JP7706739B2 - Control system, information system, information processing method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a technology that supports the generation of content that represents the progress of a game.

Various technologies have been proposed for distributing content created by users to multiple viewers. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology that allows viewers to express positive feelings toward the content distributor by purchasing and using a paid or free item.

Patent No. 6001757

However, in the technology of Patent Document 1, the visual effects only change depending on whether the item used by the viewer is paid or free. Therefore, the presentation effects in the content tend to be monotonous, and as a result, it is difficult to effectively provide viewers with an incentive to use the items. In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present invention aims to diversify the presentation effects of distributed content related to instructions from viewers.

In order to solve the above problems, a control system according to one aspect of the present invention is a control system that supports the generation of distribution content that represents the progress of a game, and includes a material control unit that updates material data that represents performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions that represent the viewers of the distribution content cheering on the play of the game and situation data that represents the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to an editing system that generates the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game.

An information system according to one aspect of the present invention is an information system including a recording system and a control system, the recording system including a material acquisition unit that acquires material data representing performance materials from the control system, and an editing processing unit that generates distribution content including play materials representing the progress of a game and performance materials represented by the material data, the control system including a material control unit that updates the material data representing the performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions from viewers of the distribution content to cheer on the play of the game and situation data representing the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to an editing system that generates the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game.

An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention is a method for supporting the generation of distribution content representing the progress of a game, in which material data representing performance materials used in the distribution content is updated in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions from viewers of the distribution content to cheer on the play of the game and situation data representing the situation of the game, and the material data is transmitted in parallel with the progress of the game to an editing system that generates the distribution content.

A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for supporting the generation of distribution content representing the progress of a game, and causes a computer system to function as a material control unit that updates material data representing performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions from viewers of the distribution content to cheer on the play of the game and situation data representing the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to an editing system that generates the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of distribution content. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game device. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of control conditions. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an editing system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the performance material. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information system. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure for initial setting. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game device in a first preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the control system in a first preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the editing system in a second preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the editing system in an editing process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the control system in an editing process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game device in an editing process. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of distribution content in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a control condition in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system according to a second embodiment. An explanatory diagram of performance materials in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an information system according to a second embodiment. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game device in a first preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the control system in a first preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the editing system in a second preparation process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the editing system in an editing process. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the control system in an editing process. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the game device in an editing process. FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a control system according to a third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a control system in a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a control system according to a third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a control system in a third embodiment.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below includes various technically suitable limitations. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments exemplified below.

[First embodiment]
1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information system 1 according to a first embodiment. The information system 1 is a computer system for distributing content V related to a game played by a user U (hereinafter referred to as "distribution content") to a plurality of terminal devices 10. In the first embodiment, a baseball game in which two teams, each made up of a plurality of characters (hereinafter referred to as "player characters"), play against each other in a game of baseball is illustrated as an example.

The distribution content V is composed of images (video or still images) and audio. In the first embodiment, the distribution content V is a game commentary video in which a user U plays a baseball game while explaining the progress of the game. The distribution content V is distributed to each terminal device 10 in real time in parallel with the progress of the baseball game (i.e., live distribution).

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating distribution content V. As illustrated in Figure 2, distribution content V includes multiple materials X (Xa, Xb, X1). Each material X is an element (source) that constitutes distribution content V, and is composed of either or both images and audio. In the first embodiment, distribution content V includes play material Xa, recorded material Xb, and performance material X1.

The play material Xa is material that represents the progress of a baseball game played by a user U. The recorded material Xb is material that records the user U commenting on the progress of the game while playing the baseball game. For example, the recorded material Xb is composed of an image of the user U playing a baseball game and the sound produced by the user.

The performance material X1 is a performance material that is linked to the progress of the baseball game. For example, when an event such as a home run occurs in a baseball game, the performance material X1 that performs the event is played. In FIG. 2, the decorative character "Ka-chi-n!!" that represents the sound of a hitting ball is shown as an example of the performance material X1. The performance material X1 is displayed in a size that covers both the play material Xa and the recorded material Xb. One or more performance materials X1 are arranged in the distribution content V. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the play material Xa and the recorded material Xb are composed of images (video or still images) and sounds, and the performance material X1 is composed of images (video or still images).

The terminal device 10 in FIG. 1 is a device capable of playing the distributed content V. For example, a portable or stationary information device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer is used as the terminal device 10. In addition, a display device such as a television receiver is also used as the terminal device 10.

The terminal device 10 includes a playback device 11 and an operation device 12. The playback device 11 plays the distributed content V. The playback device 11 includes a display device 111 and a sound emitting device 112. The display device 111 displays an image of the distributed content V. The sound emitting device 112 emits the sound of the distributed content V. The operation device 12 is an input device that accepts operations by a user (hereinafter referred to as "viewer") A of the terminal device 10. Viewer A watches the distributed content V. Note that the playback of the distributed content V may be realized by a general-purpose browser or a dedicated application program.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the information system 1 includes a recording system 2, a control system 40, and a distribution system 50. The recording system 2, the control system 40, and the distribution system 50 communicate with each other via a communication network 3, such as the Internet.

The recording system 2 generates distribution content V. The control system 40 controls the performance material X1 in the distribution content V according to the progress of the baseball game. The distribution system 50 distributes the distribution content V generated by the recording system 2 to each terminal device 10. The distribution system 50 receives the distribution content V generated by the recording system 2 and transmits the distribution content V to each terminal device 10 in parallel. For example, the distribution system 50 is realized by a known video distribution server (e.g., a streaming server). Therefore, a detailed description of the distribution system 50 is omitted.

1, the recording system 2 includes a game device 20 and an editing system 30. The game device 20 controls a baseball game. For example, a portable or stationary information device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer is used as the game device 20. A dedicated portable or stationary game device may also be used as the game device 20. The editing system 30 is a computer system for generating the distribution content V. For example, a portable or stationary information device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer is used as the editing system 30. Each of the game device 20 and the editing system 30 communicates with the recording system 2 via a communication network 3. In the first embodiment, a form in which the game device 20 and the editing system 30 are configured separately is illustrated.

Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a game device 20. As illustrated in Figure 3, the game device 20 is a computer system that includes a control device 21, a storage device 22, a communication device 23, a playback device 24, and an operation device 25. Note that the game device 20 may be realized as a single device, or may be realized as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 21 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the game device 20. Specifically, the control device 21 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The communication device 23 communicates with the control system 40 via the communication network 3. The communication device 23 also communicates with the editing system 30.

The playback device 24 plays images and sounds according to the progress of the baseball game under the control of the control device 21. Specifically, the playback device 24 includes a display device 241 and a sound emitting device 242. The display device 241 displays images (hereinafter referred to as "game images") according to the progress of the baseball game. The sound emitting device 242 emits sounds according to the progress of the baseball game. The image of the play material Xa of the distribution content V is the same as the game image displayed on the display device 241. However, the play material Xa and the game image do not need to be completely the same image. For example, the play material Xa is generated by combining, for example, a decorative frame image with the game image. The operation device 25 is an input device that accepts operations by the user U. For example, the user U plays the baseball game by operating the operation device 25.

The storage device 22 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 21 and various data used by the control device 21. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 22. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the game device 20, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 21 can write to or read from via the communication network 3, for example, may also be used as the storage device 22.

The storage device 22 in the first embodiment stores identification information Uid and setting data S1. The identification information Uid is a code sequence for identifying the user U. The setting data S1 is data representing various conditions (hereinafter referred to as "control conditions") Y1 related to the control of the performance material X1. The control conditions Y1 are set according to instructions from the user U to the operation device 25. In other words, the control conditions Y1 are set individually for each user U.

Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the control condition Y1. As illustrated in Figure 4, the control condition Y1 specified by the setting data S1 includes a basic condition B1 and multiple performance conditions C1 (C1-a, C1-b, C1-c, ...). That is, the setting data S1 is composed of data specifying the basic condition B1 and data specifying each performance condition C1. The basic condition B1 is a condition regarding whether or not to control the performance material X1, and is set to either an effective state (ON) or an ineffective state (OFF). When the basic condition B1 is in an effective state, the performance material X1 is displayed in the distribution content V, and when the basic condition B1 is in an ineffective state, the performance material X1 is not displayed in the distribution content V. As described above, according to the first embodiment, the user U can arbitrarily select whether or not to display or update the performance material X1.

Each of the multiple rendering conditions C1 is a condition for controlling (displaying or updating) the rendering material X1 of the distribution content V when the basic condition B1 is in an enabled state. Specifically, a condition related to the progress of the baseball game is set as the rendering condition C1. That is, the rendering condition C1 is a condition whose success or failure changes over time depending on the situation of the baseball game. When a specific rendering condition C1 is met in the course of the progress of the baseball game, the rendering material X1 of the distribution content V is controlled (for example, displayed or updated). With the above configuration, it is possible to include appropriate rendering material X1 according to the progress of the baseball game in the distribution content V.

The multiple rendering conditions C1 include, for example, a condition C1-a related to a time in a baseball game. That is, when a specific time arrives in a baseball game, it is determined that the rendering condition C1-a is established. For example, the time when a specific inning starts in a baseball game, or the time when a specific situation occurs in a baseball game is exemplified as the rendering condition C1-a. An example of a specific inning specified as the rendering condition C1-a is the last inning (ninth inning) of a game. Also, an example of a specific situation specified as the rendering condition C1-a is an important situation that directly affects the outcome of a baseball game, such as a situation in which the team of the user U can overtake the opposing team, a situation in which the opposing team can overtake the team of the user U, a situation in which the bases are full, or the like. With the above configuration, it is possible to generate a distribution content V in which the arrival of a specific time in a baseball game is effectively rendered by the rendering material X1.

The multiple performance conditions C1 include, for example, a condition C1-b related to an event occurring in a baseball game. That is, when a specific event occurs in a baseball game, it is determined that the performance condition C1-b is established. The events specified in the performance condition C1-b include, for example, an event related to a specific player character in a baseball game and an event related to a specific action by any player character. Examples of events related to a specific player character include, for example, an event in which a specific player character in the user U's team appears, an event in which a specific player character in the opponent's team appears, or an event in which any player character in the user U's team appears. Examples of events related to specific actions include, for example, an action of a batter hitting a home run, an action of a pitcher striking out, or an action of a runner stealing a base. In the above description, the performance condition C1-b related to the event and the performance condition C1-b related to the action are exemplified individually, but a combination of both may be set as the performance condition C1-b. For example, the occurrence of an event in which a specific player character hits a home run is set as the performance condition C1-b. With the above configuration, it is possible to generate distribution content V in which the occurrence of a specific event in a baseball game is effectively depicted using the presentation material X1.

The multiple effect conditions C1 include, for example, a condition C1-c related to a virtual location where a match is held in a baseball game. In other words, it is determined that the effect condition C1-c is met when a match in a baseball game is held in a specific stadium. With the above configuration, effective effects specific to a specific location in a baseball game are realized by the effect material X1.

Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an editing system 30. As illustrated in Figure 5, the editing system 30 is a computer system that includes a control device 31, a storage device 32, a communication device 33, a playback device 34, an operation device 35, and a recording device 36. Note that the editing system 30 can be realized as a single device, or as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 31 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the editing system 30. Specifically, the control device 31 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC.

The storage device 32 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 31 and various data used by the control device 31. Specifically, OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) for generating and distributing the distribution content V is stored in the storage device 32. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 32. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the editing system 30, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that can be written to or read by the control device 31 via the communication network 3, for example, may also be used as the storage device 32.

The communication device 33 communicates with the control system 40 via the communication network 3. The communication device 33 also communicates with the game device 20. The communication between the game device 20 (communication device 23) and the editing system 30 (communication device 33) may be either wired communication or wireless communication. Furthermore, it does not matter whether the communication between the game device 20 and the editing system 30 uses the communication network 3. For example, short-range wireless communication may be performed between the game device 20 and the editing system 30. In the first embodiment, material data Qa of play material Xa representing the progress of a baseball game is transmitted from the game device 20 to the editing system 30.

Under the control of the control device 31, the playback device 34 plays images and audio that the user U views in order to edit the distribution content V. Specifically, the playback device 34 includes a display device 341 and an audio output device 342. The display device 341 displays an image (editing screen) for editing the distribution content V. The audio output device 342 outputs audio for editing the distribution content V.

The operation device 35 is an input device that accepts operations by the user U. For example, the operation device 35 accepts from the user U an instruction to place each of the materials X (Xa, Xb, X1) in the distribution content V, or an instruction to position each of the materials X. Note that in the first embodiment, it is assumed that the player of the baseball game and the distributor of the distribution content V are the same user U, but the player of the baseball game and the distributor of the distribution content V (the operator of the editing system 30) may be different people. In other words, there may be multiple users U.

The recording device 36 is a video device that records the user U playing a baseball game. For example, the recording device 36 includes an imaging device that records an image (video) of the user U, and a sound collection device that records the voice of the user U. The recording device 36 generates material data Qb of the recording material Xb that includes the image and voice of the user U.

Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of control system 40. As illustrated in Figure 6, control system 40 is a computer system that includes a control device 41, a storage device 42, and a communication device 43. Note that control system 40 can be realized as a single device, or as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 41 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the control system 40. Specifically, the control device 41 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The communication device 43 communicates with each of the game device 20 and the editing system 30 via the communication network 3.

The storage device 42 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 41 and various data used by the control device 41. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 42. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the control system 40, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 41 can write to or read from via the communication network 3, for example, may also be used as the storage device 42.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the storage device 42 stores user data G, reference data R1, material data Q1, and multiple pieces of basic data q1. The user data G, reference data R1, and material data Q1 are stored individually for each user U. Specifically, the user data G, reference data R1, and material data Q1 are stored in the storage device 42 in association with the identification information Uid of each user U.

User data G is data related to user U. Specifically, user data G is information related to past play of a baseball game by user U. Specifically, user data G is game data that includes multiple pieces of information, such as user U's baseball game play history (e.g., game results) and ability values of each player character that makes up user U's baseball team.

The material data Q1 is data representing the performance material X1 that the user U uses in his/her distribution content V. Specifically, image data representing an image of the performance material X1 is exemplified as the material data Q1.

Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the effect material X1 represented by the material data Q1. The effect material X1 is a video including a transparent image X11 and a display element X12. The transparent image X11 is a transparent image through which the image behind it can be seen. For example, a transparent GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) image of a certain size in which the entire image is transparent is used as the transparent image X11. On the other hand, the display element X12 is an image for effect that can be seen by the viewer A. In Figure 7, the decorative text "Ka-ki-n!!" representing the sound of a hitting ball is exemplified as the display element X12.

As described above, the material data Q1 is updated when the rendering condition C1 is satisfied. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 7, when the rendering condition C1 is not satisfied, the rendering material X1 is composed of the transparent image X11. That is, the viewer A cannot see the rendering material X1. On the other hand, when the rendering condition C1 is satisfied, the rendering material X1 is generated by compositing the display element X12 with the transparent image X11. That is, the viewer A can see the rendering material X1 (display element X12). When a predetermined erasure condition is satisfied after the rendering condition C1 is satisfied, the display element X12 is erased. That is, the rendering material X1 transitions to a transparent state composed of the transparent image X11. The erasure condition is, for example, that a predetermined time has passed since the display element X12 was displayed. As described above, in the first embodiment, a series of rendering materials X1 is generated by compositing the display element X12 with the transparent image X11, so that the editing system 30 does not need to determine whether to acquire the rendering material X1 (display element X12).

Each piece of basic data q1 in FIG. 6 is data representing an image used to generate material data Q1 for each user U. For example, multiple pieces of basic data q1 including basic data q1 representing a transparent image X11 and basic data q1 representing a display element X12 are stored in the storage device 42.

The reference data R1 includes unit data Z1 for each rendering material X1 used in the distribution content V of the user U. Each unit data Z1 specifies a combination of a rendering condition C1 and a control mode P1. The control mode P1 corresponding to each rendering condition C1 means a method for updating the rendering material X1 when the rendering condition C1 is satisfied (a pattern of how to update the rendering material X1). For example, assuming the example of FIG. 7, a combination of a transparent image X11 that is displayed when the rendering condition C1 is not satisfied and a display element X12 that is displayed when the rendering condition C1 is satisfied is specified as the control mode P1. As can be understood from the above explanation, the reference data R1 is data that specifies a combination of the rendering condition C1 and the control mode P1. The rendering condition C1 and the control mode P1 are set, for example, according to an instruction from the user U to the game device 20.

As can be understood from the above explanation, in the first embodiment, when the rendering condition C1 registered in the reference data R1 is satisfied, the material data Q1 is updated by the control mode P1 in the reference data R1. Specifically, the display element X12 is displayed in response to the rendering condition C1 being satisfied.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, location information L1 is stored in association with each unit data Z1 of reference data R1. That is, location information L1 is stored for each performance material X1 used in distribution content V of user U. Location information L1 is data that indicates the location of material data Q1 in storage device 42. Specifically, the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of material data Q1 is used as location information L1. Control system 40 provides location information L1 to user U. Editing system 30 receives material data Q1 stored in a location specified by location information L1 from control system 40. As can be understood from the above explanation, location information L1 can also be said as data for editing system 30 to acquire material data Q1 from control system 40 (data for identifying material data Q1).

Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information system 1. As illustrated in Figure 8, the control device 21 of the game device 20 executes a program stored in the storage device 22 to realize multiple functions (a game control unit 211, a playback control unit 212, a condition setting unit 213, a condition determination unit 214, and an information notification unit 215).

The game control unit 211 progresses the baseball game in response to the operation of the user U on the operation device 25. The playback control unit 212 causes the playback device 24 to play images and sounds of the baseball game. Specifically, the playback control unit 212 causes the display device 241 to display game images representing the progress of the baseball game, and causes the sound emitting device 242 to emit various sounds such as sound effects. The playback control unit 212 also generates material data Qa of the play material Xa representing the progress of the baseball game. The material data Qa is transmitted from the communication device 23 to the editing system 30. Note that the playback control unit 212 does not necessarily need to generate the material data Qa of the play material Xa dedicated to the distribution content V. For example, the playback control unit 212 may simply output data representing the game images and sounds of the baseball game (e.g., data supplied to the playback device 24) to the outside. The editing system 30 acquires the data output from the game device 20 as material data Qa.

The condition setting unit 213 sets the control condition Y1 (basic condition B1 and performance condition C1) in response to an instruction from the user U via the operation device 25. For example, the condition setting unit 213 sets the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 in response to an instruction from the user U, and transmits unit data Z1 that specifies the combination of the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 to the control system 40.

The condition determination unit 214 determines whether the control condition Y1 (performance condition C1) set by the condition setting unit 213 is met. The determination by the condition determination unit 214 is performed in parallel with the progress of the baseball game. That is, the condition determination unit 214 determines at any time whether the control condition Y1 is met in the course of the progress of the baseball game. The condition determination unit 214 in the first embodiment generates situation data D1 that represents the result of determining whether the control condition Y1 is met. Specifically, the situation data D1 specifies the performance condition C1 that is met in the baseball game. The situation data D1 is transmitted from the communication device 23 to the control system 40.

The information notification unit 215 notifies the user U of the location information L1 provided by the control system 40. For example, the information notification unit 215 displays the location information L1 on the display device 241. The user U becomes aware of the location information L1 through the notification by the information notification unit 215. The user U inputs the location information L1 to the editing system 30 by operating the operation device 35 of the editing system 30. In other words, the editing system 30 obtains the location information L1 indicating the location where the material data Q1 is stored in the control system 40.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the control device 21 of the editing system 30 realizes multiple functions (material acquisition unit 311, editing processing unit 312) by executing a program (OBS) stored in the storage device 22.

The material acquisition unit 311 acquires material data Q (Qa, Qb, Q1). The acquisition of material data Q by the material acquisition unit 311 is performed continuously in parallel with the progress of the baseball game. Specifically, the material acquisition unit 311 acquires material data Qa of play material Xa from the game device 20, and acquires material data Qb of recorded material Xb from the recording device 36. The material acquisition unit 311 also acquires material data Q1 of performance material X1 from the control system 40. Specifically, the material acquisition unit 311 transmits a material request M1 including location information L1 to the control system 40, thereby acquiring from the control system 40 the material data Q1 stored in the location specified by the location information L1.

The editing processing unit 312 generates distribution content V using material X (Xa, Xb, X1) represented by material data Q (Qa, Qb, Q1) acquired by the material acquisition unit 311. That is, the editing processing unit 312 generates distribution content V including play material Xa, recorded material Xb, and performance material X1, as described above with reference to FIG. 2. The distribution content V includes audio that is a mixture of the audio of play material Xa and the audio of recorded material Xb.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the control device 41 of the control system 40 realizes multiple functions (condition setting unit 411, information providing unit 412, material control unit 413, material transmission unit 414) by executing a program stored in the storage device 42.

The condition setting unit 411 generates reference data R1 that specifies the relationship between the control condition Y1 (performance condition C1) and the control mode P1. Specifically, the condition setting unit 411 adds unit data Z1 received from the game device 20 for each performance material X1 to the reference data R1. The information providing unit 412 provides the user U with location information L1 corresponding to each performance material X1.

The material control unit 413 controls the performance material X1 represented by the material data Q1. Specifically, the material control unit 413 updates the performance material X1 according to the situation data D1 transmitted from the game device 20. As described above, the situation data D1 is data indicating whether the performance condition C1 is met. Therefore, the material control unit 413 updates the performance material X1 used in the distribution content V of the user U under the control condition Y1 (performance condition C1) set by the user U.

In response to a material request M1 using location information L1 from the editing system 30, the material transmission unit 414 transmits material data Q1 indicated by the location information L1 to the requesting editing system 30. The control of the performance material X1 by the material control unit 413 and the transmission of the material data Q1 by the material transmission unit 414 are performed in parallel with the progress of the baseball game.

The operation of the information system 1 will now be described. Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the initial setup that are executed immediately after the baseball game is started.

The control device 21 of the game device 20 transmits an authentication request from the communication device 23 to the control system 40 (Sa11). The authentication request includes the identification information Uid of the user U. The control device 41 of the control system 40 receives the authentication request via the communication device 43 (Sb11) and executes authentication processing using the identification information Uid (Sb12). The authentication processing is processing to confirm the validity of the user U (that is, that the user is a regular user who has been pre-registered). For example, auxiliary information such as the biometric information or PIN number of the user U is also used in the authentication processing. The control device 41 transmits the authentication result to the game device 20 that made the request (Sb13). If the authentication processing is successful, the authentication result including the user data G of the user U is transmitted from the control system 40. The control device 41 also stores the identification information Uid of the user U who has been successfully authenticated in the storage device 42. In other words, the user U who will generate the distribution content V is identified.

The control device 21 of the game device 20 receives the authentication result via the communication device 23 (Sa12). If the authentication process is successful, the control device 21 applies the user data G included in the authentication result to the baseball game (Sa13). In other words, the situation of the past play by the user U is reproduced. On the other hand, if the authentication process fails, the user U is notified of the authentication failure.

Figures 10 and 11 are flow charts illustrating specific steps of a process (hereinafter referred to as the "first preparation process") for preparing the generation of distribution content V. The first preparation process is executed before the user U starts the baseball game, and includes setting the control condition Y1 and issuing the location information L1.

The user U instructs the game device 20 whether or not to use the performance material X1 in his/her distribution content V (basic condition B1) by operating the operation device 25. That is, the user U selects either the valid state or the invalid state as the basic condition B1. When the first preparation process is started, the control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) of the game device 20 accepts an instruction from the user U regarding the basic condition B1 (Sa21). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) sets the basic condition B1 represented by the setting data S1 to the state (valid state/invalid state) instructed by the user U (Sa22). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) determines whether the basic condition B1 is set to the valid state (Sa23). If the basic condition B1 is set to the invalid state (Sa23: NO), the control device 21 ends the first preparation process without executing the following process.

The user U who has specified the effective state as the basic condition B1 specifies a combination of the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 for each performance material X1 that he/she wants to use in his/her distribution content V by operating the operation device 25. For example, the user U selects one of a plurality of options prepared in advance as the performance condition C1, and selects one of a plurality of options prepared in advance as the control mode P1. When the basic condition B1 is set to the effective state (Sa23: YES), the control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) accepts an instruction from the user U regarding the combination of the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 (Sa24). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) sets the performance condition C1 represented by the setting data S1 to the condition specified by the user U (Sa25). In addition, the control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) transmits the unit data Z1 specifying the combination of the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 specified by the user U from the communication device 23 to the control system 40 (Sa26). User U's identification information Uid is added to unit data Z1.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, the control device 41 (condition setting unit 411) of the control system 40 receives the unit data Z1 transmitted from the game device 20 via the communication device 43 (Sb21). The control device 41 (condition setting unit 411) searches the storage device 42 for reference data R1 corresponding to the identification information Uid added to the unit data Z1, and adds the unit data Z1 to the reference data R1 (Sb22). In other words, the relationship between the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 specified by the user U is registered in the reference data R1 for one performance material X1.

The control device 41 (information provider 412) generates location information L1 for the material data Q1 of the currently registered performance material X1 (Sb23). That is, location information L1 indicating the location where the material data Q1 is saved is generated. The control device 41 (information provider 412) stores the location information L1 in association with the unit data Z1 of the reference data R1 that corresponds to the performance material X1 (Sb24). Then, the control device 21 (information provider 412) transmits the location information L1 from the communication device 43 to the game device 20 (Sb25). That is, location information L1 indicating the location of the material data Q1 of the performance material X1 is provided to the user U who specified the performance material X1.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the control device 21 (information notification unit 215) of the game device 20 receives the location information L1 transmitted from the control system 40 via the communication device 23 (Sa27). The control device 21 (information notification unit 215) notifies the user U of the location information L1 (Sa28). Specifically, the location information L1 is displayed on the display device 241.

