JP7722652B2 - Game system, server system and program - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, game systems have been known in which first and second characters controlled by two players battle each other in an object space (virtual three-dimensional space).

In recent years, it has also become possible to connect the game devices used by each player via a network, allowing for competitive gaming without the players being in the same physical space.

On the other hand, in competitive games that use a communications network, both devices must synchronize to share game processing. Therefore, if a communication failure such as a communication delay occurs, the devices cannot be properly synchronized, causing a "gap" in the game processing on each game device, which can affect the competitive game, making it essential to take measures to address this issue.

Recently, when multiple game devices communicate with each other to play a competitive game, devices have become known that synchronize between the devices, transmit and receive multiple pieces of data that are synchronized at a predetermined timing, including data synchronized at an earlier timing, and perform game processing at the predetermined timing on the data that was synchronized at that timing, thereby ensuring reliable execution of game processing between multiple devices even if processing delays occur (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-347254

However, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, if a communication delay occurs, data that is synchronized at a predetermined timing is processed after waiting for that data to be received. When applied to games that require input based on delicate timing (for example, fighting games), a communication delay may cause the game to stop progressing.

Furthermore, even with such devices, in competitive games, if one player maliciously cuts off communication during the game presentation after the other player has confirmed victory, not only will the victory presentation be interrupted, but the match itself may also be invalidated, causing discomfort to the winning user and reducing the appeal of competitive games.

The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a game system that, when playing a game while synchronizing multiple terminal devices, can eliminate the impact on game progress even in certain circumstances, even if there are communication delays or interruptions, eliminating any sense of incongruity in the game's progress, and preventing nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players.

(1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides:
A game system in which a player character operated and controlled by a first player is connected to a game system of a second player via a network to execute a given game, the game system comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether a specific situation has occurred based on a given operation input by the first player during the progress of the game, or whether a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the game in accordance with only the received first game control information;
The configuration includes:

With this configuration, when a game is played in a game system used by multiple players while synchronized over a network, under certain circumstances, the game can be played without using the operation input information of the second player (i.e., second operation input information), even if there is a communication delay or interruption.

Therefore, the present invention eliminates the impact of communication delays and interruptions on game progress, eliminating any sense of incongruity in game progress and improving the enjoyment of the game.

The present invention also prevents malicious players from using communication cutoffs to cause nuisance or commit fraud, such as intentionally cutting off communication after a victory has been confirmed by the losing side while the game result is being announced, thereby invalidating the match itself, or causing discomfort to the winning side even if the match is not invalidated.

The "game" may be, for example, a fighting game or sports game in which players compete against each other (against the player character of a second player), or a game in which the player cooperates with another player (i.e., the second player's character) to progress through the game. It is preferable that both the first player and the second player are human, but the players may be controlled by a CPU.

In particular, the "game" is preferably a fighting game in which a first player and a second player compete in a one-on-one battle. However, the game may also be one in which the first player and the second player cooperate, in which case it is preferable that the game be a fighting game in which the first player and the second player cooperate to fight an enemy character such as the CPU.

Furthermore, "first game control information that is at least included as first operation input information" and "second game control information that is at least included as second operation input information" each indicate that the information may be only operation input information, or may also include other information.

Furthermore, "given operational input by the first player" includes, for example, operational input for launching attacks such as special moves, powerful moves, consecutive attacks, and combo attacks that define the actions of the player characters for a certain period of time, and operational input for controlling effects that have a predetermined period of time or the actions of each player character, through the operation of the first player, regardless of whether or not there is an operational input by the second player.

In particular, the "specific situation" in "whether a specific situation has arisen based on a given operational input by the first player" includes a state in which the game can proceed for a certain period of time without any operational input from at least the second player, such as a situation in which the player's character executes a series of attacks.

In addition to the above, "given game situation" includes not only situations in which the game progress remains unchanged despite the second player's operation, such as when the execution of the special move or the attack that decides the outcome has been confirmed, when the first player's victory has been confirmed, or when a pre-match performance has taken place before the start of the match, but also situations in which a certain amount of communication delay occurs in communication with the second player's game system via the network, or when said communication is interrupted.

Furthermore, "based only on the received first game control information" means that not only if the second game control information is not received, but also if the second game control information is received, it is invalidated and the game control process is executed based only on the first game control information.

(2) The present invention also provides:
The detection means
The detection process is configured to detect whether or not the player character of the first player has entered the specific situation based on the continuous operation input of the first player.

With this configuration, when a game is played in a game system used by multiple players while synchronized over a network, the present invention can transition to a specific situation in which it is not necessary to accept operations from a second player, such as a consecutive attack (combo attack) by the player character controlled by the first player, based on various consecutive operational inputs such as jumps, punches, and kicks.

Therefore, even if a communication delay or interruption occurs during such a period, the present invention can execute appropriate game control processing because it does not use the second player's operation input in the first place.

(3) The present invention also provides:
Both the game control processes in the first mode and the second mode have a configuration that is game control process in a competitive game in which the first player and the second player compete one-on-one.

With this configuration, even if a communication delay or interruption occurs during a competitive game in which a first player and a second player compete against each other over a network, under certain circumstances, the present invention can eliminate the impact on the game's progress, eliminating any sense of incongruity in the game's progress, and preventing nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players.

(4) The present invention also provides:
The second game control means
The configuration is such that when the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the second player's game system via the network has been cut off, the game control process is executed as the second mode.

With this configuration, even if communication with the second player's game system is interrupted, the present invention eliminates any impact on game progress, eliminating any sense of incongruity in the game's progress, and preventing nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players.

(5) The present invention also provides
the storage means stores character state information that defines the state of the player character determined in accordance with the type of operation input by the player;
The detection means
The detection process is configured to detect whether the state of the second player character at the current timing, which is the object of operation by the second player, has switched to an inaction state in which the second player character is unable to act in the game as the specific situation, in accordance with the state of the second player character that is the object of operation by the second player at the current timing during the first game control process and at least the received second game control information.

With this configuration, the present invention detects a state in which the absence of second player operation information for the second player character has no effect on the game, and in that state, the progress of the game can be controlled based solely on the first operation input information, regardless of whether or not a second operation input is made to the second player character. This allows the game to proceed while ignoring the second operation input information, eliminating its influence.

