method (S12). Although the details will be described later, the game server 102 cooperates with the settlement server 114 to execute electronic settlement.

The settlement completion notification unit 212 of the game server 102 transmits a settlement completion notification to the game device 110 when the settlement is completed. When the payment is completed (Y of S14), the game control section 172 executes the game G1 (S16). That is, in the case of post-pay, the game G1 can be played after confirming the completion of the electronic payment by the game server 102 and the payment server 114 . On the other hand, when the payment is not completed (N of S14), for example, when the authentication of the card number fails, the payment completion notification unit 212 notifies the game device 110 of the payment failure, and the output unit 160 of the game device 110 An error is displayed (S18).

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the process of applying for use of an external service on the service selection screen 120. As shown in FIG.
When the player selects prepaid (Y of S20), the player pays the usage fee of the external service with cash or the like. The payment notification unit 180 notifies the game server 102 that the prepaid payment has been completed (S22). The output unit 160 displays that the application for use of the external service has been accepted (S24), and the print processing unit 170 prints the payment certificate (S26). The payment certificate is a document that proves that the application for using the external service has been accepted. The proof of payment is not limited to a receipt, and if the external service is a movie or a concert, a ticket may be printed as proof of payment (described later with reference to FIG. 9).

On the other hand, when postpay is selected (N of S20), the settlement instruction unit 176 transmits a settlement instruction to the game server 102 (S28). At this time, a player ID, a store ID, a service ID specifying an external service, a charge for use, and an instruction for an allocation method are also transmitted together with the payment instruction. The settlement completion notification unit 212 of the game server 102 transmits a settlement completion notification to the game device 110 when the settlement is completed. When the settlement by postpay is completed (Y of S30), the process proceeds to S24 (acceptance display). When the settlement fails (N of S30), the output unit 160 displays an error (S32). Note that if the prepaid system also requires settlement approval from the settlement server 114, the same processing as in the above postpay system is performed.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a movie ticket 250. As shown in FIG.
As an example of an external service, when a player purchases a movie ticket using the game device 110, the print processing unit 170 prints the movie ticket 250 as a kind of payment certificate. When the player purchases the movie ticket via the game device 110, the movie ticket 250 can be obtained immediately. A recent game device 110 often incorporates a high-performance printer for printing cards and the like. Therefore, by using the advanced printing function of the game device 110, a beautiful payment certificate can be printed and issued. For example, gaming device 110 may print glossy or laminated payment certificates. It has the advantage of being able to provide more luxurious tickets than tickets issued at convenience stores.

The print processing unit 170 may print an image related to the game G1, such as a character image 252 appearing in the game G1, on the movie ticket 250. FIG. By providing a highly original payment certificate (movie ticket 250) that can only be obtained when applying for the game device 110, the incentive to apply for use of the external service via the game device 110 can be further enhanced.

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the usage fee for the game G1 by the post-pay method.
When the game G1 (game button 122) is selected on the service selection screen 120 and the post-pay (credit card button 146) is selected on the payment method selection screen 140, the payment instructing unit 176 designates the usage fee of the game G1 and the like. to send a payment instruction to the game server 102 (S40). The payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 refers to the postpay setting information 230 and identifies the credit card type and card number (S42). The payment instructing unit 208 of the game server 102 instructs the payment server 114 to perform electronic payment of the usage fee by designating the card number and the method of allocating the usage fee (S44).

The settlement server 114 executes settlement by withdrawing the usage fee from the bank account associated with the card number and designating the payee and the amount of the usage fee according to the distribution information (S46). The settlement server 114 transmits a settlement completion notice to the game server 102 (S48). The payment completion receiving unit 210 of the game server 102 receives the payment completion notification, and the payment completion notification unit 212 transmits the payment completion notification to the game server 102 (S50). When the payment completion receiving unit 178 of the game device 110 receives the payment completion notification, the game control unit 172 permits execution of the game G1 (S52). When the settlement fails, the settlement server 114 notifies the settlement failure via the game server 102 . At this time, the game control unit 172 of the game device 110 does not permit execution of the game G1.
Note that the process of paying the usage fee for the game G1 in the prepaid system is the same as that of the conventional technology, so the explanation is omitted.

If the game server 102 manages the intermediate ID instead of the card number (the modification described above), in S42 the game server 102 specifies the intermediate ID corresponding to the player ID instead of the card number. The game server 102 designates the intermediate ID and instructs the settlement server 114 to electronically settle the usage fee. The payment server 114 executes electronic payment based on the card number associated with the intermediate ID.
If the game server 102 manages the allocation setting information 240 instead of the game device 110, the game server 102 may specify the usage fee allocation method and notify the settlement server 114 of it.

FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the usage fee for the external service using the post-pay method.
When one of the external services is selected on the service selection screen 120 and Postpay is selected on the payment method selection screen 140, the payment instruction unit 176 specifies the service ID of the external service and transmits a payment instruction to the game server 102. (S60). The payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 refers to the postpay setting information 230 and identifies the credit card (S62). The payment instructing unit 208 of the game server 102 instructs the payment server 114 to pay the usage fee in the same manner as the post-payment of the game G1 (S64).
As described above, when the card number is associated with the player ID and registered only in the settlement server 114, the processing of S62 is executed by the settlement server 114. FIG.

The settlement server 114 executes the settlement (S66) and transmits a settlement completion notification to the game server 102 (S68). The game server 102 transmits a settlement completion notification to the game device 110 (S70). Further, the service execution instructing unit 216 of the game server 102 transmits information on the player to be serviced to the management server 116, and instructs execution of the external service (S72). For example, if the external service is an application for participation in a talk show by voice actor Z1, the player's information is sent to the management server 116 that manages the talk show, and the management server 116 receives the player's information (name, payment completion, etc.) as a participant. etc.). Print processing unit 170 of game device 110 prints a payment certificate for the external service (S74).
The management server 116 may transmit a registration completion notification to the game device 110 when registration of the player information is completed, and the game device 110 may print the payment certificate on condition that the registration completion notification is received.

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the process of paying the usage fee for the external service using a prepaid system.
When one of the external services is selected on service selection screen 120 and prepaid is selected on payment method selection screen 140, fee accepting unit 166 accepts payment of the usage fee by cash or IC card. After the payment is completed, the settlement notification unit 180 transmits a settlement completion notification indicating that the prepaid payment has been completed to the game server 102 (S80). At this time, accompanying information such as the player ID, usage fee and its distribution method, service ID, store ID, etc. is also transmitted. The settlement completion notification unit 212 of the game server 102 similarly transmits a settlement completion notification to the settlement server 114 (S82). The game server 102 designates to the settlement server 114 the amount to be transferred to each account of the affiliated business operator according to the instructed allocation method. That is, the store 108 once takes charge of the external service usage fee prepaid by the player in cash or the like, and the amount is transferred from the bank account of the store 108 to the bank account of each company. The service execution instructing unit 216 of the game server 102 instructs the management server 116 to execute the external service (S84). At this time, the service execution instructing unit 216 notifies the management server 116 of the target person of the external service by transmitting information for specifying the player such as the player ID and the intermediate ID.

The game device 110 may directly transmit the payment completion notification to the payment server 114 or the management server 116 without going through the game server 102 . If the game server 102 manages the distribution setting information 240 instead of the game device 110, the game server 102 notifies the payment server 114 of the usage fee distribution method in S82.

FIG. 13 is a screen diagram of a continuation application screen 260. As shown in FIG.
When the player applies for the use of the external service, the game device 110 displays a screen allowing the player to select whether or not to apply for continuation if the external service is a continuous service. A continuation application screen 260 shown in FIG. 13 is displayed after the player applies for a “game membership” on the service selection screen 120 .

The continuation application screen 260 includes a 6-month membership button 262 , an indefinite membership button 264 and a cancel button 266 . When the player selects the game membership button 128 on the service selection screen 120, the player becomes a one-month limited game membership. At this time, the player pays one month's membership fee by prepaid or postpaid.

When the player selects the 6-month member button 262 on the continuation application screen 260, the player becomes a 6-month limited game member. In order to become a game member for two months or more, the player needs to register his/her credit card with the game server 102 . The game server 102 withdraws the monthly membership fee from the player's bank account every month when the player becomes a six-month game member.

When the player selects the permanent membership button 264, the player becomes a permanent membership of the game. Also at this time, the game server 102 withdraws the monthly membership fee from the player's bank account every month. Even if the member is an indefinite member, the player can withdraw from the membership at any time. When not applying for continuation, the player selects the stop button 266 .
In addition to game membership, various services such as fan clubs and reserve investments of securities companies are conceivable as continuous services.

FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing the process of applying for continuation.
When a continuation application is made for any of the external services, the continuation application receiving unit 168 receives the continuation application, and the settlement instruction unit 176 receives the continuation period, service ID, player ID, store ID, monthly usage fee, and its allocation method. Along with this, a continuation instruction is transmitted to the game server 102 (S90). The instruction receiving unit 214 of the game server 102 receives the continuation instruction, and the settlement instruction unit 208 transmits the continuation instruction to the settlement server 114 (S92). At this time, the settlement instruction unit 208 also notifies the settlement server 114 of the card number. The settlement server 114 sets regular withdrawals from the bank account identified by the card number (S94).

After setting the periodical withdrawal, the settlement server 114 instructs the management server 116 to continuously provide the external service (S96). The settlement server 114 transmits to the game server 102 a continuation completion notification indicating that the continuation application has been received (S98). The payment completion notification unit 212 of the game server 102 transmits a continuation completion notification to the game device 110 (S100).

The game system 100 has been described above based on the embodiment.
According to this embodiment, the game device 110 can also be used as an automatic teller machine for external services. Many game devices 110 are currently connected to the Internet 106 . Also, many game devices 110 have more than enough processing power required for the teller function. Therefore, by using the game device 110, which is an existing computational resource, for purposes other than games, there is a possibility that opportunities for using external services can be expanded at once. The game devices 110 currently on the market may be sequentially replaced with the game devices 110 equipped with the counter function. Alternatively, a window function may be added to the existing game device 110 by updating software.

It is considered that the game device 110 that can be used as an automatic teller machine can be easily introduced in general stores. In addition, since one game device 110 can be used not only as a game machine but also as an automatic teller machine, the operating rate of the game device 110 can be easily increased.

The game function and the window function are originally different functions. Therefore, the game machine and the automatic teller machine were often installed in separate places. According to this embodiment, a player who likes games can use the counter function to complete his/her business while enjoying the game. In addition, even users who are not interested in the game can be provided with an opportunity to touch the game device 110 by the window function, so an effect of making such users aware of the game can be expected.

Some game devices 110 have more advanced printing capabilities than home printers and can provide a wide variety of proof of payment. For example, by providing highly original receipts on which game characters are printed, it is possible to provide a new enjoyment of collecting receipts. The game control unit 172 may randomly select a game character to be printed on the payment certificate from among the multiple types of game characters. In addition, by performing special processing such as lamination on movie tickets, it is possible to provide a premium feel unique to the game device 110 .

The proof of payment may be printed for free or for a fee. For example, in game device 110 that does not have a print function, assume that a player applies for use of an external service and completes payment. At this time, the output unit 160 of the game device 110 displays the receipt number instead of the payment certificate. A payment certificate issuance instruction unit (not shown) of the game device 110 transmits the reception number and payment certificate data to the game server 102 (note that the payment server 114, not the game device 110, generates the reception number). may be transmitted to the game device 110 and the game server 102. At this time, the settlement server 114 may also transmit the payment certificate data to the game server 102). The payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 associates and registers the receipt number and the payment certificate. Next, the player inputs this reception number into another device (another game device 110, relay device 112, etc.) having a printing function. At this time, this device may transmit the reception number to the game server 102, acquire the data of the payment certificate, and output the payment certificate. Issuance of proof of payment may be contingent upon payment of an issuance fee. According to such a control method, even a game device 110 that does not have a printing function can apply for use of an external service, and a player who requires a payment certificate will be provided with the payment certificate later on another device. can do.

In the present embodiment, the distribution setting information 240 can define profit distribution to business operators involved in services. If the game device 110 is also used as an automatic teller machine, part of the operating time of the game device 110 is taken up by the teller function, so there is a possibility that revenue from the game will decrease. Therefore, by returning part of the usage fee for the external service to the store operator or the manufacturer, it is possible to increase the incentive to develop and introduce the game device 110 that is also compatible with the external service.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and can be embodied by modifying constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention. Various inventions may be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications. Also, some constituent elements may be deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the above embodiments and modifications.

It has been described that the user terminal 104 , the game server 102 , the relay device 112 and the game device 110 constitute the game system 100 . The game system 100 may be formed by the game device 110 and the game server 102, may be realized by a single game device 110, or may be formed by the game device 110 and the relay device 112. good. A part of the functions of the game server 102 may be implemented by the game device 110 or the relay device 112 , or a part of the functions of the game device 110 or the relay device 112 may be assigned to the game server 102 . Also, a third device other than the game server 102, the game device 110, and the relay device 112 may take part of the functions of these devices.

