JP7631074B2 - Game system and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game system and a program.

In recent years, timing input games have become known as a type of game genre in which input operations are performed in time with the rhythm of music that is output as sound.

In these types of timing input games, in addition to pure music games in which the player performs operational inputs based on music data, games in which the game progresses based on the accuracy of presented operational inputs, including the timing of the operational inputs, are also known.

In particular, recent games in which the game progresses based on the accuracy of such operational inputs include those in which the game progresses in a session-like manner, with multiple players playing cooperatively (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

Patent No. 4219526 Special Publication No. 2010-531159

However, in the game described in Patent Document 1 above or the game system that provides it, the game is basically played by multiple players working together, and the interest lies in the cooperative play itself. In games that evaluate operational input, such as music games, the interest lies in the game progress by multiple players, and the appearance of attractive games is anticipated.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a game system etc. that can increase the entertainment value of a game by incorporating new game specifications related to multiple play in a game based on the timing of operation inputs, such as a rhythmic music game in which multiple players participate in the game together.

(1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides
A game system for controlling a given game in which operation inputs input by a plurality of players are evaluated, comprising:
an allocation control means for executing a process of allocating to each player either a first part or a second part which is different from the first part and configured in parallel with the first part, and an allocation part change process for changing the part allocated to the player to another part at a given change timing during execution of the game;
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from each of the players;
an operation timing instruction control means for executing, for each of the parts, an operation timing instruction control process for instructing an input of an operation timing of a player to which the corresponding part is assigned;
an evaluation processing means for executing, for each of the players, an individual evaluation process for evaluating an operation input result of each of the players based on an operation input timing at which the operation input of the player based on the operation timing instruction control process is accepted;
a game evaluation index determination means for executing a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a result of the game, based on the operation input results in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process;
(a1) a first correction process for correcting an operation input result in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, based on the operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; or (b1) a second correction process for correcting an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process, based on the operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The game evaluation index determination means comprises:
The game evaluation index determination process determines the evaluation index based on a correction process, which is either the first correction process or the second correction process.

With this configuration, the present invention allows, for example, in a game such as a rhythmic music game that is played by multiple players (i.e., a session), to have each player play a special part such as a solo part in rotation as the first part, while still allowing other players to enjoy the game such as the rhythmic music game at the same time that each first part is played.

In particular, the present invention evaluates the entire game based on the game results of the first part of each player, but by allowing the operation input results of the second part to affect the game results, it is possible to not only have multiple players participate in a musical performance (have them play in a session) in a music game, but also to have the game results of all parts reflected in the evaluation of the game as a whole.

The present invention can therefore be used as a multi-player session-style music game with a main part while still maintaining the interest of the game.

As a result, the present invention can provide new game specifications for multiple play in games that are based on the timing of operational inputs, such as music games, thereby making the game more interesting for players.

Note that the "given game" is preferably a game in which the player performs operations in time with sounds and rhythms, such as a music game (a so-called rhythm game), and the accuracy of the timing of the player's operation input is evaluated. However, the present invention is not limited to these games, and can be applied to any game that evaluates the timing of a player's operations.

"Multiple parts executed in parallel" refers to multiple parts that are executed in parallel in time series (i.e., simultaneously), such as multiple parts that proceed simultaneously at the same timing or during the same period, and refers to multiple parts with different operation input contents such as difficulty levels (e.g., different number of operation inputs) (e.g., the difficulty level of the first part is higher than that of the second part), multiple parts with different operation input timing, or multiple parts that differ in both of these ways. However, the game of the present invention may, for example, have a period during which multiple players all play the same game.

Furthermore, a "given change timing" refers to a timing during game execution (in the case of a music game, during playback of music data), and in the case of a music game, for example, refers to a timing of a measure division, or a division determined in the course of the game, such as an A-melody, B-melody, or chorus.

In particular, a "given change timing" may occur only once during a game, or it may occur multiple times.

Furthermore, the "operation timing instruction control process" includes, for example, controlling the display of objects to indicate the player's operation input and the operation content.

In addition to the above, "operation input result" indicates, for example, the accuracy of the input timing based on the operation input content of the specified player, and whether or not the operation content matches.

The "evaluation index that determines the game result" is an index that is output as the game result, and includes, for example, a score such as points, a ranking determined by comparing with the game results of other players (including other teams), or the level or rank of a player (including a team) for the game.

The "first correction process" refers to correcting the results of each operation input by the player performing the first part, or the entire result, in a direction that is favorable or unfavorable to the player, based on, for example, the accuracy of the input timing of each operation input by the player performing the second part and whether or not the operation content matches.

Furthermore, the "second correction process" refers to correcting the evaluation index as a game result in a direction that is favorable or unfavorable to the entire player (i.e., a team that executes a session, etc., consisting of multiple players) based on, for example, the accuracy of the input timing of each operation input by the player performing the second part and whether or not the operation content matches.

In particular, "a direction advantageous to the player" or "a direction disadvantageous to the player" refers to, for example, adding or subtracting points to a score when the evaluation index for each operation input result or determining the game result is a score, or changing the rank to a higher or lower rank when the evaluation index for each operation input result or determining the game result is an evaluation value indicating a rank.

(2) The present invention also provides
a first game control means for controlling the first game based on a result of an operation input by the player input in accordance with an operation timing instruction in an operation timing instruction control process for the first part, the first game control means being a game control process for the first part;
a second game control means for controlling a second game different from the first game, based on a result of an operation input by the player input in accordance with an operation timing instruction in an operation timing instruction control process for the second part, the second game control means being a game control process for the second part;
The present invention has a configuration further comprising:

With this configuration, the present invention can rotate a first game as the first part of the game to entertain multiple players, while also allowing a game different from the first part of the game to be played as the second part other than the first part, so that the second part of the game other than the first part can also be offered to players as a different game.

Therefore, the present invention can provide each player with an enjoyable game experience in games based on the timing of operational inputs, such as rhythmic music games in which multiple players participate together.

In addition, the "second game different from the first game" refers to a game that is executed using the same game elements, such as the same music,
(A1) Games in which the timing of operation input instructions is different, such as only the timing of operation instructions;
(A2) Games with different operations, such as different musical notes,
(A3) Games that have different input methods in the first place
(A4) A game in which the evaluation method based on the operation input result is different, or
(A5) A game that combines two or more of (A1) to (A4);
Shows.

(3) The present invention also provides
a first determination processing means for executing a first part determination process for determining whether or not an operation input result in each first part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given first condition,
The operation timing instruction control means
The content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the second part is changed based on a determination result of the first part determination process.

With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the first part in the game of the second part, creating a sense of unity between the player performing the first part and the player performing the second part, and increasing the interest of the game as a multi-player game.

The "given first condition" refers to a condition related to the accuracy of the input timing of the operation input by the player performing the first part and whether or not the operation content matches, and refers to a condition related to, for example, the number of successes (the number of successes for each degree of timing matching) or failures of the specified operation input, or the number of consecutive successes (the so-called combo number).

In addition, "changing the content of the operation timing instructions based on the determination result of the first part determination process" means changing the number, timing, or content of the operation timing input instructions based on the determination result of the first part determination process, and indicates that by changing these (such as increasing or decreasing the number of instructions, or instructions for performing consecutive operations), the difficulty of the operation input for the player performing the second part is changed.

(4) The present invention also provides
a first determination processing means for executing a first part determination process for determining whether or not an operation input result in each first part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given first condition,
The evaluation processing means
The first correction process is executed based on a determination result of the first part determination process.

With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the first part in the game of the second part, creating a sense of unity between the player performing the first part and the player performing the second part, and increasing the interest of the game as a multi-player game.

(5) The present invention also provides
a second judgment processing means for executing a second part judgment process for judging whether or not an operation input result in each second part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition,
The correction processing means
The correction content of the first correction process or the second correction process is changed based on a determination result of the second part determination process.

With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the second part in the game of the first part, so that even the player who is playing the second part can create a sense of unity in the gameplay (i.e., a sense of unity through the session), and the interest of the game as a multi-player game can be improved.

The "given second condition" refers to a condition related to the accuracy of the input timing of the operation input by the player performing the second part and whether or not the operation content matches, and refers to a condition related to, for example, the number of successes (the number of successes for each degree of timing matching) or failures of the specified operation input, or the number of consecutive successes (the so-called combo number).

(6) The present invention also provides
The correction processing means
The configuration is such that, when the operation input result of the second part executing player satisfies a given second condition, the correction content of the first correction process or the second correction process is changed to content that is advantageous to the player.

With this configuration, the present invention can improve the evaluation index (i.e., game result) in the game evaluation index determination process when the evaluation of the operation input result of the player performing the second part is good, for example, when the operation input timing is executed according to the operation instructions. Therefore, for example, mistakes of the player performing the first part can be recovered, or the player performing the first part can be supported by other players to improve the game result.

The present invention therefore creates a sense of unity among multiple players and increases the entertainment value of the game as a multi-player game.

Note that "correction contents that are advantageous to the player" refers to, for example, when a mistake is made in an operation input that improves the evaluation, such as a correction that cancels out a mistake when the player performing the first part makes a mistake in consecutive successful operation inputs, or when a mistake is made in an operation input that is important to the game, and the evaluation index drops due to the mistake in the operation input of the player performing the first part, and the correction contents are changed to suppress the decrease in evaluation use or to maintain the evaluation index.

(7) The present invention also provides
a second judgment processing means for executing a second part judgment process for judging whether or not an operation input result in each second part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition,
The operation timing instruction control means
The content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the first part is changed based on a determination result of the second part determination process.

With this configuration, the present invention can reflect the game situation of the second part in the game of the first part, creating a sense of unity among the players and increasing the interest of the game as a multi-player game.

In addition, "changing the content of the operation timing instructions based on the judgment results of the second part judgment process" means changing the number, timing, or content of the operation timing input instructions based on the judgment results of the second part judgment process, and indicates that by changing these (such as increasing or decreasing the number of instructions, or instructions for performing continuous operations), the difficulty of operation input for the player performing the first part is changed.

(8) The present invention also provides
The allocation control means:
The assigned part change process is configured to assign a player to perform the first part from the multiple players who have been assigned to the second part up until the change timing arrives, from among the multiple players who have been assigned to the second part up until the change timing.

With this configuration, the present invention allows the computer or a player, such as the first player, to determine the player who will next play the first part, so that the game can be played with multiple players rotating between the first and second parts.

Therefore, the present invention can create a sense of unity between the first and second parts and increase the entertainment value of the game as a multi-player game.

The "allocation part change process" is, for example,
(B1) By random selection or lottery (e.g., selection by roulette),
(B2) By the player currently performing the first part,
(B3) By the will of multiple players (consensus of all players, the will of a representative (including a candidate), etc.), or
(B4) Depending on the situation regarding the operation input result in the corresponding second part of each second part execution player (e.g., depending on the evaluation situation such as a high score or a large number of combos, or depending on the progress of the game in the case where the game for the second part is progressed by the operation input result),
This indicates that a player who will perform the first part starting from the next change timing is assigned.

In particular, when allocation is made by random or lottery as in (B1), certain rules may be established, such as not assigning the player currently performing the first part to the first part consecutively.

The "evaluation status" also includes, for example, each player's game history, such as past history and scores, and each player's performance up until the time of the change.

And when the decision is made by the player's will in (B3), it is preferable that the decision is made by an operational input in response to a specific operational instruction.

Furthermore, "after the timing of the change" includes, for example, not only the timing of the change but also any timing thereafter.

(9) The present invention also provides a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:
The allocation control means:
The assigned part change process is configured to assign one player from among a plurality of second part executing players who have been assigned to the second part up until the change timing to the first part from the change timing onward based on the situation regarding the operation input results in the corresponding second part of each second part executing player before the change timing arrives.