Note that "incapable of action" includes states in which the player character is unable to move, such as a state in which acceptance of operational input is disabled (a standby state before the game starts), a state in which the player character is floating in the air, a restrained state (for example, a state in which the player character is tied to something), or a rigid state (for example, a state after the use of a technique or when the player is paralyzed), as well as states in which movement does not affect other processing in the game.

(6) The present invention also provides
The game is a fighting game,
The detection means
The system is configured to execute the detection process for detecting that the game situation is the specific situation when the state of the second player character at the current timing is a state in which the second player character is attacked by the first player character that is the object of operation of the first player and is in the state in which the second player character is unable to act.

With this configuration, the present invention detects a state in which the second player's character is attacked by the first player's character, and in which the absence of operation information from the second player has no effect on the game. In this state, the progress of the game can be controlled solely in response to the first operation input information, regardless of whether or not a second operation input is made to the second player's character. This allows the game to proceed ignoring the second operation input information, eliminating its effects.

(7) The present invention also provides
a management means for managing a storage means in which a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating a plurality of pieces of specific situation information, including at least one of a type of operation input by the first player and a content of the game situation, and a communication delay amount with the game system of the second player having a given relationship are stored in association with each other;
a measuring means for measuring a communication delay between the game system of the second player and the game system of the second player;
a determination means for determining specific situation information to be used in the detection process from among the plurality of pieces of specific situation information stored based on the measured communication delay amount;
Equipped with
The detection means
The detection process is configured to detect the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information during execution of the game.

With this configuration, the present invention can determine the amount of communication delay for switching from first mode to second mode within a range that does not affect the return from second mode to first mode, since the larger the communication delay, the greater the discomfort and problems that occur when returning from second mode to first mode.

Furthermore, for players at a beginner level who do not require strict reactions to operational inputs, slight communication delays do not cause much disruption to game progress, while for higher-level players, even slight communication delays can cause disruption to game progress. Therefore, by changing specific situations according to the player's level, the game control process as a whole can proceed smoothly.

Note that a "given relationship" means, for example, that the time difference caused by communication delay when returning from the second mode control process to the first mode control process is within a predetermined time difference, and this relationship may also indicate relationships with the player's level, communication environment, game environment, etc. in addition to communication delay.

(8) The present invention also provides
The game device further comprises a switching means for executing a setting that enables switching to the second mode based on the accepted operation input from the first player.

With this configuration, the present invention allows players to decide, at their discretion, whether to perform processing that eliminates any impact on game progress, eliminates any sense of incongruity in the game's progression, and prevents nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players.

(9) In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides:
A game system program for connecting to a game system of another player, a second player, via a network using a player character operated and controlled by a first player, and executing a given game, comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process for controlling progress of the game in a first mode in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
detection means for executing a detection process to detect whether a specific situation has occurred based on a given operation input by the first player during the progress of the game, or whether a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred; and
a second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the game in accordance with only the received first game control information;
The computer has a configuration that causes the computer to function as a

With this configuration, when a game is played in a game system used by multiple players while synchronized over a network, under certain circumstances, the game can be played without using the operation input information of the second player (i.e., second operation input information), even if there is a communication delay or interruption.

Therefore, the present invention eliminates the impact of communication delays and interruptions on game progress, eliminating any sense of incongruity in game progress and improving the enjoyment of the game.

The present invention also prevents malicious players from using communication cutoffs to cause nuisance or commit fraud, such as intentionally cutting off communication after a victory has been confirmed by the losing side while the game result is being announced, thereby invalidating the match itself, or causing discomfort to the winning side even if the match is not invalidated.

(10) In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides:
A server system that provides a game to a terminal device of a first player and a terminal device of a second player different from the first player, the terminal devices being connected via a network, comprising:
a communication control means for receiving first game control information including at least an operation input by the first player as first operation input information and second game control information including at least an operation input by the second player as second operation input information;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the game in accordance with the received first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether a specific situation has occurred based on a given operation input by the first player during the progress of the game, or whether a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the game in accordance with only the received first game control information;
providing means for providing game data processed in the first mode and the second mode to the terminal device;
The configuration includes:

With this configuration, when a game is played in a game system used by multiple players while synchronized over a network, under certain circumstances, the game can be played without using the operation input information of the second player (i.e., second operation input information), even if there is a communication delay or interruption.

Therefore, the present invention eliminates the impact of communication delays and interruptions on game progress, eliminating any sense of incongruity in game progress and improving the enjoyment of the game.

The present invention also prevents malicious players from using communication cutoffs to cause nuisance or commit fraud, such as intentionally cutting off communication after a victory has been confirmed by the losing side while the game result is being announced, thereby invalidating the match itself, or causing discomfort to the winning side even if the match is not invalidated.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of the game device main body of the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a game control process including a first mode control process and a second mode control process according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of game control information according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of table data for detecting a specific situation according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a first mode control process according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second mode control process according to an embodiment. 1 is a diagram showing an example in which a game system according to an embodiment is applied to a game arcade system, and is an external configuration diagram thereof. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration when a game system according to an embodiment is applied to a server system using a network. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of a game control process, mainly switching between a first mode control process and a second mode control process, executed by a game system of an embodiment.

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

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

The game system S of this embodiment is configured as a game system for playing a fighting game in which a first character controlled by the operation of a first player fights against a second character controlled by the operation of a second player within a given game space (object space).

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

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

For example, when the game system S receives operational inputs based on the joystick 32, cross key 33, and various buttons formed on the controller 30 operated by the player, it performs various game operations such as inputting the type of technique and the timing of the technique to move the player character, and engages in matches against other players (players who perform operational inputs on other controllers 30B connected to the game system S, or players operating other game systems S connected via the network N), or in computer matches against characters controlled by the CPU (NPCs).

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

The game device main body 10 executes game processing based on operation inputs from a player (or multiple players if multiple controllers 30 are connected) via the controller 30,
Based on the results of this processing, various game images are displayed on the display 40, and various sounds such as background music during the game are output from a speaker (not shown).