Collective functions of the game device 110, the relay device 112 and the game server 102 described with reference to FIG. 4 can be grasped as one "game system" from a broad perspective. How to distribute a plurality of functions necessary for realizing the present invention to one or more pieces of hardware is determined in consideration of the processing capability of each piece of hardware and the specifications required for the game system 100. It should be decided.

[Modification]
The window function in this embodiment may be implemented by the relay device 112 instead of the game device 110 . Also, game device 110 and relay device 112 may implement both the game function and the counter function.

In the present embodiment, it has been described that the player ID is registered in the game card, and the card number associated with the player ID is specified in the game server 102 . As a modification, the game device 110 may allow direct input of the card number. Also, when using a credit card, an existing security technology such as a personal identification number or biometric authentication may be applied. All or part of the card number may be used as it is as the player ID.

The game server 102 is not limited to a credit card, and may settle the usage fee with a debit card. Further, the electronic payment by credit card may be performed collectively for each predetermined period, or may be performed when the cumulative amount of usage fees reaches or exceeds a predetermined amount.

Although the game device 110 has been described assuming an arcade game machine, it may be a stationary game machine such as a game image editing device, a crane game, or a pinball game machine. Moreover, it is applicable not only to a stationary type but also to a home-use game machine.

In the present embodiment, it has been explained that the cash button 142 or the electronic money button 144 is once selected on the payment method selection screen 140 even when paying with a prepaid system. As a modified example, when the player inserts cash or electronic money into the game device 110 before selecting the payment method selection screen 140, the fee reception unit 166 collects the usage fee and determines that the player has selected the prepaid system. may

The print processing unit 170 may output the payment certificate in a form that can also be used as a collectible card game card. For example, by outputting a print medium that can be used as both a movie ticket and a game, it is possible to provide a unique advantage when applying for use of an external service from the game device 110 . The player can also enjoy the game G1 using the payment certificate while receiving the payment certificate for the external service.

When the game device 110 makes an application for use of the external service, the game control unit 172 may change the game G1 in favor of the player. For example, when player P1 applies for use of external service X1 on game device 110, the play fee for game G1 immediately after application may be set free or at a lower price than the regular price. Also, the game G1 can be changed in favor of the player by giving items, changing data related to game settings such as parameters, or paying out trading cards or the like used as game media in the game G1. may According to such a control method, it is possible to create an opportunity to convey the fun of the game G1 even to players who are not interested in the game G1. In other words, it becomes easier to guide the player to the game G1, which is the original service of the game device 110, by using the external service as an entrance. In addition, game characters and items that can be used in the game G1 may be provided, and the probability setting of the lottery executed in the game G1 may be set in favor of the player.

The game server 102 may manage a player's usage application history for external services. For example, when the player P1 applies for the use of the external service X1 from the game device 110, the game control unit 172 makes the game G1 advantageous to the player for a predetermined period from the application for use or when playing the game G1 for a predetermined number of times. You can change it. Further, the game control unit 172 may change the game G1 in favor of the player on the condition that the application for continuation of the external service is made.

The game control unit 172 may change the privilege to be provided to the player according to the type of external service for which use application has been made. For example, the game control unit 172 may provide the character C1 to the player when an application for use of the external service X1 is made, and the game control unit 172 may provide another character C2 to the player when an application for use of the external service X2 is made. . According to such a control method, the player can proceed with the game G1 more advantageously by applying for use of various types of external services. Therefore, it becomes easier to guide the player to a wide variety of external services through the game G1.

In addition, the payment control unit 174 may issue a ticket that allows the player who has applied for the use of the external service to play another game G2 for free, or a ticket that allows the player to play the game at another store 108 . may be issued.

Contrary to the use of the application for use of the external service as an opportunity to change the game in favor of the player, the play of the game may be used as an opportunity to increase the incentive to apply for use of the external service. For example, when the game G1 is played, or when a predetermined in-game clear condition (eg, high score) is achieved in the game G1, a movie ticket may be applied for at a lower price than usual. Or you might get priority sales of tickets to concerts or sports. For the player who has achieved the clear condition, the print processing unit 170 may print a battle record certificate that proves the achievement of the clear condition. Also, this record certificate may be used as a ticket that can be used for external services such as movies. The game server 102 may refer to the player information and, when a player who has played the game G1 applies for the use of an external service, reduces the usage fee for the external service and executes settlement. In this way, a privilege may be given to the player when using the external service according to the play of the game G1 or the result of the play.

As external services, various services other than those exemplified in this embodiment are conceivable. For example, fan clubs of celebrities, payment of utility bills such as water charges, bank transfers, consumer finance, rental car reservations, merchandise sales (auctions and online shopping), purchase of betting tickets, etc. can be considered.