With this configuration, the present invention allows multiple players to play the game while rotating the first and second parts, creating a sense of unity between the player playing the first part and the player playing the second part, and increasing the interest of the game as a multi-player game.

The "status related to the operation input results in the corresponding second part for each second part executing player" includes, for example, the score determined based on the operation input results in the corresponding second part for the second part executing player, the evaluation status such as the number of combos, or the progress status of the game for the second part when the game is progressed based on the operation input results.

(10) The present invention also provides a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:
The configuration further includes an event control means that executes an activation control process for activating an advantageous or disadvantageous event for at least one of the first part execution player and the second part execution player based on an operation input result of at least one of the first part execution player and the second part execution player assigned to the second part executed in parallel with the first part executed by the first part execution player.

With this configuration, the present invention can increase the interest of the first part and the second part of the game for the first part execution player, the second part execution player, or both players, thereby increasing the interest of the game in each of the first and second parts.

Therefore, the present invention can improve each player's satisfaction with the game as a whole.

Note that "advantageous events" include, for example, events in which the main or sub-part effects, such as effects related to operation timing instruction control processing, are executed with more decorations than usual, with lively (showy) decorations, or with luxurious decorations, or events in which the object that performs the input instructions for operation timing is controlled by a rare gimmick.

In addition, "adverse events" include, for example, production events that prevent the display of an object that provides input instructions for the operation timing in the corresponding part, or events that delay the input instructions.

In particular, it is preferable that advantageous and disadvantageous events are triggered for the sub-part execution player.

(11) The present invention also provides a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:
A performance control means for controlling a performance effect in the first part and a performance effect in the second part;
a provision information management means for managing provision of game information regarding the game for executing the first part and the second part in parallel to the first part executing player and the second part executing player, the game information including performance effect information regarding the performance effect;
Equipped with
The provision information management means
A first part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information related to the first part to both the first part execution player and the second part execution player; and
a second part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information relating to the second part to at least the first part execution player;
The present invention has a configuration for performing the above steps.

With this configuration, the present invention can provide the player performing the first part with game images and sounds related to not only the first part, but also the second part.

The present invention therefore allows the first part player to grasp the overall situation of the game and experience the excitement of the game, thereby making the game more entertaining.

Note that "production effects" include game images such as images that instruct each player to input operation timing (such as musical notes in the case of rhythmic music games), and sounds that are output in accordance with the operation input timing (such as musical performance sounds in the case of rhythmic music games).

(12) The present invention also provides a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising the steps of:
The provision information management means
A process of providing each of the plurality of second part execution players with performance effect information related to the second part executed by that player, and prohibiting the provision of performance effect information related to the second part executed by other players different from the second part execution player, or
a process of prohibiting provision of performance effect information related to the second part to the second part execution player;
The second part performance information providing process is configured to execute any one of the processes above as the second part performance information providing process.

With this configuration, the present invention allows the second part player to concentrate on his/her own performance, for example in a music game, without being disturbed by the performance of other second part players.

(13) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides
A program for controlling a given game that evaluates operation inputs input by each of a plurality of players, comprising:
an allocation control means for executing a process of allocating to each player either a first part or a second part which is different from the first part and configured in parallel with the first part, and an assigned part change process for changing the part allocated to the player to another part at a given change timing during execution of the game;
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from each of the players;
an operation timing instruction control means for executing, for each of the parts, an operation timing instruction control process for instructing an input of an operation timing of a player to which the corresponding part is assigned;
an evaluation processing means for executing, for each of the players, an individual evaluation process for evaluating an operation input result of each of the players based on an operation input timing at which the operation input of the player based on the operation timing instruction control process is accepted;
a game evaluation index determination means for executing a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a result of the game, based on the operation input results in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; and
(a1) a first correction process for correcting an operation input result in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, based on an operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; or (b1) a second correction process for correcting an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process, based on an operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The computer functions as
The game evaluation index determination means:
The game evaluation index determination process determines the evaluation index based on a correction process, which is either the first correction process or the second correction process.

With this configuration, the present invention allows, for example, in a game such as a rhythmic music game that is played by multiple players (i.e., a session), to have each player play a special part such as a solo part in rotation as the first part, while still allowing other players to enjoy the game such as the rhythmic music game at the same time that each first part is played.

The present invention can therefore be used as a multi-player session-style music game with a main part while still maintaining the interest of the game.

As a result, the present invention can provide new game specifications for multiple play in games that are based on the timing of operational inputs, such as music games, thereby making the game more interesting for players.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a game device main unit according to an embodiment; 13 is a diagram for explaining a game control process of a rhythm music game in which a plurality of players rotate main parts to realize a session-like pseudo performance according to one embodiment. FIG. 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining an operation timing instruction control process according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining the evaluation process of the present embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the evaluation process of the present embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram (part 3) for explaining the evaluation process of the present embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining the evaluation process of the embodiment of the present invention. 13 is a diagram for explaining a game control process of a sub-part based on an evaluation of a main part in an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining the performance information provision control process in one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the performance information provision control process in one embodiment. FIG. 1 is an external configuration diagram of an example in which a game system according to an embodiment is applied to a store-based game system. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration when a game system according to an embodiment is applied to a server system using a network. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of an execution process of a rhythm music game executed by the game system of an embodiment. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of a game control process in each part executed by the game system of one embodiment.

The present embodiment will be described below. Note that the present embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[1] General Configuration of the Game System First, the general configuration of the game system S of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of the game system S of the present embodiment.

The game system S of this embodiment is configured as a game system that controls a music game (hereinafter also referred to as a "rhythm music game") in which multiple parts are executed simultaneously in parallel (session), each of which is composed of a main part (hereinafter also referred to as a "main part") and at least one sub-part (hereinafter also referred to as a "sub-part") assigned to each of multiple players, and in which the main part is rotated between each player, the operation timing of each player is evaluated, and the overall evaluation is used as the game result.

In particular, the game system S of this embodiment has a configuration that realizes the main part by simultaneously controlling a part assigned to one player, such as a solo part, and multiple parts that support the main part, as sub-parts.

Specifically, the game system S of this embodiment includes multiple controllers 30 operated by each player, a game device main body 10 that performs game processing, and a display 40 that displays game images.

The game system S is configured to execute the music game based on a game program or game data read from a memory, which is an information storage medium, or on operation signals input from the controller 30, so that each player can enjoy the music game while viewing the game screen displayed on the display 40.

For example, when the game system S receives operational input based on the joystick 32, cross key 33, and various buttons formed on the controller 30 operated by the player, it starts the game, executes various game settings, and evaluates each player based on the timing of the operational input received during game execution, and is configured to perform cooperative play (i.e., a session-like pseudo-performance) with other players (players who perform operational input to other controllers 30B connected to the game system S, players or CPUs operating other game systems S connected via the network N).

In this embodiment, the controller 30 and the game device main body 10 transmit and receive information via wireless communication. However, for example, the controller 30 and the game device main body 10 may be connected by a communication cable, and information may be transmitted and received via the communication cable.

The game device main body 10 executes game processing based on operational input from the player (or multiple players if multiple controllers 30 are connected) via the controller 30, and based on the results of this processing, causes the display 40 to display various game images and causes the speaker (not shown) to output various sounds such as in-game background music.

The controller 30 is configured with a joystick 32, a cross key 33, and multiple buttons 34, 36, 37, and 38 formed on the front surface.

The controller 30 is also configured to recognize as a special operation input when the player's operation is input simultaneously using multiple buttons, or when the player's operation is input by a combination of the direction in which the cross key 33 is pressed (including diagonal directions and neutral) and a button.

In addition to the above, the controller 30 also has multiple buttons (not shown) on its side.

In addition to the above, the controller 30 may also be configured with a steering wheel, a percussion controller (e.g., reference symbol 30C in FIG. 1), a microphone, a touch panel display, an acceleration sensor, etc.

[2] Game Device Main Unit Next, the configuration of the game device main unit 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of the game device main unit 10 of this embodiment. However, the game device main unit 10 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (parts) of Fig. 2 are omitted.

The card read/write unit 162 reads and writes data from the game card under the control of the processing unit 100.

The memory unit 170 stores predefined programs and data, and serves as a work area for the processing unit 100 and the communication unit 196, etc., and temporarily stores the results of calculations performed by the processing unit 100 in accordance with various programs, input data input from the controller 30, etc. This function can be realized by a RAM (VRAM), etc.

In particular, the memory unit 170 includes a main memory unit 172, an image buffer 174, a music data memory unit 176, and a player information memory unit 178.

The main memory unit 172 stores various data including system programs for implementing the functions of the processing unit 100 to comprehensively control the game system S, game programs required to execute a composite cooperative game, and image data for characters, musical scores, etc.

The music data storage unit 176 stores music data that are the challenge songs for the rhythm music game, and associated score data that specifies the timing and operation content for each player to perform operation input in accordance with each piece of music data.

In addition to the audio data, song data includes bibliographic information such as the singer, composer, and lyricist, difficulty level and level, and information indicating the divisions of bars, verses, choruses, etc.

The song data may also include information (hereinafter referred to as "allocation change timing") indicating the timing for rotating the main part and assigning it to one player (hereinafter referred to as the "main part executing player" or "main part executing player") every several bars or every division such as the A-melody, B-melody, chorus, etc., and for assigning another player (hereinafter referred to as the "sub-part executing player" or "second player executing player") to the sub-part (hereinafter referred to as "allocation change timing").

The score data includes note information that indicates the timing for the player to input operations in accordance with the music data, and the type of input (operations on the instrument) (for example, if the instrument is a drum, this includes face strikes, edge strikes, and repeated face strikes, etc.).

In particular, the music score data of this embodiment includes:
(A1) Music score data for the main part;
(A2) Music score data for sub-parts that are used simultaneously with the music score data for the main part (configured in parallel), and which is one or more pieces of music score data for sub-parts for allowing a sub-part execution player to input operations;
Includes:

Note that the score data is extracted from the notes in the actual score of the corresponding music piece, taking into account the content of the notes that correspond to the characteristic sounds of the music piece, and the note objects are pre-created as operation timing objects at the positions of the extracted notes in the score.

Furthermore, the score data for a subpart may be score data with common note information used by multiple subpart performing players, or may be composed of data for multiple parts (hereinafter referred to as "part data") with at least some note information different (i.e., note type and position). However, if the score data for a subpart is composed of multiple parts, it may be used for two or more subpart performing players.

The player information storage unit 148 stores, for each player, information on the player's rank and level in the rhythm music game, the attributes of each player (age, generation, gender, etc.), and a list of songs played in the past (i.e., performance history), in association with each player's ID.

The information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM), etc.

The information storage medium 180 can store programs for causing a computer to function as each part of this embodiment (programs for causing a computer to execute the processing of each part).

In addition, the information storage medium 180 may store, in the same way as the storage unit 170, instead of the storage unit 170, or together with the storage unit 170, various data such as a system program for implementing various functions that allow the processing unit 100 to comprehensively control the game system S, a game program required to execute a composite cooperative game, and music data that will be the challenge songs for a rhythm music game.

The display unit 190 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), etc. This corresponds to the display 40 in Figure 1.

The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and this function can be realized by a speaker or headphones, etc.

The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, other game systems S, terminal devices such as communication end terminal devices such as smartphones, and the server device 1 via the network N), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, etc.

The programs and data stored in the information storage medium or storage unit of the server device 1 for causing a computer to function as each part of this embodiment may be received via a network, and the received programs and data may be stored in the information storage medium 180 or storage unit 170. The case where a terminal is caused to function by receiving programs and data in this manner is also included within the scope of the present invention.

On the other hand, the communication unit 196 executes various controls to communicate (e.g., short-range wireless) with one or more controllers 30.