The control device 21 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (Sa29). For example, if the user U issues an end command by operating the operation device 25, the end condition is determined to have been met. If the end condition is not met (Sa29: NO), the control device 21 transitions to step Sa24. That is, each time the user U issues a command for a combination of the performance condition C1 and the control mode P1 for one performance material X1, the setting data S1 is updated (Sa24, Sa25), the reference data R1 is updated (Sa26, Sb21, Sb22), and the location information L1 is provided (Sb23-Sb25, Sa27, Sa28).

On the other hand, if the end condition is met (Sa29: YES), the control device 21 ends the first preparation process. As can be understood from the above explanation, the correspondence between the performance condition C1 and the performance material X1 specified by the user U is registered, and the location information L1 corresponding to each performance material X1 is notified to the user U.

Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the process (hereinafter referred to as the "second preparation process") for preparing the generation of distribution content V. The second preparation process is executed after the first preparation process is executed and before the user U starts the baseball game. Therefore, at the stage when the second preparation process starts, the user U knows the location information L1 for each performance material X1.

The user U operates the operation device 35 to instruct the placement of the performance material X1 in the distribution content V. The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) of the editing system 30 receives the instruction for the placement of the performance material X1 from the user U (Sc31). The instruction from the user U includes a specification of the position of the performance material X1 in the distribution content V.

The user U also inputs location information L1 of the performance material X1 to the editing system 30 by operating the operation device 35. The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) accepts the input of the location information L1 by the user U (Sc32). The location information L1 is stored in the storage device 32. The acceptance of instructions regarding the performance material X1 (Sc31) and the acceptance of the location information L1 corresponding to the performance material X1 (Sc32) are performed for each performance material X1 placed in the distribution content V.

Figures 13 to 15 are flowcharts illustrating the specific steps of the process of generating distribution content V (hereinafter referred to as "editing process"). The editing process is executed after the first preparation process and the second preparation process are executed. When the first preparation process and the second preparation process are executed, the user U instructs the editing system 30 to generate distribution content V by operating the operation device 35, and instructs the game device 20 to start a baseball game by operating the operation device 25.

When the generation of distribution content V is instructed by user U, the control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) of the editing system 30 transmits a material request M1 from the communication device 33 to the control system 40 (Sc41). For each performance material X1 of the distribution content V, a material request M1 is transmitted to the control system 40. The material request M1 for each performance material X1 includes the user U's identification information Uid and the location information L1 input by the user U for that performance material X1 in the second preparation process.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the control device 41 (material transmission unit 414) of the control system 40 receives the material request M1 transmitted from the editing system 30 via the communication device 43 (Sb41). The control device 41 (material transmission unit 414) stores material data Q1 representing the performance material X1 in a location in the storage device 42 specified by the location information L1 in the material request M1 (Sb42). As described above with reference to FIG. 7, when the performance condition C1 is not satisfied, the material data Q1 representing the transparent image X11 is stored in the storage device 42.

On the other hand, when the user U instructs the start of the baseball game, the control device 21 (game control unit 211 and playback control unit 212) of the game device 20 progresses the baseball game in response to the instructions from the user U to the operation device 25 (Sa41), as illustrated in FIG. 15. The control device 21 (playback control unit 212) transmits material data Qa of play material Xa according to the situation of the baseball game from the communication device 23 to the editing system 30 (Sa42).

The condition determination unit 214 determines whether or not any of the presentation conditions C1 specified by the setting data S1 has been met as a result of the progress of the baseball game (Sa43). If the presentation condition C1 has not been met (Sa43: NO), the control device 21 transitions to step Sa41. That is, the progress of the baseball game continues. On the other hand, if the presentation condition C1 has been met (Sa43: YES), the control device 21 (condition determination unit 214) transmits situation data D1 specifying the presentation condition C1 from the communication device 23 to the control system 40 (Sa44).

The control device 21 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (Sa45). For example, if the user U issues an instruction to end the game by operating the operation device 25, the end condition is determined to have been met. If the end condition has not been met (Sa45: NO), the control device 21 transitions to step Sa42. On the other hand, if the end condition has been met (Sa44: YES), the control device 21 ends the baseball game. As shown in the above example, in parallel with the progress of the baseball game, situation data D1 specifying the performance condition C1 that has been met during the progress of the baseball game is sequentially transmitted to the control system 40. The situation data D1 includes the identification information Uid of the user U.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the control device 41 (material control unit 413) of the control system 40 determines whether the communication device 43 has received the situation data D1 from the game device 20 (Sb43). When the communication device 43 receives the situation data D1 (Sb43: YES), the control device 41 (material control unit 413) updates the material data Q1 of the performance material X1 (Sb44). Specifically, the control device 41 (material control unit 413) identifies the unit data Z1 including the performance condition C1 specified by the situation data D1 from the reference data R1 corresponding to the identification information Uid in the situation data D1. Then, the control device 41 (material control unit 413) updates the material data Q1 stored in the location specified by the location information L1 corresponding to the unit data Z1 according to the control mode P1 in the unit data Z1. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the material data Q1 is updated so that the performance material X1 is switched from the transparent image X11 to the display element X12. On the other hand, if the communication device 43 does not receive the situation data D1 (Sb43: NO), the update of the material data Q1 (Sb44) is not executed.

As illustrated above, the material control unit 413 of the first embodiment receives situation data D1 representing the result of judging whether the rendering condition C1 is met, and updates the material data Q1 according to the result of the judgment represented by the situation data D1. In other words, when the rendering condition C1 in the baseball game is met, the material data Q1 of the rendering material X1 corresponding to the rendering condition C1 is updated.

The control device 41 (material transmission unit 414) transmits the material data Q1 from the communication device 43 to the editing system 30 (Sb45). As can be understood from the above explanation, when the rendering condition C1 is not satisfied, the material data Q1 representing the transparent image X11 is transmitted to the editing system 30, and when the rendering condition C1 is satisfied, the material data Q1 representing the display element X12 is transmitted to the editing system 30.

The control device 41 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (Sb46). For example, when the end of the baseball game is notified from the game device 20, it is determined that the end condition has been met. If the end condition has not been met (Sb46: NO), the control device 41 transitions the process to step Sb43. That is, the update of the material data Q1 (Sb43-Sb44) triggered by the fulfillment of the performance condition C1 and the transmission of the material data Q1 (Sb45) are repeated. On the other hand, if the end condition has been met (Sb46: YES), the control device 41 ends the process.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, after transmitting the material request M1 (Sc41), the control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) of the editing system 30 receives the material data Qa of the play material Xa transmitted from the game device 20 (Sa42) via the communication device 33 (Sc42). The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) also acquires the material data Qb of the recording material Xb generated by the recording device 36 (Sc43). Furthermore, the control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) receives the material data Q1 of the performance material X1 transmitted from the control system 40 (Sb45) via the communication device 33 (Sc44). Note that the order of reception of each piece of material data Q (Qa, Qb, Q1) is not limited to the above example.

The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) generates distribution content V including the materials X (Xa, Xb, X1) acquired by the above processing (Sc45). That is, as illustrated in FIG. 2, distribution content V including play material Xa, recording material Xb, and performance material X1 is generated. The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) transmits distribution content V from the communication device 33 to the distribution system 50 (Sc46). That is, distribution content V is uploaded from the editing system 30 to the distribution system 50. Distribution content V is transmitted from the distribution system 50 to each terminal device 10.

The control device 31 determines whether a predetermined termination condition has been met (Sc47). For example, if the user U issues an instruction to terminate by operating the operating device 35, the termination condition is determined to have been met. If the termination condition has not been met (Sc47: NO), the control device 31 transitions to step Sc42. That is, the acquisition of each material X (Xa, Xb, X1) (Sc42-Sc44) and the generation (Sc45) and transmission (Sc46) of the distribution content V using each material X are repeated. On the other hand, if the termination condition has been met (Sc47: YES), the control device 31 terminates the processing. In the above explanation, the control device 31 first transmits the material request M1 (Sc41) and then repeatedly receives the material data Q1 (Sc44), but it is also possible to assume that the control device 31 repeats the transmission of the material request M1 (Sc41) and the reception of the material data Q1 (Sc44) until the end condition is met. In other words, if the end condition is not met (Sc47: NO), the control device 31 may transition the process to step Sc41.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the material data Q1 transmitted from the control system 40 to the editing system 30 is updated under the control conditions Y1 (particularly the performance conditions C1) according to the instructions of the user U. Therefore, a variety of distribution contents V including performance materials X1 reflecting the intentions or preferences of the user U can be generated. In addition, by a simple process of setting the location information L for the distribution content V, the performance materials X1 used in the distribution content V can be updated in parallel with the progress of the baseball game played by the user U. Specifically, by executing the first preparation process and the second preparation process before the start of the baseball game, the performance materials X1 of the distribution content V are updated at an appropriate time during the progress of the baseball game, even if there are no instructions from the user U regarding the distribution content V. In other words, there is an advantage that the user U can concentrate on playing the baseball game without paying attention to the generation of the distribution content V.

[Second embodiment]
16 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the information system 1 in the second embodiment. A viewer A in the second embodiment can cheer on a user U at any time during the period in which the distribution content V is distributed to the terminal device 10. Cheering on a user U is a supportive act that includes providing a value medium to the user U (so-called tipping). The value medium is, for example, a currency (electronic money) or a value such as points, which is a value that can be used for various services such as electronic commerce.

By operating the operation device 12, viewer A can specify the amount of value media (hereinafter referred to as the "amount provided") W to provide to user U and instruct the terminal device 10 to support user U. A support instruction T is transmitted in response to the operation of the operation device 12 by viewer A. The support instruction T is data indicating support for user U by viewer A, and includes the amount provided W specified by viewer A.

Figure 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating distribution content V in the second embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 17, distribution content V in the second embodiment includes performance material X2 in addition to the same elements as in the first embodiment (Xa, Xb, X1). Performance material X2 is an image for performance purposes that represents viewer A's support for user U. Performance material X2 is displayed, for example, in a size that covers both play material Xa and recording material Xb. One or more performance materials X2 are placed in distribution content V.

The performance material X2 is controlled according to the progress of the baseball game, similar to the performance material X1 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the performance material X2 of the second embodiment is controlled according to the cheering instructions T from each viewer A. That is, the performance material X2 is linked to the progress of the baseball game and the cheering instructions T from the viewer A. Specifically, the performance material X2 changes according to the success or failure of a condition (hereinafter referred to as the "performance condition") C2 related to the progress of the baseball game and the presence or absence of a cheering instruction T. For example, in a situation where the performance condition C2 is not met, the performance material X2 representing currency such as coins is displayed in response to the cheering instruction T. On the other hand, in a situation where the performance condition C2 is met, the performance material X2 representing an item for performance such as a cracker is displayed in response to the cheering instruction T.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, the information system 1 of the second embodiment includes a control system 60 in addition to the same elements as in the first embodiment (recording system 2, control system 40, distribution system 50). The control system 60 accepts cheering instructions T transmitted from the terminal device 10. The control system 60 controls the performance material X2 in the distribution content V in response to the progress of the baseball game and the cheering instructions T from the terminal device 10.

The game device 20 of the second embodiment stores setting data S2 in addition to the setting data S1 exemplified in the first embodiment. The setting data S2 is data representing a control condition Y2 related to the control of the performance material X2. Like the control condition Y1, the control condition Y2 is set in response to an instruction from the user U to the operation device 25. In other words, the control condition Y2 is set individually for each user U.

Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram of control condition Y2. As illustrated in Figure 18, control condition Y2 in the second embodiment includes basic condition B2 and multiple rendering conditions C2 (C2-a, C2-b, C2-c, ...), similar to control condition Y1 in the first embodiment. Setting data S2 specifying basic condition B2 and multiple rendering conditions C2 is stored in storage device 22 of game device 20. In other words, setting data S2 is composed of data specifying basic condition B2 and data specifying each rendering condition C2.

Basic condition B2 is a condition regarding whether or not to control performance material X2, and is set to either an enabled state (ON) or an disabled state (OFF). When basic condition B2 is enabled, performance material X2 is displayed in distribution content V, and when basic condition B2 is disabled, performance material X2 is not displayed in distribution content V. As described above, according to the second embodiment, user U can freely select whether or not to display or update performance material X2. As described above, according to the first embodiment, user U can freely select whether or not to display or update performance material X2.

Each of the multiple rendering conditions C2 is a condition for controlling (displaying or updating) the rendering material X2 of the distribution content V when the basic condition B2 is in an enabled state. Specifically, a condition related to the progress of the baseball game is set as the rendering condition C2. That is, the rendering condition C2 is a condition whose success or failure changes over time depending on the situation of the baseball game. When a specific rendering condition C2 is met in the course of the progress of the baseball game, the rendering material X2 of the distribution content V is controlled (for example, displayed or updated). With the above configuration, it is possible to include appropriate rendering material X2 in the distribution content V according to the progress of the baseball game.