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

For example, the right hand button 34 is an input unit for inputting a "right punch," the left hand button 36 is an input unit for inputting a "left punch," the right foot button 37 is an input unit for inputting a "right kick," and the left foot button 38 is an input unit for inputting a "left kick."

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

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

In addition to the above, the controller 30 may also be composed of a steering wheel, a microphone, a touch panel display, an acceleration sensor, etc.

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

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

The memory unit 170 stores predefined programs and data, and also serves as a work area for the processing unit 100 and communication unit 196, temporarily storing the results of calculations performed by the processing unit 100 in accordance with various programs, input data input from the controller 160, etc. This function can be realized by RAM (VRAM), etc.

In particular, the memory unit 170 is composed of a main memory unit 172 and an image buffer 176, and stores system programs that enable the processing unit 100 to implement various functions for integrated control of the game system S, game programs necessary for executing the fighting game, and various data, etc.

Specifically, the storage unit 170 stores pre-prepared data such as character setting data, stage setting data, and various data for setting the virtual camera (hereinafter referred to as "virtual camera setting data").

In addition, information required to execute processes related to the progression of the game, such as data on the angle of view, line of sight, and posture information for controlling the virtual camera, as well as count data for various time limits, is stored as appropriate.

The character setting data stores basic information required for character display and movement control, such as model data, texture data, and motion data of the characters used in the fighting game, in association with each character.

The stage setting data stores information for each stage, such as model data and texture data, used to create the stage where the battle will take place within a three-dimensional virtual space.

The virtual camera setting data stores the standard settings for the virtual camera that captures the game space. For example, it includes the virtual camera's position, angle of view, movement path, movement speed, rotation direction and speed, and zoom changes.

In addition, the storage unit 170 stores data necessary to run the competitive game (e.g., table data and script data that dictates the actions of player characters).

The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by optical disks (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical disks (MOs), magnetic disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

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

In addition, the information storage medium 180 may store, similar to the storage unit 170, instead of the storage unit 170, or together with the storage unit 170, a system program for realizing various functions that allow the processing unit 100 to comprehensively control the game system S, a game program necessary for executing a fighting game, various data, etc.

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

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

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

In addition, programs and data for causing a computer to function as each part of this embodiment, which are stored in an information storage medium or memory unit possessed by server device 1, may be received via a network, and the received programs and data may be stored in information storage medium 180 or memory unit 170. Receiving programs and data in this way to cause a terminal to function is also included within the scope of the present invention.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Specifically, the processing unit 100 includes a communication control unit 110, an object space setting unit 111, a movement/motion control unit 112, an operation input reception processing unit 113, a game control unit 114, a specific situation detection unit 115, a display control unit 118, a virtual camera control unit 119, a drawing unit 120, and a sound processing unit 130. Note that some of these units may be omitted.

The communication control unit 110 of this embodiment constitutes the communication control means of the present invention, and the operation input reception processing unit 113 constitutes the reception processing means of the present invention. Furthermore, the game control unit 114 of this embodiment constitutes the first game control means, second game control means, and switching means of the present invention, and the specific situation detection unit 115 constitutes the detection means, management means, measurement means, and designation means of the present invention.

The communication control unit 110 performs processing to send and receive data with the server device 1 and other game systems So via the network.

In particular, when a competitive game is played based on information received from the server device 1, or when a player competes against another player via a network, the communication control unit 110 performs processes for receiving various information transmitted from the server device 1 or other terminal devices, and for transmitting the information to the server device 1 or other terminal devices.

In addition, the game system S of this embodiment may also be configured to obtain network information required for communication control from the server device and perform management processes, etc.

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

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

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

Furthermore, in the case of a network system consisting of multiple game systems S and So, the communication control unit 110 may control communications using a peer-to-peer (so-called P2P) method in which online games are played while sending and receiving data between the multiple game systems S and So, or may control communications using a client-server method in which online games are played while each game system So sends and receives data (information) via the server device 1.

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

Meanwhile, the communication control unit 110 performs processing to acquire input information from the controller 30. For example, it receives various operational inputs for the game from each player, such as instructions for controlling the player's character and replay instructions.

The object space setting unit 111 performs processing to place objects in object space (virtual three-dimensional space). For example, it performs processing to form a game space (for example, a stage where characters fight) in virtual three-dimensional space. In addition to characters, it also performs processing to place display objects such as buildings, stadiums, cars, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain) in the object space. Here, object space is a virtual game space, and is a space in which objects are placed in three-dimensional coordinates (X, Y, Z), such as a world coordinate system or a virtual camera coordinate system.

For example, the object space setting unit 111 places an object (an object composed of primitives such as polygons, free-form surfaces, or subdivision surfaces) in the world coordinate system. It also determines the object's position and rotation angle (synonymous with orientation or direction) in the world coordinate system, and places the object at that position (X, Y, Z) and rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, and Z axes).

The object space setting unit 111 may perform processing to place instruction objects such as special command input instruction objects and markers on the screen (two-dimensional image, screen, screen coordinate system). The object space setting unit 111 may also place instruction objects in object space (three-dimensional space, world coordinate system, virtual camera coordinate system, model coordinate system).

The movement/motion control unit 112 performs movement/motion calculations for objects in object space. That is, it performs processing to move objects within object space and cause them to move (motion, animation) based on input information received from the controller 160, programs (movement/motion algorithms), various data (motion data), etc.

The movement/motion control unit 112 controls the behavior of the character object (character), which is the main object, in object space.

Specifically, the movement/action control unit 112 performs processing to control the movements of the player's character and the opponent's character based on operation codes based on operation input to the controller 160, operation codes obtained from the opponent's game system S, and selection instruction data, processing to display effects when certain conditions are met, processing to determine whether an attack technique is hit and processing the damage caused by it, etc.

The movement/motion control unit 112 also performs this processing every frame (e.g., 1/60 seconds). A frame is a unit of time for performing object movement/motion processing and image generation processing.

The operation input reception processing unit 113 performs recognition processing of operation instruction commands based on input information entered by the player into the controller 160.

Specifically, the operation input reception processing unit 113 of this embodiment recognizes operation instruction commands input by the player based on the type of button and number of times it is pressed, the direction of the lever, the timing of button presses and lever instructions, and combinations of these, all input via the input unit 260.