Specifically, the communication unit 196 includes an antenna and a wireless module, and transmits and receives data to and from one or more controllers 30 using, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology.

For example, the communication unit 196 transmits sound data such as confirmation sounds and sound effects, and vibration signals to the controller 30, and receives information (such as acceleration vector values) detected by the acceleration sensor or operational input at alternating intervals of 4 msec and 6 msec.

The processing unit 100 (processor) performs processes such as game processing, image generation processing, and sound generation processing based on input data and programs from the controller 30 and the card read/write unit 162.

In particular, the processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 172 in the memory unit 170 as a work area. The processing unit 100 is realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), and by programs, and executes various functions.

The processing unit 100 is configured to realize various processes of this embodiment or various functions for the rhythm music game based on the programs (data) stored in the memory unit 170 or the information storage medium 180.

Specifically, the processing unit 100 includes a communication control unit 110, a game management unit 112, an operation input reception processing unit 113, a first game control unit 114, an evaluation processing unit 115, a second game control unit 116, a music playback unit 117, a display control unit 118, a performance control unit 119, a drawing unit 120, and a sound processing unit 130. Note that some of these may be omitted.

For example, the game management unit 112 of this embodiment constitutes the allocation control means, event control means, and provided information management means of the present invention, and the operation input reception processing unit 113 constitutes the reception processing means of the present invention. Furthermore, the first game control unit 114 of this embodiment constitutes the operation timing instruction control means of the present invention, and the evaluation processing unit 115 constitutes the overall evaluation processing means, correction processing means, first judgment processing means, second judgment processing means, and second evaluation processing means of the present invention. Furthermore, the second game control unit 116 of this embodiment constitutes the second game control means of the present invention, and the performance control unit 119 constitutes the first performance control means and second performance control means of the present invention.

The communication control unit 110 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data to and from the server device 1 and terminal devices of other game systems and the like via a network.

In particular, when playing a rhythm music game based on information received from the server device 1, or when playing cooperatively with other players via a network, the communication control unit 110 performs processes to receive various information transmitted from the server device 1 or other game systems S, and processes to transmit the information to the server device 1 or other game systems S.

In addition, in the game system S of this embodiment, network information required for communication control may be obtained from the server and management processes may be performed.

For example, the game system S may acquire and manage identification information for terminal devices (IDs individually assigned to each game system S to identify terminals that can participate in online games) and destination information (such as an IP address) that specifies the destination of packets associated with the identification information of each game system S.

Specifically, the communication control unit 110 performs processes such as generating packets to be sent to other terminal devices or the server device 1, specifying the IP address and port number of the terminal device or server device 1 to which the packets are to be sent, storing data contained in the received packets in the storage unit 170, analyzing the received packets, and other control processes related to the sending and receiving of packets.

The communication control unit 110 also performs processing to transmit and receive data between multiple other game systems S or the server device 1 at a predetermined interval (e.g., one second interval) from when a communication connection is established until the communication connection is terminated.

Furthermore, in the case of a network system consisting of multiple terminal devices such as a game system S, the communication control unit 110 may perform communication control using a peer-to-peer (so-called P2P) method in which an online game is played while transmitting and receiving data between multiple terminal devices, or may perform communication control using a client-server method in which each terminal device transmits and receives data (information) via the server device 1 while playing an online game.

In addition, in the network system of this embodiment, data may be sent and received not only by wired communication but also by wireless communication.

On the other hand, the communication control unit 110 performs a process of acquiring input information from the controller 30. For example, the communication control unit 110 receives operation input from the player based on the operation input timing.

The game management unit 112 executes processes for starting a game when a game start condition is met, for ending a game when a game end condition is met, and for various processes related to the settings of each game.

In particular, the game management unit 112 executes an assignment process that assigns one of the multiple players participating in the rhythm music game to each part as a main part or a sub part, and an assignment part change process that changes the players assigned to the main part and sub part at a predetermined assignment change timing.

The game management unit 112 also controls various events in the rhythm music game (events that are advantageous or disadvantageous to the player).

Furthermore, the game management unit 112 manages the provision of game information regarding the rhythmic music game for executing the main part and sub part in parallel to the main part executing player and the sub part executing player, including performance effect information regarding the performance effects during the game.

The operation input reception processing unit 113 performs recognition processing to recognize the operation content and timing based on the input information input by the player to the controller 30.

Specifically, the operation input reception processing unit 113 of this embodiment recognizes the operation instruction command input by the player based on the type of button, the number of times it is pressed, the lever instruction direction, the timing of pressing the button and the timing of the lever instruction, and a combination of these, input by the input unit 260.

On the other hand, when a player operation is input simultaneously using multiple buttons, or when a player operation is input using a combination of the tilt angle of the camera or joystick 32 and each button, the operation input reception processing unit 113 recognizes it as a special operation input.

The first game control unit 114 executes processing related to the progress of the main part in the rhythm music game.

In particular, when a rhythmic music game is being played by multiple players, the first game control unit 114 executes an operation input timing determination marker object used to determine the operation input timing of the player performing the main part, an operation timing object that indicates the operation input timing of each player, or an operation timing instruction control process (hereinafter referred to as "main part operation timing instruction control process") that controls the movement of both objects in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 117.

Specifically, the first game control unit 114 moves the display positions of the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object so that they coincide with each other at a predetermined reference timing in accordance with the music data based on the music score data for the main part.

The evaluation processing unit 115 executes an evaluation process (hereinafter referred to as "overall evaluation process") that evaluates a team consisting of multiple players in the entire song data based on the timing of each operation input by the player performing the main part and the given relationships between each operation input timing determination marker object for the main part and each operation timing object.

The evaluation processing unit 115 also performs an evaluation process (hereinafter referred to as "subpart evaluation process") for each subpart, which evaluates each subpart performing player based on the operation input timing of the corresponding subpart performing player and the given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object for the corresponding subpart.

Furthermore, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes either a first correction process that corrects the operation input result of the main part executing player in the overall evaluation process based on the evaluation result of the subpart evaluation process, or a second correction process that corrects the evaluation index of the game for all of the multiple players.

The second game control unit 116 executes processing related to the progress of the sub-part in the rhythm music game, similar to the processing related to the progress of the main part by the first game control unit 114.

In particular, when a rhythm music game is played by multiple players, the second game control unit 116 executes, for each sub-part, an operation input timing determination marker object used to determine the operation input timing of the sub-part executing player, an operation timing object that indicates the operation input timing of each sub-part executing player, or an operation timing instruction control process (hereinafter referred to as "operation timing instruction control process for sub-part") that controls the movement of both objects, in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 117.

Specifically, the second game control unit 116 moves the display positions of the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object so that they coincide with each other at a predetermined reference timing in accordance with the music data based on the music score data for the main part.

The music playback unit 117 plays back the music data loaded into the music data storage unit 176, and outputs a continuous music sound waveform to the sound output unit 192.

The function of the music playback unit 117 can be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit (sound source IC) that generates a waveform of music sound based on music data, or by a program, etc.

The display control unit 118 controls the display of objects that are displayed on the display unit 190.

Specifically, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as generating displayed objects (game characters, backgrounds, buildings, ground, etc.), indicating the display positions of displayed objects, and erasing displayed objects.

That is, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as registering generated objects in an object list, transferring the object list to the drawing unit 120, and deleting disappeared objects from the object list.

In particular, under the direction of the game management unit 112, the display control unit 118 works in conjunction with the performance control unit 119 to generate images relating to the game of the main part, one or more sub-parts, or the main part and one or more sub-parts, depending on the game situation, and performs display control to display and output the generated images on the display unit 190.

Specifically, the display control unit 118 executes display control to simultaneously display on the display unit 190 images relating to the rhythmic music game as the first game and images relating to cooperative play by multiple players (i.e., a session-like simulated performance).

Then, in the rhythm music game, the display control unit 118 causes the drawing unit 108 to draw an operation input timing determination marker object, an operation timing object, or both objects, whose movement is controlled for each player in accordance with the music data played by the music playback unit 104 and which moves within the displayed operation object formation area.

The performance control unit 119 executes performance control processing to produce images and sounds related to the game in the main part (i.e., the first game) and the game in the sub-part (i.e., the second game).

The drawing unit 120 executes a process of drawing (generating) an image based on various processes (game processes) performed by the processing unit 100, and outputs the drawn image to the display unit 190. The function can be realized by hardware such as a graphics processor (GPU), a program, etc. The drawing unit 108 draws a so-called two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image.

Specifically, the drawing unit 120 reads out display objects corresponding to the display object list transferred by the display control unit 118 from the main memory unit 172 or the like, and draws the display objects in the image buffer 174 (a buffer such as a frame buffer or intermediate buffer; VRAM) that can store image information in pixel units.

Then, the drawing unit 120 updates the image information every frame (e.g., every 1/30 seconds) to display a moving image on the display unit 190.

In particular, the drawing unit 120 reads out sheet music images corresponding to the music data played by the music playback unit 104 from the main memory unit 172 in accordance with the playback of the music data, and draws them in the image buffer 174.

The sound processing unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voice, and outputs them to the sound output unit 192.

[3] Method of this embodiment [3.1] Overview Next, a method of game control processing of a rhythm music game in this embodiment in which multiple players rotate the main parts and realize a session-like pseudo-performance will be described with reference to FIG. 3 .

Note that FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the game control process of a rhythm music game in this embodiment in which multiple players rotate the main parts to realize a session-like simulated performance.

The game system S of this embodiment is a system that controls a music game (i.e., a rhythm music game) in which multiple players are assigned to a main part and sub-parts that are configured in parallel (i.e., simultaneously) with the main part, and the players of each part execute operation inputs in accordance with a given piece of music, and the evaluation of the inputs is used as the game result.

In particular, the game system S of this embodiment is a music game that incorporates a session-like performance by multiple players, and has a configuration in which a special part such as a solo part among multiple synchronized parts is rotated as the main part, and each player plays a music game based on the timing of operation inputs, while simultaneously and in parallel with each main part, other players also play the music game as a different game.

Specifically, the game system S of this embodiment includes, for example, as shown in FIG.
(A1) A process of assigning either a main part or a sub part to each player, and an assigned part change process of changing the part assigned to the player to another part at a given change timing during playback of music data;
(A2) A reception process for receiving operation inputs from each player;
(A3) an operation timing instruction control process for instructing input of operation timing of a player to which a corresponding part is assigned, for each part;
(A4) an individual evaluation process (an individual operation timing evaluation process to be described later) for evaluating, for each player, an operation input result for each player based on the operation input timing at which the player's operation input based on the operation timing instruction control process is received;
(A5) a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a game result based on the operation input results in the main part of each player evaluated by the player evaluation process;
(A6) A correction process which is either a first correction process for correcting an operation input result in the main part of each player evaluated by an individual evaluation process based on an operation input result in the sub-part of each player evaluated by an individual evaluation process, or a second correction process for correcting an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process based on an operation input result in the sub-part of each player evaluated by an individual operation timing evaluation process when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The present invention has a configuration for executing the above.

The game system S of this embodiment is configured to determine an evaluation index determined based on a game evaluation index determination process and one of the correction processes (i.e., the first correction process or the second correction process) as the game result of multiple players (i.e., the evaluation of a session by multiple players), as shown in FIG. 3.

In FIG. 3, a rhythm music game based on one piece of music is played by four players A, B, C, and D, and the music is composed of one main part and three sub-parts.
(B1) Before the start of the song, each player is assigned to an initial main part and sub part, and the main part is rotated at the first change timing T1 to the fourth change timing T4, and the assignment of the sub parts is changed accordingly.
(B2) an operation timing instruction control process is executed for each main part having a high level of difficulty and a plurality of sub-parts in which the same operation input instruction corresponding to each main part is executed;
(B3) for each main part, points are awarded based on the operation input result of the main part executing player to determine a score indicating an evaluation index for the entire game;
(B4) correcting the operation input result of the corresponding main part execution player or correcting the score indicating the evaluation index of the entire game based on the operation input result of the sub-part execution player in the sub-part;
FIG.