The multiple rendering conditions C2 include, for example, a condition C2-a related to a time in a baseball game. That is, when a specific time arrives in a baseball game, it is determined that the rendering condition C2-a is established. For example, the time when a specific inning starts in a baseball game, or the time when a specific situation occurs in a baseball game is exemplified as the rendering condition C2-a. An example of a specific inning specified as the rendering condition C2-a is the last inning (ninth inning) of a game. Also, an example of a specific situation specified as the rendering condition C2-a is an important situation that directly affects the outcome of a baseball game, such as a situation in which the team of the user U can overtake the opponent's team, a situation in which the opponent's team can overtake the team of the user U, a situation in which the bases are full, etc. According to the above configuration, it is possible to generate a distribution content V in which the arrival of a specific time in a baseball game is effectively rendered by the rendering material X2.

The multiple performance conditions C2 include, for example, a condition C2-b related to an event occurring in a baseball game. That is, when a specific event occurs in a baseball game, it is determined that the performance condition C2-b is established. The events specified in the performance condition C2-b include, for example, an event related to a specific player character in a baseball game and an event related to a specific action by any player character. Examples of events related to a specific player character include, for example, an event in which a specific player character in the user U's team appears, an event in which a specific player character in the opponent's team appears, or an event in which any player character in the user U's team appears. Examples of events related to specific actions include, for example, an action of a batter hitting a home run, an action of a pitcher striking out, or an action of a runner stealing a base. In the above description, the performance condition C2-b related to the event and the performance condition C2-b related to the action are exemplified individually, but a combination of both may be set as the performance condition C2-b. For example, the occurrence of an event in which a specific player character hits a home run is set as the performance condition C2-b. With the above configuration, it is possible to generate distribution content V in which the occurrence of a specific event in a baseball game is effectively depicted using the presentation material X2.

The multiple effect conditions C2 include, for example, a condition C2-c related to a virtual location where a match is held in a baseball game. In other words, it is determined that effect condition C2-c is met when a match in a baseball game is held in a specific stadium. With the above configuration, effective effects specific to a specific location in a baseball game are realized by the effect material X2.

Figure 19 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a control system 60. As illustrated in Figure 19, the control system 60 is a computer system that includes a control device 61, a storage device 62, and a communication device 63. Note that the control system 60 can be realized as a single device, or as multiple devices configured separately from each other.

The control device 61 is composed of, for example, one or more processors that control each element of the control system 60. Specifically, the control device 61 is composed of one or more types of processors, such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The communication device 63 communicates with each of the game device 20 and the editing system 30 via the communication network 3.

The storage device 62 is a single or multiple memories that store the programs executed by the control device 61 and various data used by the control device 61. For example, a well-known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of multiple types of recording media, is used as the storage device 62. Note that a portable recording medium that is detachable from the control system 60, or a recording medium (e.g., cloud storage) that the control device 61 can write to or read from via the communication network 3, for example, may also be used as the storage device 62.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the storage device 62 stores reference data R2, material data Q2, and multiple pieces of basic data q2. The reference data R2 and material data Q2 are stored individually for each user U. Specifically, the reference data R2 and material data Q2 are stored in the storage device 62 in association with the identification information Uid of each user U.

In the following description, for convenience, a form in which the control system 40 identifies the user U and the control system 60 identifies the user U using the same identification information Uid is illustrated. However, a form in which the identification information Uid used by the control system 40 to identify the user U and the identification information Uid' used by the control system 60 to identify the user U are different is also assumed. For example, the identification information Uid' input by the user U when setting the control condition Y2 is transmitted from the game device 20 to the control system 60, and the identification information Uid' is stored in the storage device 62. In the above description, a form in which the user U inputs the identification information Uid' is illustrated, but the user U may input information that can identify the identification information Uid' to the game device 20, and the control device 61 of the control system 60 may identify and store the identification information Uid' from the information.

The material data Q2 is data representing the performance material X2 that the user U uses in his/her distribution content V. Specifically, image data representing an image of the performance material X2 is exemplified as the material data Q2.

Figure 20 is an explanatory diagram of the performance material X2 represented by the material data Q2. Performance material X2 is a video including transparent image X21, display element X22, and display element X23. Similar to the transparent image X11 described above, transparent image X21 is a transparent image through which the image behind it can be seen. On the other hand, display element X22 and display element X23 are images for performance that can be seen by viewer A.

As mentioned above, the material data Q2 is updated in response to a cheering instruction T from viewer A. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 20, if a cheering instruction T has not occurred, then regardless of whether or not performance condition C2 is met, performance material X2 is composed of transparent image X21. In other words, viewer A cannot see performance material X1. On the other hand, if a cheering instruction T has occurred, performance material X2 is composed of display element X22 or display element X23. In other words, viewer A can see performance material X2.

Specifically, when a cheering instruction T occurs in a situation where the performance condition C2 is not met, the performance material X2 is generated by compositing the display element X22 with the transparent image X21. Also, when a cheering instruction T occurs in a situation where the performance condition C2 is met, the performance material X2 is generated by compositing the display element X23 with the transparent image X21. In other words, the display element X22 or the display element X23 displayed in response to the cheering instruction T differs depending on whether the performance condition C2 is met.

When a predetermined erasure condition is met after the performance condition C2 is met, the display element X22 or the display element X23 is erased. That is, the performance material X2 transitions to a transparent state composed of the transparent image X21. The erasure condition is, for example, that a predetermined time has passed since the display of the display element X22 or the display element X23. As described above, in the second embodiment, a series of performance materials X2 is generated by combining the display element X22 with the transparent image X21, so that the editing system 30 does not need to determine whether or not to acquire the performance material X2 (display element X22).

Each piece of basic data q2 in FIG. 19 is data representing an image used to generate material data Q2 for each user U. For example, multiple pieces of basic data q2 including basic data q2 representing transparent image X21, basic data q2 representing display element X22, and basic data q2 representing display element X23 are stored in storage device 62.

The reference data R2 includes unit data Z2 for each performance material X2 used in the distribution content V of the user U. Each unit data Z2 specifies a combination of a performance condition C2 and a control mode P2. The control mode P2 means a method for updating the performance material X2 (a pattern for updating the performance material X2). For example, in the example of FIG. 20, the control mode P2 specifies a combination of the transparent image X21, the display element X22, and the display element X23. As can be understood from the above explanation, the reference data R2 is data that specifies a combination of the performance condition C2 and the control mode P2. The performance condition C2 and the control mode P2 are set, for example, according to an instruction from the user U to the game device 20. When a cheering instruction T is issued to the user U, the material data Q2 is updated by the control mode P2 in the reference data R2.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, location information L2 is stored in association with each unit data Z2 of reference data R2. That is, location information L2 is stored for each performance material X2 used in distribution content V of user U. Location information L2 is data that indicates the location of material data Q2 in storage device 62. Specifically, the URL of material data Q2 is used as location information L2. Control system 60 provides location information L2 to user U. Editing system 30 receives material data Q2 stored in a location specified by location information L2 from control system 60. As can be understood from the above explanation, location information L2 can also be said as data for editing system 30 to acquire material data Q2 from control system 60 (data for identifying material data Q2).

Figure 21 is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the information system 1. Note that the functional configuration of the control system 40 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and is therefore omitted from Figure 21. The game control unit 211 and the playback control unit 212 in the game device 20 are the same as those of the first embodiment.

The condition setting unit 213 in the second embodiment sets the control condition Y1 (basic condition B1 and rendering condition C1) and the control condition Y2 (basic condition B2 and rendering condition C1) in response to instructions from the user U via the operation device 25. As in the first embodiment, the condition setting unit 213 sets unit data Z1 specifying the rendering condition C1 and the control mode P1 in response to instructions from the user U, and transmits the unit data Z1 to the control system 40. Furthermore, the condition setting unit 213 in the second embodiment sets the rendering condition C2 and the control mode P2 in response to instructions from the user U, and transmits unit data Z2 specifying the combination of the rendering condition C2 and the control mode P2 to the control system 60.

The condition determination unit 214 determines whether each of the control condition Y1 (presentation condition C1) and the control condition Y2 (presentation condition C2) is satisfied. The determination by the condition determination unit 214 is performed in parallel with the progress of the baseball game. That is, the condition determination unit 214 determines whether the control condition Y1 and the control condition Y2 are satisfied at any time during the progress of the baseball game. The condition determination unit 214 in the second embodiment generates situation data D1 representing the result of determining whether the control condition Y1 is satisfied, and situation data D2 representing the result of determining whether the control condition Y2 is satisfied. Specifically, the situation data D1 specifies the presentation condition C1 that is satisfied in the baseball game, as in the first embodiment. The situation data D2 specifies the presentation condition C2 that is satisfied in the baseball game. The situation data D1 is transmitted from the communication device 23 to the control system 40, and the situation data D2 is transmitted from the communication device 23 to the control system 60.

As illustrated in FIG. 21, the control device 61 of the control system 60 executes a program stored in the storage device 62 to realize multiple functions (condition setting unit 611, information provision unit 612, material control unit 613, material transmission unit 614, and payment processing unit 618).

The payment processing unit 618 executes a payment process when it receives a cheering instruction T from the terminal device 10. The payment process is an electronic payment process in which viewer A pays user U a currency corresponding to the amount W to be provided, which is specified in the cheering instruction T. The payment processing unit 618 may also execute a payment process in which the amount of points equivalent to the amount W to be provided is transferred from viewer A's account to user U by referring to an account in which the point balance for each viewer A is registered.

It is also possible that viewer A purchases points or items through a payment process before the distribution of distribution content V. In the above-described form, when the payment processing unit 618 receives a cheering instruction T from the terminal device 10, it may consume the points or items already purchased by viewer A. In other words, the time when the payment process is executed and the time when the cheering instruction T is generated may differ. Furthermore, payment processing is not essential for receiving the cheering instruction T from the terminal device 10. For example, points or items that viewer A has acquired in advance by some means may be consumed when the cheering instruction T is generated.

The condition setting unit 611 generates reference data R2 that specifies the relationship between the control condition Y2 (performance condition C2) and the control mode P2. Specifically, the condition setting unit 611 adds unit data Z2 received from the game device 20 for each performance material X2 to the reference data R2. The information providing unit 612 provides the user U with location information L2 corresponding to each performance material X2.

The material control unit 613 controls the performance material X2 represented by the material data Q2. Specifically, the material control unit 613 updates the performance material X2 in response to the cheering instructions T transmitted from each terminal device 10 and the situation data D2 transmitted from the game device 20. As described above, the situation data D2 is data indicating whether the performance condition C2 has been met. Therefore, in response to the cheering instructions T from each terminal device 10, the material control unit 613 updates the performance material X1 used in the distribution content V of the user U under the control condition Y2 (performance condition C2) set by the user U.

In response to a material request M2 using the location information L2 from the editing system 30, the material transmission unit 614 transmits the material data Q2 indicated by the location information L2 to the requesting editing system 30. The control of the performance material X2 by the material control unit 413 and the transmission of the material data Q2 by the material transmission unit 614 are performed in parallel with the progress of the baseball game.

The operation of the information system 1 will now be described. The initial setting procedure executed immediately after the baseball game is started has been described with reference to FIG. 9. In the first preparation process after the initial setting, the processes of FIGS. 22 and 23 are executed in addition to the processes of FIGS. 10 and 11. The processes of FIGS. 22 and 23 include setting the control condition Y2 and issuing the location information L2.

The user U instructs the game device 20 whether or not to use the performance material X2 in his/her distribution content V (basic condition B2) by operating the operation device 25. The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) of the game device 20 accepts the instruction from the user U regarding the basic condition B2 (Sa51). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) sets the basic condition B2 represented by the setting data S2 to the state (valid state/invalid state) instructed by the user U (Sa52). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) determines whether the basic condition B2 has been set to the valid state (Sa53). If the basic condition B2 has been set to the invalid state (Sa53: NO), the control device 21 ends the process without executing the following process.

The user U who has specified the valid state as the basic condition B2 specifies a combination of the rendering condition C2 and the control mode P2 for each rendering material X2 that he/she wishes to use in his/her distribution content V by operating the operation device 25. For example, the user U selects one of a plurality of options prepared in advance as the rendering condition C2, and selects one of a plurality of options prepared in advance as the control mode P2. The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) accepts an instruction from the user U regarding the combination of the rendering condition C2 and the control mode P2 (Sa54). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) sets the rendering condition C2 represented by the setting data S2 to the condition specified by the user U (Sa55). The control device 21 (condition setting unit 213) also transmits unit data Z2 specifying the combination of the rendering condition C2 and the control mode P2 specified by the user U from the communication device 23 to the control system 60 (Sa56). The identification information Uid of the user U is added to the unit data Z2.

As illustrated in FIG. 23, the control device 61 (condition setting unit 611) of the control system 60 receives the unit data Z2 transmitted from the game device 20 via the communication device 63 (Sd51). The control device 61 (condition setting unit 611) searches the storage device 62 for reference data R2 corresponding to the identification information Uid added to the unit data Z2, and adds the unit data Z2 to the reference data R2 (Sd52). In other words, the relationship between the performance condition C2 and the control mode P2 specified by the user U is registered in the reference data R2 for one performance material X2.

The control device 61 (information provider 612) generates location information L2 for the material data Q2 of the currently registered performance material X2 (Sd53). That is, location information L2 indicating the location where the material data Q2 is saved is generated. The control device 61 (information provider 612) stores the location information L2 in association with unit data Z2 of the reference data R2 that corresponds to the performance material X2 (Sd54). The control device 21 (information provider 612) then transmits the location information L2 from the communication device 63 to the game device 20 (Sd55). That is, location information L2 indicating the location of the material data Q2 of the performance material X2 is provided to the user U who specified the performance material X2.