For example, when the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects a press of the right hand button 34, it receives an operation input for a "right punch," and when it detects a press of the left hand button 36, it receives an operation input for a "left punch."

Furthermore, for example, when the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects a press of the right foot button 37, it receives an operation input for a "right kick," and when it detects a press of the left foot button 38, it receives an operation input for a "left kick."

On the other hand, if a player inputs an operation using multiple buttons simultaneously, or if a player inputs an operation using a combination of the tilt angle of the joystick 32 and each button, the operation input reception processing unit 113 recognizes this as a special operation input.

For example, if the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects an operation in which the joystick 32 is tilted in the direction in which the player character moves forward in combination with a button input, it will accept operation input for various attacking actions by the player character.

Furthermore, for example, if the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects an operation in which the joystick 32 is tilted in a direction that causes the player character to retreat in combination with a button input, it will accept operation inputs for various defensive actions.

In particular, when the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects, for example, button presses in the order of left hand button 36, right hand button 34, left hand button 36, right hand button 34 (or, in addition, detecting that the joystick 32 is tilted to the right), it can receive operation input to perform a special technique after the player character on the game screen actually moves their left hand, right hand, left hand, right hand (or, in addition, after walking to the right), thereby enabling the reception of operation inputs to enhance the sense of realism.

Furthermore, for example, when the operation input reception processing unit 113 detects that the right foot button 37 is pressed immediately after pressing the left hand button 36, it receives an operation input for the player character to perform a series of actions, such as throwing a jab with the left hand and then delivering a left kick.

In addition, the operation input reception processing unit 113 may receive operation instruction commands recognized by the controller 160.

The game control unit 114 executes processes related to the progression of the fighting game. For example, these processes include a process for starting the game when a game start condition is met (hereinafter also referred to as "game start process"), a game control process for controlling the progression of the fighting game by controlling the player's character in accordance with the player's operational input, a process for ending the game when a game end condition is met (hereinafter also referred to as "game end process"), and a process for progressing to the ending when the final stage is cleared.

In particular, the game control unit 114 executes game control processing in the first mode, which controls the progress of the game in accordance with information (hereinafter referred to as "first operation input information") on the operation input of a player (hereinafter referred to as "first player") received by the operation input reception processing unit 113, and information (hereinafter referred to as "second operation input information") on the operation input of the second player in the second game system So, which is information transmitted from the game system (hereinafter referred to as "second game system") So of another player (hereinafter referred to as "second player").

In addition, when the game control unit 114 detects, as a specific situation, that a given operation input from the first player has been received or that a given game situation has occurred, it executes a game control process in a second mode that controls the progress of the game in accordance with only the first operation input information.

The specific situation detection unit 115 executes a detection process (hereinafter referred to as the "specific situation detection process") to detect, as a specific situation, the receipt of a given operation input from the first player or the occurrence of a given game situation during the progress of the game.

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

Specifically, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as generating displayed objects (game characters, backgrounds, targets, cars, balls, items, buildings, trees, pillars, walls, maps), indicating the display position of displayed objects, and making displayed objects disappear.

In other words, the display control unit 118 performs display control such as registering newly created objects in an object list, transferring the object list to the drawing unit 120, etc., and deleting disappeared objects from the object list.

The display control unit 118 also performs animation processing to move and act game characters, such as the player character.

Animation processing can involve processing to move game characters (display objects defined by two-dimensional or three-dimensional data) in a game field (two-dimensional or three-dimensional game space).

Specifically, the display control unit 118 performs animation processing to move displayed objects based on input data entered by the player, a program (movement algorithm), various data, etc.

For example, the display control unit 118 performs processing to sequentially obtain movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) of a displayed object every frame (1/60 seconds).

The virtual camera control unit 119 performs control processing of the virtual camera (viewpoint) to generate an image seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint within the object space.

Specifically, when generating a three-dimensional image, the virtual camera control unit 119 performs processing to control the position (X, Y, Z) and rotation angle of the virtual camera in the world coordinate system (for example, the rotation angle when rotating clockwise as viewed from the positive direction of each of the X, Y, and Z axes).

In other words, the virtual camera control unit 119 performs processing to control at least one of the viewpoint position, line of sight direction, angle of view, movement direction, and movement speed of the virtual camera.

The drawing unit 120 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting it to the display unit 190.

In other words, the rendering unit 120 generates an image in object space that is visible from the virtual camera.

For example, the rendering unit 120 receives object data (model data) including vertex data (such as vertex position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vectors, or alpha values) for each vertex of an object (model), and performs vertex processing (shading using a vertex shader) based on the vertex data included in the input object data. Note that when performing vertex processing, vertex generation processing (tessellation, surface division, polygon division) may be performed to subdivide polygons as needed.

Vertex processing involves vertex movement processing and geometry processing such as coordinate transformations, such as world coordinate transformation, field of view transformation (camera coordinate transformation), clipping, perspective transformation (projection transformation), and viewport transformation, in accordance with the vertex processing program (vertex shader program, first shader program), and based on the results of these processing, the vertex data provided for the vertices that make up the object is changed (updated, adjusted).

Then, rasterization (scan conversion) is performed based on the vertex data after vertex processing, and the faces of the polygons (primitives) are associated with pixels. Following rasterization, pixel processing (shading using pixel shaders and fragment processing) is performed to draw the pixels that make up the image (fragments that make up the display screen).

Pixel processing involves performing various processes such as texture reading (texture mapping), color data setting/changing, semi-transparent compositing, and anti-aliasing in accordance with the pixel processing program (pixel shader program, second shader program) to determine the final drawing color of the pixels that make up the image, and outputting (drawing) the drawing color of the perspective-transformed object to image buffer 176 (a buffer that can store image information on a pixel-by-pixel basis; VRAM, rendering target, frame buffer).

That is, pixel processing involves per-pixel processing, in which image information (color, normal, brightness, alpha value, etc.) is set or changed on a pixel-by-pixel basis. This generates an image seen from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) in object space.

Vertex and pixel processing is achieved using so-called programmable shaders (vertex shaders and pixel shaders), hardware that allows the rendering process of polygons (primitives) to be programmed using shader programs written in a shading language.