With this configuration, in this embodiment, main parts such as solo parts are performed by each player in rotation, while other players are also made to enjoy the rhythm music game at the same time as each main part is being played, and while the game as a whole is evaluated based on the game results of the main parts, the evaluation of the sub-parts can also affect the game results.

In this embodiment, multiple players are not simply allowed to participate in a musical performance (a session) in a music game; the game results in all parts can be reflected in the evaluation of the game as a whole, so that the game can be made to function as a session-style music game for multiple players with a main part while maintaining the interest of the game.

Therefore, in this embodiment, new game specifications for multiplayer play in music games (i.e., rhythm music games) can be provided, which can increase the interest in games based on the timing of operational inputs, such as music games.

Note that, in this embodiment, explanations will be given using music games (i.e., rhythm music games) in which the player is prompted to perform operations in time with sounds and rhythms and the accuracy of the timing of the player's operation inputs is evaluated; however, the present invention is not limited to these games and can be applied to any game in which the timing of the player's operations is evaluated.

In addition, in this embodiment, a main part and a sub part are used as the multiple parts executed in parallel, but three or more different types of parts may be formed, and during a certain period, a part (common part) may be incorporated that allows all players participating in the rhythm music game to execute a common operation input without being assigned a main part or sub part.

Furthermore, the game system S of this embodiment may independently execute a rhythm music game (i.e., a session) based on multiple players, or may execute the rhythm music game in conjunction with another game system S, either via the server device 1 or directly.

[3.2] Game Control Processing Based on Main Part and Sub Part Next, the game control processing based on the main part and sub part in this embodiment will be described.

The first game control unit 114 is a game control process for the main part, and controls the rhythm music game of the main part based on the operation input results of the main part executing player input according to the operation timing instructions for that main part.

In particular, the first game control unit 114 executes game control processing for the main part based on operation timing instructions controlled by operation timing instruction control processing for the main part.

The second game control unit 116 also executes game control processing for a sub-part that is different from the main part, based on the operation input result assigned to the sub-part executing player input in accordance with the operation timing instruction for that sub-part.

In other words, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 execute various game control processes to execute the sub-parts simultaneously in parallel with the main part of the game while rotating the main part of the game to entertain multiple players.

In particular, the second game control unit 116 executes game control processing to execute a game in which the operation instruction content and its timing differ depending on the type of part, including operation operation timing instruction control processing, for example, by setting the difficulty level (operation input content and timing) of the operation input instructed to the player in the main part higher than in the sub part.

In addition, the second game control unit 116 performs the following operations as a game different from the main part, including the above, on the premise that the same music data is reproduced: (A1) a game in which only the operation input instruction timing, such as the operation instruction timing, is different;
(A2) Games where only the operation content is different, such as different musical notes,
(A3) Games that have different input methods in the first place
(A4) A game in which the evaluation method based on the operation input result is different, or
(A5) A game that combines two or more of (A1) to (A4);
The game control process is executed.

Furthermore, when the allocation of the main part is changed, the first game control unit 114
The target is switched to the changed main part execution player, and game control relating to the main part is executed for the switched main part execution player.

Then, when the sub-part allocation is changed due to a change in the main part allocation, the second game control unit 116 switches the target to the new main part execution player and executes game control related to the main part for the switched main part execution player.

[3.3] Allocation Processing and Allocation Part Change Processing Next, the allocation processing and allocation part change processing of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

(Allocation process)
Before playing back the music data, the game management section 112 executes an assignment process to assign one player to a main part and assign other players (specifically, players participating in other rhythm music games) to sub-parts.

In particular, as shown in FIG. 3, the game management unit 112 assigns the main part and sub part to the appropriate player from among the players, for example, by random or lottery, based on the results of the mini-game, and based on the attributes of each player before the start of the game, such as the game level, score, and ranking.

In addition, FIG. 3 shows that in a group consisting of players A, B, C, and D, player A is randomly assigned to the first main part in chronological order, and the other players B, C, and D are similarly assigned to the first sub-parts in chronological order.

The rhythm music game of this embodiment is preferably played by a fixed number of players (e.g., four players), and if the fixed number of players cannot participate, it is preferably played by the CPU player according to the fixed number of players.

(Allocation part change process)
When playback of music data has started and during playback of the music data (i.e., during execution of the rhythm music game), the game management unit 112 executes an assigned part change process to assign a player assigned to a main part to a sub part and assign one of the players assigned to the sub parts to the main part at one or more predetermined assignment change timings.

In other words, the game management unit 112 executes the game while rotating the main part and sub part among the players participating in the game, and as an assigned part change process, assigns a main part execution player from each change timing onwards (specifically, each change timing) from among the multiple sub part execution players who have been assigned to the sub parts up until each change timing arrives.

In particular, the game management unit 112 executes the assigned part change process at change timings that indicate the timing of breaks determined in the game progression, such as a measure break or an A melody, B melody, or chorus.

In this embodiment, the game management unit 112 uses the change timing already set in the music data. However, every time the music data is played, the game management unit 112 changes the timing by a factor equal to the number of players participating.
Alternatively, a greater number of change timings may be set and the assigned part change process may be executed at the set change timings. In this case, however, it is preferable that the game management unit 112 set each change timing based on the number of players participating in the rhythm music game before playback of the music data begins.

On the other hand, the game management unit 112 performs the assigned part change process, for example,
(A1) By random selection or lottery (e.g., selection by roulette),
(A2) By the main part execution player who is currently executing the main part,
(A3) By the will of multiple players participating in the game (i.e., session) (the consensus of all players, the will of a representative (including a candidate), etc.), or
(A4) Depending on the situation regarding the operation input result in the corresponding subpart of each subpart execution player (e.g., depending on the evaluation situation such as a high score or a large number of combos, or depending on the progress of the game in the case where the game for the subpart is progressed depending on the operation input result),
A main part executing player (hereinafter referred to as the "next main part executing player") that executes the main part starting from the next change timing is assigned.

In particular, as the assigned part change process of (A4), the game management unit 112 assigns one player to the main part from among the multiple sub-part execution players who have been assigned to the sub-parts up until the next change timing based on the status of the operation input results of each sub-part execution player in the corresponding sub-part from the time of the change (specifically, from the time of the change).

Specifically, the game management unit 112 uses, as the status related to the operation input results in the subpart, the aggregated values (e.g., scores or number of evaluation values) of each evaluation (e.g., evaluation values such as points or excellent/fair, specifically, values obtained by the individual operation timing evaluation process (individual evaluation process) for each player described below) for each player's individual operation input results, which are aggregated during the allocation of the subpart.

When the game management unit 112 assigns the players randomly or by lottery as in (A1), it may use certain rules, such as not assigning a player who is currently performing a main part to a main part consecutively.

When the game management unit 112 determines the next player to execute the main part based on the player's intention in (A3), the game management unit 112 may execute processing in conjunction with the operation timing instruction control processing to reflect the intention of the player who made the operation input when timing is executed for an object (hereinafter referred to as an "intention expression object") that moves within the operation object area and indicates an operation input instruction for each player to express their intention.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, assume that four players, players A, B, C, and D, participate in a game (specifically, a session), there are four change timings T1, T2, T3, and T4, and the player who performs the main part is randomly assigned.

In this case, first, the game management unit 112 executes an allocation process to allocate the main part to player A and the sub-parts to the other players B, C, and D based on the current rankings, as shown in FIG. 3.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, when the first change timing arrives, the game management unit 112 executes an assigned part change process in which the main part is assigned to player C who has the highest evaluation result in the individual operation timing evaluation process of the players assigned to the sub-part before the change timing arrives, excluding player A who is the current main part executing player, and the game management unit 112 assigns players A, B, and D other than the player assigned to the main part to the sub-part.

Then, as shown in FIG. 3, when the second change timing arrives, the game management unit 112 executes an assigned part change process to assign the main part to player D who received the highest evaluation result in the individual operation timing evaluation process of the players who were assigned to the sub-part before the change timing arrives, excluding player C who is the current main part executing player and player A who was the previous main part executing player, while assigning players A, B, and C other than the player assigned to the main part to the sub-part.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 3, when the third change timing arrives, the game management unit 112 executes an assigned part change process to assign the main part to player D who has not yet been assigned to the main part, while assigning players A, B, and C other than the player assigned to the main part to the sub parts.

[3.4] Operation Timing Instruction Control Processing Next, the operation timing instruction control processing of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation timing instruction control processing of this embodiment.

(Outline of operation timing instruction control process)
The first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 execute an operation timing instruction control process for instructing the input of operation timing of the player to whom the corresponding part is assigned, for each player, either the main part or the sub-part, during playback of specific music data selected by specification by the player or the like.

In particular, the first game control unit 114 executes operation timing instruction control processing for the main part for the player assigned to the main part, and the second game control unit 116 executes operation timing instruction control processing for the sub-part for the player assigned to the sub-part.

Then, when the player's assignment is switched from the sub-part to the main part at the change timing, the first game control unit 114 executes an operation timing instruction control process for the main part to the player who has been switched to the main part, and when the player assigned to the main part is switched to the sub-part, the first game control unit 114 stops the operation timing instruction control process for the in-part.

In addition, when a player's assignment is switched from a sub-part to a main part at the change timing, the first game control unit 114 executes an operation timing instruction control process for the main part for the player who has switched to the main part, and when a player assigned to the main part switches to a sub-part, the first game control unit 114 stops the operation timing instruction control process for the main part for the player who has switched to the sub-part.

In this embodiment, the game has a large number of input operations, and requires rapid input operations such as rapid tapping, so the main part has more complex input operations than the sub-parts (i.e., it is more difficult).

That is, the first game control unit 114 executes an operation timing instruction control process for requesting an operation input with a higher level of difficulty than the operation timing instruction control process for the sub-part.

(Operation timing instruction control process in the main part)
The first game control unit 114 forms an operation object formation area for the main part, and controls the movement of an operation input timing determination marker object and an operation timing object that are formed within the operation object formation area.

In other words, the first game control unit 114 provides areas for forming operation objects for the main part in a predetermined area of the display unit 190 while the game is being played, and controls the movement of the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object for the main part player based on the music score data for the main part while matching it to the music data.

In particular, the first game control unit 114 executes movement control of an operation timing object that is an object for determining the operation timing of the main part performing player, and that indicates the operation content input by the main part performing player when it overlaps with the operation input timing determination marker object, based on the fixedly placed position of the operation input timing determination marker object that serves as the reference for operation input timing.

Specifically, the first game control unit 114 forms operation object formation areas in the game space (the display area displayed on the display unit 190) that extend from one end to the opposite end, and places a circular operation input timing determination marker object on one end side (e.g., the left side) of each operation object formation area.

When playback of the music begins, the first game control unit 114 then moves multiple operation input timing objects with different operation types (i.e., different operation input contents) in the operation object formation area at a constant speed from the other end to the one end in a first direction (i.e., toward the operation input timing determination marker object) along the operation object formation area in accordance with the music data and based on the score data for the main part.

For example, the first game control unit 114 works in conjunction with the display control unit 118 and the performance control unit 119 to form a horizontally long score image SP (an image of the operation object formation area OBAR formed including the display range and non-display range) formed from the score data for the main part, based on the indicator object for determining the timing of operation input (the position of the reference timing BL in the figure) at the initial setting (i.e., before playback starts when no music data is being played), as shown in FIG. 4(A).

