JP7579412B2 - Information processing program, information processing system, information processing device, and information processing method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing program, an information processing system, an information processing device, and an information processing method for executing a game.

Conventionally, there are information processing programs for executing games that make the player perform fitness movements. For example, there is a game in which the player performs footstep movements that imitate jogging (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-134572 A

In games that require players to perform fitness movements like those described above, there is room for improvement in terms of motivating players to perform fitness movements.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing program, an information processing system, an information processing device, and an information processing method that can motivate a player to perform fitness movements.

To solve the above problems, the present invention employs the following configurations (1) to (28).

(1)
One example of the present invention is an information processing program executed by a computer of an information processing device. The information processing program causes the computer to function as an acquisition means and a game event execution means. The acquisition means acquires motion data based on an output of a sensor corresponding to a fitness motion performed by a player. The game event execution means executes a game event for which an achievement condition is set. The game event execution means includes a designation means, a first fitness event execution means, and an achievement determination means. The designation means is a fitness event for causing a player to perform fitness motions, and designates at least one type of fitness event from among a plurality of types of fitness events. The first fitness event execution means executes a first fitness event during the game event for causing a player to perform fitness motions corresponding to the designated fitness event until an end condition is satisfied. The achievement determination means determines whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on the motion data acquired during the first fitness event. The game event execution means repeats the designation and execution of the first fitness event until it is determined that the achievement condition is satisfied.

The above configuration (1) allows the player to perform fitness movements with the goal of achieving a game event, thereby providing the player with motivation to perform fitness movements.

(2)
The designation means may restrict designation of a fitness event that has been designated a predetermined number of times until a condition for enabling the fitness event to be designated again is satisfied.

The above configuration (2) can reduce the possibility that a player will become tired by only performing a specific fitness movement.

(3)
The conditions under which a fitness event can be designated again may include at least one of a condition related to the time elapsed since the fitness event was last performed as a first fitness event and a condition related to the number of times a fitness event other than the fitness event has been performed as a first fitness event since the fitness event was last performed as a first fitness event.

According to the above configuration (3), it is possible to set conditions so that there is sufficient time between when the player performs a certain fitness action and when the next fitness action can be specified. This makes it possible to more reliably reduce the possibility that the player will become tired by performing only a certain fitness action.

(4)
The conditions under which a re-designation is possible may be set for each type of fitness event.

The configuration (4) above allows appropriate conditions to be set according to the type of fitness movement.

(5)
The designation means may designate at least one type of fitness event from among the plurality of types of fitness events based on a selection instruction by the player.

The configuration (5) above allows the player to select and perform the fitness movements they desire.

(6)
The game event may be a battle event in which a battle is conducted with an enemy character. The game event executing means may include an attack event executing means. The attack event executing means executes an attack event in which the enemy character is attacked in accordance with a fitness action performed by the player during the first fitness event. The achievement determining means may determine, as the achievement condition, whether or not a condition related to the vitality value of the enemy character is satisfied.

The above configuration (6) allows the player to perform fitness movements toward the game goal of satisfying a condition related to the stamina value of an enemy character (e.g., defeating the enemy character), thereby providing the player with a stronger motivation to perform fitness movements.

(7)
The game event executing means may further include a second fitness event executing means and a defense event executing means. The second fitness event executing means executes a second fitness event for making the player perform a predetermined fitness movement during the battle event. The defense event executing means executes a defense event for defending against an attack from an enemy character in accordance with the fitness movement performed by the player during the second fitness event.

According to the above configuration (7), the player performs fitness movements for both attack and defense in a battle event, which increases the opportunities for the player to perform fitness movements.

(8)
The second fitness event may be determined independently of any instruction by the player.

The above configuration (8) allows the game to proceed at a good tempo, with the player character defending against attacks from enemy characters.

(9)
The game event executing means may further include a vitality value updating means and a termination means. The vitality value updating means reduces the vitality value corresponding to the player in accordance with a fitness action performed by the player during the second fitness event. The termination means determines that the player has been defeated in the battle event and terminates the battle event when the vitality value corresponding to the player satisfies a predetermined condition.

The above configuration (9) allows the player to perform fitness movements while creating a sense of tension that cannot be obtained by simply performing fitness movements.

(10)
The achievement determination means may determine whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on a game result based on the action data and player parameters associated with the player and/or associated with a player character corresponding to the player. The information processing program may further cause the computer to function as player parameter update means. The player parameter update means progresses the game in accordance with the achievement of game events, and updates the player parameters so that the achievement condition is more likely to be satisfied in accordance with the progress of the game.

According to the above configuration (10), by updating the player parameters, the player can easily progress through the game with an advantage, which gives the player a sense of accomplishment in the game. This gives the player the motivation to continue performing fitness movements by continuing to play the game.

(11)
The information processing program may cause the computer to function as physical information storage control means. The physical information storage control means stores, before the game event, the physical information set before the game event is executed in a storage medium accessible by the information processing device. The game event execution means may execute the game event using the physical information.

According to the above configuration (11), game events are executed according to the physical information of each player, making it easier for players to perform fitness movements according to their own physical abilities and physical condition.

(12)
The physical information may include information determined based on motion data based on fitness movements performed by the player before the game event was performed.

The configuration (12) above allows game events to be carried out using accurate physical information.

(13)
The first fitness event executing means may vary a load of the fitness movement to be performed by the player during the game event in accordance with the physical information.

The above configuration (13) allows the player to perform fitness movements with a load that matches his or her physical ability and physical condition.

(14)
The game event executing means may further include an evaluating means for calculating an evaluation result of the fitness movement performed by the player during the first fitness event based on the movement data and the physical information acquired during the first fitness event, and the achievement determining means for determining whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on a game result based on the evaluation result.

The above configuration (14) allows for accurate evaluation of fitness movements by taking into account the player's physical information.

(15)
The first fitness event executing means may, in a first fitness event in which the player performs fitness movements to assume a predetermined target posture, when it is determined based on the movement data that a state in which the target posture has not been reached has continued for a predetermined period of time, update a threshold value used for the determination so that it becomes easier to determine that the player has assumed the target posture.

The configuration (15) above allows the player to perform fitness movements without having to assume an awkward position.

(16)
The game event executing means may further include a start determining means for determining, before a first fitness event, whether or not a posture of the player is a posture at the start of a fitness movement corresponding to the first fitness event based on the motion data. The first fitness event executing means may start the first fitness event in response to determining, based on the motion data, that the player has taken the posture at the start of the fitness movement.

The above configuration (16) reduces the possibility that a fitness event will start when the player is not prepared for fitness movements. In addition, the player can easily perform fitness movements in the fitness event from the starting position.

(17)
The first fitness event execution means may, during the first fitness event, display on a display device an image of a body of the player or a player character corresponding to the player, and highlight parts of the body image that correspond to fitness movements that the player is to perform during the first fitness event.

The above configuration (17) makes it possible to easily notify the player of which body part the fitness movement he or she is performing is effective for, or which body part is being used by the fitness movement.

(18)
Another example of the present invention is an information processing program executed by a computer of an information processing device. The information processing program causes the computer to function as an acquisition means and a game processing means. The acquisition means acquires motion data based on an output of a sensor corresponding to a fitness motion by a player. The game processing means executes a battle event in which a battle is performed with an enemy character, and progresses the game in accordance with the achievement of the battle event. The game processing means includes a fitness event execution means and a vitality value update means. The fitness event execution means executes a fitness event in which the player performs a fitness motion during the battle event. The vitality value update means reduces the vitality value of the enemy character when the motion data acquired during the fitness event satisfies a condition corresponding to the fitness event. The game processing means proceeds with the game by considering the battle event to be achieved when the vitality value of the enemy character satisfies a predetermined condition.

According to the above configuration (18), by using fitness movements as instructions for attacking in a battle event, the player's motivation to "defeat enemy characters and progress through the game" becomes the player's motivation to perform fitness movements. This makes it possible to motivate the player to perform fitness movements in the game.

(19)
The fitness event executing means may be capable of executing a plurality of types of fitness events that cause the player to perform different types of fitness movements. The vitality value updating means may vary an amount by which the vitality value of the enemy character is reduced depending on a type of fitness event that the player is caused to perform.

The above configuration (19) can motivate the player to improve the quality of the fitness movements he or she performs.

(20)
The vitality value updating means may change the amount by which the vitality value of the enemy character is reduced in accordance with an evaluation regarding the action data acquired during the battle event.

The above configuration (20) can improve the strategic nature of the game in which the player is made to perform fitness movements. It can also motivate the player to perform various types of fitness movements.

(21)
The stamina value updating means may reduce the enemy character's stamina value by a larger amount when the load of a fitness movement corresponding to a fitness event that is set for that fitness event, or a load calculated based on the fitness movements performed by a player during a fitness event, is large than when the load is small.

According to the above configuration (21), the player can obtain good game results by performing fitness movements well, and therefore the player can be motivated to improve the quality of the fitness movements he or she performs.

(22)
The vitality value update means may update the vitality value of the enemy character based on the action data and a player parameter associated with the player and/or the player character corresponding to the player. The information processing program may further cause the computer to function as a player parameter update means. The player parameter update means updates the player parameter such that the amount of decrease in the vitality value of the enemy character increases as the game progresses when the action data acquired during the battle event is the same.

According to the above configuration (22), by updating the player parameters, the player can more easily inflict greater damage on enemy characters, which gives the player a sense of accomplishment in the game. This gives the player the motivation to continue performing fitness movements by continuing to play the game.

(23)
The game processing means may execute, after a battle event in which a first enemy character appears, a battle event in which a second enemy character having a greater vitality value than the first enemy character appears.

The above configuration (23) allows the player to feel a sense of accomplishment as he or she progresses through the game.

(24)
The fitness event executing means may be capable of executing a plurality of types of fitness events that cause the player to perform different types of fitness movements. The game processing means may further include a designation means. The designation means designates at least one type from the plurality of types of fitness events during a battle event. The fitness event executing means may execute the designated fitness event. The designation means may be capable of designating a fitness event a plurality of times during the game. The designation means may restrict a fitness event that has been designated a predetermined number of times from being designated again until a condition for it to be designable again is satisfied.

The above configuration (24) can reduce the possibility that a player will become tired by only performing a specific fitness movement.

(25)
The fitness event executing means may be capable of executing a plurality of types of fitness events that cause the player to perform different types of fitness movements. The battle event may include an attack event in which an enemy character is attacked, and a defense event in which an attack from the enemy character is defended against. The game processing means may further include a designation means. The designation means designates at least one type from among the plurality of types of fitness events in accordance with a selection instruction from the player during the battle event. The vitality value updating means may decrease the vitality value of the enemy character in the attack event, when motion data acquired during the designated fitness event satisfies a condition corresponding to the fitness event. Furthermore, the vitality value updating means may decrease the vitality value of the player character corresponding to the player in the defense event, when motion data acquired during a fitness event determined independently of an instruction from the player satisfies a condition corresponding to the fitness event.

The above configuration (25) allows the game to proceed at a good tempo, with the player character defending against attacks from enemy characters.

(26)
The game processing means may further include a termination means for determining that the player has been defeated in the battle event and terminating the battle event when the vitality value corresponding to the player satisfies a predetermined condition.

The above configuration (26) allows the player to perform fitness movements while creating a sense of tension that cannot be obtained by simply performing fitness movements.

(27)
The information processing program may cause the computer to function as physical information storage control means. The physical information storage control means stores physical information of the player that is set before a battle event is executed in a storage medium accessible by the information processing device before the battle event. The vitality value update means may reduce the vitality value of the enemy character based on the motion data and the physical information acquired during the fitness event.

According to the above configuration (27), the game result according to the fitness movements performed by the player can be adjusted according to the physical information of the player.

(28)
In a fitness event in which a player performs fitness movements that result in a predetermined target posture, if a state in which movement data acquired during the fitness event has not reached a value corresponding to the target posture continues for a predetermined period of time, the fitness event execution means may update a threshold value related to the target posture so that the movement data is more likely to reach the value corresponding to the target posture.

The above configuration (28) allows the player to perform fitness movements without having to assume an awkward position.

Another example of the present invention may be an information processing device or information processing system including each of the means described above in (1) to (28). Also, another example of the present invention may be an information processing method executed in the information processing device (or information processing system) described above in (1) to (28).

The above information processing program, information processing system, information processing device, and information processing method can motivate players to perform fitness movements.

FIG. 1 shows an example of each device included in a game system. FIG. 1 shows an example of a state in which a left controller 3 and a right controller 4 are attached to a main unit 2. FIG. 1 shows an example of a state in which the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 are detached from the main unit 2. FIG. 6 is a six-sided view showing an example of the main unit 2. Six-sided diagram showing an example of the left controller 3 Six-sided diagram showing an example of the right controller 4 FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2. A block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2, the left controller 3, and the right controller 4. FIG. 1 shows an example of a ring-type expansion device 5. A block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a ring-type expansion device 5. FIG. 1 shows an example of a belt-type expansion device 6. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of how a user uses a ring-type expansion device 5 and a belt-type expansion device 6. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a game image in a battle event. A diagram showing an example of the game flow in a combat event. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a selected image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a preparatory operation image; FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed during a fitness event. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed during an attack event. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed in a fitness event during a defensive turn. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed in a defense event during a defense turn. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of various data used in information processing in the game system 1. A flowchart showing an example of information processing executed by the game system 1. A sub-flowchart showing an example of a detailed flow of the battle event process in step S14 shown in FIG. A sub-flowchart showing an example of a detailed flow of the attack fitness event process in step S22 shown in FIG. 23. A sub-flowchart showing an example of a detailed flow of the defense fitness event process in step S27 shown in FIG.

[1. Game System Configuration]
A game system according to an example of the present embodiment will be described below. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of each device included in the game system. As shown in Fig. 1, the game system 1 includes a main body device 2, a left controller 3, a right controller 4, a ring-type expansion device 5, and a belt-type expansion device 6.

The main unit 2 is an example of an information processing device, and in this embodiment, functions as a game console. The left controller 3 and right controller 4 are each detachable from the main unit 2 (see Figures 1 and 3). In other words, the user can attach the left controller 3 and right controller 4 to the main unit 2 and use them as an integrated device (see Figure 2). The user can also use the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 and right controller 4 as separate entities (see Figure 3). Note that hereinafter, the main unit 2 and the controllers 3 and 4 may be collectively referred to as the "game device."

The ring-type expansion device 5 is an example of an expansion device used for the right controller 4. The ring-type expansion device 5 is used with the right controller 4 attached to the ring-type expansion device 5. The belt-type expansion device 6 is an example of an expansion device used for the left controller 3. The belt-type expansion device 6 is used with the left controller 3 attached to the belt-type expansion device 6. In this way, in this embodiment, the user can also use each controller 3 and 4 with each controller attached to its respective expansion device (see FIG. 12). Note that the ring-type expansion device 5 is not limited to the right controller 4, and may be capable of being attached to the left controller 3 by the user. The belt-type expansion device 6 is not limited to the left controller 3, and may be capable of being attached to the right controller 4 by the user.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the state in which the left controller 3 and right controller 4 are attached to the main unit 2. As shown in Figure 2, the left controller 3 and right controller 4 are each attached to the main unit 2 and integrated together. The main unit 2 is a device that executes various processes (e.g., game processes) in the game system 1. The main unit 2 is equipped with a display 12. The left controller 3 and right controller 4 are devices that are equipped with operation units that allow the user to perform input.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the state in which the left controller 3 and right controller 4 have been removed from the main unit 2. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the left controller 3 and right controller 4 are detachable from the main unit 2. In the following, the left controller 3 and right controller 4 may be collectively referred to as "controller."

Figure 4 is a six-sided view showing an example of the main unit 2. As shown in Figure 4, the main unit 2 includes a generally plate-shaped housing 11. In this embodiment, the main surface of the housing 11 (in other words, the front surface, i.e., the surface on which the display 12 is provided) is generally rectangular.

The shape and size of the housing 11 are arbitrary. As an example, the housing 11 may be of a size that is portable. Furthermore, the main unit 2 alone or an integrated device in which the left controller 3 and right controller 4 are attached to the main unit 2 may be a portable device. Furthermore, the main unit 2 or the integrated device may be a handheld device. Furthermore, the main unit 2 or the integrated device may be a portable device.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main unit 2 includes a display 12 provided on the main surface of the housing 11. The display 12 displays images generated by the main unit 2. In this embodiment, the display 12 is a liquid crystal display (LCD). However, the display 12 may be any type of display device.