Programmable shaders allow for programmable vertex and pixel processing, allowing for greater freedom in the content of rendering processes, significantly improving expressiveness compared to the fixed rendering processes used by conventional hardware.

When drawing an object, the drawing unit 120 performs geometry processing, texture mapping, hidden surface removal, alpha blending, etc.

Geometry processing involves performing coordinate transformation, clipping, perspective projection transformation, light source calculation, and other processes on the object. The object data (position coordinates of the object's vertices, texture coordinates, color data (brightness data), normal vectors, alpha values, etc.) after geometry processing (perspective projection transformation) is then stored in the storage unit 170.

Texture mapping is a process for mapping textures (texel values) stored in the storage unit 170 onto an object.

Specifically, the texture (surface properties such as color (RGB), alpha value, etc.) is read from the storage unit 170 using texture coordinates and other data set (assigned) to the vertices of the object. The texture, which is a two-dimensional image, is then mapped onto the object. In this case, processing is performed to associate pixels with texels, and bilinear interpolation is used to interpolate the texels.

Hidden surface removal can be performed using the Z-buffer method (depth comparison method, Z-test), which uses a Z-buffer (depth buffer) that stores the Z-values (depth information) of the drawn pixels.

In other words, when drawing a pixel corresponding to an object's primitive, the Z value stored in the Z buffer is referenced. The Z value in the referenced Z buffer is then compared with the Z value of the drawing pixel of the primitive, and if the Z value of the drawing pixel is a Z value that is closer to the virtual camera (for example, a small Z value), the drawing process for that drawing pixel is carried out and the Z value in the Z buffer is updated to the new Z value.

Alpha blending (alpha compositing) is a semi-transparent compositing process based on the alpha value (A value) (normal alpha blending, additive alpha blending, subtractive alpha blending, etc.).

For example, in alpha blending, a linear blending process is performed based on the alpha value on the drawing color (overwrite color) C1 to be drawn in the image buffer 176 and the drawing color (base color) C2 already drawn in the image buffer 176 (rendering target). In other words, if the final drawing color is C, it can be calculated as C = C1 * alpha + C2 * (1 - alpha).

The alpha value is information that can be stored in association with each pixel (texel, dot), and is additional information in addition to color information, for example. The alpha value can be used as mask information, translucency (equivalent to transparency and opacity), bump information, etc.

In addition, when playing a multiplayer online game in which data is sent and received over a network with other terminals (second terminals), the drawing unit 120 performs processing to generate an image seen from a virtual camera (a virtual camera controlled by the terminal (first terminal)) that follows the movement of an object being operated by the terminal (first terminal). In other words, each terminal performs independent drawing processing.

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

Note that the terminal of this embodiment may be controlled to allow game play in a single-player mode in which only one player can play, or in a multi-player mode in which multiple players can play. For example, when controlled in multi-player mode, game processing may be performed by sending and receiving data with other terminals via a network, or one terminal may perform processing based on input information from multiple input units.

[3] Method of the Present Embodiment [3.1] Overview Next, the method and overview of the game control process including the first mode control process and the second mode control process of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

Note that Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the game control process, including the first mode control process and the second mode control process, of this embodiment.

The game system S of this embodiment is a game system (i.e., a first game system) that executes a fighting game using a player character (which may be an avatar) operated and controlled by the player, and is configured to connect to multiple other game systems (e.g., a second game system So) via a network and execute the fighting game, including various game control processes, individually with the second player (i.e., one-on-one).

In other words, the game system S is configured to execute various game control processes (i.e., first mode control processes and second mode control processes) in a competitive game in which a first player and a second player compete one-on-one.

In particular, when playing a fighting game with a second game system So, the game system S of this embodiment is configured to synchronize with the second game system So, but under certain circumstances, the game can proceed without using the operation input information of the second player (i.e., second operation input information), even if there is a communication delay or interruption.

Specifically, the game system S includes, as shown in FIG.
(A1) executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from a first player; and
(A2) transmitting first game control information including at least information on the operation input of the first player P1 accepted by the acceptance process (i.e., first operation input information) to the second game system So of the second player P2, and receiving second game control information including at least information on the operation input of the second player (i.e., second operation input information) accepted by the game system So;
It has the following structure.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game system S
(A3) executing a first mode game control process (hereinafter referred to as a “first mode control process”) that controls the progress of the fighting game in accordance with the accepted first operation input information and the received second operation input information;
(A4) executing a specific situation detection process to detect whether a specific situation has occurred based on a given operation input by the first player during the progress of the game, or whether a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
(A5) When the specific situation detection process detects that a specific situation has occurred, a second mode game control process (hereinafter referred to as a “second mode game control process”) is executed, which controls the progress of the game in accordance with only the first operation input information.
It has the following structure.

Note that Figures 3(A) and (B) respectively show examples of the first mode control process and the second mode control process, including game images, when the first player character PC1 and the second player character PC2 compete against each other.

In particular, Figure 3(B) shows an example of a specific situation in which the second player character is in a floating state, rendering the character unable to take any action in the game, and the second control information from the second game system So is invalidated.

By having this configuration, the game system S of this embodiment eliminates the effects of communication delays and interruptions that occur during the progress of a fighting game, eliminating any sense of incongruity in the game's progress and making the game more enjoyable.

Furthermore, by having such a configuration, the game system S of this embodiment can prevent nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players using communication cutoff, such as, for example, the losing side intentionally cutting off communication during the presentation of the game result after victory has been confirmed, thereby invalidating the match itself, or, even if it does not invalidate the match, causing discomfort to the winning side.

In this embodiment, a fighting game is used as an example, but the game may also be a competitive game in which players compete against each other (against a second player's player character), such as a sports game, or a game in which players cooperate with a second player and the second player's player character to progress through the game. However, while it is preferable that both the first player and the second player are human, the players may also be controlled by a CPU.

Furthermore, the game is not limited to a competitive game, but may also be a game in which a first player and a second player cooperate. In that case, it is preferable that the game be a competitive game in which the first player and the second player cooperate to fight against an enemy character such as the CPU.

[3.2] Game Control Information, Character Script Information, and Table Data for Specific Situation Detection Next, the game control information and the like of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Note that Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the game control information of this embodiment, and Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the table data for specific situation detection of this embodiment.