The first game control unit 114, in cooperation with the display control unit 118 and the performance control unit 119, fixes the position of the operation input timing determination marker object in the display range DA (i.e., the position of the reference timing BL) when the music playback unit 117 starts playing music data, and moves the score image SP from the right side to the left side of the figure at a constant speed over the operation object formation area OBAR for the multiple first operation timing objects IM1-1 to IM1-n (n is a natural number) and the multiple second operation timing objects IM2-1 to IM2-n as time T passes, as shown in Figures 4(A), (B) and (C).

In particular, the first game control unit 114 controls the movement of each operation timing object IM in a first direction so that, for example, when a reference timing KT1 corresponding to the first operation timing object IM1-1 arrives, the first operation timing object IM1 moves to the position of the marker object for determining the operation input timing.

In addition, in Figures 4 (A), (B), and (C), the range displayed on the display unit 190 is shown as the display range DA, and in the above example, the display control unit 118 causes the display unit 190 to display a part of the range as the display range DA based on the indicator object for determining the operation input timing.

In addition, in FIG. 4 above, the display range DA moves from left to right over time, but in an actual game, as described above, the music score image SP moves from right to left in the figure.

(Operation timing instruction control process in subpart)
The second game control unit 116, like the first game control unit 114, forms an operation object formation area for a sub-part, and controls the movement of an operation input timing determination marker object and an operation timing object formed in that operation object formation area. However, the second game control unit 116 differs in that it controls the movement of an operation input timing determination marker object and an operation timing object for a sub-part, and forms each operation object formation area for a sub-part in a predetermined area of the display unit 190 during execution of the game.

When the operation object formation areas of both the main part and the sub-part are displayed on the display unit 190, or when the operation object formation areas of two or more sub-parts are displayed on the display unit 190, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116, or the second game control unit 116, work in conjunction with the display control unit 118 and the performance control unit 119 to execute processing to form operation object formation areas in the corresponding areas.

The above explanation using FIG. 4 is, for example, an example of the operation timing instruction control process in the main part. When the main part and sub-part, or two or more sub-parts are displayed simultaneously, the operation timing instruction control process is executed for each part (i.e., the player) in the same manner as in the above example.

(Another Example of Operation Timing Instruction Control Processing)
On the other hand, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 may move the marker object for determining operation input timing from one end side to the other end side in a second direction opposite to the first direction (i.e., toward the operation input timing object) at a constant speed.

In this case, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 fix and position each operation timing object within the operation object formation area.

The first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 may also move the operation timing object in a first direction at a constant speed while moving the operation input timing determination marker object from one end side to the other end side in a second direction opposite to the first direction (i.e., toward the operation input timing object) at a constant speed.

[3.5] Evaluation Processing [3.5.1] Basic Principles of Evaluation Processing Next, the basic principles of the evaluation processing of this embodiment will be described.

The evaluation processing unit 115 executes an evaluation process (hereinafter referred to as an "individual operation timing evaluation process" and also referred to as an "individual evaluation process") to evaluate the operation input result of each player based on the operation input timing when the operation input in the corresponding part of the corresponding player is received and a given relationship between the operation input timing determination sign object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing of the corresponding player.

In other words, the evaluation processing unit 115 evaluates the accuracy of the input timing and whether or not the operation contents match based on the operation input contents of the player instructed by the operation timing instruction control process.

Specifically, for each player, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes evaluation processing at each individual evaluation timing as individual operation timing evaluation processing based on the timing at which each of the movement-controlled operation timing objects reaches the position of the operation input timing determination marker object (hereinafter referred to as "individual evaluation timing").

On the other hand, in the individual operation evaluation process of a player assigned to the main part, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a game evaluation index determination process that determines an evaluation index that determines the game result (i.e., the evaluation of the session for multiple players) based on each evaluation result (i.e., the evaluated operation input result) in the individual operation timing evaluation process.

In particular, when executing the game evaluation index determination process, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines, based on the operation input results in the sub-parts of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process,
(A1) a first correction process for correcting the operation input result in the main part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; or
(A2) a second correction process for correcting the evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process.
Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines an evaluation index based on the game evaluation index determination process and either the first correction process or the second correction process.

[3.5.2] Individual operation timing evaluation process Next, the individual operation timing evaluation process of the evaluation process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 8. Fig. 5 to Fig. 8 are diagrams for explaining the individual operation evaluation process of this embodiment.

As an individual operation timing evaluation process, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines, for each player, whether or not the operation result of the player at the individual operation timing satisfies given conditions (hereinafter referred to as "evaluation conditions") as an evaluation result, and uses the result as the result of the evaluation process.

In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs such individual operation timing evaluation processing for both the main part and the sub-part.

Specifically, for each player, the evaluation processing unit 115 compares the operation input timing when the player's operation input is accepted with the timing at which the operation timing object reaches the operation input timing determination marker object at that operation input timing within the operation object formation area (i.e., the timing determined by the music data), and executes the evaluation process based on the comparison result.

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 sets the following as given evaluation conditions:
(A1) The input of the operation content indicated by the operation timing object is successful; (A2) The timing of the operation input by the player and a given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing satisfy a predetermined success condition; or
(A3) Both (A1) and (A2) are satisfied;
is used.

In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 may use multiple evaluation conditions from any of (A1) to (A3). In this case, it is preferable to assign a degree of difficulty in fulfilling each evaluation condition (e.g., easy to fulfill, difficult to fulfill, etc.) and to assign evaluation values such as points in stages according to the degree of difficulty.

In this case, when the evaluation conditions include (A3) and multiple conditions that assign graded evaluation values are used, the evaluation processing unit 115 assigns a first point (a relatively high point, for example, 5 points) when a strict first condition is met, and assigns a second point (a relatively low point, for example, 1 point) that is lower than the first point when a strict second condition is met when the first condition is not met.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5(A), in the individual operation timing evaluation process, the evaluation processing unit 115 awards a relatively high point (i.e., 5 points) when the reference timing KT (e.g., 5 seconds after the start of music playback) at which the first operation timing object IM1-1 arrives (includes) at the position of the operation input timing determination marker object (e.g., the position of the reference timing BL when the display range control process is not being executed) matches the operation input timing on the controller 30 of the corresponding player, and when the operation content indicated by the first operation timing object IM1 (the operation instruction to input a "don" sound to strike the center of the drum) matches the operation content on the controller 30 of the corresponding player.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 5(B), even if the reference timing KT and the operation input timing do not exactly match (are not completely identical), when the first operation timing object IM1 arrives during a reference period BT (e.g., 0.5 seconds before and after the reference timing), which is a period during which the first operation timing object IM1 passes through the operation input timing determination marker object BMC1 at a timing other than the reference timing KT, the evaluation processing unit 115 assigns a relatively low point (i.e., 1 point).

As shown in FIG. 6, if the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that the reference period BT for the first operation timing object IM1 does not include the operation timing executed by the player using the controller 30, or that the operation input to the controller 30 differs from the operation content, the evaluation processing unit 115 does not award points.

The evaluation processing unit 115 then executes an evaluation process to calculate the points awarded at each individual timing as the score for the corresponding player, and adds up the individual operation timing evaluation processes for each player to provide the second game control unit 116 with the result of the evaluation process for the team.

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 may use evaluation indices such as excellent, good, or fair as evaluation values instead of points.

On the other hand, the evaluation processing unit 115 of this embodiment may perform evaluation processing in accordance with the positional relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object, the operation timing object, and two objects within the operation object formation area at the operation input timing for each player, instead of evaluation processing based on the arrival timing of the operation input timing and the operation object within the operation object formation area.

In this case, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs a hit check (contact within the operation object formation area) between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing when the operation input from the player is received for each player.

The evaluation processing unit 115 then identifies whether or not there is a hit and the state of that hit (i.e., whether the objects overlap within the operation object formation area, and if so, the area or number of pixels of overlap), and identifies the overlapping state as the evaluation result.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7(A), the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that the operation input timing determination marker object BMC1 (strictly speaking, the face of the character) and the operation timing object IM1 hit at the operation timing CT, and if the objects completely overlap within the operation object formation area, a relatively high point (i.e., 5 points) is awarded.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7(B), the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that the operation input timing determination marker object BMC1 (strictly speaking, the face of the character) and the operation timing object IM1 hit at the operation timing CT, and if the objects do not overlap partially within the operation object formation area, a relatively low point (i.e., 1 point) is awarded.

As shown in FIG. 8, if the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that the operation input timing determination marker object BMC1 (strictly speaking, the face of the character) at the operation timing CT does not hit the operation timing object IM1, the evaluation processing unit 115 does not award points.

Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes an evaluation process to calculate the points awarded at each timing as the score of the corresponding player, just as in the case where timing is used.

On the other hand, the evaluation processing unit 115 of this embodiment uses, as the given evaluation conditions, that the input of the operation content indicated by the operation timing object is successful (hereinafter also referred to as the "first evaluation condition"), and that the timing of the player's operation input and the given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at that operation input timing satisfy a predetermined success condition (hereinafter also referred to as the "second evaluation condition"). However, instead of or in addition to these, the evaluation conditions may also include that preset parameters such as the player's score or the number of items acquired satisfy a predetermined condition (hereinafter also referred to as the "third evaluation condition") (for example, the score has reached a predetermined value).

For example, the evaluation processing unit 115 of this embodiment may award relatively high points when the first evaluation condition, the second evaluation condition, and the third evaluation condition are met, and may award relatively low points when only the first evaluation condition and the second evaluation condition are met.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may also perform the evaluation process based on whether or not only the first evaluation condition, only the second evaluation condition, and the third evaluation condition are met.

[3.6] Game Evaluation Index Determination Processing [3.6.1] Principle of Game Evaluation Index Determination Processing Next, the game evaluation index determination processing in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The evaluation processing unit 115 executes a game evaluation index determination process that determines an evaluation index (i.e., an index that is output as a game result) that determines the outcome of a game (i.e., a session played by multiple players) based on the operation input results in the main part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process (individual evaluation process).

In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines, as an evaluation index for determining the game result, a parameter such as a score (hereinafter also referred to as an "evaluation index parameter"), or a ranking determined by comparing with the game results of other players (including other teams), or an evaluation value such as the level or rank of a player (including a team) for the game.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines the total value (e.g., the score or number of evaluation values for each main part) of the evaluation values (i.e., the points or evaluation values such as excellent or fair for the individual operation input results of each player assigned to the main part) obtained by the individual operation timing evaluation process for each main part as the evaluation index for determining the game result.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the evaluation processing unit 115 determines the evaluation index that determines the game result by the game evaluation index determination process, it executes either a first correction process that corrects the operation input result of each player in the main part based on the operation input result of each player in the sub-part (specifically, the evaluation value of the individual operation timing evaluation process and its aggregated value), or a second correction process that corrects the evaluation index when determining the evaluation index that determines the game result.

In particular, the evaluation processing unit 115 of this embodiment executes the first correction process for each individual operation timing, for each part, for each predetermined period (a section such as a bar or an A-melody that is different from the period between the change timings that define the parts), or when the game evaluation index determination process is executed.

[3.6.2] First Correction Process Next, the first correction process that is executed when the game evaluation index determination process in this embodiment is executed will be described.

(Basic principle of the first correction process)
The evaluation processing unit 115 executes a first correction process to correct the operation input result of each player in the main part evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process, based on the operation input result of each player in the sub-part evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process.

In other words, as a first correction process, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the results of each operation input by the main part performing player and its evaluation value in a direction that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the player, for example, based on the accuracy of the input timing of each operation input by the sub-part performing player and whether or not the operation content matches.

In particular, as the first correction process, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs the following as described above:
(A1) For each individual operation timing,
(A2) Part by part, or
(A3) When the game evaluation index determination process is executed,
The operation input results of each player in the main part are corrected based on the operation input results or the evaluation value of the sub-part execution player.