As illustrated in FIG. 22, the control device 21 (information notification unit 215) of the game device 20 receives the location information L2 transmitted from the control system 60 via the communication device 23 (Sa57). The control device 21 (information notification unit 215) notifies the user U of the location information L2 (Sa58). Specifically, the location information L2 is displayed on the display device 241.

The control device 21 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (Sa59). For example, if the user U issues an end command by operating the operation device 25, the end condition is determined to have been met. If the end condition is not met (Sa59: NO), the control device 21 transitions the process to step Sa54. That is, each time the user U issues a command for a combination of the performance condition C2 and the control mode P2 for one performance material X2, the setting data S2 is updated (Sa54, Sa55), the reference data R2 is updated (Sa56, Sd51, Sd52), and the location information L2 is provided (Sd53-Sd55, Sa57, Sa58).

On the other hand, if the termination condition is met (Sa59: YES), the control device 21 terminates the process. As can be understood from the above explanation, the correspondence between the performance condition C2 specified by the user U and the performance material X2 is registered, and the location information L2 corresponding to the performance material X2 is notified to the user U.

Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the second preparation process in the second embodiment. The process of Figure 12 is replaced with the process of Figure 24. At the stage when the second preparation process starts, the user U is aware of the location information L1 for each performance material X1 and the location information L2 for each performance material X2.

The user U operates the operation device 35 to instruct the placement of each of the performance materials X1 and X2 in the distribution content V. The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) of the editing system 30 receives an instruction for the placement of the performance material X1 or X2 from the user U (Sc61). The instruction from the user U includes a specification of the position of the performance material X1 or X2 in the distribution content V.

Furthermore, the user U inputs location information L1 of performance material X1 and location information L2 of performance material X2 to the editing system 30 by operating the operation device 35. The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) accepts the input of location information L1 and location information L2 by the user U (Sc62). The location information L1 or location information L2 is stored in the storage device 32. The acceptance of instructions regarding the placement of performance material X1 or performance material X2 (Sc61) and the acceptance of location information L1 or location information L2 (Sc62) are performed for each performance material X (X1, X2) placed in the distribution content V.

Figures 25 to 27 are flowcharts of the editing process for generating distribution content V. The editing system 30 of the second embodiment executes the process of Figure 25 instead of the process of Figure 13 in the first embodiment. Figure 26 is a flowchart illustrating the specific steps of the process executed by the control system 60 in the editing process. The control system 40 executes the process of Figure 14 as in the first embodiment. Also, the game device 20 of the second embodiment executes the process of Figure 27 instead of the process of Figure 15 in the first embodiment.

When the generation of distribution content V is instructed by user U, the control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) of the editing system 30 transmits a material request M1 from the communication device 33 to the control system 40 (Sc71). For each performance material X1 of the distribution content V, a material request M1 is transmitted to the control system 40. The material request M1 for each performance material X1 includes the user U's identification information Uid and the location information L1 input by the user U for that performance material X1 in the second preparation process.

The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) also transmits a material request M2 from the communication device 33 to the control system 60 (Sc72). A material request M2 is transmitted to the control system 60 for each performance material X2 of the distribution content V. The material request M2 for each performance material X2 includes the user U's identification information Uid and the location information L2 input by the user U for that performance material X2 in the second preparation process.

As illustrated in FIG. 26, the control device 61 (material sending unit 614) of the control system 60 receives the material request M2 sent from the editing system 30 via the communication device 63 (Sd71). The control device 61 (material sending unit 614) saves material data Q2 representing the performance material X2 in a location in the storage device 62 specified by the location information L2 in the material request M2 (Sd72). As described above with reference to FIG. 20, when a cheering instruction T has not been received, material data Q2 representing the transparent image X21 is stored in the storage device 62.

On the other hand, the control device 21 (game control unit 211 and playback control unit 212) of the game device 20 progresses the baseball game in response to instructions from the user U via the operation device 25, as illustrated in FIG. 27 (Sa71). The control device 21 (playback control unit 212) transmits material data Qa of play material Xa according to the situation of the baseball game from the communication device 23 to the editing system 30 (Sa72).

The condition determination unit 214 determines whether or not any of the performance conditions C1 specified by the setting data S1 has been met as a result of the progress of the baseball game (Sa73). If the performance condition C1 has been met (Sa73: YES), the control device 21 (condition determination unit 214) transmits situation data D1 specifying the performance condition C1 from the communication device 23 to the control system 40 (Sa74). On the other hand, if the performance condition C1 has not been met (Sa73: NO), the transmission of the situation data D1 (Sa74) is not executed.

The condition determination unit 214 also determines whether or not any of the performance conditions C2 specified by the setting data S2 has been met as a result of the progress of the baseball game (Sa75). If the performance condition C2 has been met (Sa75: YES), the control device 21 (condition determination unit 214) transmits situation data D2 specifying the performance condition C2 from the communication device 23 to the control system 60 (Sa76). On the other hand, if the performance condition C2 has not been met (Sa75: NO), the transmission of the situation data D2 (Sa76) is not executed.

The control device 21 determines whether a predetermined end condition is met (Sa77). For example, if the user U issues an end command by operating the operating device 25, it is determined that the end condition is met. If the end condition is not met (Sa77: NO), the control device 21 transitions the process to step Sa71. On the other hand, if the end condition is met (Sa77: YES), the control device 21 ends the baseball game. As illustrated above, in parallel with the progress of the baseball game, situation data D1 specifying the performance condition C1 is sequentially transmitted to the control system 40, and situation data D2 specifying the performance condition C2 is sequentially transmitted to the control system 60. Each of the situation data D1 and the situation data D2 includes the identification information Uid of the user U.

As illustrated in FIG. 26, the control device 61 (material control unit 613) of the control system 60 determines whether the communication device 63 has received a cheering instruction T from the terminal device 10 (Sd73). If the cheering instruction T has been received (Sd74), the control device 61 (material control unit 613) determines whether the communication device 63 has received situation data D2 from the game device 20 (Sd74). If the cheering instruction T has been received but the situation data D2 has not been received (Sd74: NO), the control device 61 (material control unit 613) updates the material data Q2 of the performance material X2 (Sd75). Specifically, the material data Q2 is updated so that the performance material X2 includes the display element X22. On the other hand, if both the cheering instruction T and the situation data D2 have been received (Sd74: YES), the control device 61 (material control unit 613) updates the material data Q2 of the performance material X2 (Sd76). Specifically, the material data Q2 is updated so that the performance material X2 includes the display element X23. On the other hand, if the communication device 63 does not receive the support instruction T (Sd73: NO), the update of the material data Q2 (Sd75, Sd76) is not executed.

The control device 61 (material transmission unit 614) transmits the material data Q2 from the communication device 63 to the editing system 30 (Sd77). As can be understood from the above explanation, the material control unit 613 of the second embodiment updates the material data Q2 of the performance material X2 in parallel with the progress of the baseball game in accordance with the cheering instructions T according to the operation by the viewer A and the situation data D2 representing the situation of the baseball game.

The control device 61 determines whether a predetermined end condition has been met (Sd78). For example, when the end of the baseball game is notified from the game device 20, it is determined that the end condition has been met. If the end condition has not been met (Sd78: NO), the control device 61 transitions the process to step Sd73. That is, the update of the material data Q2 (Sd73-Sd76) triggered by the reception of the cheering instruction T and the transmission of the material data Q2 (Sd77) are repeated. On the other hand, if the end condition has been met (Sd78: YES), the control device 61 ends the process.

25, after transmitting material request M1 and material request M2 (Sc72), the control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) of the editing system 30 receives material data Qa of play material Xa transmitted from the game device 20 (Sa72) via the communication device 33 (Sc73). The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) also acquires material data Qb of recording material Xb generated by the recording device 36 (Sc74). The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) also receives material data Q1 of performance material X1 transmitted from the control system 40 (Sb45) via the communication device 33 (Sc75). The control device 31 (material acquisition unit 311) also receives material data Q2 of performance material X2 transmitted from the control system 60 (Sd77) via the communication device 33 (Sc76). Note that the order in which each piece of material data Q (Qa, Qb, Q1, Q2) is received is not limited to the above example.

The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) generates distribution content V including the materials X (Xa, Xb, X1, X2) acquired by the above processing (Sc77). That is, as illustrated in FIG. 17, distribution content V including play material Xa, recording material Xb, performance material X1, and performance material X2 is generated. The control device 31 (editing processing unit 312) transmits distribution content V from the communication device 33 to the distribution system 50 (Sc78). That is, distribution content V is uploaded from the editing system 30 to the distribution system 50. Distribution content V is transmitted from the distribution system 50 to each terminal device 10.

The control device 31 judges whether a predetermined termination condition is satisfied (Sc79). For example, when the user U instructs termination by operating the operation device 35, it is judged that the termination condition is satisfied. If the termination condition is not satisfied (Sc79: NO), the control device 31 moves the process to step Sc73. That is, the acquisition of each material X (Xa, Xb, X1, X2) (Sc73-Sc76) and the generation (Sc77) and transmission (Sc78) of the distribution content V using each material X are executed. On the other hand, if the termination condition is satisfied (Sc79: YES), the control device 31 terminates the process. In the above explanation, it is also assumed that the control device 31 repeats the transmission of the material request M1 (Sc71) and the reception of the material data Q1 (Sc75) until the termination condition is satisfied, as described above in the first embodiment. Similarly, in the above description, the control device 31 has been described as repeating the transmission of the material request M2 (Sc72) and the reception of the material data Q2 (Sc76), but it is also possible for the control device 31 to repeat the transmission of the material request M2 (Sc72) and the reception of the material data Q2 (Sc76) until the end condition is met. In other words, if the end condition is not met (Sc79: NO), the control device 31 may transition the process to step Sc71.

As described above, in the second embodiment, the material data Q2 of the performance material X2 used in the distribution content V is updated according to the cheering instructions T from viewer A of the distribution content V and the situation of the baseball game. Specifically, the form of the performance material X2 displayed in the distribution content V according to the cheering instructions T changes according to the situation of the baseball game. Therefore, the performance related to the cheering instructions T from viewer A in the distribution content V is diversified, and an incentive to cheer instructions T can be effectively given to viewer A.

In the second embodiment, the material data Q2 transmitted from the control system 60 to the editing system 30 is updated under the control conditions Y2 (particularly the performance conditions C2) according to the instructions of the user U. Therefore, a variety of distribution contents V including performance materials X2 reflecting the intentions or preferences of the user U can be generated. Furthermore, by a simple process of setting the location information L2 for the distribution content V, the performance materials X2 used in the distribution content V can be updated in parallel with the progress of the baseball game played by the user U. Specifically, by executing the first preparation process and the second preparation process before the start of the baseball game, the performance materials X2 of the distribution content V are updated at an appropriate time during the progress of the baseball game, even if there are no instructions from the user U regarding the distribution content V. In other words, there is an advantage that the user U can concentrate on playing the baseball game without paying attention to the generation of the distribution content V.

[Third embodiment]
The control device 21 (e.g., the game control unit 211) of the game device 20 in the third embodiment transmits situation data D representing the situation of the baseball game to the control system 40 and the control system 60. The situation data D is data representing a situation related to the performance condition C (C1, C2). Specifically, examples of situations represented by the situation data D include the arrival of a specific time point in the baseball game, the occurrence of various events, specific player characters involved in the event, specific actions in the event, and a virtual place where a match is held in the baseball game. As described above, in the first and second embodiments, the situation data D (D1, D2) representing the result of determining whether the performance condition C is satisfied is transmitted from the game device 20, whereas in the third embodiment, the situation data D directly representing the progress of the baseball game is transmitted to the control system 40 and the control system 60. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the condition determination unit 214 is omitted from the game device 20.

Fig. 28 is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control system 40 in the third embodiment. As illustrated in Fig. 28, the control device 41 of the control system 40 in the third embodiment functions as a condition determination unit 415 in addition to the same elements as in the first embodiment (condition setting unit 411, information providing unit 412, material control unit 413, material transmission unit 414).

The condition determination unit 415 determines whether the rendering condition C1 is met by using the situation data D received by the communication device 43 from the game device 20. That is, the fulfillment of each rendering condition C1 registered in the reference data R1 is determined according to the situation data D. The material control unit 413 of the third embodiment updates the material data Q1 according to the result of the determination by the condition determination unit 415.

Figure 29 is a flowchart of the process executed by the control device 41 of the control system 40 in the editing process. That is, in the third embodiment, the process of Figure 14 in the first embodiment is replaced with the process of Figure 29.