(Game Control Information)
The first game control information in this embodiment includes first operation input information indicating the operation input of the first player for controlling the player character, and also includes control information for executing a game control process that controls the progress of the game in accordance with the operation on the player character and the movement of the player character.

In addition, like the first game control information, the second game control information in this embodiment includes second operation input information indicating the operation input of the second player for controlling the player character, and also includes control information for executing game control processing that controls the progress of the game in accordance with the operations on the player character and the actions of the player character.

Note that both the first game control information and the second game control information are basically the same information, with the only difference being the player character that is controlled by the player, and in the following explanation, unless otherwise specified, game control information refers to both the first game control information and the second game control information.

For example, the game control information may include, as shown in FIG.
(A1) Information (i.e., operation input information) of a given operation input of a player output from the controller 30 accepted by the operation input acceptance processing unit 113 (in the case of a game played by multiple players, such as a competitive game, operation input instructions of each player);
(A2) control-related information regarding other controls;
However, the information (A2) may not be included and may be composed of operation input information.

For example, given operational inputs include basic actions such as punching, kicking, jumping, moving forward, moving backward, crouching, and dodging, as well as operational inputs for launching special moves, consecutive attacks, or coordinated attacks by multiple player characters that have a predetermined duration and control the actions of each player character, regardless of whether other players have made operational inputs.

Other control-related information includes, for example,
(A2-1) Control information for defining the position (coordinates in the game space; the same applies below) and movement (i.e., motion; specifically, the position of each part of the player character, which is the coordinates in the game space; the same applies below; or data for defining movements such as rotation and jumping) of the player character (multiple player characters if multiple players participate in the game), and status (current state and remaining amount of stamina value and life energy, current value and remaining amount of parameters used when performing techniques, presence or absence of power-up states such as invincible state, or presence or absence of restrictions on some actions such as blocked attacks),
(A2-2) Control information for defining the position, movement, and status of each character (including, for example, enemy player characters) appearing in the game;
(A2-3) Control information for defining the position, movement, and status of each object constituting a game space such as a stage where a game such as a battle is played, a course where a race is played, or an object space for an RPG, or
(A2-4) A combination of two or more of (A2-1)-(A2-4),
Includes:

In particular, the game control information is preferably a series of data in time series from the start to the end of the game, but may also be a series of data in time series for any section during the game.

Note that Figure 4 (A) shows an example of game control information, including the first player's operation input information (combinations of the direction of the directional pad and the right hand button, left hand button, right foot button, and left foot button) from the start of the game (0 seconds).

(Character script information)
The character script information is information that defines the state to which the character will transition when a specific operation input is input from the current state, in association with the history of operation inputs up to that point.

Specifically, character script information specifies the current state, such as standing, punching, floating in the air, or falling backwards; the type of operational input that is valid for that current state; and the next state to which the character will transition when that valid operational input is entered. It also specifies, as necessary, the state before the current state and the state after that (which is the "next state" from the perspective of the current state).

In other words, the character script information defines its state from the initial state as long as there is valid input.

For example, the character script information specifies the following as valid operation input types from a first state (e.g., standing state): rear lever position, front lever position, up lever position, down lever, forward diagonal upper lever position, forward diagonal lower lever position, rear diagonal upper lever position, rear diagonal lower lever position, right hand button, left hand button, right foot button, and left foot button, and this is an example of character script information in which the next state and the state after that are specified according to each operation input type.

In addition, when the character enters a specific state, such as landing from a jump, when it receives damage, or when it enters a state where the next state is not specified, the character script information transitions to a predetermined state (for example, standing), and a new state transition is executed from that point on.

Then, the game control unit 114 transitions the state of the player character to the next state in response to the operation input received and recognized by the operation input reception processing unit 113 from the first player in the current state (the current state including the history of past states).

(Table data for detecting specific situations)
The specific situation detection table data is used to determine the specific situation to be included in the target range of the second mode control process based on the amount of communication delay when the specific situation detection process is executed.

For example, as shown in Figure 5, the specific situation detection table data is stored in the storage unit 170 in association with information on multiple specific situations (hereinafter referred to as "specific situation information"), including at least one of the type of operation input by the first player and the content of the game situation, and the amount of communication delay with the second game system of a second player with whom the second player has a given relationship.

In particular, the table data for detecting specific situations is used to determine multiple specific situations, rather than determining a single specific situation, based on the amount of communication delay.

In addition, the table data for detecting specific situations defines a level range for specific situations based on the amount of communication delay, and the level of the specific situation is identified based on the amount of communication delay.The specific situation that falls within the identified level is determined as the table data to be used in the specific situation detection process.

[3.3] Communication Control Processing Next, the communication control processing of this embodiment will be described.

The communication control unit 110, while synchronizing with another game system (i.e., the second game system So), transmits first game control information including at least the first operation input information received by the operation input reception processing unit 113 to the second game system So of the second player connected via the network via the communication unit 196.

In addition, while the fighting game is in progress, the communication control unit 110 receives second game control information transmitted from the second game system So connected via the network in this manner, the second game control information including at least the transmitted second operation input information of the second player.

Furthermore, the communication control unit 110 detects the amount of communication delay with other game systems and whether or not communication has been interrupted.

For example, the communication control unit 110 measures the amount of communication delay (i.e., delay time) based on the time when a packet comprising various information is transmitted from the second game system So and the time information when the packet transmitted from the second game system So is received.

In addition, the communication control unit 110 detects that communication with the second game system So has been interrupted if there is no response from the second game system So for a certain period of time while sending or receiving data with the second game system So.

[3.4] Game Control Processing [3.4.1] First Mode Control Processing Next, the first mode control processing of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining the first mode control processing of this embodiment.

When a fighting game with another player is started, the game control unit 114 synchronizes with the opponent's game system (specifically, the second game system So) unless a specific situation is detected, such as immediately after the start of the game, to synchronize the second game control information transmitted from the second game system So with the first game control information including the first operation input information of the first player received by the operation input reception processing unit 113, and in this synchronized state, executes game control processing in the first mode based on the first game control information and the second game control information.