In addition, the direction advantageous to the player or the direction disadvantageous to the player is, for example,
(B1) When the evaluation of each operation input result is a score, adding or subtracting points, and when the evaluation of each operation input result is an evaluation value indicating a rank, changing the rank to a higher or lower rank, and
(B2) In the case of the second correction process, if the evaluation index determining the game result is a score, points are added or subtracted, and if the evaluation index is an evaluation value indicating a rank, it indicates that the rank is changed to a higher or lower rank.

(First correction process for each individual operation timing)
As a first correction process for each individual operation timing, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the operation input result of the main part executing player of the main part, or the evaluation value obtained by the operation input result, based on the operation input result of the sub-part executing player at the same timing as the operation input result of the main part executing player of the main part, or the evaluation value obtained by the operation input result (i.e., the evaluation value obtained by the individual operation timing evaluation process).

For example, when correcting the operation input result of the main part execution player, if the operation input of the main part execution player fails and the operation input result cannot be detected, but the operation input result of the sub-part execution player is successful or the operation input of a predetermined number of sub-part execution players is successful, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the operation input result of the main part execution player to be successful.

In addition, for example, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the evaluation value (e.g., a graded evaluation value such as points or excellent/fair) in the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result of the main part execution player, using the evaluation value in the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result of the sub-part execution player at the same timing.

In particular, when using a calculable evaluation value such as points, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs the following as the first correction process for each individual operation timing evaluation process:
(B1) Add up the evaluation values of the main part execution player and the sub-part execution player at the same timing,
(B2) Add a predetermined value obtained based on the evaluation value of the sub-part execution player at the same timing to the evaluation value of the main part execution player, or
(B3) Calculating the evaluation value of the main part performing player and the average evaluation value of the sub-part performing player at the same timing;
The value obtained by a given calculation such as above is used as a corrected evaluation value (i.e., a correction value).

When there are multiple sub-part execution players, the evaluation processing unit 115 uses the evaluation values in the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input results of all sub-part execution players or some of those players (for example, the player with the highest evaluation value, the top two players with that evaluation value, or the player with the highest level) for the first correction process.

On the other hand, when the evaluation processing unit 115 uses graded evaluation values such as excellent, good, or fair, as a first correction process, it varies the evaluation value at each individual operation timing of the main part performing player based on the evaluation value at each individual operation timing of the corresponding sub-part performing player at the same timing.

For example, if the evaluation value of each individual operation timing of the corresponding sub-part executing player at the same timing is the highest level evaluation value such as "excellent," the evaluation processing unit 115 performs a correction to raise the level of the evaluation value of each individual operation timing of the main part executing player by one (for example, raising the evaluation of "fair" to "good").

(First correction process for each part)
In the first correction process for each part, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the evaluation of the entire main part based on the evaluation values of the sub-parts that are configured simultaneously and in parallel with the main part.

That is, for each main part, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines the overall evaluation value for each main part (hereinafter referred to as the "main part evaluation value") based on the evaluation value of each individual operation timing.

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines an overall evaluation value for each subpart (hereinafter referred to as a "subpart evaluation value") based on the evaluation value of each individual operation timing for each subpart.

Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the main part evaluation value of each main part based on the subpart evaluation value of each subpart (if there are multiple subparts, the subpart evaluation values of one or more subparts) that are configured in parallel with each main part (i.e., executed simultaneously in parallel).

In particular, when the evaluation processing unit 115 uses a calculable evaluation value such as a point, the first correction process is performed for each main part as follows:
(B1) Add up the evaluation values of the relevant main part execution player and the sub-part execution player at the same timing,
(B2) Add a predetermined value obtained based on the evaluation value of the sub-part execution player at the same timing to the evaluation value of the corresponding main part execution player, or
(B3) Calculating the average evaluation value of the relevant main part execution player and the evaluation value of the sub-part execution player at the same timing;
The value obtained by a given calculation such as above is used as a corrected evaluation value (i.e., a correction value).

When there are multiple sub-part execution players, the evaluation processing unit 115 uses the evaluation values for the corresponding sub-part of all sub-part execution players or some of those players (for example, the player with the highest evaluation value, the top two players with that evaluation value, or the player with the highest level) for the first correction process.

On the other hand, when using graded evaluation values such as excellent, good, or fair, the evaluation processing unit 115 varies the evaluation value of the main part performing player based on the evaluation value of the corresponding sub-part performing player as the first correction process.

For example, if the evaluation value of the corresponding subpart is the highest level evaluation value such as "Level 10," the evaluation processing unit 115 makes a correction to raise the level of the evaluation value of the main part by one (for example, changing an evaluation of "Level 6" to "Level 7").

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 may correct the evaluation for each period indicating a division such as a measure, A-melody, B-melody, chorus, etc., instead of for each main part, based on the evaluation values of each main part and the sub-parts that are composed simultaneously and in parallel with each main part.

[3.6.3] Second Correction Process Next, the second correction process that is executed when the game evaluation index determination process in this embodiment is executed will be described.

Instead of the above-mentioned first correction process, the evaluation processing unit 115 may execute a second correction process that corrects the evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process based on the operation input results in the sub-parts of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process.

In other words, in this case, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the evaluation index as a game result to a direction favorable or unfavorable to the player as a whole (i.e., a team performing a session, etc., consisting of multiple players) based on the accuracy of the input timing of each operation input by the sub-part execution player and whether or not the operation content matches.

In particular, as the second correction process, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the evaluation index that determines the game result calculated by the game evaluation index determination process as described above, based on the subpart evaluation value of each subpart.

Specifically, as described above, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines a subpart evaluation value for each subpart based on the evaluation value of each individual operation timing for each subpart, and determines a subpart evaluation value for the entire subpart (hereinafter referred to as the "total subpart evaluation value").

Then, the evaluation processing unit 115 corrects the evaluation index that determines the game result calculated by the game evaluation index determination process based on all subpart evaluation values.

In particular, when using a calculable evaluation value such as points, the evaluation processing unit 115 performs the following as the first correction process:
(B1) Add up the evaluation index that determines the game result and all subpart evaluation values,
(B2) adding a predetermined value obtained based on all subpart evaluation values to the evaluation index that determines the result of the game, or
(B3) Calculate the evaluation index that determines the game result and the average value of all subpart evaluation values;
The value obtained by a given calculation such as above is used as the corrected evaluation index.

When using graded evaluation values such as excellent, good, or fair, the evaluation processing unit 115 varies the evaluation index that determines the game result calculated by the game evaluation index determination process as a first correction process based on the evaluation value of the corresponding sub-part execution player.

For example, if the evaluation index that determines the game result is level "10," the evaluation processing unit 115 makes a correction to increase the level of the evaluation value in the main part by one (for example, changing an evaluation of "level 6" to "level 7").

[3.7] Various processes based on the evaluation of other types of parts [3.7.1] Game control process of sub-parts based on the evaluation of the main part Next, the game control process of sub-parts based on the evaluation of the main part in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining the game control process of sub-parts based on the evaluation of the main part in this embodiment.

The second game control unit 116 may change the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process in the sub-part based on the operation input result in the main part or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result.

Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a main part judgment process for each main part to judge whether or not the operation input result in each main part execution player, or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result, satisfies a given first condition.

Then, the second game control unit 116 changes the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the sub-part based on the determination result of the main part determination process.

In particular, the second game control unit 116 may change the content of the operation timing instruction for a sub-part that is executed simultaneously in parallel with the target main part in the main part determination process, or may change the content of the operation timing instruction for a new sub-part when the target main part switches to the next main part.

More specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 uses, as a given first condition, conditions related to the accuracy of the input timing of the operation input of the main part executing player and whether or not the operation contents match, such as the number of successes (number of successes for each degree of timing match) or failures of the specified operation input, or the number of consecutive successes (so-called combo number), in the main part determination process.

Then, when the main part determination process determines that the first condition is met, the second game control unit 116 controls the operation timing instruction control process for each sub-part or a specific sub-part, and changes the operation content at a specified timing, deletes the operation content, or increases the operation content.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the main part determination process determines that a predetermined number of consecutive operation input errors have occurred in the main part as a first condition, the second game control unit 116 controls the operation timing instruction control process of the sub-part that is assigned to the same time as the main part, and stops the generation and movement of the operation timing object in order to delete the operation content for a predetermined period after the timing at which the main part determination process is executed.

[3.7.2] Main part game control processing based on sub-part evaluation Next, the main part game control processing based on the sub-part evaluation of this embodiment will be described.

The first game control unit 111 may change the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process in the main part based on the operation input result in the sub part or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result.

Specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a subpart determination process for each subpart to determine whether or not the operation input result of each subpart execution player, or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result, satisfies a given second condition.

Then, the first game control unit 114 changes the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the main part based on the determination result of the sub-part determination process.

In particular, the first game control unit 114 may change the content of the operation timing instruction in the main part that is executed simultaneously in parallel with the sub-part that is the target of the sub-part determination process, or may change the content of the operation timing instruction in the new main part when switching to the main part that follows the main part.

More specifically, the evaluation processing unit 115 uses as the given second condition in the subpart determination process conditions related to the accuracy of the input timing in the operation input of the subpart executing player and whether or not there is a match in the operation content, such as conditions related to the number of successes (number of successes for each degree of timing agreement) or failures of the specified operation input, or the number of consecutive successes (so-called combo number).

Then, when the sub-part determination process determines that the second condition is met, the first game control unit 114 controls the operation timing instruction control process in the main part to change the operation content at a specified timing, delete the operation content, or increase the operation content.

For example, if the sub-part determination process determines that a predetermined number of consecutive operation input errors have occurred in a sub-part as the second condition, the first game control unit 114 controls the operation timing instruction control process of the main part that is assigned at the same time as the sub-part, and stops the generation and movement of the operation timing object in order to delete the operation content for a predetermined period after the timing at which the sub-part determination process was executed.

The second game control unit 116 may change the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process in another subpart based on the operation input result in the subpart or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result.

[3.7.3] First correction process for sub-parts based on evaluation of the main part Next, the first correction process for sub-parts based on evaluation of the main part in this embodiment will be described.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may execute a first correction process for the corresponding subpart based on the operation input result in the main part or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation process based on the operation input result.

Specifically, similar to the sub-part operation timing instruction control process based on the evaluation of the main part, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a main part judgment process for each main part to judge whether or not the operation input result of each main part executing player, or the evaluation result of the individual evaluation process based on the operation input result, satisfies a given first condition.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may then perform a first correction process on a sub-part that is executed simultaneously and in parallel with the target main part of the main part determination process, or may perform a first correction process on a new sub-part when the target main part is switched to the next main part.
It should be noted that the first correction process used here has already been described above, and therefore a description of the first correction process will be omitted.

[3.7.4] First correction process for the main part based on the evaluation of the subpart Next, the first correction process for the main part based on the evaluation of the subpart in this embodiment will be described.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may execute the first correction processing or the second correction processing based on the operation input result in the subpart or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation processing based on the operation input result.

Specifically, similar to the operation timing instruction control process for the main part based on the evaluation of the sub-part, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a sub-part judgment process for each main part to judge whether or not the operation input result of each main part executing player or the evaluation result of the individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may then perform a first correction process on a main part that is executed simultaneously and in parallel with the sub-part of the sub-part determination process, or may perform a first correction process on the main part that follows the main part.

In addition, when the operation input result of the sub-part executing player satisfies a given second condition, the evaluation processing unit 115 may change the correction content of the second correction process to content that is advantageous to the player.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may change the correction content to be advantageous to the player, for example, by changing the correction content to suppress the decrease in the evaluation index or to maintain the evaluation index when a mistake occurs in an operation input that improves the evaluation, such as a correction to cancel out the mistake when the main part executing player makes a mistake in consecutive successful operation inputs, or when a mistake occurs in an operation input that is important to the game, and the evaluation index drops due to the operation input made by the main part executing player.