When receiving the material request M1 (Sb41) and saving the material data Q1 (Sb42), the control device 41 (condition determination unit 415) of the control system 40 determines whether the situation data D has been received from the game device 20 (Sb43). If the situation data D has been received (Sb43: YES), the control device 41 (condition determination unit 415) uses the situation data D to determine whether any of the performance conditions C1 registered in the reference data R1 has been met (Sb47). If the performance condition C1 has been met (Sb47: YES), the control device 41 (material control unit 413) updates the material data Q1 of the performance material X1 (Sb44). On the other hand, if the situation data D has not been received (Sb43: NO) or if the performance condition C1 has not been met (Sb47: NO), the update of the material data Q1 (Sb44) is not executed. Operations such as sending the material data Q1 to the editing system 30 (Sb45) are the same as those in the first embodiment.

The third embodiment also achieves the same effect as the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the condition determination unit 415 of the control system 40 determines whether the rendering condition C1 is met, so the processing load on the game device 20 is reduced compared to a configuration in which the game device 20 executes the determination, for example. On the other hand, according to the first embodiment in which the fulfillment of the rendering condition C1 is determined by the game device 20, the processing load on the control system 40 is reduced compared to a configuration in which the control system 40 executes the determination.

Figure 30 is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the control system 60 in the third embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 30, the control device 61 of the control system 60 in the third embodiment functions as a condition determination unit 615 in addition to the same elements as in the first embodiment (condition setting unit 611, information provision unit 612, material control unit 613, material transmission unit 614, and payment processing unit 618).

The condition determination unit 615 determines whether the rendering condition C2 is met by using the situation data D received by the communication device 63 from the game device 20. In other words, the fulfillment of each rendering condition C2 registered in the reference data R2 is determined according to the situation data D. The material control unit 613 of the third embodiment updates the material data Q2 according to the result of the determination by the condition determination unit 615.

Figure 31 is a flowchart of the process executed by the control device 61 of the control system 60 in the editing process. That is, in the third embodiment, the process of Figure 14 in the second embodiment is replaced with the process of Figure 29.

After receiving the material request M2 (Sd71) and saving the material data Q2 (Sd72), the control device 61 (condition determination unit 615) of the control system 60 determines whether the communication device 63 has received a cheering instruction T from the terminal device 10 (Sd73). When the cheering instruction T is received (Sd73: YES), the control device 61 (condition determination unit 615) of the control system 60 determines whether situation data D has been received from the game device 20 (Sd74).

When the situation data D is received (Sd74: YES), the control device 61 (condition determination unit 615) uses the situation data D to determine whether any of the rendering conditions C2 registered in the reference data R2 is satisfied (Sd79). When the rendering condition C2 is not satisfied (Sd79: NO), the control device 61 (material control unit 613) updates the material data Q2 so that the rendering material X2 includes the display element X22 (Sd75). On the other hand, when the rendering condition C2 is satisfied (Sd79: YES), the control device 61 (material control unit 613) updates the material data Q2 so that the rendering material X2 includes the display element X23 (Sd76). When the situation data D is not received (Sd74: NO), the updating of the material data Q2 (Sd75, Sd76) is not executed. Operations such as sending the material data Q2 to the editing system 30 (Sd77) are the same as those in the second embodiment.

The third embodiment also achieves the same effect as the second embodiment. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the condition determination unit 615 of the control system 60 determines whether or not the rendering condition C2 is met, so the processing load on the game device 20 is reduced compared to a configuration in which the game device 20 executes the determination, for example. On the other hand, according to the second embodiment in which the game device 20 determines whether or not the rendering condition C2 is met, the processing load on the control system 60 is reduced compared to a configuration in which the control system 60 executes the determination.

[Fourth embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, the cheering instruction T transmitted from each terminal device 10 specifies the cheering mode. The cheering mode is the mode (condition or attribute) of the cheering by the viewer A for the user U. For example, the provided amount W of the value medium exemplified in the second embodiment is specified as the cheering mode by the cheering instruction T. As described above, the provided amount W can be arbitrarily set by the viewer A.

In a configuration in which viewer A can select from multiple options the method of cheering for user U (hereinafter referred to as the "cheering method"), the cheering method selected by viewer A is specified in cheering instruction T as the cheering mode. For example, the cheering method may be the provision of currency, points, or an item. The item provided by viewer A to user U is, for example, an object that can be used in a baseball game (or other game). Furthermore, in a configuration in which viewer A can select from multiple options the item to provide to user U, the item selected by viewer A is specified in cheering instruction T as the cheering mode.

The material control unit 613 of the fourth embodiment controls the performance material X2 in step Sd75 or Sd76 of FIG. 26 according to the support mode specified in the support instruction T. For example, the material control unit 613 updates the performance material X2 to different images when the amount W to be provided specified as the support mode is below a predetermined threshold and when it exceeds the threshold. In a form in which a support method (currency, points, item) is specified in the support instruction T as the support mode, the material control unit 613 updates the performance material X2 to different images when a first support method is specified and when a second support method other than the first support method is specified. Also, in a form in which the viewer A selects one of multiple items, the material control unit 613 updates the performance material X2 to different images when a first item is selected and when a second item other than the first item is selected.

In the fourth embodiment, the same effect as in the second embodiment is achieved. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the performance material X2 is controlled according to the cheering style of viewer A. That is, the instructions from viewer A are reflected in the performance material X2. Therefore, an incentive to cheer on user U can be effectively given to viewer A. The configuration of the third embodiment is also applied to the fourth embodiment.

[Modification]
Each of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments may be modified in various ways. Specific modified embodiments that may be applied to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are exemplified below. Two or more embodiments selected from the following examples may be combined to the extent that they are not mutually contradictory.

(1) The presentation conditions C (C1, C2) are not limited to the examples in each of the above-mentioned forms. For example, in a competitive game such as a baseball game, the presentation conditions C may be set individually for the user U's team and the opponent's team. For example, when the presentation condition C for the user U's team is met, presentation material X (X1, X2) with a positive atmosphere may be displayed, and when the presentation condition C for the opponent's team is met, presentation material X (X1, X2) with a negative atmosphere may be displayed.

The performance condition C (C1, C2) may also include variables related to the baseball game. For example, in a baseball game, conditions related to various variables such as the distance of a home run hit by a batter, the total number of strikeouts by a pitcher, the number of stolen bases by a runner, etc. are specified as the performance condition C. For example, the performance condition C is set to be that the numerical value of the variable exceeds a predetermined threshold. In other words, when the numerical value of the variable, which changes as the baseball game progresses, exceeds the threshold, it is determined that the performance condition C is met. According to the above embodiment, the performance material X (X1, X2) can be controlled according to the numerical value of the variable related to the baseball game. For example, the performance material X is updated to different images when the numerical value of the variable exceeds the threshold and when it falls below the threshold.

Also, assume that a specific object (hereinafter referred to as a "target object") is installed in a virtual space where a baseball game is held. The target object is, for example, a signboard installed behind the spectator seats in a virtual stadium. The condition setting unit 213 may set the collision (event) of a ball hit by a player character with the target object as the performance condition C (C1, C2). When the above performance condition C is met, the material control unit 413 and the material control unit 613 update the performance material X (X1, X2) to an image (hereinafter referred to as a "special image") for viewer A to enjoy the provision of a specific product or service. The special image includes, for example, an application code (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) for viewer A to apply for a campaign in which the product or service can be obtained. According to the above embodiment, the viewing of the distribution content V by viewer A is promoted, and the effect of advertising the specific product or service can also be expected. Therefore, an effective partnership between the business providing the product or service and the user U providing the distribution content V is realized.

(2) In each of the above embodiments, the user U selects one of a number of options as the rendering condition C (C1, C2), but a form in which the user U can set the details of the rendering condition C at will is also envisioned. Similarly, for the control mode P (P1, P2), in addition to a form in which the user U selects one of a number of options as the control mode P, a form in which the user U can set the details of the control mode P at will is also envisioned. Also envisioned is a form in which the correspondence between the rendering condition C and the control mode P is set in advance, and when the user U selects a rendering condition C, the control mode P corresponding to that rendering condition C is automatically selected.

(3) In the second embodiment, the control system 40 and the control system 60 each communicate directly with the game device 20, but the control system 60 may communicate with the game device 20 via the control system 40. For example, the unit data Z (Z1, Z2) generated by the condition setting unit 213 is transmitted from the game device 20 to the control system 40, and then transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60. Note that, among the multiple unit data Z received by the control system 40 from the game device 20, only the unit data Z2 related to the control system 60 may be selectively transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60. Also, all of the multiple unit data Z received by the control system 40 from the game device 20 may be transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60.

In the above explanation, attention has been focused on unit data Z, but the situation data D (D, D1, D2) exemplified in each of the above-mentioned embodiments may also be transmitted to the control system 60 via the control system 40. That is, the situation data D is transmitted from the game device 20 to the control system 40, and then transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60. Note that, of the multiple situation data D (D1, D2) that the control system 40 received from the game device 20, only the situation data D2 related to the control system 60 may be selectively transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60. Also, all of the multiple situation data D that the control system 40 received from the game device 20 may be transmitted from the control system 40 to the control system 60.

(4) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the performance material X (X1, X2) is composed of images, but the performance material X may also be composed of sound. For example, in addition to each of the above-mentioned forms in which the performance material X is composed of only images, a form in which the performance material X is composed of images and sound, or a form in which the performance material X is composed of only sound, is envisioned. In a form in which the performance material X includes sound, the sound of the performance material X is included in the sound of the distribution content V. For example, the editing processing unit 312 generates the sound of the distribution content V by mixing the sound of the play material Xa, the sound of the recorded material Xb, the sound of the performance material X1, and the sound of the performance material X2. A form in which the play material Xa is composed of only sound, or a form in which the recorded material Xb is composed of only sound, is also envisioned.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the game device 20 and the editing system 30 are separate devices, but the game device 20 and the editing system 30 may be configured as one unit. That is, the recording system 2 may be configured as a single device. Also, in each of the above embodiments, the editing system 30 and the distribution system 50 are separate devices, but the editing system 30 and the distribution system 50 may be configured as one unit. That is, the function of transmitting the distribution content V generated by the editing processing unit 312 to each terminal device 10 may be included in the editing system 30.

(6) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the user U inputs the location information L (L1, L2) displayed on the display device 241 of the game device 20 to the editing system 30 using the operation device 35, but the editing system 30 may acquire the location information L in any configuration. For example, the game device 20 may transmit the location information L to the editing system 30 via wired or wireless communication. In addition, in a configuration in which a readable image (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) representing the location information L is displayed on the display device 241, the recording device 36 (imaging device) of the editing system 30 may optically read the image, thereby allowing the editing system 30 to acquire the location information L. In addition, in a configuration in which the game device 20 and the editing system 30 are integrated, the user U may copy and paste the location information L displayed by the information notification unit 215 onto the editing screen of the distribution content V.

(7) In each of the above-described embodiments, the editing system 30 transmits the material request M1 including the location information L1 to the control system 40, but the editing system 30 may transmit the material request M1 including the identification information Uid of the user U instead of the location information L1 to the control system 40. The material transmission unit 414 of the control system 40 transmits the material data Q1 associated with the identification information Uid included in the material request M1 to the requesting editing system 30. As can be understood from the above explanation, the exchange of the location information L1 between the recording system 2 and the control system 40 may be omitted. The same applies to the location information L2. That is, the editing system 30 may transmit the material request M2 including the identification information Uid of the user U instead of the location information L2 to the control system 60. The material transmission unit 614 of the control system 60 transmits the material data Q2 associated with the identification information Uid included in the material request M2 to the requesting editing system 30. In other words, the exchange of location information L2 between the recording system 2 and the control system 60 may be omitted.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the condition setting unit 213 that sets the control condition Y1 and the control condition Y2 is mounted on the game device 20, but the condition setting unit 213 may be mounted on an information processing device separate from the game device 20. For example, the setting data S1 and the setting data S2 generated by the information processing device in response to an instruction from the user U may be provided from the information processing device to the game device 20 via the communication network 3.

(9) Although a baseball game has been exemplified in each of the above embodiments, the present invention can be applied to any type of game. The presentation conditions C (C1, C2) can be set in a variety of ways depending on the type of game.

For example, the above-mentioned forms are also applicable to competitive games other than baseball. For example, in a soccer game, the occurrence of various events such as "shoot," "score," "offside," and "foul" are exemplified as the performance conditions C (C1-b, C2-b). In a fighting game, the occurrence of various events such as "occurrence of a specific special move," "occurrence of a combo a certain number of times or more," "knockout," and "down" are exemplified as the performance conditions C (C1-b, C2-b). In addition to one-on-one competitive games, the present invention is also applicable to competitive games in which a user U competes against multiple opponents (for example, a battle royal game). In competitive games, in addition to a form in which a user U competes against a real opponent, a form in which a user U competes against a virtual opponent (a non-player character such as a CPU player) is also assumed.

In addition to competitive games, the present invention can also be applied to games played by the user U alone. For example, the present invention can also be applied to exploration games in which a character operated by the user U explores a virtual world. In addition to the games exemplified above, the present invention can also be applied to any type of game regardless of the number or relationships of players, such as lottery games in which a lottery process such as an electronic lottery is executed, music games in which the user U moves in time with music, and action games in which the user U achieves various objectives by operating a character.

(10) In the first embodiment, an information system 1 including a control system 40 is illustrated, and in the second embodiment, an information system 1 including a control system 40 and a control system 60 is illustrated, but the control system 40 may be omitted from the information system 1.