Specifically, the game control unit 114 acquires second game control information, including second operation input information of the second player, transmitted from the second game system So via the network while maintaining the synchronized state.

The game control unit 114 then controls the actions (movements) of the first player's character and the second player's character within the game space at predetermined intervals (including irregular intervals) in accordance with first game control information including first operation input information of the first player received by the operation input reception processing unit 113, and second game control information including second operation input information.

In particular, as shown in FIG. 6, as a first game mode control process, the game control unit 114 controls the movements of the first and second player characters and their movement within the game space based on the initial state (e.g., information indicating that the characters are standing poised) or the current state of each player character determined by past player character states and state transitions, character script information stored in the memory unit 170, and first and second game control information at the current timing.

The game control unit 114 then repeatedly executes the above-described first mode control process at predetermined timings until the match with the second player (second player character) ends or a specific situation is detected, and even after returning from the second mode control process, continues to repeatedly execute the first mode control process until the match with the second player (second player character) ends or a specific situation is detected.

6 shows an example in which the first mode control process is executed in synchronization with the first operation input information and the second operation input information. In particular, in the drawing, "P" indicates an instruction to punch from that position, "K" indicates an instruction to kick from that position, "→" indicates an instruction to move forward from that position, and [←] indicates an instruction to move backward from that position.

[3.4.2] Second Mode Control Process Including Specific Situation Detection Process Next, the switching timing setting process of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining the second mode control process of this embodiment.

(Basic principle of second mode control processing)
Typically, when a game is progressed using not only the first operation input information (first game control information) of the first player but also the synchronized second operation input information (second game control information) of the second player, if a communication delay occurs in the network, the game control unit 114 will wait to perform game control processing for the first operation input information until second operation input information of the same timing is received, and will stop the game control processing during that time.

In other words, in such cases, delays occur in the game control process, and ultimately, the generation of game images and sound output are also delayed, often causing the first player to feel uncomfortable operating the game.

Furthermore, in fighting games and other competitive games, if a decisive attack such as a special move, powerful move, consecutive attack, or combo attack, or an attack accompanied by a spectacular effect, occurs, even if the match ends afterwards due to such an attack, the match is considered to be ongoing until the effect ends, and the match does not end until the effect ends. If synchronization with the second game system So is lost during the effect, or if communication with the second game system So is interrupted, the match may be forcibly ended or may become invalid (i.e., an invalid match).

On the other hand, in situations where there is no need for operational input information, such as during a long-duration performance or when the second player's character is floating in the game space and is out of the reach of the second player's operations, even if synchronization with the second game system So is not achieved, there is no impact on the game control processing, or if there is any, the impact is extremely small.

Therefore, the specific situation detection unit 115 in this embodiment executes a specific situation detection process to detect whether a specific situation has arisen as a result of a given operation input by the first player during the progress of the game, or whether a given game situation has occurred and resulted in the specific situation.

The game control unit 114 is configured to, when the specific state detection process detects a situation in which invalidating the second player's operation input information will not affect the game control process, determine that this is the specific state and execute a second game control process that controls the progress of the game based only on the received first game control information.

(Specific situation detection process)
As described above, the specific situation detection unit 115 executes the specific situation detection process to detect whether or not a specific situation has occurred based on a given operation input by the first player during the first mode control process.

Then, when the specific situation detection unit 115 detects a specific situation, it interrupts synchronization with the second game system So.

In particular, the given operation input of the first player may be, for example, an operation input for initiating an attack such as a special move, a powerful move, a continuous attack (a so-called combo), or a linked attack (a link with another player character) that defines the behavior of the first player character for a certain period of time;
This includes instructions for performing the effects when these techniques are activated and the attacks that decide the outcome of the game.

In other words, upon receiving such operational input, the game control unit 114 causes the first player's character to perform a specific action, such as a special move, and controls the second player's character to a state where it is beyond the reach of the second player's operations (hereinafter referred to as a "powerless state").

Therefore, in such specific situations, there is no need to synchronize with the second game system So and use the operation input of the second player transmitted from the second game system So.

Therefore, if the specific situation detection unit 115 receives such a given operation input from the first player while synchronizing with the second game system So, it detects that a specific situation exists in the specific situation detection process and interrupts synchronization with the second game system So.

For example, when a first player (i.e., the player himself) receives a series of operational inputs that result in a specific combo for the player character, the specific situation detection unit 115 determines that the second player (i.e., the opponent's player character) has been hit by a combo attack and is, or will become, unable to act, and detects that a specific situation has occurred.

On the other hand, the specific situation detection unit 115 may execute a specific situation detection process that detects whether a given game situation has occurred during the first mode control process, instead of an operation input by the first player, and the specific situation has been reached.

Even in this case, the specific situation detection unit 115 will interrupt synchronization with the second game system So when it detects a specific situation.

In particular, given game situations include situations where the execution of the effects when the above-mentioned special moves are activated or the effects of the attack that decides the outcome of the game are confirmed, situations where the first player's victory is confirmed, or situations where the progress of the game does not change even if the second player performs an operation, such as a pre-match effect before the start of the match.

In other words, in such a case, the movement of the second player character, including the first player character, is no longer necessary for the game to proceed, and therefore operation of the second player character is also no longer necessary, so the game control unit 114 does not need to synchronize with the second game system So and use the second player's operation input transmitted from the second game system So.

Therefore, just as in the case of detecting whether a specific situation has occurred based on operational input or the game situation, the specific situation detection unit 115 executes a specific situation detection process to determine that a specific situation has occurred if such a situation occurs as the game situation during synchronization with the second game system So, and interrupts synchronization with the second game system So.

Specifically, in the specific situation detection process, the specific situation detection unit 115 detects whether the state of the second player character at the current timing during the first mode control process has switched to a specific situation in which the second player character is unable to act in the game, based on the state of the second player character at the current timing during the first mode control process and at least the received second operation input information.

In particular, the specific situation detection unit 115 detects that the game situation is a specific situation when the state of the second player character at the current timing is a state in which the second player character is attacked by the first player character and is unable to act.