The main unit 2 also includes a touch panel 13 on the screen of the display 12. In this embodiment, the touch panel 13 is of a type that allows multi-touch input (e.g., a capacitive type). However, the touch panel 13 may be of any type, and may be of a type that allows single-touch input (e.g., a resistive film type).

The main unit 2 is provided with a speaker (i.e., speaker 88 shown in FIG. 7) inside the housing 11. As shown in FIG. 4, speaker holes 11a and 11b are formed on the main surface of the housing 11. The output sound of the speaker 88 is output from these speaker holes 11a and 11b, respectively.

The main unit 2 also includes a left side terminal 17, which is a terminal for the main unit 2 to communicate with the left controller 3 via a wired connection, and a right side terminal 21, which is a terminal for the main unit 2 to communicate with the right controller 4 via a wired connection.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main unit 2 includes a slot 23. The slot 23 is provided on the upper side of the housing 11. The slot 23 has a shape that allows a predetermined type of storage medium to be attached thereto. The predetermined type of storage medium is, for example, a storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) dedicated to the game system 1 and the same type of information processing device. The predetermined type of storage medium is used, for example, to store data used by the main unit 2 (e.g., application save data, etc.) and/or programs executed by the main unit 2 (e.g., application programs, etc.). The main unit 2 also includes a power button 28.

The main unit 2 has a lower terminal 27. The lower terminal 27 is a terminal through which the main unit 2 communicates with the cradle. In this embodiment, the lower terminal 27 is a USB connector (more specifically, a female connector). When the all-in-one device or the main unit 2 alone is placed on the cradle, the game system 1 can display images generated and output by the main unit 2 on a stationary monitor. In this embodiment, the cradle also has the function of charging the all-in-one device or the main unit 2 alone that is placed on it. The cradle also has the function of a hub device (more specifically, a USB hub).

Figure 5 is a six-sided view showing an example of the left controller 3. As shown in Figure 5, the left controller 3 includes a housing 31. In this embodiment, the housing 31 has a vertically long shape, that is, a shape that is long in the up-down direction (i.e., the y-axis direction shown in Figures 2 and 5). The left controller 3 can also be held in a vertically long orientation when removed from the main unit 2. The housing 31 has a shape and size that allows it to be held in one hand, particularly the left hand, when held in a vertically long orientation. The left controller 3 can also be held in a horizontally long orientation. When the left controller 3 is held in a horizontally long orientation, it may be held with both hands.

The left controller 3 has an analog stick 32. As shown in FIG. 5, the analog stick 32 is provided on the main surface of the housing 31. The analog stick 32 can be used as a direction input unit capable of inputting a direction. By tilting the analog stick 32, the user can input a direction according to the tilt direction (and input a magnitude according to the tilt angle). Note that the left controller 3 may be equipped with a cross key or a slide stick capable of slide input, instead of an analog stick, as a direction input unit. Also, in this embodiment, input is possible by pressing the analog stick 32.

The left controller 3 is equipped with various operation buttons. The left controller 3 is equipped with four operation buttons 33 to 36 (specifically, a right button 33, a down button 34, an up button 35, and a left button 36) on the main surface of the housing 31. Furthermore, the left controller 3 is equipped with a record button 37 and a - (minus) button 47. The left controller 3 is equipped with a first L button 38 and a ZL button 39 on the upper left of the side of the housing 31. The left controller 3 is also equipped with a second L button 43 and a second R button 44 on the side of the housing 31 that is attached when the left controller 3 is attached to the main unit 2. These operation buttons are used to give instructions according to various programs (for example, OS programs and application programs) executed on the main unit 2.

The left controller 3 also includes a terminal 42 that enables the left controller 3 to communicate with the main unit 2 via a wired connection.

Figure 6 is a six-sided view showing an example of the right controller 4. As shown in Figure 6, the right controller 4 includes a housing 51. In this embodiment, the housing 51 has a vertically long shape, that is, a shape that is long in the up-down direction. The right controller 4 can also be held in a vertically long orientation when removed from the main unit 2. When held in a vertically long orientation, the housing 51 has a shape and size that allows it to be held in one hand, particularly the right hand. The right controller 4 can also be held in a horizontally long orientation. When the right controller 4 is held in a horizontally long orientation, it may be held with both hands.

The right controller 4, like the left controller 3, has an analog stick 52 as a direction input section. In this embodiment, the analog stick 52 has the same configuration as the analog stick 32 of the left controller 3. The right controller 4 may also have a cross key or a slide stick capable of slide input, instead of an analog stick. The right controller 4, like the left controller 3, has four operation buttons 53 to 56 (specifically, an A button 53, a B button 54, an X button 55, and a Y button 56) on the main surface of the housing 51. The right controller 4 further has a + (plus) button 57 and a home button 58. The right controller 4 also has a first R button 60 and a ZR button 61 on the upper right of the side of the housing 51. The right controller 4 also has a second L button 65 and a second R button 66, like the left controller 3.

In addition, a window 68 is provided on the lower side of the housing 51. The right controller 4 is provided with an infrared imaging unit 123 and an infrared light emitting unit 124 arranged inside the housing 51, as will be described in detail later. The infrared imaging unit 123 captures the surroundings of the right controller 4 through the window 68 with the imaging direction being the downward direction of the right controller 4 (the negative y-axis direction shown in FIG. 6). The infrared light emitting unit 124 irradiates infrared light through the window 68 to the imaging target imaged by the infrared imaging unit 123, with a predetermined range centered on the downward direction of the right controller 4 (the negative y-axis direction shown in FIG. 6). The window 68 is for protecting the lens of the camera of the infrared imaging unit 123 and the light emitter of the infrared light emitting unit 124, and is made of a material (for example, a transparent material) that transmits light of a wavelength detected by the camera and light emitted by the light emitter. The window 68 may be a hole formed in the housing 51. In this embodiment, the infrared imaging unit 123 itself has a filter member that suppresses the transmission of light of wavelengths other than the light detected by the camera (infrared light in this embodiment). However, in other embodiments, the window portion 68 may have the function of a filter.

The right controller 4 also includes a terminal 64 for wired communication between the right controller 4 and the main unit 2.

Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2. In addition to the configuration shown in Figure 4, the main unit 2 includes components 81-91, 97, and 98 shown in Figure 7. Some of these components 81-91, 97, and 98 may be mounted on an electronic circuit board as electronic components and stored in the housing 11.

The main unit 2 includes a processor 81. The processor 81 is an information processing unit that executes various information processing executed in the main unit 2, and may be composed of only a CPU (Central Processing Unit), for example, or may be composed of a SoC (System-on-a-chip) that includes multiple functions such as a CPU function and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) function. The processor 81 executes various information processing by executing an information processing program (for example, a game program) stored in a storage unit (specifically, an internal storage medium such as a flash memory 84, or an external storage medium inserted in the slot 23, etc.).

The main unit 2 includes a flash memory 84 and a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) 85 as examples of internal storage media built into the main unit 2. The flash memory 84 and the DRAM 85 are connected to the processor 81. The flash memory 84 is a memory used primarily to store various data (which may be programs) saved in the main unit 2. The DRAM 85 is a memory used to temporarily store various data used in information processing.

The main unit 2 includes a slot interface (hereinafter abbreviated as "I/F") 91. The slot I/F 91 is connected to the processor 81. The slot I/F 91 is connected to the slot 23, and reads and writes data from and to a specific type of storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) inserted in the slot 23 in response to instructions from the processor 81.

The processor 81 reads and writes data from and to the flash memory 84, DRAM 85, and each of the above storage media as appropriate to perform the above information processing.

The main unit 2 includes a network communication unit 82. The network communication unit 82 is connected to the processor 81. The network communication unit 82 communicates with an external device via a network (specifically, wireless communication). In this embodiment, the network communication unit 82 connects to a wireless LAN and communicates with an external device using a method conforming to the Wi-Fi standard as a first communication mode. The network communication unit 82 also performs wireless communication with other main units 2 of the same type using a predetermined communication method (e.g., communication using a proprietary protocol or infrared communication) as a second communication mode. Note that the wireless communication using the second communication mode enables wireless communication with other main units 2 located within a closed local network area, and realizes a function that enables so-called "local communication" in which data is transmitted and received by directly communicating between multiple main units 2.

The main unit 2 includes a controller communication unit 83. The controller communication unit 83 is connected to the processor 81. The controller communication unit 83 performs wireless communication with the left controller 3 and/or right controller 4. Any communication method may be used between the main unit 2 and the left controller 3 and right controller 4, but in this embodiment, the controller communication unit 83 performs communication with the left controller 3 and right controller 4 according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

The processor 81 is connected to the left terminal 17, the right terminal 21, and the lower terminal 27. When the processor 81 performs wired communication with the left controller 3, it transmits data to the left controller 3 via the left terminal 17 and receives operation data from the left controller 3 via the left terminal 17. When the processor 81 performs wired communication with the right controller 4, it transmits data to the right controller 4 via the right terminal 21 and receives operation data from the right controller 4 via the right terminal 21. When the processor 81 performs communication with the cradle, it transmits data to the cradle via the lower terminal 27. Thus, in this embodiment, the main unit 2 can perform both wired communication and wireless communication with the left controller 3 and the right controller 4. When the integrated device with the left controller 3 and the right controller 4 attached to the main unit 2 or the main unit 2 alone is attached to the cradle, the main unit 2 can output data (e.g., image data and audio data) to a stationary monitor or the like via the cradle.

Here, the main unit 2 can communicate with multiple left controllers 3 simultaneously (in other words, in parallel). The main unit 2 can also communicate with multiple right controllers 4 simultaneously (in other words, in parallel). Therefore, multiple users can simultaneously input to the main unit 2 using each set of left controllers 3 and right controllers 4. As an example, a first user can input to the main unit 2 using a first set of left controllers 3 and right controllers 4, while a second user can input to the main unit 2 using a second set of left controllers 3 and right controllers 4.

The main unit 2 includes a touch panel controller 86, which is a circuit that controls the touch panel 13. The touch panel controller 86 is connected between the touch panel 13 and the processor 81. The touch panel controller 86 generates data indicating, for example, the position where a touch input was performed based on a signal from the touch panel 13, and outputs the data to the processor 81.

The display 12 is also connected to the processor 81. The processor 81 displays images generated (e.g., by executing the above-mentioned information processing) and/or images acquired from the outside on the display 12.

The main unit 2 includes a codec circuit 87 and speakers (specifically, a left speaker and a right speaker) 88. The codec circuit 87 is connected to the speaker 88 and the audio input/output terminal 25, and is also connected to the processor 81. The codec circuit 87 is a circuit that controls the input and output of audio data to the speaker 88 and the audio input/output terminal 25.

The main unit 2 also includes an acceleration sensor 89. In this embodiment, the acceleration sensor 89 detects the magnitude of acceleration along three predetermined axes (e.g., the x, y and z axes shown in FIG. 2). The acceleration sensor 89 may also detect acceleration along one axis or two axes.

The main unit 2 also includes an angular velocity sensor 90. In this embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 90 detects angular velocity around three predetermined axes (e.g., the x, y and z axes shown in FIG. 2). Note that the angular velocity sensor 90 may also detect angular velocity around one axis or two axes.

The acceleration sensor 89 and the angular velocity sensor 90 are connected to the processor 81, and the detection results of the acceleration sensor 89 and the angular velocity sensor 90 are output to the processor 81. The processor 81 is capable of calculating information regarding the movement and/or attitude of the main unit 2 based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor 89 and the angular velocity sensor 90.

The main unit 2 includes a power control unit 97 and a battery 98. The power control unit 97 is connected to the battery 98 and the processor 81. Although not shown, the power control unit 97 is also connected to each part of the main unit 2 (specifically, each part that receives power from the battery 98, the left terminal 17, and the right terminal 21). The power control unit 97 controls the power supply from the battery 98 to each of the above-mentioned parts based on instructions from the processor 81.

The battery 98 is also connected to the lower terminal 27. When an external charging device (e.g., a cradle) is connected to the lower terminal 27 and power is supplied to the main unit 2 via the lower terminal 27, the supplied power is charged into the battery 98.

Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main unit 2, the left controller 3, and the right controller 4. Note that details of the internal configuration of the main unit 2 are omitted in Figure 8 because they are shown in Figure 7.

The left controller 3 is equipped with a communication control unit 101 that communicates with the main unit 2. As shown in FIG. 8, the communication control unit 101 is connected to each component including the terminal 42. In this embodiment, the communication control unit 101 can communicate with the main unit 2 by both wired communication via the terminal 42 and wireless communication without the terminal 42. The communication control unit 101 controls the communication method that the left controller 3 uses with the main unit 2. That is, when the left controller 3 is attached to the main unit 2, the communication control unit 101 communicates with the main unit 2 via the terminal 42. Also, when the left controller 3 is removed from the main unit 2, the communication control unit 101 performs wireless communication with the main unit 2 (specifically, the controller communication unit 83). The wireless communication between the controller communication unit 83 and the communication control unit 101 is performed according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, for example.

The left controller 3 also includes a memory 102, such as a flash memory. The communication control unit 101 is formed, for example, by a microcomputer (also called a microprocessor), and executes firmware stored in the memory 102 to perform various processes.

The left controller 3 is equipped with buttons 103 (specifically, buttons 33 to 39, 43, 44, and 47). The left controller 3 also has an analog stick (written as "stick" in FIG. 8) 32. Each button 103 and analog stick 32 repeatedly outputs information relating to operations performed on them to the communication control unit 101 at appropriate timing.

The left controller 3 is equipped with an inertial sensor. Specifically, the left controller 3 is equipped with an acceleration sensor 104. The left controller 3 is also equipped with an angular velocity sensor 105. In this embodiment, the acceleration sensor 104 detects the magnitude of acceleration along three predetermined axes (for example, the x, y and z axes shown in FIG. 5). The acceleration sensor 104 may detect acceleration in one or two axial directions. In this embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 105 detects angular velocity around three predetermined axes (for example, the x, y and z axes shown in FIG. 5). The angular velocity sensor 105 may detect angular velocity around one or two axes. The acceleration sensor 104 and the angular velocity sensor 105 are each connected to the communication control unit 101. The detection results of the acceleration sensor 104 and the angular velocity sensor 105 are repeatedly output to the communication control unit 101 at appropriate timing.

The communication control unit 101 acquires information related to the input (specifically, information related to the operation, or the detection results by the sensors) from each input unit (specifically, each button 103, analog stick 32, each sensor 104 and 105). The communication control unit 101 transmits operation data including the acquired information (or information obtained by performing a specified process on the acquired information) to the main unit 2. Note that the operation data is repeatedly transmitted once every specified time. Note that the interval at which information related to the input is transmitted to the main unit 2 may or may not be the same for each input unit.

By transmitting the above operation data to the main unit 2, the main unit 2 can obtain the input made to the left controller 3. That is, the main unit 2 can determine the operations made to the buttons 103 and analog stick 32 based on the operation data. The main unit 2 can also calculate information regarding the movement and/or attitude of the left controller 3 based on the operation data (specifically, the detection results of the acceleration sensor 104 and angular velocity sensor 105).

The left controller 3 is equipped with a vibrator 107 for notifying the user by vibration. In this embodiment, the vibrator 107 is controlled by a command from the main unit 2. That is, when the communication control unit 101 receives the command from the main unit 2, it drives the vibrator 107 in accordance with the command. Here, the left controller 3 is equipped with a codec unit 106. When the communication control unit 101 receives the command, it outputs a control signal according to the command to the codec unit 106. The codec unit 106 generates a drive signal for driving the vibrator 107 from the control signal from the communication control unit 101 and provides the drive signal to the vibrator 107. This causes the vibrator 107 to operate.

The vibrator 107 is more specifically a linear vibration motor. Unlike a normal motor that performs rotational motion, a linear vibration motor is driven in a predetermined direction according to the input voltage, so that it can vibrate at an amplitude and frequency according to the waveform of the input voltage. In this embodiment, the vibration control signal transmitted from the main unit 2 to the left controller 3 may be a digital signal representing the frequency and amplitude for each unit time. In another embodiment, the main unit 2 may transmit information indicating the waveform itself, but the amount of communication data can be reduced by transmitting only the amplitude and frequency. In addition, in order to further reduce the amount of data, only the difference from the previous value may be transmitted instead of the numerical values of the amplitude and frequency at that time. In this case, the codec unit 106 converts the digital signal indicating the amplitude and frequency values acquired from the communication control unit 101 into an analog voltage waveform, and drives the vibrator 107 by inputting a voltage according to the waveform. Therefore, the main unit 2 can control the amplitude and frequency at which the vibrator 107 vibrates by changing the amplitude and frequency transmitted for each unit time. The amplitude and frequency transmitted from the main unit 2 to the left controller 3 are not limited to one, and two or more may be transmitted. In this case, the codec unit 106 can generate a voltage waveform that controls the vibrator 107 by synthesizing the waveforms indicated by the multiple amplitudes and frequencies received.