(11) The functions of the control system 40 according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are realized by the cooperation of one or more processors (control device 41) and a program. The functions of the control system 60 according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are realized by the cooperation of one or more processors (control device 61) and a program. The programs according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be provided in a form stored in a computer-readable recording medium and installed in a computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and a good example is an optical recording medium (optical disk) such as a CD-ROM, but also includes any known type of recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. Note that a non-transitory recording medium includes any recording medium except for a transient, propagating signal, and does not exclude a volatile recording medium. In addition, in a configuration in which a distribution device distributes a program via a communication network 3, a storage device that stores the program in the distribution device corresponds to the non-transitory recording medium described above.

[Additional Notes]
From the above description, for example, preferred embodiments of the present invention can be understood as follows. In order to facilitate understanding of each embodiment, reference numerals in the drawings are written in parentheses for convenience, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments.

[Appendix A]
Various techniques for editing game images showing the progress of a game have been proposed. For example, Japanese Patent No. 6098691 discloses a configuration in which content is generated using game data showing the game situation and the content is synthesized with a game image. Meanwhile, it is widespread for individual users to distribute images showing the progress of a game they are playing (so-called game commentary videos) in parallel with the progress of the game. In the above-mentioned technique, since information along with the progress of the game is merely synthesized with the game image, it is difficult to generate various contents reflecting the intentions or preferences of individual users. In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A) aims to generate various distribution contents reflecting the intentions or preferences of users.

[Appendix A1]
A control system (40) according to one aspect (Appendix A1) of the present invention is a control system (40) that supports the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game played by a user (U), and includes: an information providing unit (412) that provides the user (U) with location information (L1) representing the location of material data (Q1) representing performance material (X1) used in the distribution content (V); a material control unit (413) that updates the material data (Q1) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) under control conditions (Y1) set in response to an instruction from the user (U); and a material transmitting unit (414) that transmits the material data (Q1) to the editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U), in response to a request (M1) using the location information (L1) from the editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V).

In the above embodiment, the material data (Q1) transmitted from the control system (40) to the editing system (30) using the location information (L1) is updated under control conditions (Y1) according to instructions from the user (U). Therefore, a variety of distribution contents (V) including performance materials (X1) reflecting the intentions or preferences of the user (U) can be generated. Furthermore, by a simple process of setting the location information (L1) for the distribution content (V), the performance materials (X1) used in the distribution content (V) can be updated in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U).

"Distribution content (V)" is content that includes at least one of an image (still image, video, or character string) and sound. "Distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game" is content that includes, for example, an image that represents the progress of a game. Note that there is no need to consider whether the image displayed to the player of the game is the same as the game image included in the distribution content (V).

"Performance material (X1)" is an element for production that constitutes the distribution content (V), and includes, for example, at least one of an image (still image, video, or character string) and sound. For example, an image and/or sound for production included in the distribution content (V) is an example of "performance material (X1)".

"Location information (L1)" is data that indicates the location of material data (Q1). For example, a URL that indicates the location where material data (Q1) is saved is exemplified as "location information (L1)". Location information (L1) is transmitted, for example, to a game device that controls the progress of the game. The method of presenting location information (L1) to user (U) is arbitrary. For example, location information (L1) may be displayed on a display device, or a readable image (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) that represents location information (L1) may be displayed.

The "control condition (Y1)" is a condition for controlling the performance material (X1), and is set according to instructions from the user (U) playing the game. For example, the basic condition (B1) as to whether or not to update the material data (Q1) as the game progresses, or the performance condition (C1) whose success or failure changes as the game progresses, are exemplified as the "control condition (Y1)". "Updating the material data (Q1) under the control condition (Y1)" means that the update or non-update of the material data (Q1) is linked to the success or failure of the control condition (Y1). For example, a form in which the material data (Q1) is updated in response to the establishment of the control condition (Y1) is envisioned.

The "editing system (30)" is a computer system for generating the distribution content (V). For example, a computer system separate from the game device that controls the game is used as the "editing system (30)". The route by which the editing system (30) obtains the location information (L1) is arbitrary. For example, the user (U) may manually input the location information (L1) to the editing system (30), the location information (L1) may be transmitted from a device (e.g., a game device) to which the location information (L1) is provided to the editing system (30), or the editing system (30) may read the location information (L1) provided as a readable image. Note that a single system may have both a function for progressing the game and a function for generating the distribution content (V). In other words, a form in which the editing system (30) functions as a game device may also be assumed.

[Appendix A2]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note A2) of Appendix A1, the control condition (Y1) includes a basic condition (B1) regarding whether or not the material data (Q1) is updated. According to the above aspect, the user (U) can arbitrarily select whether or not to update the material data (Q1). In addition, in a form in which the control condition (Y1) includes a basic condition (B1) regarding whether or not the material data (Q1) is updated, the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) when the basic condition (B1) indicates that the material data (Q1) should be updated (valid state), and stops updating the material data (Q1) when the basic condition (B1) indicates that the material data (Q1) should not be updated (invalid state).

[Appendix A3]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note A3) of Appendix A1 or Appendix A2, the control condition (Y1) includes a performance condition (C1) related to the progress of the game. According to the above aspect, it is possible to include in the distribution content (V) an appropriate performance material (X1) according to the progress of the game.

[Appendix A4]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note A4) of Appendix A3, the rendering condition (C1) includes a condition (C1-a) related to a time in the game. According to the above aspect, the material data (Q1) is updated depending on whether a specific time has arrived in the game. For example, the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) when a specific time has arrived in the game (i.e., when the rendering condition (C1) is met). Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) in which the arrival of a specific time in the game is effectively rendered.

A "specific point in time in a game" is, for example, a point in time that arrives as the game progresses. For example, a "condition related to a specific point in time" may be the arrival of a specific inning in a baseball game, or the end of the first half (i.e., the start of halftime) in a soccer game.

[Appendix A5]
In a specific example (Appendix A5) of Appendix A3 or Appendix A4, the rendering condition (C1) includes a condition (C1-c) related to the virtual location where the game is played. According to the above aspect, the updating of the material data (Q1) is controlled according to the virtual location where the game is played. Therefore, an effective rendering specific to a specific location is realized by the rendering material (X1).

[Appendix A6]
In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note A6) of Supplementary Note A3 to Supplementary Note A5, the rendering condition (C1) includes a condition (C1-b) related to an event occurring in the game. According to the above aspect, the update of the material data (Q1) is controlled depending on whether or not a specific event has occurred in the game. For example, the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) when a specific event has occurred in the game. Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) in which the occurrence of a specific event is effectively rendered.

[Appendix A7]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note A7) of Appendix A6, the event includes an event related to a specific character in the game. According to the above aspect, the update of the material data (Q1) is controlled depending on whether or not an event related to a specific character has occurred. For example, the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) when a specific character appears or acts. Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) that effectively depicts the situation of a specific character. An "event related to a specific character" is, for example, an event in which a specific character appears or acts.

[Appendix A8]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note A8) of Supplementary Note A6 or Supplementary Note A7, the event includes an event related to a specific action of a character in the game. According to the above aspect, updating of the material data (Q1) is controlled depending on whether or not a character appearing in the game has performed a specific action. For example, the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) when the character has performed a specific action. Therefore, it is possible to generate distribution content (V) in which the specific action of the character is effectively presented.

An "event related to a specific action" is, for example, an event in which a character in a game executes the action. For example, an action of a character hitting a home run in a baseball game, or an action of a character shooting in a soccer game are examples of "events related to an action". In addition, in a game that uses a ball, such as a baseball game or a soccer game, the material data (Q1) may be updated in response to the action of colliding the ball with a specific object in the virtual space. The specific object corresponds to, for example, an advertising billboard installed in a stadium in the virtual space.

[Appendix A9]
In any of the specific examples (Appendix A9) of Appendix A1 to Appendix A8, the material control unit (413) receives situation data (D1) representing the result of judging whether the control condition (Y1) is satisfied, and updates the material data (Q1) according to the result of the judgment represented by the situation data (D1). According to the above aspect, the control system (40) receives the situation data (D1) representing the result of judging whether the control condition (Y1) is satisfied, so that the processing load of the control system (40) is reduced compared to a configuration in which the control system (40) executes the judgment.

[Appendix A10]
In any of the specific examples (Appendix A10) of Appendix A1 to Appendix A8, a condition determination unit (415) is further provided that receives situation data (D1) representing the situation of the game and determines whether the control condition (Y1) is satisfied or not by using the situation data (D1), and the material control unit (413) updates the material data (Q1) according to the result of the determination by the condition determination unit (415). According to the above aspect, since the condition determination unit (415) of the control system (40) determines whether the control condition (Y1) is satisfied or not, the processing load of the game device is reduced compared to a configuration in which the game device executes the determination, for example.

[Appendix A11]
An information system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A11) is an information system (1) including a recording system (2) and a control system (40), wherein the recording system (2) includes a game control unit (211) for progressing a game played by a user (U), a condition setting unit (213) for setting a control condition (Y1) in response to an instruction from the user (U), a material acquisition unit (311) for acquiring material data (Q1) representing a performance material (X1) from the control system (40), and a distribution content (V) including a play material (Xa) representing the progress of the game and the performance material (X1) represented by the material data (Q1). The control system (40) includes an information providing unit (412) that provides location information (L1) indicating the location of the material data (Q1) to the user (U), a material control unit (413) that updates the material data (Q1) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) under the control condition (Y1), and a material transmission unit (414) that transmits the material data (Q1) to the recording system (2) in response to a request (M1) from the recording system (2) using the location information (L1) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U).

The "recording system (2)" comprises, for example, a game device having a game control unit (211) and a condition setting unit (213), and an editing system (30) having a material acquisition unit (311) and an editing processing unit (312). However, a configuration in which the condition setting unit (213), game control unit (211), material acquisition unit (311), and editing processing unit (312) are mounted on a single recording system (2) is also envisioned. In other words, the number/plurality of elements constituting the recording system (2) and the functions mounted on each element of the recording system (2) are optional.

[Appendix A12]
An information processing method according to one aspect (Appendix A12) of the present invention is a method for supporting the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game played by a user (U), comprising the steps of: providing the user (U) with location information (L1) representing the location of material data (Q1) representing performance material (X1) used in the distribution content (V); updating the material data (Q1) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) under control conditions (Y1) set in response to instructions from the user (U); and transmitting the material data (Q1) to the editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) in response to a request (M1) using the location information (L1) from the editing system (30).

[Appendix A13]
A program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A13) is a program for assisting in the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game played by a user (U), and causes a computer system to function as an information providing unit (412) that provides the user (U) with location information (L1) representing the location of material data (Q1) representing performance material (X1) used in the distribution content (V), a material control unit (413) that updates the material data (Q1) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) under control conditions (Y1) set in response to an instruction from the user (U), and a material transmitting unit (414) that transmits the material data (Q1) to the editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U), in response to a request (M1) using the location information (L1) from the editing system (30).

[Appendix A14]
A control system (40) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A14) is a control system (40) that supports the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game played by a user (U), and includes a material control unit (413) that updates material data (Q1) representing performance material (X1) used in the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U) under control conditions (Y1) set in response to instructions from the user (U), and a material transmission unit (414) that transmits the material data (Q1) to an editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user (U).

[Appendix A15]
In a specific example (Appendix A15) of Appendix A14, the system further includes an information providing unit (412) that provides the user (U) with location information (L1) indicating the location of material data (Q1) representing the performance material (X1) used in the distribution content (V), and the material transmitting unit (414) transmits the material data (Q1) to the editing system (30) in response to a request (M1) from the editing system (30) using the location information (L1).

[Appendix B]
Various techniques for distributing content created by a user to multiple viewers have been proposed. For example, Japanese Patent No. 6001757 discloses a technique that allows viewers to express favorable feelings toward a content distributor by purchasing and using a paid or free item. However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, the visual effect only changes depending on whether the item used by the viewer is paid or free. Therefore, the presentation effect in the content tends to be monotonous, and as a result, it is difficult to effectively give viewers an incentive to use the item. In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present invention aims to diversify the presentation effect of distributed content related to instructions from the viewer.

[Appendix B1]
A control system (60) according to one aspect (Appendix B1) of the present invention is a control system (60) that supports the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game, and includes a material control unit (613) that updates material data (Q2) representing performance material (X2) used in the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game in accordance with cheering instructions (T) representing that a viewer (A) of the distribution content (V) is cheering on the play of the game and situation data (D2) representing the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit (614) that transmits the material data (Q2) to an editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game.

In the above aspect, the material data (Q2) of the production material (X2) used in the distributed content (V) is updated according to the cheering instructions (T) from the viewer (A) of the distributed content (V) and the status of the game. For example, the mode of the production material (X2) displayed in the distributed content (V) in response to the cheering instructions (T) changes according to the status of the game. Therefore, the production related to the cheering instructions (T) from the viewer (A) in the distributed content (V) is diversified, and the viewer (A) can be effectively encouraged to give the cheering instructions (T).