The store operator may turn off the teller function of the game device 110 during busy hours. Alternatively, the window function may be turned off for the popular game device 110 with a high operating rate. On the other hand, by turning on the window function of the game device 110 during a time period in which many players do not come to play games, it becomes easier to secure a profit opportunity even in a quiet time period. In addition, since the counter function can be used even for the game device 110 that has become unpopular, the burden and risk of the shop operator purchasing the game device 110 can be reduced.

The game server 102 may instruct the management server 116 to instruct or allow the execution of the external service to the management server 116 , or the payment server 114 may instruct the management server 116 to execute the external service. Alternatively, the instruction may be given from the game device 110 to the management server 116 , or from the relay device 112 to the management server 116 .

Although the external service is charged in the present embodiment, the external service may be free. In addition, if application for use of external services can bring about a sufficient source of revenue for store operators and manufacturers, there is a possibility that game usage fees can be reduced.

In the present embodiment, it has been described that both the application for use of the external service and the application for continuation are made from the game device 110 . As a modification, a device other than the game device 110, for example, the user terminal 104, may continuously apply for the external service to the game server 102 via the communication network. Of the continuous services, application for use within a predetermined period or for a limited period may be made through the game device 110 , and application for continuation of the service for a predetermined period or longer or indefinitely may be made from the user terminal 104 .

Specifically, first, it is assumed that the player (P01) applies for use of the external service X1 on the game device 110. FIG. At this time, the game device 110 transmits the player ID and the service ID of the external service X1 to the game server 102, and the payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 associates and registers the player (P01) and the external service X1. Keep At this stage, the player (P01) can use the external service X1 for a limited time.

Next, the player (P01) accesses the game server 102 from the user terminal 104. FIG. At this time, the player ID is also transmitted from the user terminal 104 to the game server 102 . The payment information management unit 220 of the game server 102 identifies one or more external services for which the player (P01) has applied for use (external services for which use has been applied for a limited period of time), and inputs whether or not to apply for continuation. A continuation application page, which is a web page for

It is assumed that the player (P01) selects the external service X1 on this continuation application page. Through such an operation, a continuation application to the external service X1 is made. When the player (P01) applies for continued use of the external service X1, the game server 102 instructs the settlement server 114 to set continuous withdrawal from the credit card of the player (P01). The player (P01) can extend the usage period of the external service X1 for which the usage application has been completed for a limited time by applying for continuation.

According to such a control method, the player applies for use of the external service on the game device 110 for a limited period of use, and when he/she likes the external service, he or she can access the game server from the user terminal 104 without going to the store 108 again. 102, the usage period of the external service can be easily extended. The large screen of the game device 110 allows the player to recognize various external services, and the player can apply for the use of the external service in a so-called "trial". The external service at this time may be provided free of charge for a limited period of time. When selecting an external service, the enhanced user interface of the game device 110 can be used, while the user terminal 104 can be used to easily apply for continuation of the external service that has already been experienced. As for the finite period of use, the length of the period of use may be freely set when the external service is selected on the game device 110, or an external service with the length of the period of use set in advance may be prepared. You can leave it.

100 game system, 102 game server, 104 user terminal, 106 Internet, 108 store, 110 game device, 112 relay device, 114 settlement server, 116 management server, 120 service selection screen, 122 game button, 124 voice actor event button, 126 movie ticket button, 128 game member button, 130 external service button group, 140 payment method selection screen, 142 cash button, 144 electronic money button, 146 credit card button, 150 user interface processing unit, 152 data processing unit, 154 communication unit, 156 data storage unit, 158 input unit, 160 output unit, 162 ID acquisition unit, 164 service selection unit, 165 payment method reception unit, 166 charge reception unit, 168 continuation application reception unit, 170 print processing unit, 172 game control unit, 174 Payment control unit 176 Payment instruction unit 178 Payment completion reception unit 180 Payment notification unit 182 Play information transmission unit 200 Communication unit 202 Data processing unit 204 Data storage unit 206 Play information reception unit 208 Payment instruction unit , 210 payment completion reception unit, 212 payment completion notification unit, 214 instruction reception unit, 216 service execution instruction unit, 218 play information management unit, 220 payment information management unit, 230 post-pay setting information, 240 distribution setting information, 250 movie ticket, 252 character image, 260 continuation application screen, 262 6-month membership button, 264 indefinite membership button, 266 cancel button