The first correction process used here has already been described above, so a detailed explanation of the first correction process will be omitted.

[3.7.5] Second Correction Processing Based on Evaluation of Subparts Next, the second correction processing based on evaluation of subparts in this embodiment will be described.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may execute the first correction processing or the second correction processing based on the operation input result in the subpart or the evaluation result of the individual operation timing evaluation processing based on the operation input result.

Specifically, similar to the operation timing instruction control process for the main part based on the evaluation of the sub-part, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes a sub-part judgment process for each main part to judge whether or not the operation input result of each main part executing player or the evaluation result of the individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition.

The evaluation processing unit 115 may then perform a first correction process on a main part that is executed simultaneously and in parallel with the sub-part of the sub-part determination process, or may perform a first correction process on the main part that follows the main part.

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 may execute a second correction process to correct the evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process based on the operation input results in the sub-parts of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process.

Note that the first and second correction processes used here have already been described above, so a description of the second correction process will be omitted.

[3.8] Processing Related to Events and Effects [3.8.1] Event Generation Control Processing Next, the event generation control processing in this embodiment will be described.

The game management unit 112 may execute an activation control process to activate an advantageous or disadvantageous event for at least one of the main part execution player and the sub-part execution player based on the operation input result of at least one of the main part execution player and the sub-part execution player assigned to the sub-part executed in parallel with the main part executed by the main part execution player, or based on an evaluation based on the operation input result.

In particular, the game management unit 112 may execute an activation control process that activates an advantageous or disadvantageous event for the main part execution player, the sub-part execution player, or both, based on the operation input result of the main part execution player or an evaluation based on the operation input result.

The game management unit 112 may also execute an activation control process that activates an advantageous or disadvantageous event for the main part execution player, the sub-part execution player (including other sub-part execution players), or both, based on the operation input result of the sub-part execution player or an evaluation based on the operation input result.

The game management unit 112 may trigger advantageous events such as events in which the main or sub-part effects, such as effects related to the operation timing instruction control process, are executed with more decorations than usual, with lively (flashy) decorations, or with luxurious decorations, or events in which the object that inputs the operation timing instructions is controlled by a rare gimmick.

In addition, the game management unit 112 may trigger an unfavorable event, such as a production event that prevents the display of an object that provides an input instruction for the operation timing in the corresponding part, or an event that delays the input instruction.

It is preferable that the game management unit 112 activates advantageous and disadvantageous events for the sub-part execution player.

[3.8.2] Processing for controlling the provision of rendering information Next, the processing for controlling the provision of rendering information in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are diagrams for explaining the processing for controlling the provision of rendering information in this embodiment.

The game management unit 112 works in conjunction with the performance control unit 119, which controls the performance effects in the main part and the sub-part, and manages the provision of game information regarding the game for executing the main part and the sub-2 part in parallel, including performance effect information regarding each of the performance effects, to the main part execution player and the sub-2 part execution player.

In particular, the game management unit 112 performs the following operations as shown in FIG.
(A1) a main part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information related to the main part to both a main part execution player and a sub-part execution player; and
(A2) a sub-part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information related to a sub-part to at least a main part execution player;
Execute.

In particular, the game management unit 112 works in conjunction with the display control unit 118, the performance control unit 119, and the sound processing unit 130 to execute main part performance information provision control processing and sub-part performance information provision control processing.

The performance control unit 119 also works in conjunction with the display control unit 118 to execute control to display on the display unit 190 game images such as images instructing each player to input operation timing (such as musical notes in the case of a rhythmic music game) as a performance effect.

Furthermore, the performance control unit 119 works in conjunction with the sound processing unit 130 to output sounds (such as musical performance sounds in the case of rhythmic music games) in accordance with the timing of operational input as a performance effect.

In addition, FIG. 10 shows an example of a game image provided to and displayed by player D (specifically, the display unit 190 that provides game images to player D), in which both image information as main-part production effect information for player D, which is the main part, and image information as sub-part production effect information for other players A, B, and C, which are sub-parts, are displayed.

On the other hand, the game management unit 112 executes a process for providing each sub-part performing player with performance effect information for his/her own sub-part (hereinafter, also referred to as "sub-part individual performance information provision control process") as a sub-part performance information provision control process, for example, as shown in FIG. 11.

In other words, the game management unit 112 provides each of the multiple sub-part executing players with performance effect information related to the sub-part that the player is executing.

In addition, at this time, the game management unit 112 may prohibit the provision of performance effect information regarding sub-parts performed by players other than the player himself/herself.

Note that FIG. 11 shows an example of a game image provided to and displayed by player A (specifically, the display unit 190 that provides the game image to player D), in which both image information as sub-part production effect information for player A, which is the sub-part, and image information as main part production effect information for other player D, which is the main part, are displayed.

In addition, if the purpose is simply to support the main part, the game management unit 112 does not need to execute the process of controlling the provision of performance information for the sub-part player. In other words, the game management unit 112 may provide the sub-part player with only image information as performance effect information for the main part of the other player D, who is the main part.

[3.8.3] Game control process for normal performance part Next, the game control process for the normal performance part in this embodiment will be described.

The first game control unit 114 causes the first game control unit 114 to execute the same operation timing instruction control process as a normal performance control process for all players, including the main part execution player and the sub-part execution player, during a specific period, such as immediately after playback of the music data starts, during a predetermined period until the main part switches to another main part, or during a predetermined period at the end of the music data.

Then, as described above, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes individual operation timing evaluation processing based on the same operation timing instruction control processing (i.e., processing for prompting input of the same operation content at the same timing) for all parts.

In addition, during the normal performance part, the first game control unit 114 may execute control processing in which the operation content and operation input instruction timing (i.e., the type of operation timing object and the associated operation input instruction timing) differ for each player, or may execute control processing in which some of the operation content and operation input instruction timing differ, or may execute control processing using different tones (e.g., musical instruments).

[3.9] Modifications Next, modifications of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 12 and FIG.

FIG. 12 is an external configuration diagram of an example of the game system of this embodiment when applied to a store-based game system, and FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration when the game system of this embodiment is applied to a server system using a network.

(Part assignment change processing based on song difficulty, etc.)
In this embodiment, the part assignment change process assigns each player to each part randomly or the like, but the parts assigned to each player may also be controlled based on at least one of difficulty information indicating the difficulty of the song and type information indicating the type of song (including genre), as well as player information such as the player's level (which may be a rank such as beginner or advanced) and performance history.

Specifically, before the rhythmic music game starts, the game management unit 112 acquires information on the difficulty level and type of the music to be played from the music data storage unit 176, and acquires information on each player's level and rank, as well as performance history information, from the player information storage unit 178.

Then, when the game management unit 112 executes the assigned part change process, it assigns the next player to perform the main part and the next player to perform the sub-part to the relevant player based on this acquired information.

For example, in this case, the game management unit 112 executes part assignment change processing to assign the player who has most frequently played songs of the same type as the song being played to the chorus or a part that includes a chorus, or to assign the player with the highest level of skill to a part that requires a high level of performance technique (a part with the greatest number of operation timing objects (i.e., the greatest number of beats if the instrument is a drum) within the part).

In addition to or in addition to controlling the parts assigned to each player based on at least one of the difficulty information and type information of the song and the player information, the game management unit 112 may control the duration of each part based on at least one of the difficulty information and type information of the song and the player information.

For example, the game management unit 112 may execute control such as setting the part of the highest level player to be longer by a predetermined time and setting the part of the lowest level player to be shorter by a predetermined time.

(Store-based gaming system)
The game system S of this embodiment can be applied to a home game system, and can also be realized as a store-based game system set up in a store (amusement park), for example, as shown in FIG.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, such a game system S has a housing 12 housing a processing unit (computer) 100 that performs game processing, etc., and on the front side of the housing 12, there are provided two drum-shaped (an example of a musical instrument) operation input units 14, a display unit 190 that displays images, a sound output unit 192 that outputs sound, and a fee acceptance slot 20 that accepts game fees, and runs a music game.

In particular, the operation input unit 14 has the shape of a drum, and the player performs operation input by hitting it with a stick or with his/her hand.

Although not shown, a sensor is provided inside the circular skin surface 22 of the operation input unit 14 to detect when the player has hit the circular skin surface 22, and a sensor is provided inside the periphery 24 of the skin surface 22 to detect when the player has hit the periphery 24 of the skin surface 22. Therefore, the game system S is capable of determining whether the player has hit the skin surface 22 or the periphery 24 of the skin surface 22.

The game system S has a built-in system board 1000 on which a CPU, an image generation IC, a sound generation IC, etc. are mounted, and is configured to execute a rhythmic music game based on a game program or game data read from a memory, which is an information storage medium, on the system board 1000, or on operation signals input from the operation input unit 14, etc.

The game system S of this embodiment has two operation input units 14, allowing two players to play the music game at the same time.

(Cooperative play via network)
The game system S of the present embodiment described above has a plurality of controllers 30, and the rhythm music game is established by having each player operate each controller 30; however, by connecting a plurality of game systems S via a network, the various processes of the rhythm music game executed (session) by the multiple players can be linked to execute the above-mentioned configurations and controls.

(Server system)
In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13 , a server system 300 may be constructed using one server device 310 and the above game may be provided to one or more terminal devices 320 via a network N, or a server system 300 may be constructed by linking multiple server devices 310 and the game may be provided from the server system 300 to one or more terminal devices 320.

In particular, multiple terminal devices 320 are connected to the server system 300 via a network N, either wired or wirelessly, and the server system 300 functions as the above-mentioned game system.

In addition, the server system 300 can realize a game system by accepting operation input from the player and providing the corresponding terminal device 320 with game data (including only image data) for executing a rhythm music game including operation timing instruction control processing, individual evaluation processing, game evaluation index determination processing, first correction processing, and second correction processing.

That is, in this case, the server system 300
(A1) A process of assigning either a main part or a sub part to each player, and an assigned part change process of changing the part assigned to the player to another part at a given change timing during playback of music data;
(A2) A reception process for receiving operation inputs from each player;
(A3) an operation timing instruction control process for instructing input of operation timing of a player to which a corresponding part is assigned, for each part;
(A4) an individual evaluation process (individual operation timing evaluation process) for evaluating an operation input result of each player based on an operation input timing at which the operation input of the player is accepted and a given relationship between the operation input timing determination marker object and the operation timing object at the operation input timing;
(A5) a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a game result based on the operation input results in the main part of each player evaluated by the player evaluation process;
(A6) A first correction process that corrects an operation input result in the main part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process based on an operation input result in the sub-part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process, or a second correction process that corrects an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process based on an operation input result in the sub-part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation process when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The present invention has a configuration for executing the above.

In this embodiment, the game system of the present invention is applied to a server system 300 that runs in conjunction with a terminal device 320 via a network, but the game system of the present invention may also be applied to a tablet-type information terminal device or a personal computer.

[4] Operation of this embodiment [4.1] Rhythm music game (session) execution process (main process)
Next, the operation of the execution process of the rhythm music game executed by the game system S of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the execution process of the rhythm music game executed by the game system S of this embodiment.

This operation is the execution process of a rhythm music game that is played in a session format by multiple players.

This operation is specialized for each process associated with the main part, which is mainly executed in parallel with the game control process in the main part and multiple sub-parts, and which rotates through the main part while assigning parts to each participating player and changing the assigned part, as well as determining the evaluation index that determines the game result.