"Distribution content (V)" is content that includes at least one of an image (still image, video, or character string) and sound. "Distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game" is content that includes, for example, an image that represents the progress of a game. Note that there is no need to consider whether the image displayed to the player of the game is the same as the game image included in the distribution content (V).

The player who actually plays the game may be the user (distributor) who generates the distribution content (V), or a user other than the distributor.

"Performance material (X2)" is an element for production that constitutes the distribution content (V), and includes, for example, at least one of an image (still image, video, or character string) and sound. For example, an image and/or sound for production included in the distribution content (V) is an example of "performance material (X2)".

A "support instruction (T)" is an instruction given by a viewer (A) to support the game play. A suitable example of "support" by a viewer (A) is, for example, paid support including the provision of a medium of value (so-called tipping). The provision of a medium of value includes the direct provision of a medium of value such as money, or the provision of an item that can be obtained in exchange for a medium of value (indirect provision of a medium of value). It is not important whether support by a viewer (A) is paid or free (whether or not it includes the provision of a medium of value).

The "editing system (30)" is a computer system for generating the distribution content (V). For example, a computer system separate from the game device that controls the game is used as the "editing system (30)". Note that the function of progressing the game and the function of generating the distribution content (V) may be incorporated into a single system. In other words, a form in which the editing system (30) functions as a game device is also envisioned.

"Updating the material data (Q2) in accordance with the cheering instruction (T) and the game situation" means that the performance material (X2) represented by the material data (Q2) changes in accordance with the presence or absence or state of the cheering instruction (T) and the combination of the game situation. For example, it is envisioned that the performance material (X2) displayed in response to the cheering instruction (T) will change in accordance with the game situation. Note that the state of the cheering instruction (T) refers to the conditions related to the cheering instruction (T) (for example, conditions related to the quantity of value media provided by the viewer (A) or the type of item provided by the viewer (A)).

[Appendix B2]
In a specific example (Appendix B2) of Appendix B1, an information providing unit (612) is further provided for providing location information (L2) indicating the location of the material data (Q2) to a user (U) generating the distribution content (V), and the material transmitting unit (614) transmits the material data (Q2) to the editing system (30) in response to a request (M2) from the editing system (30) using the location information (L2). According to the above aspect, the simple process of setting location information (L2) for the distribution content (V) allows the performance material (X2) used in the distribution content (V) to be updated in parallel with the progress of the game.

"Location information (L2)" is data that indicates the location of material data (Q2). For example, a URL that indicates the location where material data (Q2) is saved is exemplified as "location information (L2)". Location information (L2) is transmitted, for example, to a game device that controls the progress of the game. The method of presenting location information (L2) to user (U) is arbitrary. For example, location information (L2) may be displayed on a display device, or a readable image (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) that represents location information (L2) may be displayed.

The editing system (30) may obtain the location information (L2) via any route. For example, the user (U) may manually input the location information (L2) into the editing system (30), the location information (L2) may be transmitted from a device (e.g., a game device) to which the location information (L2) is provided to the editing system (30), or the editing system (30) may read the location information (L2) provided as a readable image.

[Appendix B3]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note B3) of Supplementary Note B1 or Supplementary Note B2, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) under control conditions (Y2) set in response to instructions from the user (U). In the above-mentioned aspect, the material data (Q2) transmitted from the control system (60) to the editing system (30) is updated under control conditions (Y2) in response to instructions from the user (U). Therefore, a variety of distribution contents (V) including performance materials (X2) reflecting the intentions or preferences of the user (U) can be generated.

[Appendix B4]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note B4) of Appendix B3, the control condition (Y2) includes a basic condition (B2) regarding whether or not the material data (Q2) is updated. According to the above aspect, the user (U) can arbitrarily select whether or not to update the material data (Q2). In an embodiment in which the control condition (Y2) includes a basic condition (B2) regarding whether or not the material data (Q2) is updated, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) when the basic condition (B2) indicates that the material data (Q2) should be updated (valid state), and stops updating the material data (Q2) when the basic condition (B2) indicates that the material data (Q2) should not be updated (invalid state).

[Appendix B5]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note B5) of Appendix B3 or Appendix B4, the control condition (Y2) includes a performance condition (C2) related to the progress of the game. According to the above aspect, it is possible to include in the distribution content (V) appropriate performance material (X2) according to the progress of the game.

[Appendix B6]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note B6) of Appendix B5, the rendering condition (C2) includes a condition (C2-a) related to a time in the game. According to the above aspect, the material data (Q2) is updated depending on whether a specific time has arrived in the game. For example, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) when a specific time has arrived in the game (i.e., when the rendering condition (C2) is met). Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) in which the arrival of a specific time in the game is effectively rendered.

A "specific point in time in a game" is, for example, a point in time that arrives as the game progresses. For example, a "condition related to a specific point in time" may be the arrival of a specific inning in a baseball game, or the end of the first half (i.e., the start of halftime) in a soccer game.

[Appendix B7]
In a specific example (Supplementary note B7) of Appendix B5 or Appendix B6, the rendering condition (C2) includes a condition (C2-c) related to the virtual location where the game is played. According to the above aspect, the updating of the material data (Q2) is controlled according to the virtual location where the game is played. Therefore, an effective rendering specific to a specific location is realized by the rendering material (X2).

[Appendix B8]
In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note B) of Supplementary Note B5 to Supplementary Note B7, the rendering condition (C2) includes a condition (C2-b) related to an event occurring in the game. According to the above aspect, the update of the material data (Q2) is controlled depending on whether or not a specific event has occurred in the game. For example, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) when a specific event has occurred in the game. Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) in which the occurrence of a specific event is effectively rendered.

[Appendix B9]
In a specific example (Supplementary Note B9) of Appendix B8, the event includes an event related to a specific character in the game. According to the above aspect, the update of the material data (Q2) is controlled depending on whether or not an event related to a specific character has occurred. For example, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) when a specific character appears or acts. Therefore, it is possible to generate a distribution content (V) that effectively depicts the situation of a specific character. An "event related to a specific character" is, for example, an event in which a specific character appears or acts.

[Appendix B10]

In a specific example (Supplementary Note B10) of Appendix B8 or Appendix B9, the event includes an event related to a specific action of a character in the game. According to the above aspect, the update of the material data (Q2) is controlled depending on whether or not a character appearing in the game has performed a specific action. For example, the material control unit (613) updates the material data (Q2) when the character has performed a specific action. Therefore, it is possible to generate distribution content (V) in which the specific action of the character is effectively presented.

An "event related to a specific action" is, for example, an event in which a character in a game executes the action. For example, an action of a character hitting a home run in a baseball game, or an action of a character shooting in a soccer game are examples of "events related to an action". In addition, in a game that uses a ball, such as a baseball game or a soccer game, the material data (Q2) may be updated in response to the action of colliding the ball with a specific object in the virtual space. The specific object corresponds to, for example, an advertising billboard installed in a stadium in the virtual space.

[Appendix B11]
In any of the specific examples (Supplementary Note B11) of Supplementary Note B1 to Supplementary Note B10, the material control unit (613) controls the performance material (X2) according to the manner of cheering by the cheering instruction (T). According to the above-mentioned aspect, the performance material (X2) is controlled according to the manner of cheering by the viewer (A) of the distribution content (V). Therefore, an incentive to cheer on the user (U) can be effectively given to the viewer (A).

"Support mode" refers to various conditions related to the support instruction (T). For example, in the case of paid support that includes the provision of a medium of value (so-called tipping), the quantity (amount provided) of the medium of value provided by the viewer (A) is an example of the "support mode". In addition, in a form in which the viewer (A) can select one of multiple support methods, the type of support method is an example of the "support mode".

[Appendix B12]
An information system (1) according to one aspect (Appendix B12) of the present invention is an information system (1) including a recording system (2) and a control system (60). The recording system (2) includes a material acquisition unit (311) that acquires material data (Q2) representing performance material (X2) from the control system (60), and an editing processing unit (312) that generates distribution content (V) including play material (Xa) representing the progress of a game and the performance material (X2) represented by the material data (Q2). The control system (60) includes a material control unit (613) that updates the material data (Q2) in parallel with the progress of the game in accordance with cheering instructions (T) given by a viewer (A) of the distribution content (V) to cheer on the play of the game and situation data (D2) representing the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit (614) that transmits the material data (Q2) to an editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game.

The "recording system (2)" comprises, for example, a game device having a game control unit (211), and an editing system (30) having a material acquisition unit (311) and an editing processing unit (312). However, a form in which the game control unit (211), material acquisition unit (311), and editing processing unit (312) are mounted on a single recording system (2) is also envisioned. In other words, the number/plurality of elements constituting the recording system (2) and the functions mounted on each element of the recording system (2) are optional.

[Appendix B13]
An information processing method according to one aspect (Appendix B13) of the present invention is a method for supporting the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game, in which, in response to cheering instructions (T) given by a viewer (A) of the distribution content (V) to cheer on the play of the game and situation data (D2) representing the situation of the game, material data (Q2) representing performance materials (X2) used in the distribution content (V) is updated in parallel with the progress of the game, and the material data (Q2) is transmitted to an editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game.

[Appendix B14]
A program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix B14) is a program for assisting in the generation of distribution content (V) representing the progress of a game, and causes a computer system to function as a material control unit (613) that updates material data (Q2) representing performance material (X2) used in the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game, in accordance with cheering instructions (T) given by a viewer (A) of the distribution content (V) to cheer on the play of the game and situation data (D2) representing the situation of the game, and a material transmission unit (614) that transmits the material data (Q2) to an editing system (30) that generates the distribution content (V) in parallel with the progress of the game.

1...information system, 2...recording system, 3...communication network, 10...terminal device, 11, 24, 34...playback device, 111, 241, 341...display device, 112, 242, 342...sound emission device, 12, 25, 35...operation device, 20...game device, 21, 31, 41, 61...control device, 22, 32, 42, 62...storage device, 23, 33, 43, 63...communication device, 24...playback device, 36...recording device, 40 ...control system, 50...distribution system, 60...control system, 211...game control unit, 212...playback control unit, 213, 411, 611...condition setting unit, 214...condition determination unit, 215...information notification unit, 311...material acquisition unit, 312...edit processing unit, 412, 612...information provision unit, 413, 613...material control unit, 414, 614...material transmission unit, 415, 615...condition determination unit, 618...payment processing unit.

Claims (13)

A control system for supporting generation of distribution content representing progress of a game played by a user , comprising:
a material control unit that updates material data representing performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions, which indicate that a viewer of the distribution content is cheering on a play of the game, and situation data representing a situation of the game;
an information providing unit that provides the user with location information indicating a location of the material data in a storage device of the control system;
a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to the editing system in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user in response to a request from an editing system that generates the distribution content, the request including the location information obtained by the editing system from the user . The control system according to claim 1 , wherein the material control unit updates the material data under control conditions set in response to an instruction from the user. The control system according to claim 2 , wherein the control conditions include a basic condition regarding whether or not the material data is to be updated. The control system according to claim 2 or 3 , wherein the control conditions include presentation conditions related to the progress of the game. The control system according to claim 4 , wherein the presentation conditions include a condition relating to a time point in the game. The control system according to claim 4 or 5 , wherein the presentation conditions include conditions relating to a virtual location where the game is played out. The control system according to claim 4 , wherein the presentation conditions include conditions related to events occurring in the game. The control system of claim 7 , wherein the event includes an event related to a particular character in the game. The control system according to claim 7 or 8 , wherein the event includes an event related to a specific action of a character in the game. The control system according to claim 1 , wherein the material control unit controls the performance material in accordance with a cheering style according to the cheering instruction. An information system comprising a recording system and a control system,
The recording system includes:
a material acquisition unit that acquires material data representing performance materials from the control system;
an editing processing unit that generates distribution content including play material representing the progress of a game played by a user and performance material represented by the material data;
The control system includes:
an information providing unit that provides the user with location information indicating a location of the material data in a storage device of the control system;
a material control unit that updates the material data representing the performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions given by a viewer of the distribution content to cheer on the play of the game and situation data representing a situation of the game;
a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to the editing system in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user in response to a request from an editing system that generates the distribution content, the request including the location information obtained by the editing system from the user . A method for supporting generation of distribution content representing progress of a game played by a user , comprising:
The control system
updating material data representing performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions given by viewers of the distribution content to cheer on the play of the game and situation data representing a situation of the game;
providing the user with location information indicating the location of the material data in a storage device of the control system;
In response to a request from an editing system that generates the distribution content , the request including the location information acquired by the editing system from the user, the material data is transmitted to the editing system in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user.
Information processing methods. A system for controlling the generation of distribution content that represents the progress of a game played by a user ,
a material control unit that updates material data representing performance materials used in the distribution content in parallel with the progress of the game in response to cheering instructions given by a viewer of the distribution content to cheer on a play of the game and situation data representing a situation of the game ;
an information providing unit that provides the user with location information indicating a location of the material data in a storage device of the control system; and
a material transmission unit that transmits the material data to the editing system in response to a request from an editing system that generates the distribution content, the request including the location information acquired by the editing system from the user, in parallel with the progress of the game played by the user;
A program that functions as a

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