The left controller 3 is equipped with a power supply unit 108. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 108 has a battery and a power control circuit. Although not shown, the power control circuit is connected to the battery and to each part of the left controller 3 (specifically, each part that receives power from the battery).

As shown in FIG. 8, the right controller 4 includes a communication control unit 111 that communicates with the main unit 2. The right controller 4 also includes a memory 112 that is connected to the communication control unit 111. The communication control unit 111 is connected to each component including the terminal 64. The communication control unit 111 and the memory 112 have the same functions as the communication control unit 101 and the memory 102 of the left controller 3. Therefore, the communication control unit 111 can communicate with the main unit 2 both by wired communication via the terminal 64 and by wireless communication (specifically, communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard) that does not go through the terminal 64, and controls the method of communication that the right controller 4 uses with the main unit 2.

The right controller 4 has input sections similar to those of the left controller 3. Specifically, it has buttons 113, an analog stick 52, and inertial sensors (acceleration sensor 114 and angular velocity sensor 115). Each of these input sections has the same function as the input sections of the left controller 3, and operates in the same way.

The right controller 4 also includes a vibrator 117 and a codec unit 116. The vibrator 117 and the codec unit 116 operate in the same manner as the vibrator 107 and the codec unit 106 of the left controller 3. That is, the communication control unit 111 operates the vibrator 117 using the codec unit 116 in accordance with instructions from the main unit 2.

The right controller 4 also includes an infrared imaging unit 123. The infrared imaging unit 123 has an infrared camera that captures images of the surroundings of the right controller 4. As an example, the main unit 2 and/or the right controller 4 calculates captured information (e.g., information related to the brightness of a plurality of blocks that divide at least a portion of the entire area in the captured image, etc.), and determines changes in the surroundings of the right controller 4 based on the information. The infrared imaging unit 123 may also capture images using ambient light, but in this embodiment, it has an infrared light emitting unit 124 that irradiates infrared rays. The infrared light emitting unit 124 irradiates infrared rays, for example, in synchronization with the timing at which the infrared camera captures an image. Then, the infrared light irradiated by the infrared light emitting unit 124 is reflected by the image target, and the reflected infrared light is received by the infrared camera, thereby acquiring an infrared image. This allows the infrared imaging unit 123 to obtain a clearer infrared image. The infrared imaging unit 123 and the infrared light emitting unit 124 may be provided in the right controller 4 as separate devices, or may be provided in the right controller 4 as a single device provided in the same package. In addition, in this embodiment, the infrared imaging unit 123 having an infrared camera is used, but in other embodiments, a visible light camera (a camera using a visible light image sensor) may be used as the imaging means instead of the infrared camera.

The right controller 4 includes a processing unit 121. The processing unit 121 is connected to the communication control unit 111. The processing unit 121 is also connected to an infrared imaging unit 123 and an infrared emission unit 124.

The processing unit 121 also includes a CPU, memory, etc., and executes management processing for the infrared imaging unit 123 in response to a command from the main unit 2 based on a predetermined program (e.g., an application program for performing image processing or various calculations) stored in a storage device (e.g., a non-volatile memory, etc.) not shown in the right controller 4. For example, the processing unit 121 causes the infrared imaging unit 123 to perform an imaging operation, acquires and/or calculates information based on the imaging result (information on the captured image, or information calculated from the information, etc.), and transmits the information to the main unit 2 via the communication control unit 111. The processing unit 121 also executes management processing for the infrared emission unit 124 in response to a command from the main unit 2. For example, the processing unit 121 controls the emission of the infrared emission unit 124 in response to a command from the main unit 2. Note that the memory used by the processing unit 121 when performing processing may be provided in the processing unit 121 or may be the memory 112.

The right controller 4 is equipped with a power supply unit 118. The power supply unit 118 has the same functions as the power supply unit 108 of the left controller 3, and operates in the same manner.

Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a ring-type expansion device. Note that Figure 9 shows the ring-type expansion device 5 with the right controller 4 attached. In this embodiment, the ring-type expansion device 5 is an expansion device to which the right controller 4 can be attached. Details will be described later, but in this embodiment, the user performs a novel operation of applying force to the ring-type expansion device 5 to deform it. The user can operate the ring-type expansion device 5 by performing fitness movements using the ring-type expansion device 5, for example, as if doing an exercise.

As shown in FIG. 9, the ring-type expansion device 5 includes an annular portion 201 and a main body portion 202. The annular portion 201 has an annular shape. In this embodiment, the annular portion 201 is formed into an annular shape by an elastic member and a base portion described later. In this embodiment, the annular portion 201 has a circular ring shape. In other embodiments, the shape of the annular portion 201 is arbitrary, and may be, for example, an elliptical ring shape.

The main body 202 is provided on the annular portion 201. The main body 202 has a rail portion (not shown). The rail portion is an example of an attachment portion to which the right controller 4 can be attached. In this embodiment, the rail portion slidably engages with the slider 62 (see FIG. 6) of the right controller 4. When the slider 62 is inserted into the rail member in a predetermined linear direction (i.e., the sliding direction), the rail member engages with the slider 62 in a state in which the slider 62 can slide in the linear direction relative to the rail member. Note that the rail portion is similar to the rail portion of the main body device 2 in that it can slidably engage with the slider of the controller. Therefore, the rail portion may have a configuration similar to that of the rail portion of the main body device 2.

In this embodiment, the right controller 4 has a locking portion 63 (see FIG. 6). The locking portion 63 is provided so as to protrude laterally from the slider 62 (i.e., in the positive direction of the z-axis shown in FIG. 6). The locking portion 63 is movable toward the inside of the slider 62, and is biased (for example, by a spring) in a direction such that it protrudes laterally. In addition, a notch is provided in the rail portion. When the slider 62 is inserted all the way into the rail portion, the locking portion 63 locks into the notch. With the slider 62 engaged with the rail portion, the locking portion 63 locks into the notch, whereby the right controller 4 is attached to the main body unit 202.

The right controller 4 is provided with a release button 69 that can be pressed (see FIG. 6). When the release button 69 is pressed, the locking portion 63 moves toward the inside of the slider 62 and does not protrude from the slider 62 (or does not protrude at all). Therefore, when the release button 69 is pressed with the right controller 4 attached to the main body 202 of the ring-type expansion device 5, the locking portion 63 no longer locks with the notch (or does not lock at all). As described above, with the right controller 4 attached to the main body 202 of the ring-type expansion device 5, the user can easily remove the right controller 4 from the ring-type expansion device 5 by pressing the release button 69.

9, the ring-type expansion device 5 has grip covers 203 and 204. The grip covers 203 and 204 are parts for the user to grip. In this embodiment, the grip covers 203 and 204 are detachable from the annular part 201. In this embodiment, the left grip cover 203 is provided on the left grip part near the left end of the annular part 201, and the right grip cover 204 is provided on the right grip part near the right end of the annular part 201. The number of grip parts is arbitrary, and depending on the expected operation method, grip parts may be provided in three or more places, or only one place. Also, depending on the content of the game (or the content of the fitness movement performed by the user in the game), only a specific grip part among the multiple grip parts may be gripped with one hand or both hands.

Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship of the components of the ring-type expansion device 5. As shown in Figure 10, the ring-type expansion device 5 includes a strain detection unit 211. The strain detection unit 211 is an example of a detection unit that detects deformation of the annular portion 201. In this embodiment, the strain detection unit 211 includes a strain gauge. The strain detection unit 211 outputs a signal indicating the distortion of the base portion in response to the deformation of the elastic member described below (in other words, a signal indicating the magnitude and direction of the deformation of the elastic member).

Here, in this embodiment, the annular portion 201 has an elastic portion that can be elastically deformed and a pedestal portion. The pedestal portion holds both ends of the elastic member so that the pedestal portion and the elastic member form a ring. The pedestal portion is provided inside the main body portion 202, and is not illustrated in FIG. 9. The pedestal portion is made of a material having a higher rigidity than the elastic member. For example, the elastic member is made of resin (specifically, FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastics)), and the pedestal portion is made of metal. The strain gauge is provided on the pedestal portion and detects the distortion of the pedestal portion. When the annular portion 201 is deformed from a steady state, distortion occurs in the pedestal portion due to the deformation, and the distortion of the pedestal portion is detected by the strain gauge. Based on the detected distortion, the direction in which the annular portion 201 deforms (i.e., the direction in which the two grip covers 203 and 204 approach each other or move away from each other) and the amount of deformation can be calculated.

In other embodiments, the strain detection unit 211 may include any sensor capable of detecting deformation of the annular portion 201 from a steady state, instead of a strain gauge. For example, the detection unit 211 may include a pressure sensor that detects the pressure applied when the annular portion 201 is deformed, or a bending sensor that detects the amount by which the annular portion 201 is bent.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a signal conversion unit 212. In this embodiment, the signal conversion unit 212 includes an amplifier and an AD converter. The signal conversion unit 212 is electrically connected to the distortion detection unit 211, and amplifies the output signal of the distortion detection unit 211 using the amplifier and performs AD conversion using the AD converter. The signal conversion unit 212 outputs a digital signal indicating the distortion value detected by the distortion detection unit 211. Note that in other embodiments, the signal conversion unit 212 does not include an AD converter, and the processing unit 213 described later may include an AD converter.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a processing unit 213. The processing unit 213 is a processing circuit including a processor and a memory, for example, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The processing unit 213 is electrically connected to the signal conversion unit 212, and the output signal of the signal conversion unit 212 is input to the processing unit 213. The ring type expansion device 5 also includes a terminal 214. The terminal 214 is electrically connected to the processing unit 213. When the right controller 4 is attached to the ring type expansion device 5, the processing unit 213 transmits information indicating the distortion value indicated by the output signal of the signal conversion unit 212 (in other words, ring operation data, described later) to the right controller 4 via the terminal 214.

The ring type expansion device 5 includes a power conversion unit 215. The power conversion unit 215 is electrically connected to each of the above-mentioned units 211 to 214. The power conversion unit 215 supplies power supplied from the outside (i.e., the right controller 4) via the terminal 214 to each of the above-mentioned units 211 to 214. The power conversion unit 215 may adjust the voltage, etc. of the supplied power before supplying it to each of the above-mentioned units 211 to 214.

The "data regarding the detection result of the distortion detection unit" that the ring-type expansion device 5 transmits to another device may be data indicating the detection result itself (in this embodiment, the output signal of the distortion detection unit 211 indicating the distortion of the base), or may be data obtained by performing some processing on the detection result (e.g., data format conversion and/or calculation processing on the distortion value, etc.). For example, the processing unit 213 may perform processing to calculate the amount of deformation of the elastic member based on the distortion value that is the detection result, and in this case, the "data regarding the detection result of the distortion detection unit" may be data indicating the amount of deformation.

In other embodiments, the ring-type expansion device 5 may be equipped with a battery and may operate using the power of the battery. The battery equipped in the ring-type expansion device 5 may also be a rechargeable battery that can be charged using the power supplied from the right controller 4.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a belt-type expansion device. The belt-type expansion device 6 is used by fastening it to the user's foot with the left controller 3 attached to the belt-type expansion device 6 (see Figure 12). As shown in Figure 11, the belt-type expansion device 6 includes a storage section 301 and a belt section 302. The storage section 301 has a flat shape and can store the left controller 3. Specifically, the storage section 301 has a pocket section 303. The pocket section 303 is formed in a bag shape large enough to store the left controller 3. In this embodiment, the storage section 301 stores the left controller, and the left controller 3 is attached to the belt-type expansion device 6. Note that in other embodiments, the configuration for attaching the left controller 3 to the belt-type expansion device 6 is arbitrary.

The storage section 301 is provided with a through hole 304 on the side of the pocket section 303. The belt section 302 is provided on the side of the pocket section 303 in the storage section 301, on the opposite side of the through hole 304 with the pocket section 303 as a reference. The belt section 302 is in a belt shape, and one end of the belt section 302 is fixed to the storage section 301. In this embodiment, the belt section 302 is made of a stretchable material (e.g., woven rubber).

A first hook-and-loop fastener 305 and a second hook-and-loop fastener 306 are provided on the same surface of the belt portion 302 as the surface on which the pocket portion 303 is provided in the storage portion 301. The first hook-and-loop fastener 305 is provided near the end opposite the side fixed to the storage portion 301. The second hook-and-loop fastener 306 is provided on the same surface as the first hook-and-loop fastener 305, but closer to the storage portion 301 than the first hook-and-loop fastener 305. The first hook-and-loop fastener 305 and the second hook-and-loop fastener 306 are detachable from each other. For example, the first hook-and-loop fastener 305 is a hook-and-loop fastener with a hook surface, and the second hook-and-loop fastener 306 is a hook-and-loop fastener with a loop surface.

When fastening the belt-type expansion device 6, the user wraps the belt portion 302 around the foot, passes the belt portion 302 through the through hole 304, and adheres the first hook-and-loop fastener 305 and the second hook-and-loop fastener 306 together. This allows the user to fasten the belt-type expansion device 6 with the left controller 3 attached to the foot (see FIG. 12).

Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of how a user uses a ring-type expansion device 5 and a belt-type expansion device 6. As shown in Figure 12, a user can play a game using two expansion devices 5 and 6 in addition to a game device (i.e., a main unit 2 and controllers 3 and 4). For example, a user can use a ring-type expansion device 5 and a belt-type expansion device 6 as a set.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the user holds the ring-type expansion device 5 with the right controller 4 attached in both hands and fastens the belt-type expansion device 6 with the left controller 3 attached to his/her foot. At this time, the user can play the game by operating the ring-type expansion device 5 (for example, bending the ring-type expansion device 5 and moving the ring-type expansion device 5) and moving the foot to which the belt-type expansion device 6 is fastened.

In FIG. 12, the user holds the grip covers 203 and 204 and bends the ring-type expansion device 5. This action allows the user to perform fitness actions to train both arms as a game operation. The user can perform game operations with various actions on the ring-type expansion device 5. For example, the user can hold one grip cover with both hands and bend the ring-type expansion device 5 while placing the other grip cover against the abdomen. This action allows the user to perform fitness actions to train the arms and abdominal muscles as a game operation. The user can also bend the ring-type expansion device 5 while placing the grip covers 203 and 204 against the inner thighs of both legs and holding the ring-type expansion device 5 between the legs. This action allows the user to perform fitness actions to train the leg muscles as a game operation.

When game processing is executed in the main unit 2, the right controller 4 receives ring operation data from the ring-type expansion device 5. The ring operation data includes information indicating the above-mentioned distortion value. Specifically, the processing unit 213 of the ring-type expansion device 5 transmits the ring operation data to the right controller 4 via the terminal 214. For example, the processing unit 213 repeatedly transmits the ring operation data at a rate of once per predetermined time.

In the above case, the communication control unit 111 of the right controller 4 transmits the ring operation data received from the ring type expansion device 5 via the terminal 64 to the main unit 2. The communication control unit 111 also transmits the right controller operation data including information acquired from each input unit (specifically, each button 113, the analog stick 52, each sensor 114 and 115) included in the right controller 4 to the main unit 2. Note that, when the right controller 4 is attached to the ring type expansion device 5, communication from the right controller 4 to the main unit 2 is performed by wireless communication. The communication control unit 111 may transmit the right controller operation data and the ring operation data together to the main unit 2, or may transmit them separately to the main unit 2. The communication control unit 111 may transmit the received ring operation data as is to the main unit 2, or may perform some processing on the received ring operation data (for example, converting the data format and/or performing calculation processing on the distortion value, etc.) before transmitting it to the main unit 2.

On the other hand, when game processing is executed on the main unit 2, the communication control unit 101 of the left controller 3 transmits left controller operation data including information acquired from each input unit included in the left controller 3 (specifically, each button 103, analog stick 32, each sensor 104 and 105) to the main unit 2. When the left controller 3 is attached to the belt-type extension device 6, communication from the left controller 3 to the main unit 2 is performed by wireless communication.