In this operation, it is assumed that a specific piece of music data has already been selected by a player, loaded together with the score data, and prepared for playback, and that a specific number of players (e.g., four) are ready to play the game.

First, the game management unit 112 starts a rhythmic music game in a session format for multiple players based on the player's instructions (step S101), and then performs initial settings such as setting the timing for changing the assigned parts based on the number of participants and the selected music data (step S102).

Next, the game management unit 112 executes an assignment process to assign each player to the first main part and the first sub-part that is executed simultaneously with the main part (step S103), and issues an instruction to start the session (step S104).

At this time, the music playback unit 117 starts playing the music data that is prepared for playback based on instructions from the game management unit 112, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 execute game control processing for each part, and the evaluation processing unit 115 executes individual operation timing evaluation processing for each part.

In particular, the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 start executing an operation timing instruction control process in the main part or sub-part assigned by the assignment process, which causes operation timing objects to appear in sequence in accordance with the music data being played and moves them toward the operation input timing determination marker object in the first direction, based on instructions from the game management unit 112, and continue executing the operation timing instruction control process until the end of the session is detected.

In addition, the evaluation processing unit 115 starts executing an individual operation timing evaluation process (individual evaluation process) for each part based on instructions from the game management unit 112, and continues executing the individual operation timing evaluation process until the end of the session is detected.

Then, when the evaluation processing unit 115 executes the first correction processing during execution of the individual operation timing evaluation processing, the evaluation processing unit 115 executes the first correction processing to correct the operation input result in the main part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation processing, based on the operation input result in the sub-part of each player evaluated by the individual operation timing evaluation processing.

The operation of the game control processing in each part, including the music data playback processing in the music playback unit 117, the game control processing in each part in the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116, and the individual operation timing evaluation processing in the evaluation processing unit 115, will be described later.

Next, the music playback unit 117 determines whether playback of the music data has ended (step S105).

At this time, if the music playback unit 117 determines that playback of the music data has ended, the game management unit 112 instructs the first game control unit 114 and the second game control unit 116 to end the operation timing instruction control process for each part, and instructs the evaluation processing unit 115 to end the individual operation timing evaluation process (individual evaluation process) for each part (i.e., end the session) (step S106).

Next, the game management unit 112 causes the evaluation processing unit 115 to execute a game evaluation index determination process that determines an evaluation index that determines the outcome of the session while executing a second correction process based on the evaluation results of the individual operation timing evaluation process in the main part of each player (step S107), and then ends this operation.

On the other hand, if the music playback unit 117 determines that playback of the music data has not ended, the game management unit 112 determines whether the selection timing for selecting the next main part execution player has arrived (step S108).

At this time, if the game management unit 112 determines that the selection timing for selecting the next main part execution player has not arrived, it returns to the processing of step S105, and if it determines that the selection timing for selecting the next main part execution player has arrived, it executes an assigned part change process to assign the next main part execution player and a sub-part execution player that is configured in parallel with the next main part to each part (step S109).

As part of the assigned part change process, the game management unit 112 randomly selects a player who has not yet performed the main part as the next player to perform the main part, and sets the remaining players as the next player to perform the sub-part.

Next, when the game management unit 112 detects the next change timing (step S110), it sets the next main part execution player to the main part execution player, and sets the next sub-part execution player to the sub-part execution player (player S111).

Then, the game management unit 112 causes the first game control unit 114, the second game control unit 116, and the evaluation processing unit 115 to start game control processing for the newly set main part execution player and sub-part execution player (player S112), and returns to the processing of step S105.

[4.2] Game Control Processing in Each Part Next, the operation of the game control processing in each part executed by the game system S of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the game control process in each part executed by the game system S of this embodiment.

This operation will be explained in the game control process in the main part, but as the process is almost the same in the sub-part, the explanation will be omitted.

First, when the first game control unit 114 is instructed by the game management unit 112 to execute game control processing for each part (step S201), it starts executing an operation timing instruction control process for the main part, which causes operation timing objects to appear sequentially in accordance with the music data being played based on the score data for the player assigned to the main part, and moves them toward the operation input timing determination marker object in the first direction (step S202).

Next, the first game control unit 114 and the evaluation processing unit 115 determine whether or not the game management unit 112 has instructed the user to end the session (step S203).

At this time, if the first game control unit 114 and the evaluation processing unit 115 determine that an instruction to end the session has been given, they end this operation, and if they determine that an instruction to hunt in that session has not been given, they proceed to processing in step S204.

Next, the evaluation processing unit 115 determines, based on the music data, whether or not it is an individual evaluation timing at which each of the movement-controlled operation timing objects reaches the position of the operation input timing determination marker object (step S204).

At this time, if the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that it is not time for individual evaluation, it proceeds to processing of step S203, and if it determines that it is time for individual evaluation, it proceeds to processing of step S205.

Next, if the evaluation processing unit 115 determines that it is time for an individual evaluation, it executes an individual operation process (individual operation timing evaluation process) that evaluates the operation input results (including no operation input) of each player (step S205).

Next, the evaluation processing unit 115 adds the evaluation result of the individual evaluation timing evaluation process to the evaluation index of the game result (step S206) and returns to the processing of step S203.

[5] Others The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. For example, a term cited in the description of the specification or drawings as a term with a broad meaning or synonymous meaning can be replaced with a term with a broad meaning or synonymous meaning in other descriptions of the specification or drawings.

The game of this embodiment has been described using a game such as a music game (rhythm game) in which the player performs operations in time with sounds and rhythms and the accuracy of the timing of the operation input by the player is evaluated, but the game can be applied to any game in which the timing of the player's operations can be evaluated.

The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments (for example, configurations with the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations with the same purpose and effect). The present invention also includes configurations that replace non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects as the configurations described in the embodiments, or that can achieve the same purpose. The present invention also includes configurations that add publicly known technology to the configurations described in the embodiments.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible that do not substantially depart from the novel features and effects of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

1: Server device 10: Game device main body 30: Controller 40: Display 100: Processing unit 104: Music playback unit 108: Drawing unit 110: Communication control unit 111: First game control unit 112: Game management unit 113: Operation input reception processing unit 114: First game control unit 115: Evaluation processing unit 116: Second game control unit 117: Music playback unit 118: Display control unit 119: Performance control unit 120: Drawing unit 130: Sound processing unit 162: Read/write unit 170: Memory unit 172: Main memory unit 174: Image buffer 176: Music data memory unit 180: Information storage medium 190: Display unit 192: Sound output unit 196: Communication unit 260: Input unit 300: Server system 310: Server device 320: Terminal device 1000: System board

Claims (13)

A game system for controlling a given game in which operation inputs input by a plurality of players are evaluated, comprising:
an allocation control means for executing a process of allocating to each player either a first part or a second part which is different from the first part and configured in parallel with the first part, and an allocation part change process for changing the part allocated to the player to another part at a given change timing during execution of the game;
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from each of the players;
an operation timing instruction control means for executing, for each of the parts, an operation timing instruction control process for instructing an input of an operation timing of a player to which the corresponding part is assigned;
an evaluation processing means for executing, for each of the players, an individual evaluation process for evaluating an operation input result of each of the players based on an operation input timing at which the operation input of the player based on the operation timing instruction control process is accepted;
a game evaluation index determination means for executing a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a result of the game, based on the operation input results in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process;
(a1) a first correction process for correcting an operation input result in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, based on the operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; or (b1) a second correction process for correcting an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process, based on the operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The game evaluation index determination means comprises:
A game system characterized by determining the evaluation index based on the game evaluation index determination process and a correction process of either the first correction process or the second correction process. 2. The game system according to claim 1,
a first game control means for controlling the first game based on a result of an operation input by the player input in accordance with an operation timing instruction in an operation timing instruction control process for the first part, the first game control means being a game control process for the first part;
a second game control means for controlling a second game different from the first game, based on a result of an operation input by the player input in accordance with an operation timing instruction in an operation timing instruction control process for the second part, the second game control means being a game control process for the second part;
The game system further comprises: 3. The game system according to claim 1,
a first determination processing means for executing a first part determination process for determining whether or not an operation input result in each first part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given first condition,
The operation timing instruction control means
The game system changes the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the second part based on the determination result of the first part determination process. 3. The game system according to claim 1,
a first determination processing means for executing a first part determination process for determining whether or not an operation input result in each first part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given first condition,
The evaluation processing means
A game system that executes the first correction process based on a determination result of the first part determination process. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
a second judgment processing means for executing a second part judgment process for judging whether or not an operation input result in each second part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition,
The correction processing means
A game system that changes the correction content of the first correction process or the second correction process based on the judgment result of the second part judgment process. 6. The game system according to claim 5,
The correction processing means
A game system in which, when the operation input result of the second part executing player satisfies a given second condition, the correction content of the first correction process or the second correction process is changed to content that is advantageous to the player. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
a second judgment processing means for executing a second part judgment process for judging whether or not an operation input result in each second part execution player or an evaluation result of an individual evaluation process based on the operation input result satisfies a given second condition,
The operation timing instruction control means
The game system changes the content of the operation timing instruction in the operation timing instruction control process for the first part based on the determination result of the second part determination process. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The allocation control means:
As the assigned part change process, a player who will perform the first part from the change timing onwards is assigned from among the multiple players who have been assigned to the second part up until the change timing arrives, in a game system. 9. The game system according to claim 8,
The allocation control means:
As the assigned part change process, the game system assigns one player from among a plurality of second part execution players who have been assigned to the second part up until the change timing to the first part from the change timing onwards based on the situation regarding the operation input results in the corresponding second part of each second part execution player before the change timing arrives. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The game system further includes an event control means that executes an activation control process to activate an advantageous or disadvantageous event for at least one of a first part execution player and a second part execution player assigned to the second part executed in parallel with the first part executed by the first part execution player, based on the operation input results of the first part execution player and/or the second part execution player assigned to the second part executed in parallel with the first part executed by the first part execution player. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
A performance control means for controlling a performance effect in the first part and a performance effect in the second part;
a provision information management means for managing provision of game information regarding the game for executing the first part and the second part in parallel to a first part executing player and a second part executing player , the game information including performance effect information regarding the performance effect;
Equipped with
The provision information management means
A first part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information related to the first part to both the first part execution player and the second part execution player; and
a second part performance information provision control process for providing performance effect information relating to the second part to at least the first part execution player;
A game system that runs The game system according to claim 11,
The provision information management means
The game system provides each of a plurality of second part performing players with performance effect information relating to the second part performed by that player, and executes a process of prohibiting the provision of performance effect information relating to the second part performed by other players different from the second part performing player as the second part performance information provision control process . A program for controlling a given game that evaluates operation inputs input by each of a plurality of players, comprising:
an allocation control means for executing a process of allocating to each player either a first part or a second part which is different from the first part and configured in parallel with the first part, and an assigned part change process for changing the part allocated to the player to another part at a given change timing during execution of the game;
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from each of the players;
an operation timing instruction control means for executing, for each of the parts, an operation timing instruction control process for instructing an input of an operation timing of a player to which the corresponding part is assigned;
an evaluation processing means for executing, for each of the players, an individual evaluation process for evaluating an operation input result of each of the players based on an operation input timing at which the operation input of the player based on the operation timing instruction control process is accepted;
a game evaluation index determination means for executing a game evaluation index determination process for determining an evaluation index for determining a result of the game, based on the operation input results in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; and
(a1) a first correction process for correcting an operation input result in the first part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, based on an operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process; or (b1) a second correction process for correcting an evaluation index determined by the game evaluation index determination process, based on an operation input result in the second part of each player evaluated by the individual evaluation process, when the game evaluation index determination process is executed;
The computer functions as
The game evaluation index determination means:
A program characterized by determining the evaluation index based on the game evaluation index determination process and a correction process of either the first correction process or the second correction process.

Images