Claims (8)

It is connected to a payment server that executes electronic payment via a communication network,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a payment instruction unit that transmits a payment instruction for a usage fee of the game or the external service together with a player ID to the payment server;
a payment completion receiving unit that receives a payment completion notification from the payment server;
a game control unit that executes the game on condition that a payment completion notification for the game is received when the game is selected ;
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the game control unit changes the game in favor of the player on the condition that the payment for the external service is executed through the game system. It is connected to a payment server that executes electronic payment via a communication network,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a payment instruction unit that transmits a payment instruction for a usage fee of the game or the external service together with a player ID to the payment server;
a payment completion receiving unit that receives a payment completion notification from the payment server;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on condition that a payment completion notification for the game is received;
a continuation application reception unit that receives a continuation application from the user terminal for the external service selected by the service selection unit;
The payment instructing unit instructs payment of a usage fee for the first external service when the service selecting unit selects the first external service set to a finite usage period, and then the continuation. A game system, wherein when an application accepting unit accepts an application for continuation of the first external service, the game system instructs the settlement server to extend the period of use of the first external service. It is connected to a payment server that executes electronic payment via a communication network,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a payment instruction unit that transmits a payment instruction for a usage fee of the game or the external service together with a player ID to the payment server;
a payment completion receiving unit that receives a payment completion notification from the payment server;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on condition that a payment completion notification for the game is received;
a print processing unit that prints a payment certificate related to the external service when a payment completion notification for the external service is received;
The game system, wherein the print processing unit prints an image related to the game on the payment certificate. It is connected via a communication network to a management server that provides external services,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a fee reception unit that receives payment of fees;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on the condition of payment of a usage fee for the game;
a service execution instructing unit that instructs the management server to execute the external service for the player identified by the player ID on condition that the external service is paid for the use of the external service when the external service is selected. ,
A game system according to claim 1, wherein the game control unit changes the game in favor of the player on the condition that a usage fee for the external service is paid through the game system. It is connected via a communication network to a management server that provides external services,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a fee reception unit that receives payment of fees;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on the condition of payment of a usage fee for the game;
a service execution instructing unit that instructs the management server to execute the external service for the player identified by the player ID on condition that the external service is paid for use when the external service is selected ;
a continuation application reception unit that receives a continuation application from the user terminal for the external service selected by the service selection unit,
The charge acceptance unit accepts a usage charge for the first external service when the service selection unit selects the first external service set to a finite usage period, and then accepts the continuation application acceptance unit. a game system that instructs a settlement server to extend the period of use of the first external service when an application for continuation of the first external service is accepted by a. It is connected via a communication network to a management server that provides external services,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a fee reception unit that receives payment of fees;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on the condition of payment of a usage fee for the game;
a service execution instructing unit that instructs the management server to execute the external service for the player identified by the player ID on condition that the external service is paid for use when the external service is selected ;
a print processing unit that prints a payment certificate related to the external service on condition that the usage fee for the external service is paid;
The game system, wherein the print processing unit prints an image related to the game on the payment certificate. A function to acquire a player ID;
a function of accepting from the player a selection of either a game provided by the game device or an external service different from the game;
a function of transmitting a payment instruction for the usage fee of the game or the external service together with the player ID to a payment server;
a function of receiving a payment completion notification from the payment server;
a function of executing the game, when the game is selected, on the condition that a payment completion notification for the game is received;
A function to accept continuation applications from the user terminal for the selected external service,
When the service selection unit selects the first external service set to a finite usage period, instructing payment of the usage fee for the first external service, and then continuing the first external service. and a function of instructing the settlement server to extend the usage period of the first external service when an application is accepted. It is connected to a payment server that executes electronic payment via a communication network,
an ID acquisition unit that acquires a player ID;
a service selection unit that accepts, in the game device, a player's selection of either a game provided by the game system or an external service different from the game;
a payment instruction unit that transmits a payment instruction for a usage fee of the game or the external service together with a player ID to the payment server;
a payment completion receiving unit that receives a payment completion notification from the payment server;
a game control unit that, when the game is selected, executes the game on condition that a payment completion notification for the game is received;
a service execution instructing unit that instructs execution of the external service by notifying a player ID to a management server corresponding to the external service,
The service selection unit receives a selection from the player of one of the game and a plurality of external services,
When a first external service is selected from among the plurality of external services, the payment instruction unit issues a payment instruction for the usage fee of the first external service together with the service ID and player ID of the first external service. A game system characterized by transmitting to the settlement server.

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