[2. Information processing in games]
Next, information processing in the game executed in the game system 1 will be described. In the game of this embodiment, the player (in other words, the user) can give instructions in the game by performing fitness movements. The fitness movements are any exercises that lead to maintaining and improving health and physical strength. The fitness movements may be, for example, exercises for training muscle strength such as squats, thigh lifts, push-ups, sit-ups, or movements for deforming the ring-type expansion device 5, or may be exercises for burning fat, or may be exercises for improving flexibility such as stretching or yoga. In this embodiment, when a player character operated by a player fights an enemy character in the game, the player can make the player character attack and defend by performing fitness movements. Hereinafter, as an example of a game event, the flow of the game in a battle event, which is a game event in which the player character fights an enemy character, will be described. Note that a game event is any event that occurs during the game. In the game event, for example, a game image showing the progress of the game is displayed in response to the game operation by the player.

[2-1. Game flow in combat events]
Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a game image in a battle event. The condition for accomplishing the battle event is to win the battle event (i.e., defeat all enemy characters). When the battle event starts, the game system 1 displays the game image shown in Fig. 13 on a display device. The display device on which the game image is displayed may be the above-mentioned display 12 or the above-mentioned stationary monitor.

The game image shown in FIG. 13 includes a player character 401 and enemy characters 403 to 405. In this embodiment, the player character 401 has a ring object 402 that imitates the ring-type expansion device 5. In FIG. 13, three enemy characters 403 to 405 appear, but any number of enemy characters may appear in a battle event.

Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a game in a battle event. As shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, the battle proceeds in a turn-based manner in the battle event. That is, the battle proceeds by alternating between an attack turn in which the player character 401 attacks an enemy character and a defense turn in which the player character 401 defends against attacks from the enemy character. In this embodiment, when the battle event starts, an attack turn is performed (after the game image shown in Figure 13 is displayed), but the defense turn may be performed first. In addition, the method of proceeding with the battle event is not limited to a turn-based method, and may be any method. For example, in another embodiment, a character (i.e., the player character 401 and the enemy character) may attack in response to the elapse of a waiting time set for that character.

First, the flow of the game during the attack turn of the player character 401 will be described. When the attack turn begins, a selection event is first executed in which the player selects a fitness action that the player will perform during the attack turn (step S1 shown in FIG. 14). During the selection event, the game system 1 displays a selection image on the display device. The selection image is a UI (user interface) image that allows the player to select a fitness action.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a selection image. The selection image includes images 411-413 that allow the player to select one fitness action from among multiple selectable fitness actions. These images 411-413 are superimposed on an image of the game space that includes enemy characters 403-405 in combat. Image 411 shows a message that prompts the player to select a fitness action (specifically, a message that reads "Choose a fitness action").

In the game of this embodiment, multiple types of fitness movements are provided as fitness movements that the player can perform in response to game instructions during an attacking turn. The content of the multiple types of fitness movements is arbitrary. In this embodiment, the multiple types of fitness movements include an action of pushing in the ring-type expansion device 5 to deform it, an action of moving the feet of the player wearing the belt-type expansion device 6, and an action of having the player take a specified pose.

In the game of this embodiment, the actions performed by the player character 401 in response to the player performing a fitness action (i.e., in response to an instruction from the fitness action) are associated with each type of fitness action. In this embodiment, the player character can perform a single attack, which is an action to attack one enemy character, a multiple attack, which is an action to attack multiple enemy characters at once, and a recovery, which is an action to recover the physical strength of the player character 401. Note that the actions of the player character 401 associated with the fitness action may differ for each type of fitness action, or the same action of the player character 401 may be associated with several types of fitness actions. In the selection event, the player may select a fitness action that he or she wants to perform, or may select a fitness action associated with an action that he or she wants the player character 401 to perform (e.g., multiple attack).

The selection action image 412 shows one fitness action among a plurality of selectable fitness actions. In FIG. 15, the selection action image 412 shows a picture representing the fitness action of "push up" and the name of the fitness action. In the selection event, the game system 1 accepts a switching instruction by the player. In response to the switching instruction, the game system 1 switches the fitness action shown by the selection action image 412. In this embodiment, an order is set for the plurality of selectable fitness actions. When a first switching instruction (for example, an instruction by tilting the analog stick 52 of the right controller 4 to the left) is given among the switching instructions, the game system 1 switches the fitness action shown by the selection action image 412 according to the above order. Also, when a second switching instruction (for example, an instruction by tilting the analog stick 52 of the right controller 4 to the right) is given among the switching instructions, the game system 1 switches the fitness action shown by the selection action image 412 according to the reverse order of the above order. In this embodiment, instructions given by the player during a battle event (excluding instructions given by fitness movements) may be given by operating buttons or analog sticks on the controller, or by moving the ring-type expansion device 5.

As described above, in a selection event, multiple types of fitness movements are presented as options. In this embodiment, a selection movement image 412 showing one of the multiple types of fitness movements that are options is displayed, but in other embodiments, each selection movement image showing the multiple types of fitness movements that are options may be displayed simultaneously.

The explanatory image 413 shows an explanation of the fitness action indicated by the selected action image 412 being displayed. In this embodiment, the magnitude of the effect (specifically, the amount of damage or recovery by the attack, hereinafter referred to as the "effect amount") of the action (i.e., attack or recovery) of the player character 401 associated with the fitness action is calculated based on the basic effect value set for the fitness action. Note that, as will be described in detail later, the effect amount of the action of the player character 401 is calculated based on the basic effect value and the evaluation result of the fitness action. The explanatory image 413 shows the basic effect value set for the fitness action. For example, in FIG. 15, the explanatory image 413 shows that the basic effect value (here, attack power) set for the fitness action of "upward push" is 25.

In addition, in this embodiment, a waiting turn number is set for fitness actions. Although details will be described later, the waiting turn number is the number of turns from when the player performs a fitness action until the fitness action can be selected next. Explanation image 413 indicates the waiting turn number set for the fitness action indicated by the displayed selected action image 412. For example, in FIG. 15, explanation image 413 indicates that the waiting turn number set for the fitness action "upward push" is 2.

While the selection image is displayed, the game system 1 accepts a selection instruction from the player. The selection instruction is made, for example, by pressing a specific button on the right controller 4. The game system 1 designates the fitness action indicated by the selection action image 412 displayed at the time the selection instruction is made as the fitness action selected by the player. Note that designating a fitness action can also be said to be designating a fitness event in which the player is to perform that fitness action.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 designates one of a plurality of fitness movements based on a selection instruction by the player. Then, a fitness event is executed in which the player performs the designated fitness movement (details will be described later). In this manner, in this embodiment, the player himself can select the fitness movement that he or she is to perform. Note that in other embodiments, the game system 1 may designate multiple fitness movements from a plurality of fitness movements in accordance with a selection instruction by the player, and may have the player perform the designated multiple fitness movements in the fitness event.

The multiple types of fitness actions presented as options may be fixed or variable. The fitness action options may change, for example, depending on at least one of the game progress, the player's settings, and the game situation (specifically, the type of enemy character or an item possessed by the player character 401). Specifically, the game system 1 may increase the number of fitness action options as the game progresses, or may increase the number of fitness action options in response to the player character 401 acquiring (or using) a specific item.

When a fitness movement is selected by the player while the selection image is being displayed, the game system 1 ends the selection event and executes a preparation event (step S2 shown in FIG. 14). The preparation event is a game event that prompts the player to assume a starting position for the selected fitness movement (referred to as the "starting position").

If the action of the player character 401 associated with the selected fitness action is the single-target attack described above and there are multiple enemy characters in the battle, the game system 1 displays an image on the display device for allowing the player to select an attack target before the preparation event begins. When the image is displayed, the game system 1 identifies an enemy character to be attacked from among the enemy characters in accordance with the player's instructions. After the enemy character to be attacked has been identified, the preparation event begins.

During the preparation event, the game system 1 displays a preparatory movement image for the selected fitness movement on the display device. The preparatory movement image is an image that prompts the player to assume a starting position for the fitness movement.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a preparatory movement image. As shown in FIG. 16, the preparatory movement image includes an image 421 showing a fitness movement selected by the player (specifically, showing the name of the fitness movement). The preparatory movement image also includes an image 422 showing a message encouraging the player to assume a starting position (specifically, a message saying "Imitate the model"). The preparatory movement image further includes a starting model image 423 showing a model of the starting position for the fitness movement. Using the starting model image 423, the game system 1 can inform the player in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner of what position the player should assume as the starting position.

As shown in FIG. 16, the preparatory action image includes partial posture images 424 and 425. The partial posture images show the state that a part of the player's body should take in the starting posture (called a "partial starting posture"). In FIG. 16, partial posture image 424 shows the partial starting posture for the player's feet (i.e., "feet shoulder-width apart"), and partial posture image 425 shows the partial starting posture for the player's hands (i.e., "both arms raised").

In this embodiment, the partial starting position includes a checked position, in which a check is performed by the game system 1, and an unchecked position, in which no check is performed. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the partial starting position shown by partial position image 425 is a checked position, and the partial starting position shown by partial position image 424 is an unchecked position. Note that partial position image 425 showing the partial starting position that is a checked position includes a checkbox (see FIG. 16).

In the preparation event, the game system 1 determines whether the player has taken a checked position. This determination is made, for example, based on the tilt of the controller calculated based on the output of the above-mentioned inertial sensor equipped in the controller. For example, the determination of whether the player has taken the partial start position shown in the partial position image 425 can be made by determining whether the right controller 4 attached to the ring-type expansion device 5 has become tilted as shown in the start example image 423.

If the player maintains the checked position for a predetermined length of time (e.g., three seconds) during the preparation event, the game system 1 determines that the player has assumed the starting position. In this case, the game system 1 changes the image so that the check box of the partial position image 425 is checked, and then ends the preparation event. Note that, when the player begins to assume the checked position, the game system 1 may display a count image on the display device indicating the elapsed time from that point (or the remaining time until the player is determined to have assumed the starting position). Following the end of the preparation event, the fitness event, which will be described later, begins.

The number of partial starting positions included in the starting position and the type of the partial starting position (specifically, whether it is a checked position or an unchecked position) are set for each type of fitness action. In this embodiment, the starting position of each fitness action is set to include at least one checked position. When a preparatory action image is displayed for a fitness action in which a partial starting position including multiple checked positions is set, the game system 1 starts counting the above-mentioned elapsed time in response to the player taking all of the multiple checked positions. In addition, how the starting position of each fitness action is set is arbitrary. For example, in another embodiment, only partial starting positions that do not include a checked position may be set for a specific fitness action. When a preparatory action image is displayed for a fitness action in which only partial starting positions that do not include a checked position are set, the game system 1 may start the fitness event after displaying the preparatory action image for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds). In the above case, the game system 1 may start the fitness event in response to the player giving a start instruction.

As described above, in this embodiment, before a fitness event in which the player is made to perform a fitness movement, the game system 1 determines whether the player's posture is the posture at the start of the fitness movement. Then, the game system 1 starts the fitness event in response to determining that the player has taken the posture at the start of the fitness movement. This reduces the possibility that the fitness event will start in a state in which the player is not ready for the fitness movement. Also, depending on the posture at the start of the fitness movement, it may be difficult to give an instruction to start the fitness event. In contrast, in this embodiment, the player does not need to give the above instruction when ready for the fitness movement, so the fitness movement can easily start in the fitness event from the starting posture.

After the preparation event, the game system 1 executes a fitness event (step S3 shown in FIG. 14). The fitness event is a game event that causes the player to perform fitness movements. In the fitness event, the game system 1 prompts the player to perform fitness movements and displays an image on the display device to notify the player of the status of the fitness movements performed by the player (e.g., the number of times the fitness movements have been performed).

Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed during a fitness event. During a fitness event, the game system 1 displays an image 431 showing a game space including the player character 401 and enemy characters 403 to 405. The game system 1 also displays an image 432 showing a message encouraging the player to perform fitness movements (specifically, the message "push in"). The game system 1 also displays a model movement image 433, a movement count image 434, a remaining count image 435, and a calorie consumption image 436.

The model action image 433 shows a model of a fitness action to be performed by the player (i.e., the fitness action selected in the selected event). In the example shown in FIG. 17, the model action image 433 includes an image showing an action of bending the ring-type expansion device 5 by pushing it above the head, as a model of the fitness action of "upward pushing". The model action image 433 can inform the player of the content of the fitness action in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner.

The action count image 434 is a gauge image that indicates the number of times the player should perform the fitness action selected in the selected event (called the "unit action count") and the number of times the player currently has remaining to perform the fitness action. The remaining number image 435 indicates the value of the remaining number. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the action count image 434 indicates that the unit action count is 5 and the remaining number is 4. In other embodiments, the game system 1 may display an image indicating the value of the unit action count and the value of the remaining number instead of (or together with) the action count image 434.

The calorie burned image 436 shows the calories burned by the fitness actions performed by the player. In this embodiment, the calorie burned image 436 shows the calories burned by the fitness actions during one attack turn. However, in other embodiments, the calorie burned image 436 may show the calories burned by the fitness actions during one battle event, or may show the cumulative calories burned since the start of the game.

The game system 1 calculates the calories burned based on the fitness movements performed by the player, and displays a calorie burned image 436 showing the calculated calories burned. Note that any method can be used to calculate the calories burned based on fitness movements. In this embodiment, the calories burned do not need to be calculated precisely, and may be calculated approximately. For example, a standard value for the calories burned by one fitness movement is set, and each time a fitness movement is performed, the game system 1 may calculate the calories burned by adding the standard value for the calories burned set for that fitness movement to the calories burned up to that point.

During the fitness event, the player performs fitness movements while viewing the model movement image 433 as necessary. In this embodiment, the game system 1 controls the player character 401 so that the player character 401 performs the same fitness movement as the player in response to the player performing a fitness movement during the fitness event.

The fitness action of "upward pushing" is an action of deforming the ring-type expansion device 5 by pushing it in, maintaining the deformed state for a certain period of time, and then returning the ring-type expansion device 5 to its original state. For example, when the fitness action of "upward pushing" is performed, the game system 1 calculates the deformation state (specifically, the direction of deformation and the amount of deformation) of the ring-type expansion device 5, and controls the action of the player character 401 so as to deform the ring object 402 according to the calculated deformation state. Specifically, the game system 1 controls the action of the player character 401 so that the calculated deformation state of the ring-type expansion device 5 and the deformation state of the ring object 402 match. Therefore, when the player performs the fitness action of "upward pushing", the player character 401 is controlled to perform the fitness action of "upward pushing" in the same way as the player.

When the fitness action of "upward push" is performed, the game system 1 displays the image 432 showing the message "push" as described above when the ring-type expansion device 5 is not deformed. In addition, in the above state, the game system 1 displays an image showing the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 as a model action image 433 (see FIG. 17). Although not shown, when the ring-type expansion device 5 is deformed by a predetermined amount or more, the game system 1 displays an image showing the message "Keep!" and displays an image showing the state in which the ring-type expansion device 5 is kept in the pushed-in state as the model action image 433. Furthermore, when the deformed state of the ring-type expansion device 5 is maintained for a certain period of time, the game system 1 displays an image showing the message "return to original state" and displays an image showing the action of returning the push on the ring-type expansion device 5 to its original state as the model action image 433. In this way, the game system 1 displays an image encouraging the player to make the next action according to the player's action state during the fitness action. This allows players to be informed in more detail how to perform fitness movements.

As shown in FIG. 17, in a fitness event, the game system 1 highlights the body parts of the player character 401 that correspond to fitness movements, compared to other body parts that are different from the body parts. The "body parts that correspond to fitness movements" are the body parts that are primarily used by the player in fitness movements (the body parts that are trained by fitness movements, or the body parts that are effective for fitness movements). In this embodiment, the body parts that correspond to the fitness movements are associated with the fitness movements. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the body parts of the player character 401 that correspond to the upper arms, which are the body parts used by the player in the fitness movement of "upward push", are displayed glowing (the glowing state of the body parts is indicated by diagonal lines in FIG. 17).

Also, as shown in FIG. 17, the model action image 433 includes a speech bubble image 437 that indicates the body part of the person imitating the player in the model action image 433 that corresponds to the fitness action. In this embodiment, the speech bubble image 437 also indicates the name of the muscle used in the fitness action (here, the "deltoid muscle").

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 displays on the display device an image of the player's body (i.e., the model movement image 433) and an image of the player character's body 401 during a fitness event. Among these body images, the body parts that correspond to the fitness movements that the player will be made to perform during the fitness event are highlighted (for example, the body parts are displayed in a different color, or the body parts are displayed by pointing out them with a speech bubble image). This makes it possible to clearly inform the player which body parts the fitness movements will have an effect on.

In this embodiment, the game system 1 displays both an image showing the body part of the player character 401 and an image showing the body part of the player (i.e., the model movement image 433) as images showing the body parts corresponding to the fitness movements. Here, in other embodiments, the game system 1 may display only one of the above two images, which can also achieve the same effect as this embodiment.

The highlighting of the body parts corresponding to the fitness movements may be performed at all times during the fitness event, or may be performed for a specified period during the fitness event (e.g., while the player is performing the fitness movements).

The fitness event ends when the player completes one fitness movement. Each time the player completes one fitness movement, the game system 1 updates the remaining number of times indicated by the movement number image 434 and the remaining number of times image 435.

After the fitness event, the game system 1 executes an attack event (step S4 shown in FIG. 14). The attack event is a game event in which the player character 401 attacks an enemy character. In the attack event, the game system 1 displays on the display device an image showing the enemy character being damaged by an attack by the player character 401 on the enemy character. As described above, in this embodiment, the player character 401 attacks the enemy character in response to the player performing a fitness action during the fitness event. In other words, in this embodiment, the fitness action performed by the player during the fitness event represents an attack instruction, and the player character 401 attacks the enemy character in response to the attack instruction from the fitness action.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed during an attack event. During an attack event, the game system 1 displays an effect image 441 showing an attack by the player character 401 on an enemy character. In this embodiment, the game system 1 causes the player character 401 to perform an attack action against the enemy character by a different action from a fitness action performed in response to a fitness action by the player during a fitness event. For example, during a fitness event, the game system 1 controls the action of the player character 401 so that the player character 401 accumulates magical power in response to the player's fitness action, and during an attack event, controls the action of the player character 401 so that the player character 401 attacks the enemy character by magic released from the ring object 402 using the accumulated magical power.

The game system 1 also displays a numerical value ("114" in FIG. 18) indicating the amount of damage inflicted on the enemy character. The method of calculating the amount of damage (in other words, the amount of loss of vitality) will be described later. The game system 1 also displays a gauge image 442 indicating the vitality of the attacked enemy character. The gauge image 442 is displayed changing so that the vitality is reduced by the amount of damage.

When the action of the player character 401 associated with the fitness action is recovery, in the attack event, the game system 1 displays an effect image indicating that the player character 401 is recovering his/her stamina, and displays a numerical value indicating the amount of recovery. The game system 1 also changes and displays a gauge image indicating the stamina of the player character 401 so that the stamina increases by the amount of recovery. This ends the attack event.

When damage is inflicted on an enemy character in an attack event, the game system 1 determines whether or not the enemy character has been defeated (i.e., its vitality value has become 0). When all enemy characters have been defeated, the game system 1 ends the battle event. In this case, the player character 401 wins the battle, and the achievement condition set for the battle event is fulfilled.

On the other hand, if there is an enemy character that has not been defeated, and the fitness action has not been performed the above-mentioned unit action number of times (in other words, the fitness event has not been performed the unit action number of times), the fitness event is executed again (see FIG. 14). At this time, the fitness event and attack event are executed repeatedly until the unit action number is performed or until all enemy characters are defeated.

When the fitness event and attack event are executed for the unit number of movements and there is an enemy character that has not been defeated, the game system 1 ends the attack turn (see FIG. 14). When the attack turn ends, the defense turn begins. The flow of the game during the defense turn of the player character 401 is described below.

When a defensive turn is started, the game system 1 executes a fitness event (step S5 shown in FIG. 14). In this embodiment, the fitness action that the player should perform in the defensive turn is set to a predetermined fitness action (here, the fitness action of "abdominal push"). In other words, a selection event in which the player selects a fitness action is not executed in the defensive turn. Furthermore, a preparation event in which a preparation action image is displayed is also not executed in the defensive turn. However, in other embodiments, a preparation event may be executed in the defensive turn, just like in the attacking turn. Furthermore, in other embodiments, a selection event may be executed in the defensive turn, just like in the attacking turn.

19 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed in a fitness event in a defensive turn. In a fitness event in a defensive turn, as in a fitness event in an attacking turn, the game system 1 displays on the display device an image 431 showing a game space including the player character 401 and the enemy characters 403 to 405. The game system 1 also displays an image 432 showing a message encouraging the player to perform a fitness action (in the example shown in FIG. 19, the message is "push in"), a model action image 433, a number of actions image 434, a remaining number of actions image 435, and a calorie consumption image 436. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the model action image 433 includes an example image of the fitness action of "abdominal push". In addition, for "abdominal push", which is a fitness action performed in a defensive turn, the unit number of actions is set to 2, and the number of actions image 434 indicates that the unit number of actions is 2 and the remaining number is 2.

In addition, in a defensive turn, as in an offensive turn, if the player performs a fitness movement, the game system 1 controls the player character 401 to perform the same fitness movement as the player. Furthermore, the game system 1 displays the part of the player character 401 that corresponds to the fitness movement (the abdomen in FIG. 19) in an emphasized manner compared to other parts different from the fitness movement. Furthermore, the model movement image 433 includes a speech bubble image 437 that indicates the part of the person imitating the player in the model movement image 433 that corresponds to the fitness movement. Furthermore, the speech bubble image 437 indicates the name of the muscle that is moved in the fitness movement (here, "rectus abdominis").

The above-mentioned "abdomen push" fitness action is an action of deforming the ring-type expansion device 5 by pressing one side against the abdomen while pressing the other side, and maintaining the deformed state for a certain period of time. When the player finishes the fitness action in the fitness event in the defense turn, the fitness event ends. Specifically, if the player maintains the deformed state of the ring-type expansion device 5 by pressing one side against the abdomen while pressing the other side for a certain period of time, the fitness event ends. In other words, the game system 1 determines whether the deformed state of the ring-type expansion device 5 has been maintained for a certain period of time, and ends the fitness event if it is determined that it has been maintained. Following the fitness event, the game system 1 executes a defense event (step S6 shown in FIG. 14).

Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed in a defense event in a defense turn. In a defense event, the game system 1 displays a game image showing an enemy character (here, enemy character 404) attacking the player character 401. At this time, the game system 1 displays an effect image 451 showing the enemy character's attack on the player character 401. The game system 1 also calculates the amount of damage inflicted on the player character 401 and displays a numerical value indicating the amount of damage ("54" in Figure 20). Note that a method for calculating the amount of damage (in other words, the amount of reduction in vitality) will be described later. In addition, in a defense event, the game system 1 displays a gauge image 452 indicating the vitality of the attacked player character 401. The gauge image 452 is displayed changed so that the vitality is reduced by the amount of damage. After the above display ends, the defense event ends.

When damage is inflicted on the player character 401 in the above defense event, the game system 1 determines whether or not the player character 401 has been defeated (i.e., the vitality value has become 0). When the player character 401 has been defeated, the game system 1 ends the battle event. In this case, the player character 401 loses the battle, and the achievement condition set for the battle event is not met.

On the other hand, if the player character 401 has not been defeated, and the fitness event (in other words, the fitness action) has not been performed the above-mentioned number of unit actions, the fitness event is executed again (see FIG. 14). At this time, the fitness event and defense event are repeatedly executed until the number of unit actions is performed or until the player character 401 is defeated.

When the fitness event is executed for the unit number of movements and the player character 401 has not been defeated, the defense turn ends (see FIG. 14). When the defense turn ends, an attack turn is performed again. From then on, the attack turn and the defense turn are alternately repeated until the player character 401 is defeated or all enemy characters are defeated.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 executes an attack event to attack an enemy character in accordance with a fitness action performed by the player during a first fitness event in an attack turn, and executes a second fitness event (i.e., a fitness event in a defense turn) different from the first fitness event during a battle event. Then, the game system 1 executes a defense event to defend against an attack from an enemy character in accordance with a fitness action performed by the player during the second fitness event. This allows fitness actions to be reflected for both attack and defense in a battle event, thereby increasing the opportunities for the player to perform fitness actions.

In addition, in this embodiment, the fitness actions to be performed by the player in the second fitness event are determined independently of instructions from the player (or can be said to be determined without instructions from the player). In other words, the second fitness event is determined independently of instructions from the player. Therefore, in a defensive turn, the fitness event is started without the player selecting a fitness action. This allows the game system 1 to maintain a good pace in the game, without the flow of the game in which the player character 401 defends against attacks from enemy characters being interrupted by a selected event.

In this embodiment, the player performs one type of fitness motion in a defensive turn, but in other embodiments, one of multiple types of fitness motions may be specified. In this case, the fitness motion may be determined independently of the player's instructions, as in this embodiment. Specifically, the fitness motion may be specified according to an algorithm defined in the game program, and may not be selected by the player. This allows the game flow to proceed smoothly, with the player character 401 defending against attacks from enemy characters, as in this embodiment. Also, in other embodiments, the user may select a fitness motion in a defensive turn, as in an attacking turn.

[2-2. Game progression according to battle events]
In the game of this embodiment, the above-described battle event is repeatedly executed. For example, the game system 1 executes a battle event every time the player character 401 encounters an enemy character while moving on the map. In addition, the game system 1 progresses the game in response to the achievement of a battle event. For example, the game system 1 progresses the game in response to the player character 401 winning a battle against a specific enemy character. Note that "progressing the game" may be any process that advances the game situation, and may be, for example, enabling the player character 401 to advance to a new stage, advancing the story of the game, or giving the player character 401 a new ability or item. As described above, in this embodiment, the player progresses the game by repeating the battle event. That is, the player progresses the game by repeatedly performing fitness actions in the game.

2-3. Game Processing Based on Fitness Movements
As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 executes game processing based on the fitness motion performed by the player. Specifically, the game system 1 evaluates the fitness motion performed by the player, and calculates the effect amount (i.e., the amount of damage or the amount of recovery) of the action of the player character 401 associated with the fitness motion based on the evaluation result. A method of calculating the effect amount based on the fitness motion will be described below.

First, a method for evaluating fitness movements will be described. In this embodiment, the multiple types of fitness movements can be divided into three groups: a keep movement group, a repeat movement group, and a pause movement group. The game system 1 evaluates the fitness movements using different methods depending on the three groups. In this embodiment, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score as an evaluation result of the fitness movements. A high evaluation score means a good evaluation.

Fitness actions belonging to the keep action group include actions in which the player takes the body (or a part of the body) from the starting position described above and maintains it in a specific position (called a "keep position") for a certain period of time. For example, the above-mentioned "upward push" and "abdominal push" are fitness actions that belong to the keep action group. Note that fitness actions that belong to the keep action group are not limited to fitness actions in which the player moves their arms. For example, a fitness action in which the player takes a standing upright starting position, takes a keep position with the knees bent like a squat, maintains this position for a certain period of time, and then returns to the starting position is also a fitness action that belongs to the keep action group.

For fitness movements that belong to the keep-position movement group, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score by evaluating whether the player has taken the correct keep-position and maintained the keep-position for a sufficient period of time. Specifically, the evaluation score is calculated as follows:

First, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation coefficient based on the difference between the inclination of the part of the player's body that is in the keeping position and a set ideal value. The evaluation coefficient is calculated within a predetermined range (for example, between 0 and 1) so that the closer the inclination of the part of the player's body is to the ideal value, the larger the value becomes.

Next, the game system 1 adds an evaluation point if the player maintains the inclination corresponding to the calculated evaluation coefficient for a duration corresponding to the evaluation coefficient while the player is in the keeping position. The game system 1 accumulates the evaluation points during the above-mentioned period, and sets the accumulated evaluation point as the evaluation result. Here, the duration is set according to the evaluation coefficient, and is set to be shorter as the evaluation coefficient is higher. For example, the duration is set as follows:
When the evaluation coefficient a=1, the duration t=3 (frame time)
If evaluation coefficient 1>a≧0.9, duration t=5 (frame time)
If the evaluation coefficient 0.9>a≧0.6, the duration t=10 (frame time)
If the evaluation coefficient 0.6>a≧0.3, the duration t=20 (frame time)
If the evaluation coefficient 0.3>a≧0, the duration t=40 (frame time)
From the above, if a part of the player's body is tilted close to the ideal value during the period in which the player maintains the posture, the evaluation points are added in a short time, and if a part of the player's body is tilted away from the ideal value, the evaluation points are not added easily. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the player maintains a good posture (i.e., a posture whose tilt is close to the ideal value) during the period in which the player maintains the posture, more evaluation points are added and the total evaluation points become higher. Also, assuming that the player maintains the posture at a certain tilt, more evaluation points are added and the total evaluation points become higher when the time for maintaining the posture is longer than when the time for maintaining the posture is short.

Fitness movements that belong to the repetitive movement group are movements in which a specific exercise is repeated a specific number of times in one fitness movement. For example, a fitness movement that repeats thigh lifts a specific number of times or a fitness movement that repeats twisting the body left and right a specific number of times are fitness movements that belong to the repetitive movement group.

For fitness movements belonging to the repetitive movement group, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score based on the inclination of a part of the player's body when performing a predetermined movement and the acceleration of the part of the body. Specifically, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score so that the evaluation score increases according to the magnitude of the inclination when the predetermined movement is performed relative to a predetermined standard. The game system 1 also calculates an evaluation score so that the evaluation score increases according to the magnitude of the acceleration when the predetermined movement is performed. In other words, for fitness movements belonging to the repetitive movement group, a player can obtain a high evaluation score by performing the predetermined movement vigorously (i.e., so that the acceleration is large) and firmly (i.e., so that the inclination is large relative to the standard). In this embodiment, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score for each predetermined movement, and calculates an evaluation score for one fitness movement by adding up the evaluation scores for multiple predetermined movements.

In addition, in other embodiments, for fitness movements belonging to the repetitive movement group, the game system 1 may calculate an evaluation score based on the speed at which a predetermined exercise is performed a predetermined number of times (in other words, based on the time required to perform a predetermined number of times). Specifically, the game system 1 may calculate an evaluation score so that the evaluation score increases as the speed increases (in other words, the time decreases). In this case, for fitness movements belonging to the repetitive movement group, the player can obtain a high evaluation score by performing the exercise quickly.

A fitness action belonging to the posing action group is an action in which the player changes from a predetermined first position to a second position different from the first position. For example, a fitness action in which the player changes from a first position in which he or she stands upright to a second position in which the knees are bent and the arms are stretched upward is a fitness action belonging to the posing action group.

For fitness actions that belong to pose-changing actions, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score based on the change time from when the player assumes a first posture to when the player assumes a second posture. Specifically, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation score so that the longer the change time, the higher the evaluation score becomes. In other words, for fitness actions that belong to pose-changing actions, the player can obtain a high evaluation score by performing the posture-changing action slowly. Note that in this embodiment, an upper limit is set for the evaluation score. Therefore, if the change time is equal to or longer than a certain time, the evaluation score will be the upper limit, and the evaluation score will not increase even if the change time becomes longer than that time.

For fitness movements that belong to any of the above three groups, the game system 1 acquires motion data based on the output of a sensor (e.g., the output of a strain gauge or an inertial sensor) corresponding to the fitness movements performed by the player, and calculates an evaluation score based on the motion data. The motion data is data that indicates the content corresponding to the fitness movements performed by the player. In this embodiment, the motion data is data that indicates the output of the strain gauge and/or the inertial sensor. In other embodiments, the motion data may be data obtained by performing some processing on the output of the strain gauge and/or the inertial sensor (e.g., data format conversion and/or calculation processing on the output value, etc.).

For the fitness actions belonging to the above-mentioned keep action group, the game system 1 can calculate the inclination of a part of the player's body in the above-mentioned keep posture based on the deformation amount of the ring-type expansion device 5 or the inclination of the controller. The deformation amount of the ring-type expansion device 5 is calculated based on the output of the strain gauge indicated by the operation data (specifically, the ring operation data). The inclination of the controller is calculated based on the output of the inertial sensor indicated by the operation data (specifically, the left controller operation data or the right controller operation data). When the keep posture is a posture in which the player pushes the ring-type expansion device 5, the game system 1 can calculate the inclination of a part of the player's body (here, the arm) based on the deformation amount of the ring-type expansion device 5. When the keep posture is a posture in which the player bends his/her knees, the game system 1 can calculate the inclination of a part of the player's body (here, the foot) based on the inclination of the left controller 3 attached to the player's foot. The game system 1 can then calculate the evaluation score using the method described above based on the calculated tilt of the player's body part.

For fitness movements that belong to the repetitive movement group, the game system 1 can calculate the tilt and acceleration of a part of the player's body when the player performs the specified exercise that is repeated a specified number of times, based on the tilt and acceleration of the controller. The tilt of the controller can be calculated based on the output of an angular velocity sensor indicated by the movement data. The acceleration of the controller can be calculated based on the output of an acceleration sensor indicated by the movement data. For example, if thigh lifts are performed as the specified exercise, the game system 1 can calculate the tilt of a part of the player's body (here, the thigh) based on the tilt of the left controller 3 attached to the player's foot, and can calculate the acceleration of the part of the body based on the acceleration of the left controller 3.

For fitness actions that belong to pose-changing actions, the game system 1 can calculate whether the player has taken the first posture or the second posture based on the inclination of the controller. For example, if the player takes the second posture with knees bent and arms stretched upward, the game system 1 can determine that the player has taken a posture with knees bent based on the inclination of the left controller 3 attached to the player's foot, and can determine that the player has taken a posture with arms stretched upward based on the inclination of the right controller 4 attached to the ring-type expansion device 5 held by the player. Based on these determination results, the game system 1 can calculate the change time from when the player took the first posture to when the player took the second posture, and can calculate the evaluation points.

Note that, for example, if the player has low physical flexibility or is injured, it may be difficult for the player to assume the first or second position. Therefore, in this embodiment, if a predetermined time has elapsed without determining that the player has assumed the first or second position, the game system 1 changes the threshold value so that it is easier to determine that the player has assumed the first or second position. For example, in the process of calculating the evaluation result of a certain fitness movement, consider an example in which the player is determined to have assumed the second position when the angle of the right controller 4 in a certain direction is equal to or greater than a threshold value (specifically, 90°). In this example, if the predetermined time has elapsed with the angle of the right controller 4 in the above direction being less than 90°, the game system 1 changes the threshold value for determination to a value (e.g., 80°) that is a predetermined value less than 90°. As a result, if the player assumes a position in which the angle of the right controller 4 in the above direction is 80°, the player is determined to have assumed the second position. Thereafter, the game system 1 uses the changed threshold value to make a judgment in the process of calculating the evaluation result of the fitness movement. Note that even when the game system 1 makes a judgment using the changed threshold value, if a predetermined time has elapsed without it being judged that the player has taken the first or second position, the game system 1 may further decrease the changed threshold value by the above-mentioned predetermined value. Note that a lower limit value may be set for the threshold value.

In addition, in other embodiments, the game system 1 may set the modified threshold value based on the posture of the player that has not reached the specified target posture in the above case. For example, in the above example, if it is determined that the player has maintained a posture in which the angle of the right controller 4 in the above direction is 70° for a certain period of time, the game system 1 may change the threshold value for determination from 90° to 70°. In this way, the game system 1 may change the threshold value so that it is determined that the target posture has been reached based on the posture actually taken by the player.

Also, for example, consider an example in which, in the process of calculating the evaluation result of a certain fitness movement, if the player deforms the ring-type expansion device 5 by a predetermined amount A, it is determined that the player has adopted the second posture. In this example, if the amount of deformation of the ring-type expansion device 5 is maintained for a certain period of time in a state where it is less than the predetermined amount A, the game system 1 changes the threshold value for determination to a value B that is smaller than the predetermined amount A. As a result, it is determined that the player has adopted the second posture when the amount of deformation of the ring-type expansion device 5 is B.

In the above example, the threshold value is changed when determining the second posture in a fitness movement that belongs to a pose-changing movement. In other embodiments, the game system 1 may change the threshold value in the same manner as the above example when determining a posture in a fitness movement that belongs to a group other than the pose-changing movement.

As described above, in this embodiment, in a fitness event in which a player is made to perform fitness movements that result in a predetermined target posture, if it is determined based on the motion data that the predetermined target posture has not been reached for a predetermined period of time, the game system 1 updates the threshold value used for the determination so that the player is more likely to be determined to have achieved the target posture. In other words, in a fitness event, if the motion data acquired during the fitness event has not reached a value corresponding to the target posture for a predetermined period of time, the game system 1 updates the threshold value related to the target posture so that the motion data is more likely to reach a value corresponding to the target posture. This allows the player to perform fitness movements without having to assume an unnatural posture. Also, in this embodiment, the threshold value is automatically changed during the period in which the fitness event is held, so that the player does not need to perform any operation to change the settings, which saves the player time.

The game system 1 may be configured to consider the player to have taken the target posture if the player's posture before the target posture is relatively close to the "target posture" (for example, the difference between the inclination of a part of the player's body before the target posture is reached and the inclination of the part of the body in the "target posture" is less than or equal to a predetermined value). This reduces the possibility that the threshold value will be changed if the player takes a posture that is completely different from the original target posture defined in the fitness movement.

The above evaluation method is merely an example, and the game system 1 may evaluate the fitness movements using any method. For example, in other embodiments, the game system 1 may evaluate the fitness movements based on the calories burned by the fitness movements, or may evaluate the fitness movements based on the exercise intensity of the fitness movements.

Based on the evaluation result calculated as described above, the game system 1 calculates the effect amount of the action of the player character 401. In this embodiment, the effect amount is calculated based on at least the following information.
- Fitness movement evaluation results - Basic effect value set for each type of fitness movement - Player parameters

By calculating the amount of effect based on the above evaluation results, the game system 1 can change the amount by which the enemy character's vitality value is reduced depending on the evaluation results of the fitness movements performed by the player. This can motivate the player to improve the quality of their fitness movements in order to obtain good evaluation results.

The above basic effect value is set for each type of fitness action. As described above, the explanatory image 413 displayed in the selected event shows the basic effect value set for the fitness action. If the action of the player character 401 is an attack, the basic effect value is the attack power of that action, if the action of the player character 401 is a recovery, the basic effect value is the recovery power of that action, and if the action of the player character 401 is a defense, the basic effect value is the defense power of that action.

By using the above-mentioned basic effect value, the game system 1 can vary the amount by which the enemy character's vitality value is reduced depending on the type of fitness movement the player is made to perform (in other words, depending on the type of fitness event). This can improve the strategic nature of the game. Also, because the game effect differs depending on the type of fitness movement, it is possible to motivate the player to perform various types of fitness movements.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 varies the amount by which the enemy character's vitality value is reduced depending on the content of the fitness movement. Note that "varying (the amount) depending on the content of the fitness movement" may mean, as described above, varying the amount depending on an evaluation of the movement data acquired during the battle event (e.g., an evaluation of whether the movement data shows an effective fitness movement; that is, the evaluation result of the fitness movement), or varying the amount depending on the type of fitness movement.

In addition, "changing (the amount) according to the content of the fitness action" may be an aspect of changing according to the load of the fitness action. The load of the fitness action may be a value set in advance before the fitness event (for example, a value set for the fitness event and indicating the load of the fitness action corresponding to the fitness event), or a value calculated based on the fitness action performed by the player during the fitness event. For example, the game system 1 may increase the amount of reduction in the vitality value of the enemy character when the load of the fitness action is high (for example, when the number of unit actions is high, or when the standard value of the calorie consumption set for the fitness action is high) compared to when the load of the fitness action is low. For example, the game system 1 may set the basic effect value set for each type of fitness action according to the load set for the fitness action (specifically, the larger the basic effect value is set for a fitness action with a high load). In addition, the game system 1 may calculate the load of the fitness action actually performed by the player, and increase the amount of reduction in the vitality value of the enemy character as the calculated load increases. For example, when evaluating fitness movements, the game system 1 may perform the evaluation so that the greater the calculated load, the higher the evaluation score. As described above, a player can obtain good game results by performing fitness movements well, and therefore the player can be motivated to improve the quality of performing fitness movements.

The player parameters are parameters associated with the player (or can be said to be associated with the player character). The game system 1 sets the player parameters so that they increase as the game progresses. For example, the player parameters may be increased in response to a victory over an enemy character in a battle event, or in response to the progress of the game story. An example of the progress of the game story is when the player character 401 advances to a new game stage. In addition, in the case where an experience value and a level are set for the player character 401, and the level of the player character 401 increases in response to an increase in the experience value, the player parameters may be increased in response to the increase in the level and/or the experience value.

The effect of the player character 401's action is calculated so that the effect increases as the above three parameters (i.e., the evaluation result, the effect base value, and the player parameters) increase. For example, the effect may be calculated by multiplying the effect base value by the evaluation score and the player parameters.

The game system 1 may calculate the amount of effect of the action of the player character 401 based on other parameters in addition to the above three parameters. In this embodiment, the amount of effect is also calculated based on physical information (specifically, athletic ability information) described below. For example, if the action of the player character 401 is attack, the game system 1 may calculate the amount of damage to the enemy character based on the defensive power of the enemy character in addition to the above three parameters. For example, if the action of the player character 401 is defense, the game system 1 may calculate the amount of damage to the player character 401 based on the offensive power of the enemy character in addition to the above three parameters.

As described above, in this embodiment, the effect of the actions of the player character 401 is determined based on the evaluation result of the fitness action by the player. The effect is also determined based on the player parameters. Here, in this embodiment, the game system 1 makes it easier for strong enemy characters (e.g., characters with high stamina, high attack power, and/or high defense power) to appear in battle events as the game progresses. Specifically, after the player has completed a battle event in which a first enemy character appears, the game system 1 executes a battle event in which a second enemy character with a higher stamina value than the first enemy character appears. This is to allow the player to fully experience a sense of accomplishment in the game.

In order to defeat a strong enemy character, it is necessary to perform fitness movements that will increase the above-mentioned effect amount, but in reality, the player's athletic ability may not necessarily improve visibly. In reality, the player's athletic ability may improve only slightly, or may remain almost unchanged. Therefore, if the above-mentioned effect amount were to be determined based only on the fitness movement evaluation results, when a strong enemy character appears as the game progresses, the effect amount may not increase much, and the player may not be able to defeat the enemy character. Furthermore, if the strength of the enemy character does not change as the game progresses, the player may become bored with the game and stop performing the fitness exercises.

In this embodiment, the game system 1 increases the player parameters as the game progresses, and calculates the above-mentioned effect amount based on the player parameters. As a result, even if the evaluation result of the fitness movement by the player is the same, the above-mentioned effect amount increases as the game progresses, making it easier to defeat strong enemy characters. According to this embodiment, even if the player's actual athletic ability has not improved significantly, the player can feel a sense of accomplishment that he or she has grown in the game, and the game system 1 can motivate the player to continue performing fitness movements by continuing to play the game. Furthermore, the game system 1 can motivate the player to continue playing the game by giving the player a sense of accomplishment from defeating a strong enemy character.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 determines whether the achievement condition (i.e., winning the battle event) is met based on the game result (specifically, the enemy character's vitality value reduced by the amount of damage) based on the above action data and the above player parameters. The game system 1 then progresses the game in accordance with the achievement of the battle event, and updates the player parameters so that the achievement condition becomes easier to meet as the game progresses (i.e., so that the values are increased so that the enemy character becomes easier to defeat). In other words, the game system 1 updates the player parameters so that the amount of decrease in the enemy character's vitality value increases as the game progresses when the action data acquired during the battle event is the same (for example, when the content of the fitness movement performed by the player is the same). This can motivate the player to continue performing fitness movements by continuously playing the game.

[2-4. Setting the number of waiting turns]
As described above, in this embodiment, a waiting turn number is set for a fitness action. When a fitness action is selected in a selection event in the above-mentioned attack turn, the game system 1 makes the fitness action unselectable during a period from the current turn until the waiting turn number set for the fitness action has elapsed. For example, the waiting turn number for the fitness action of "upward push" is set to 2. In this case, if the player selects "upward push", the game system 1 does not present "upward push" as an option in the selection event in the two attack turns following the attack turn in which the fitness action of "upward push" was performed. In other words, in the above-mentioned two attack turns, the player will select a fitness action from options other than "upward push".

Note that, in a given attack turn, if none of the fitness actions that would be available if there were no limit due to the number of waiting turns cannot be selected due to the limit due to the number of waiting turns, the game system 1 may skip the attack turn and perform a defense turn. Also, if a fitness action is limited by the number of waiting turns, the player character 401 may use a specified item to remove the limit and make the fitness action selectable.

In this embodiment, when a fitness action is specified once as a fitness action to be performed in a fitness event, the game system 1 imposes a limit on the number of waiting turns for that fitness action. Here, in other embodiments, when a fitness action is specified a predetermined number of times, which is two or more, the game system 1 may impose a limit on the number of waiting turns for that fitness action. In addition, the above-mentioned predetermined number of times may be set for each type of fitness action, or may be the same number of times for each fitness action.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 restricts a fitness action (in other words, a fitness event) that has been specified a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, once) from being specified again until the condition for it to be possible to specify it again (i.e., the number of waiting turns has elapsed) is met. Here, if the player continues to perform the same fitness action, he or she may end up using the muscle strength of the same part of the body, which may result in fatigue. In contrast, this embodiment reduces the possibility that the player will become tired from performing only a specific fitness action. Also, since the player cannot repeatedly perform the same fitness action, the player will perform a battle event while taking into consideration the set of fitness actions to be performed in multiple attack turns. This improves the tactical nature of the game.

In this embodiment, the condition for re-specifying a fitness action can be said to be a condition related to the number of fitness events related to a fitness action different from the fitness action that was performed after the fitness event related to the fitness action was last performed. Here, in other embodiments, the condition for re-specifying a fitness action can be a condition related to the time that has elapsed since the fitness event related to the fitness action was last performed. For example, the waiting time may be set for the fitness action instead of the number of waiting turns. In this case, when a fitness action is selected in the selected event, the game system 1 makes the fitness action unselectable during the period from the end of the fitness event related to the fitness action to the elapse of the waiting time. This can reduce the risk of the player getting tired by performing only a specific fitness action, as in this embodiment. In addition, by having the player perform many types of fitness actions, the player can perform fitness actions using the whole body in a balanced manner.

In other embodiments, the conditions under which a fitness movement can be designated again may include at least one of the conditions related to the number of times and the conditions related to the elapsed time.

Furthermore, in other embodiments, the condition under which a fitness movement can be designated again may be a condition other than the above. The condition under which a fitness movement can be designated again may be, for example, a condition related to the amount of damage inflicted by the player character 401 on an enemy character, or the amount of damage received by the player character 401 from an enemy character. Specifically, the game system 1 may display a gauge indicating the amount of damage on the display device, and make it possible to designate a fitness movement again when the gauge is full. Even with such a condition, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the player will only perform a specific fitness movement, as in this embodiment.

The condition for a fitness movement to be re-designated may be that a specific fitness movement different from the fitness movement in question has been performed. For example, the condition for a fitness movement using the arms to be re-designated may be that the player has performed a fitness movement using the legs. Even with such a condition, as in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the player will only perform a specific fitness movement.

In this embodiment, the conditions for which re-designation is possible (specifically, the number of waiting turns) are set for each type of fitness movement (in other words, for each type of fitness event). This allows the conditions to be set taking into account the degree of strain placed on the player by the fitness movement for each type of fitness movement, so that appropriate conditions can be set for each type of fitness movement.

In this embodiment, in a selection event, the game system 1 designates one of a plurality of fitness movements in accordance with a selection instruction by the player. In contrast, in other embodiments, in a selection event, the game system 1 may automatically designate one of a plurality of fitness movements without relying on an instruction by the player. In such an embodiment, a condition for re-designation may be set for the fitness movement. This, like the present embodiment, can reduce the risk of the player becoming tired by only performing a certain fitness movement.

[2-5. Setting physical information]
In this embodiment, before a combat event is executed, the game system 1 sets physical information indicating the player's physical ability and/or physical condition. Then, the game system 1 executes the combat event using the physical information. For example, the game system 1 executes a fitness event or calculates an evaluation result of a fitness movement based on the physical information related to the player. In this way, the combat event is executed according to the physical information of each player, so that the player can easily perform fitness movements according to his/her own physical ability and physical condition. The details of the process using the physical information are described below.

(Exercise intensity information)
In this embodiment, the game system 1 sets exercise intensity information as physical information. The exercise intensity information is information indicating an exercise intensity that is estimated to be appropriate for the player. In this embodiment, the exercise intensity information indicates any one of "light,""normal," and "hard."

The exercise intensity information is set before the start of a battle event. For example, the game system 1 sets the exercise intensity information at the start of the game after the game program is launched. At this time, the game system 1 asks the player questions about his or her physical condition today. For example, the game system 1 asks questions such as "How are you feeling?", "Are you tired?", and "Is there any part of your body that hurts?". The game system 1 then sets the exercise intensity information based on the player's answers to the above questions. For example, if the player answers in a way that suggests that he or she is not in good physical condition or is tired, the game system 1 sets information indicating "light" as the exercise intensity information.

In this embodiment, the game system 1 sets the above-mentioned unit number of movements for each fitness movement performed in the battle event based on the exercise intensity information. That is, when the exercise intensity information is "normal", the game system 1 sets the unit number of movements for each fitness movement to a reference value determined in the game program. When the exercise intensity information is "light", the game system 1 sets the unit number of movements for each fitness movement to a value smaller than the reference value, and when the exercise intensity information is "hard", the game system 1 sets the unit number of movements for each fitness movement to a value larger than the reference value.

In another embodiment, the game system 1 may use information indicating the number of unit movements as exercise intensity information. In this case, instead of asking the player a question about today's physical condition, the game system 1 may have the player input the number of unit movements.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 varies the amount of fitness movements (specifically, the number of unit movements) that the player performs during a battle event according to physical information (specifically, exercise intensity information). This allows the player to perform fitness movements with a load that suits his or her physical condition on that day.

In another embodiment, the amount of fitness movements that the player is made to perform during a fitness event may be the time for which the player maintains the above-mentioned posture during fitness movements that belong to the above-mentioned keep posture movement group. In other words, the game system 1 may change the above-mentioned time according to physical information. This allows the player to perform fitness movements with a load that suits his or her physical condition on that day, just like in this embodiment.

(Athletic ability information)
In the present embodiment, the game system 1 sets athletic ability information indicating the athletic ability of the player as the physical information. In the present embodiment, the athletic ability information is information indicating a numerical value that increases as the athletic ability increases.

The athletic ability information is set before the start of the battle event. For example, the game system 1 sets the athletic ability information for the player when the player starts the game for the first time after the game program is started (for example, when creating save data). At this time, the game system 1 actually has the player perform fitness exercises and calculates an evaluation result of the fitness exercise performed by the player. The game system 1 sets a numerical value indicated by the athletic ability information based on the calculated evaluation result. Specifically, the athletic ability information is set so that the higher the evaluation result, the larger the numerical value. In this way, the physical information may be determined based on motion data based on the fitness motion performed by the player before the battle event is executed. In this way, the game system 1 can obtain accurate physical information based on the fitness motion actually performed by the player. Note that the method of setting the athletic ability information is arbitrary. For example, in another embodiment, the game system 1 may ask the player a question for estimating athletic ability (for example, asking about age) and set the athletic ability information based on the player's answer to the question.

In this embodiment, the game system 1 calculates the effect amount (i.e., the amount of damage or the amount of recovery) of the action of the player character 401 associated with the fitness movement based on the athletic ability information. The game system 1 calculates the effect amount so that the effect amount decreases as the numerical value indicated by the athletic ability information increases. Note that the specific method for changing the effect amount according to the athletic ability information is arbitrary. For example, the game system 1 may change the basic effect value according to the athletic ability information, or may change the evaluation method of the fitness movement according to the athletic ability information (specifically, the higher the numerical value indicated by the athletic ability information, the more difficult it may be to obtain a good evaluation). Furthermore, the game system 1 may calculate the final evaluation point by multiplying the evaluation point calculated by the evaluation method described above in "[2-3. Game processing based on fitness movements]" by a coefficient according to the athletic ability information.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 reduces the stamina value of the enemy character based on the motion data acquired during the fitness event and the physical information (specifically, athletic ability information). This allows the game system 1 to adjust the game result according to the player's physical ability. For example, even a player with low athletic ability can easily progress through the game, so that by continuously playing the game, the player can be motivated to continuously perform fitness movements.

In another embodiment, the game system 1 may vary the amount of fitness movements that the player performs during the fitness event (specifically, the number of unit movements) based on the athletic ability information. This allows the player to perform fitness movements with a load that matches his or her own physical ability.

(Operational standard value)
In addition, in this embodiment, the game system 1 sets a motion reference value as physical information. In this embodiment, the motion reference value includes a pushing reference value and a bending reference value. The pushing reference value is a value used to evaluate a pushing motion on the ring-type expansion device 5 in a battle event. The bending reference value is a value used to evaluate a motion of bending the knees, such as a squat, in a battle event.

The process of setting the above-mentioned performance standard values is executed before the start of a battle event. For example, the process of setting the performance standard values is executed at the start of the game after the game program is launched.

In the process of setting the operation reference value, the game system 1 has the player push the ring-type expansion device 5. For example, the game system 1 displays a message on the display device saying "Please push the ring" to prompt the player to push the ring-type expansion device 5. In response, the player pushes the grip covers 203 and 204 of the ring-type expansion device 5 with both hands. When the above operation is performed, the game system 1 calculates the amount of deformation of the ring-type expansion device 5. The game system 1 sets the push-in reference value based on the calculated amount of deformation. For example, the push-in reference value may be set to the maximum amount of deformation during the above operation, or may be set to a value obtained by multiplying the maximum amount by a predetermined coefficient (for example, 0.8).

In addition, in the process of setting the movement reference value, the game system 1 has the player bend his knees. For example, the game system 1 displays a message on the display device saying "Please bend your knees" to prompt the player to bend his knees. In response, the player bends both knees as in a squat. When the above movement is performed, the game system 1 calculates the tilt of the left controller 3. The game system 1 sets the bending reference value based on the calculated tilt. For example, the bending reference value may be set to the maximum value of the tilt during the above movement, or may be set to a value obtained by multiplying the maximum value by a predetermined coefficient (for example, 0.8).

In a combat event, the game system 1 uses the push-in reference value, for example, in the following process. First, when the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 is performed as a predetermined exercise in the fitness action belonging to the above-mentioned repetitive action group, the game system 1 uses the push-in reference value in the process of calculating the evaluation score for the fitness action. That is, the game system 1 determines whether the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 has been performed based on whether the deformation amount of the ring-type expansion device 5 has become equal to or greater than the push-in reference value. The game system 1 also uses the push-in reference value in the process of calculating the evaluation score for the fitness action belonging to the above-mentioned keep action group. That is, the game system 1 uses the push-in reference value as an ideal value to be used when calculating the above-mentioned evaluation coefficient.

In addition, in a battle event, the game system 1 uses the bending reference value, for example, in the following process. First, when a knee bending motion is performed as a predetermined exercise in the fitness motion belonging to the above-mentioned repetitive motion group, the game system 1 uses the bending reference value in the process of calculating the evaluation score for the fitness motion. That is, the game system 1 determines whether or not a knee bending motion has been performed based on whether or not the tilt of the left controller 3 has reached or exceeded the bending reference value. The game system 1 also uses the bending reference value in the process of calculating the evaluation score for the fitness motion belonging to the above-mentioned keep motion group. That is, the game system 1 uses the bending reference value as an ideal value to be used when calculating the above-mentioned evaluation coefficient.

According to the above, for example, when the player's muscle strength is weak, the pushing reference value is set to a small value, and the bending reference value is set to a value in a state where the knees are not bent very much. Therefore, in a battle event, the game system 1 determines that the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 has been performed in response to the player slightly deforming the ring-type expansion device 5, and determines that the action of bending the knees has been performed in response to the player slightly bending the knees. On the other hand, when the player's muscle strength is strong, the pushing reference value is set to a large value, and the bending reference value is set to a value in a state where the knees are deeply bent. Therefore, in a battle event, the game system 1 determines that the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 has been performed in response to the player significantly deforming the ring-type expansion device 5, and determines that the action of bending the knees has been performed in response to the player deeply bending the knees. Thus, according to this embodiment, the game system 1 can appropriately determine and evaluate the action of pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 and the action of bending the knees in response to the player's strength.

As described above, in this embodiment, the game system 1 calculates an evaluation result of the fitness movements performed by the player during the fitness event based on the movement data acquired during the fitness event and physical information (i.e., the movement reference value). The game system 1 also determines whether the achievement conditions for the battle event have been met based on a game result that is based on the evaluation result. This allows the game system 1 to accurately evaluate the fitness movements by taking into account the physical ability of the player.

In another embodiment, the game system 1 may change the load (specifically, the number of unit movements) of the fitness movement that the player is made to perform during the battle event in accordance with the physical information (specifically, the movement reference value). This allows the player to perform the fitness movement with a load that takes into account his or her own physical ability. As an example of changing the load, the game system 1 may change the threshold value for determining that a fitness movement has been performed. For example, when the fitness movement is a movement to push the ring-type expansion device 5, the game system 1 may change the threshold value related to the amount of pushing in for determining that a fitness movement has been performed. Also, for example, when a squat is performed as the fitness movement, the game system 1 may change the threshold value related to the angle of bending the knees for determining that a fitness movement has been performed. By changing these threshold values, the load of the fitness movement that the player is made to perform can also be changed.

[3. Specific examples of information processing in game systems]
Next, a specific example of information processing in the game system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[3-1. Data used in information processing]
Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of various data used for information processing in the game system 1. The various information shown in Fig. 21 is stored in a storage medium accessible by the main unit 2 (e.g., the flash memory 84, the DRAM 85, and/or a memory card inserted in the slot 23, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 21, the game system 1 stores a game program. The game program is a game program for executing a game application in this embodiment, and is stored, for example, in the flash memory 84 and/or a memory card inserted in the slot 23.

As shown in FIG. 21, the game system 1 stores fitness action content data. The fitness action content data may be stored in a storage medium together with the game program. The fitness action content data indicates information indicating the content of the fitness action for each fitness action. For example, for fitness actions belonging to the keep action group, the fitness action content data includes data indicating a threshold value (for example, a threshold value related to the tilt of the controller) for determining that the player has taken the above-mentioned start position and keep position, and a time for maintaining the keep position. For example, for fitness actions belonging to the repetitive action group, the fitness action content data includes data indicating a threshold value for determining that the player has performed a predetermined exercise performed repeatedly, and a number of times the exercise is performed repeatedly. For example, for fitness actions belonging to the pause action group, the fitness action content data includes data indicating a threshold value for determining that the player has taken the above-mentioned first position and second position. The fitness action content data also includes data indicating the number of unit actions for each fitness action. In this embodiment, the fitness movement content data includes data indicating three types of unit movement counts for one fitness movement according to the content indicated by the exercise intensity information (i.e., "light," "normal," and "hard"). The fitness movement content data also includes data indicating the "body part corresponding to the fitness movement" associated with each fitness movement.

Furthermore, the fitness action content data includes data indicating, for each fitness action, information indicating the action content of the player character 401 associated with the fitness action (including the above-mentioned basic effect value).

As shown in FIG. 21, the game system 1 includes physical information data, player parameter data, player character data, and enemy character data. These data are generated and used in the information processing executed by the game program (see FIGS. 22 to 25). In addition to the data shown in FIG. 21, the storage medium stores various types of data used in the information processing executed by the game program.

The physical information data indicates the above-mentioned physical information. In this embodiment, the physical information includes the above-mentioned exercise intensity information and push-in reference value. The player parameter data indicates the above-mentioned player parameters. The player character data indicates various parameters related to the player character 401 (specifically, parameters such as stamina). The enemy character data indicates various parameters related to enemy characters (specifically, parameters such as stamina) for each enemy character.

[3-2. Processing Executed in the Game System]
22 to 25 are flowcharts showing an example of information processing executed by the game system 1. The series of processing shown in Fig. 22 to 25 is started in response to, for example, an instruction to start a game being given by a player after execution of the game program is started.

In this embodiment, the processor 81 of the main unit 2 executes the game program stored in the game system 1 to execute the processing of each step shown in FIG. 22 to FIG. 25. However, in other embodiments, some of the processing of each step may be executed by a processor (e.g., a dedicated circuit, etc.) other than the processor 81. In addition, if the game system 1 can communicate with another information processing device (e.g., a server), some of the processing of each step shown in FIG. 22 to FIG. 25 may be executed in the other information processing device. For example, if the game system 1 can communicate with the server, some of the game processing (e.g., the game control processing in step S12 described later) may be executed by the server. In addition, for example, some of the processing of determining the player's action based on the action data may be executed by the controller that transmits the action data. In addition, the processing of each step shown in FIG. 22 to FIG. 25 is merely an example, and the processing order of each step may be changed as long as the same result is obtained, and other processing may be executed in addition to (or instead of) the processing of each step.

The processor 81 also executes the processing of each step shown in Figures 22 to 25 using a memory (e.g., DRAM 85). That is, the processor 81 stores information (in other words, data) obtained by each processing step in memory, and when using the information in a subsequent processing step, reads the information from the memory and uses it.

In step S11 shown in FIG. 22, the processor 81 sets physical information. Specifically, the processor 81 specifies exercise intensity information and a pressure reference value as physical information using the method described in "[2-5. Setting Physical Information]", and stores physical information data indicating the specified physical information in memory. The processor 81 also references the fitness movement content data stored in memory, and specifies the unit number of exercises for each fitness movement based on the set exercise intensity information. Following step S11, the process of step S12 is executed. From step S12 onwards, the game starts.

In step S12, the processor 81 executes a game control process. As the game control process, the processor 81 accepts instructions from the player, executes game processing based on the instructions, and displays a game image showing the result of the game processing on the display device. As the game control process, the processor 81 executes, for example, a process of moving the player character 401 on a game map based on instructions from the player. Furthermore, if the player character 401 wins a predetermined battle event, the processor 81 executes a process of progressing the game as the game control process. The game control process is temporarily interrupted at an appropriate timing, and the process of step S13 is executed.

In step S13, the processor 81 determines whether or not to start a battle event. For example, in the above game control process, if the player character 401 encounters an enemy character on the game map, the processor 81 determines that a battle event is to start. On the other hand, if the player character 401 does not encounter an enemy character on the game map, the processor 81 determines that a battle event is not to start. If the determination result in step S13 is positive, the process of step S14 is executed. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S13 is negative, the process of step S16, which will be described later, is executed.

In step S14, the processor 81 executes a battle event process, which is a game process for executing a battle event. Details of the battle event process are described below with reference to Figures 23 to 25.

Figure 23 is a sub-flowchart showing an example of the detailed flow of the battle event processing in step S14 shown in Figure 22. In the battle event processing, first, a series of steps S20 to S26 are executed as game processing in the attack turn.

In step S20, processor 81 executes the above-mentioned selection event. That is, processor 81 displays a selection image (see FIG. 15) on the display device, accepts a switching instruction and a selection instruction from the player, and specifies the fitness action selected by the player. Following step S20, the process of step S21 is executed.

In step S21, the processor 81 executes the preparatory event described above. In the preparatory event, the processor 81 displays a preparatory action image (see FIG. 16) on the display device and acquires action data. In this embodiment, the processor 81 acquires each operation data from each of the controllers 3 and 4. Specifically, the processor 81 acquires right controller operation data, left controller operation data, and ring operation data, each of which includes action data.

In addition, in the preparation event, processor 81 determines whether or not the player has taken a posture at the start of the fitness movement based on the movement data. As described above, in this embodiment, this determination is made based on whether or not the player has taken a checked posture. Note that when making the above determination, processor 81 refers to fitness movement content data stored in memory as necessary. If it is determined that the player has taken a posture at the start of the fitness movement, processor 81 ends the processing of step S21 and executes the processing of step S22.

In step S22, the processor 81 executes an attacking fitness event process. The attacking fitness event process is a process for executing a fitness event in an attacking turn. Details of the attacking fitness event process are described below with reference to FIG. 24.

Figure 24 is a sub-flowchart showing an example of a detailed flow of the attack fitness event processing of step S22 shown in Figure 23. In the attack fitness event processing, first, in step S41, the processor 81 acquires motion data in a manner similar to that of step S21 described above. Following step S41, the processing of step S42 is executed.

In step S42, the processor 81 determines the player's movement based on the movement data acquired in step S41. For example, the processor 81 determines how much the player is pushing the ring-type expansion device 5 and/or how much the player is bending his/her legs. In the processing of step S42 and step S44 described later, the processor 81 refers to fitness movement content data and physical information data stored in memory as necessary. Following step S42, the processing of step S43 is executed.

In step S43, the processor 81 displays a game image (see FIG. 17) for the fitness event on the display device. At this time, the processor 81 moves the player character 401 in accordance with the player's action determined in step S42, and displays an image showing the game space including the player character 401. The processor 81 also displays the above-mentioned model action image 433, action count image 434, remaining count image 435, and calorie consumption image 436. Following step S43, the process of step S44 is executed.

In step S44, processor 81 determines whether or not one fitness action by the player has been completed. This determination can be made based on the player's action determined in step S42. If the determination result in step S44 is negative, the process of step S41 is executed again. Thereafter, the series of processes from steps S41 to S43 are repeatedly executed until the determination result in step S44 becomes positive. Note that in this embodiment, the series of processes from steps S41 to S43 are executed once per predetermined time (e.g., one frame time). On the other hand, if the determination result in step S44 is positive, processor 81 ends the attack fitness event process shown in FIG. 24.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 23, in step S23, which follows step S22, processor 81 evaluates the fitness movements performed by the player in the fitness event in step S22. Specifically, processor 81 calculates the fitness movement evaluation results (specifically, evaluation points) according to the method described above in "[2-3. Game processing based on fitness movements]". Following step S23, the process of step S24 is executed.

In step S24, processor 81 executes the attack event described above. In the attack event, processor 81 calculates the amount of damage inflicted on the enemy character by the attack made by player character 401, and displays on the display device an image (see FIG. 18) showing the enemy character receiving damage. The amount of damage is calculated according to the method described above in "[2-3. Game processing based on fitness movements]". At this time, processor 81 reduces the vitality of the attacked enemy character in accordance with the amount of damage, and updates the enemy character data stored in memory to indicate the reduced vitality. Following step S24, the process of step S25 is executed.

In step S25, the processor 81 refers to the enemy character data stored in memory and determines whether or not all enemy characters appearing in the battle event have been defeated. If the determination result in step S25 is positive, the processor 81 ends the battle event processing shown in FIG. 23. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S25 is negative, the processing of step S26 is executed.

In step S26, processor 81 determines whether or not a fitness event has been performed a unit number of times in the current attack turn. The unit number of times used in this determination is the unit number of times identified in step S11 above. If the determination result in step S26 is negative, processor 81 executes the process of step S22 again. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S26 is positive, the process of step S27 is executed. After the game process in the attack turn is executed by the series of processes in steps S20 to S26 above, the game process in the defense turn is executed by the series of processes in steps S27 to S29.

In step S27, the processor 81 executes a defense fitness event process. The defense fitness event process is a process for executing a fitness event during a defense turn. Details of the defense fitness event process are described below with reference to FIG. 25.

Figure 25 is a sub-flowchart showing an example of a detailed flow of the defense fitness event processing of step S27 shown in Figure 23. In the defense fitness event processing, first, in step S51, processor 81 acquires movement data. Next, in step S52, processor 81 determines the player's movement. Furthermore, in step S53, processor 81 displays a game image (see Figure 19) in the fitness event on the display device. The series of processes from steps S51 to S53 are executed in the same manner as the series of processes from S41 to S43 described above. Following step S53, the process of step S54 is executed.

In step S54, processor 81 determines whether or not one fitness movement by the player has been completed. This determination can be made based on the player's movement determined in step S52. If the determination result in step S54 is negative, the process of step S51 is executed again. Thereafter, the series of processes from step S51 to S54 is repeatedly executed until the determination result in step S54 becomes positive. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S54 is positive, processor 81 ends the defense fitness event process shown in FIG. 25.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 23, in step S28 following step S27, processor 81 evaluates the fitness action performed by the player in the fitness event in the defense fitness event processing of step S27. The processing of step S28 is executed in the same manner as the processing of S23 described above. Following step S28, the processing of step S29 is executed.

In step S29, processor 81 executes a defense event. In the defense event, processor 81 calculates the amount of damage inflicted on player character 401 by an attack on player character 401 by an enemy character, and displays on the display device an image (see FIG. 20) showing the player character 401 receiving damage. The amount of damage is calculated according to the method described above in "[2-3. Game processing based on fitness movements]". At this time, processor 81 reduces the vitality of player character 401 in accordance with the amount of damage, and updates the player character data stored in memory to indicate the reduced vitality. Following step S29, the process of step S30 is executed.

In step S30, the processor 81 refers to the player character data stored in memory to determine whether or not the player character has been defeated. If the determination result in step S30 is positive, the processor 81 ends the battle event processing shown in FIG. 23. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S30 is negative, the processing of step S31 is executed.

In step S31, the processor 81 determines whether or not a fitness event has been performed a unit number of times in the current defense turn. The unit number of times used in this determination is the unit number of times identified in step S11 above. If the determination result in step S31 is negative, the processor 81 executes the process of step S27 above again. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S31 is positive, the process of step S20 above is executed again. In other words, the defense turn ends and an attack turn is performed again. This concludes the explanation of the battle event processing in step S14.

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 22, in step S15, which follows step S14, the processor 81 increases the player parameters under certain conditions. The conditions for updating the player parameters are arbitrary. As described above, the player parameters may be increased on the condition that the player character 401 defeats an enemy character in a battle event, or on the condition that the game story has progressed (for example, the player character 401 has progressed to a new game stage). If the player parameters are increased in the processing of step S15, the processor 81 updates the player parameter data stored in memory to indicate the increased values. Following step S15, the processing of step S16 is executed.

In step S16, processor 81 determines whether or not to end the game. For example, processor 81 determines whether or not an instruction to end the game has been given by the user. If the determination result in step S16 is negative, the process of step S12 is executed again. Thereafter, the series of processes from steps S11 to S16 is repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S16 that the game is to be ended. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S16 is positive, processor 81 ends information processing in the game application.

[4. Effects and Modifications of the Above-described Embodiments]
In the above embodiment, the information processing program (specifically, a game program) executed by a computer (specifically, the processor 81) of the information processing device (specifically, the main unit 2) causes the computer to function as the following means.
Acquiring means for acquiring motion data based on outputs of sensors (specifically, strain gauges, acceleration sensors, and/or angular velocity sensors) corresponding to fitness motions performed by a player (steps S31, S41).
A game event execution means for executing a game event (specifically, a battle event) for which an achievement condition is set (step S14).
The game event execution means includes the following means.
A motion designation means for designating at least one type of fitness event from among a plurality of types of fitness events, which fitness event causes the player to perform a fitness motion (step S20).
A first fitness event execution means for executing a first fitness event (specifically, a combat event in an attack turn) that causes the player to perform a fitness action corresponding to a designated fitness event during a game event until an end condition is satisfied (step S22).
An achievement determination means for determining whether or not an achievement condition has been met based on the motion data acquired during the first fitness event (step S25).
Moreover, the game event executing means repeats the designation and execution of the first fitness event until it is determined that the achievement condition is satisfied (see FIG. 23).

Based on the above, it is possible to have the player perform fitness movements during a game event with the goal of completing the game event. This makes it possible to have the player perform fitness movements with the goal of completing the game event, thereby providing the player with motivation to perform fitness movements.

In the above embodiment, the game event was a combat event in which a battle was conducted with an enemy character, but it may be any game event. In other embodiments, the game event may be, for example, a game event in which a player character performs a predetermined task.

The achievement condition set for a game event is the condition for determining that the player has achieved the game event (or succeeded in the game event). In the above embodiment, the achievement condition was winning the battle. In other words, the game system 1 determined whether or not a condition related to the stamina value of the enemy character was satisfied as the achievement condition. This allows the player to perform fitness movements toward the game goal of defeating the enemy character, thereby providing the player with motivation to perform fitness movements.

The achievement condition may be any condition determined based on the motion data acquired during the fitness event. For example, in another embodiment, in a case where a game event is executed in which a player character acquires items in response to fitness motions performed by the player, the achievement condition may be that the player character acquires a predetermined number of items. By setting a condition related to the game as the achievement condition, the player can perform fitness motions in a game-like manner. The achievement condition is not limited to a condition related to the game, and may be, for example, that a fitness event is executed a predetermined number of times during a game event. Note that "determined based on motion data" means both a mode in which a determination is made directly using motion data (for example, a mode in which a determination is made as to whether or not the motion data satisfies a condition) and a mode in which a determination is made indirectly using motion data (for example, a mode in which a determination is made as to whether or not a game result calculated using motion data satisfies a condition).

In the above embodiment, it can be said that the information processing program (specifically, the game program) executed by the computer (specifically, the processor 81) of the information processing device (specifically, the main unit device 2) causes the computer to function as the following means.
Acquiring means for acquiring motion data based on sensor output (specifically, output from a strain gauge, an acceleration sensor, and/or an angular velocity sensor) corresponding to fitness motions performed by a player (steps S31, S41).
A game processing means for executing a battle event in which a player fights an enemy character and for progressing through the game in accordance with the achievement of the battle event (steps S12 to S16).
The game event execution means includes the following means.
A fitness event execution means for executing a fitness event that causes the player to perform a fitness movement during the battle event (step S22).
A vitality value updating means for decreasing the vitality value of an enemy character when the motion data acquired during the fitness event satisfies a condition corresponding to the fitness event (for example, when it is determined based on the motion data that a fitness motion has been performed by the player) (step S24).
When the vitality value of the enemy character satisfies a predetermined condition (specifically, when the vitality value becomes 0), the game processing means determines that a battle event has been accomplished and allows the game to proceed (step S25).
In addition, the above-mentioned enemy character's vitality value may be a value indicated by data used as the enemy character's parameter in information processing executed during the game, or it may be a value indicated by information explicitly or implicitly presented to the player in the game as indicating the enemy character's vitality value (for example, the length of a gauge indicating the vitality value).

As described above, in the above embodiment, fitness movements, which are movements different from attacks, are used as instructions for attacking in the game. Note that there are conventional games in which the player character performs a sword attack in response to the player swinging the controller like a sword, and games in which the player character performs a punch attack in response to the player moving the controller as if punching. In such conventional games, the player in the real world performs movements that are the same as or similar to the attack movements performed by the player character in the game as attack instructions, whereas the above embodiment differs from conventional games in that the player performs fitness movements, which are different from the attack movements in the game, as attack instructions, and is something that cannot be imagined from conventional games.

In addition, according to the above embodiment, by using fitness movements as instructions for attacking in the game, the player's motivation to "defeat enemy characters and progress through the game" becomes the player's motivation to perform fitness movements. This makes it possible to motivate the player to perform fitness movements in the game.

In the above embodiment, the game system 1 reduces the stamina value corresponding to the player according to the fitness movements performed by the player during the fitness event (step S46). When the stamina value corresponding to the player satisfies a predetermined condition, the game system 1 determines that the player has been defeated in the battle event and ends the battle event (step S28). This allows the player to perform fitness movements while creating a sense of tension that cannot be obtained by simply performing fitness movements. Therefore, according to the above embodiment, the interest of the game in which fitness movements are performed can be increased, and the player will perform fitness movements with greater effort, thereby more effectively obtaining the exercise effect of the fitness movements.

The above "stamina value corresponding to the player" may be the stamina value of the player character, or may be a stamina value associated with the player. In this embodiment, the player character appears in the game, but in other embodiments, the player character does not have to appear in the game. If the player character does not appear in the game, the player's stamina value may be set in the game, and in a battle event, the player's stamina value may change in response to an attack by an enemy character.

(Variations regarding fitness events)
In the above embodiment, the attack event, which is a game event in which a game result based on the fitness movements performed in the fitness event is displayed, is executed after the fitness event ends. As a result, the game result based on the fitness movements is not displayed during the fitness movements, so the player can perform the fitness movements without worrying about the game result. Therefore, the above embodiment makes it easier for the player to concentrate on the fitness movements.

In contrast, in other embodiments, the fitness event and the attack event do not need to be executed at separate times, and the game system 1 may execute the attack event in the middle of a fitness event. For example, the game system 1 may control the player character 401 so that the player character 401 performs an attack action against an enemy character in the middle of a fitness action performed by the player.

During the fitness event, the game system 1 acquires the above-mentioned motion data and determines the fitness motions performed by the player based on the motion data. In other words, the period during which the game system 1 determines the fitness motions performed by the player can be said to be the period of the fitness event (even if a game event such as an attack event is performed during that period).

In addition, in the above embodiment, the player was able to start fitness movements at any timing during the fitness event. In other words, the game system 1 waited until the player performed fitness movements during the fitness event, and ended the fitness event when the player completed the fitness movements. This allows the player to start and end fitness movements at their own pace, making it easier for the player to perform fitness movements.

In contrast to this, in other embodiments, the game system 1 may have the player perform fitness movements at timings determined in the game. For example, in a defense turn during a battle event, the game system 1 may have the enemy character start an attacking movement at a timing independent of the player's fitness movements, and have the player start a fitness movement at a timing corresponding to the attacking movement. For example, the game system 1 may start a fitness event at a timing corresponding to the attacking movement, and end the fitness event (e.g., end the process of determining the fitness movement) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the fitness event.

The above embodiment can be used, for example, in a game program or game system, for the purpose of motivating a player to perform fitness movements.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Game system 2 Main unit 3 Left controller 4 Right controller 5 Ring-type expansion device 6 Belt-type expansion device 81 Processor 401 Player character 403 to 405 Enemy characters

Claims (16)

A game program for causing a computer to execute a game process,
The game program causes the computer to
an acquisition means for acquiring motion data based on an output of a sensor corresponding to a fitness motion , different from an attacking motion, performed by a player;
a first parameter update means for updating a first parameter associated with a player and/or associated with a player character corresponding to the player;
a second parameter update means for updating a second parameter, which is associated with an enemy character and causes the enemy character to be defeated when the second parameter reaches a predetermined value, based on the action data, toward the predetermined value;
and make it work.
the second parameter update means updates the second parameter so as to come closer to the predetermined value as the first parameter becomes larger;
the first parameter update means increases the first parameter based on the defeat of the enemy character;
Game program. The game program causes the computer to
The fitness motion is further evaluated by the evaluation means.
The second parameter update means determines an amount by which the second parameter is updated based on a result of the evaluation by the evaluation means.
The game program according to claim 1 . the fitness movement is performed a plurality of times by the player, and the second parameter update means updates the second parameter each time the fitness movement is performed based on the movement data corresponding to the fitness movement.
3. The game program according to claim 1. The game program causes the computer to
a function as a designation means for designating a type of fitness movement to be performed by the player based on an instruction from the player;
the acquiring means acquires the motion data after the fitness motion to be performed by the player is designated;
The second parameter update means determines an amount by which the second parameter is updated based on the type of the specified fitness motion .
The game program according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the designation means, when the second parameter of the enemy character has not reached the predetermined value after an end condition set for the designated fitness action is satisfied, designates a type of fitness action to be performed next by the player based on an instruction from the player;
The game program according to claim 4. the designation means restricts designation of the fitness motion of the type designated a predetermined number of times until a condition for enabling re-designation of the fitness motion of the type is satisfied.
The game program according to claim 5. The first parameter is a parameter indicating a level.
The game program according to claim 1 . the first parameter update means increases an experience value associated with the player and/or the player character in response to the enemy character being defeated, and increases the level in response to the increase in the experience value;
The game program according to claim 7. the second parameter is a parameter indicating a vitality of the enemy character,
The predetermined value is 0.
The game program according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The fitness movements include at least one of squats, leg raises, push-ups, sit-ups, stretching, and yoga.
The game program according to any one of claims 1 to 9. A game processing method executed by an information processing system, comprising:
The information processing system includes:
an acquisition step of acquiring motion data based on an output of a sensor corresponding to a fitness motion different from an attacking motion by a player;
a first parameter updating step of updating a first parameter associated with the player and/or associated with a player character corresponding to the player;
a second parameter updating step of updating a second parameter, which is associated with an enemy character and causes the enemy character to be defeated when the second parameter reaches a predetermined value, based on the action data, toward the predetermined value;
Run
In the second parameter updating step, the second parameter is updated so as to come closer to the predetermined value as the first parameter is larger;
In the first parameter updating step, the first parameter is increased based on the defeat of the enemy character.
Game processing method. The information processing system includes:
further performing an evaluation step of evaluating the fitness performance;
In the second parameter updating step, an amount by which the second parameter is updated is determined based on an evaluation result in the evaluation step .
The game processing method according to claim 11. The fitness movements include at least one of squats, leg raises, push-ups, sit-ups, stretching, and yoga.
The game processing method according to claim 11 or 12. An information processing system for executing game processing,
an acquisition means for acquiring motion data based on an output of a sensor corresponding to a fitness motion , different from an attacking motion, performed by a player;
a first parameter update means for updating a first parameter associated with a player and/or associated with a player character corresponding to the player;
a second parameter update means for updating a second parameter, which is associated with an enemy character and causes the enemy character to be defeated when the second parameter reaches a predetermined value, based on the action data, toward the predetermined value;
Equipped with
the second parameter update means updates the second parameter so as to come closer to the predetermined value as the first parameter becomes larger;
the first parameter update means increases the first parameter based on the defeat of the enemy character;
Information processing system. further comprising an evaluation means for evaluating the fitness motion;
The second parameter update means determines an amount by which the second parameter is updated based on a result of the evaluation by the evaluation means.
15. The information processing system according to claim 14. The fitness movements include at least one of squats, leg raises, push-ups, sit-ups, stretching, and yoga.
16. An information processing system according to claim 14 or 15.

Images