For example, the specific situation detection unit 115 performs the specific situation detection process as follows:
(A1) character script information;
(A2) a state of the second player character at a current timing according to a past state transition based on the character script information; and
(A3) second game control information, or first game control information and second game control information, acquired in a synchronized state;
If the state of the second player character changes to a state in which the second player character is unable to take any action in the game (hereinafter referred to as an "incapable state"), it is detected that a specific situation has occurred.

Furthermore, for example, the specific situation detection unit 115 detects whether the current state of the second player character has switched to an inability to act state, such as a state in which acceptance of operational input is disabled (a standby state before the start of the game), a state in which the player character is floating in the air, a restrained state (for example, a state in which the player character is tied to something), or a rigid state (for example, a state after the use of a technique or a state in which the player character is paralyzed), or a state in which the player character can act but does not affect other processing in the game.

In addition, the specific situation detection unit 115 may detect a situation in which the game progress does not change as a specific situation from the generated game image or the coordinates of the second player character in the game space, instead of character script information, etc.

For example, during pre-match performances before the start of a match, the first player's character and the second player's character do not move from specific positions (coordinates) within the game space.

Therefore, the specific situation detection unit 115 may detect a change in the position of the second player character by analyzing the coordinates of the second player character in the game space and the game images generated to be provided to the player, and thereby detect that a specific situation exists.

On the other hand, if the second player's connection to the second game system So via the network is interrupted (i.e., the communication line is interrupted) during game execution, the specific situation detection unit 115 executes a specific situation detection process that detects the interrupted situation as a specific situation.

In other words, even if communication between the second player and the second game system So is interrupted, as described above, there is no impact on the progress of the game, eliminating any sense of incongruity in the progress of the game and preventing nuisance or fraudulent behavior by malicious players.

Specifically, the specific situation detection unit 115, in conjunction with the communication control unit 110, monitors the connection status of the communication line with the second game system So as a specific situation detection process, and detects that a specific situation has occurred if the communication line is interrupted.

(Second mode control process)
When a specific situation is detected and synchronization with the second game system So is interrupted, the game control unit 114 executes game control processing as the second mode in response only to the first operation input information of the first player accepted by the operation input acceptance processing unit 113.

In particular, the game control unit 114 invalidates the received second game control information not only when the second game control information is not acquired (received) but also when the second game control information is received, and executes game control based only on the first game control information.

In other words, the second mode control process basically differs from the first mode control process only in that the second operation input information transmitted from the second game system So is not used in the game control process; otherwise, the same processing as the first mode control process is executed.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, when a specific situation is detected and synchronization with the second game system So is interrupted, the game control unit 114 controls the movements of the first player character and the second player character and their movement within the game space in accordance with the current states of each player character determined by state transitions based on past states of the player characters, the character script information stored in the memory unit 170, and the first game control information at the current timing.

Note that Figure 7 shows an example in which the first operation input information and the second operation input information are not synchronized, and the second mode control process is executed without using the second operation input information.

On the other hand, the game control unit 114 may determine a period during which the second mode control process is executed depending on the control content of the second mode control process, and execute the second mode control process during that period.

Specifically, the game control unit 114 may set the period for executing the second mode control process based on the type of operation input entered by the first player (including multiple, sequential operation inputs) and the specific situation detected, such as when it receives a continuous operation input for the first player's character to perform a continuous attack (i.e., a combo) or when it receives an operation input for executing an effect having a predetermined duration, based on the operation input entered by the first player.

In other words, in a specific situation where a player character takes an action that requires a certain period of time, such as a consecutive attack, or where a game effect is being performed, the game control unit 114 specifies the period until the first player character's action ends, or the period until the game effect ends, as the specific situation period, and executes the second mode control process during that specific situation period.

The specific situation period is set in advance based on the type of operation input entered by the first player (including multiple sequential operation inputs in an orderly manner) or the specific situation detected, and when the game control unit 114 detects a specific situation, it sets the specific situation period corresponding to that specific situation as the period for executing the second mode control process.

However, the game control unit 114 may, in principle, increase or decrease the period (e.g., the number of image frames) that is predetermined based on the first player's continuous operation input or the type of effect specified by the first player's operation input, depending on the type and attributes of the second player's character (including the type of skills possessed), the number and type of items possessed, the level difference between the first player and the second player, etc.

For example, if the game control unit 114 sets a specific situation period of 10 frames as a general rule, if the ability value of the player character of the second player is higher than the ability value of the player character of the first player, the game control unit 114 will shorten the specific period to 8 frames, and if the ability value of the player character of the second player is lower than the ability value of the player character of the first player, the game control unit 114 will lengthen the specific period by 15 frames.

(Return from second mode control process)
If a situation arises during execution of the second mode control process where second game control information including operation input for the second player character is required, the game control unit 114 switches to the first mode control process.

Specifically, the game control unit 114 performs the specific situation detection process.
(B1) As described above, a predetermined time has elapsed;
(B2) The communication delay with the second game system So is resolved. (B3) The communication interruption with the second game system So is restored. Or,
(B4) the state of the second character becomes operable by second control information including a second operation input;
If this is detected, the control process is switched to the first mode.

When switching from the second mode control process to the first mode control process, the game control unit 114 may enable the second player's operation input from the timing of switching from the second mode control process (hereinafter also referred to as the "switching timing"), or may employ a process that enables or starts accepting the second player's operation input in advance from a timing before the switching timing (for example, one second before), and uses the second player's operation input that has been enabled or accepted in advance as the second player's operation input after the switching timing (hereinafter also referred to as the "prior input processing").

Specifically, the game control unit 114 may accept the operation input received by the advance input process and the operation input after the switching timing as a series of consecutive operation inputs (i.e., as a single command), and control the launch of consecutive attacks by the second player's player character or the execution of a predetermined effect on the second player's side.

However, in this case, it is assumed that the game control unit 114 has been accepting operation input from the second player at least shortly before the switching timing (several dozens of frames to several frames before the switching timing).

[3.5] Modifications [3.5.1] Modification 1 (Adjustment of specific situations based on communication delay amount)
Next, the adjustment of a specific situation based on the amount of communication delay in Modification 1 will be described.

In the above embodiment, the operation input and game situation when switching from the first mode control process to the second mode control process may be changed based on the amount of communication delay.

In other words, as the communication delay increases, the sense of discomfort and difficulty when returning from the second mode control process to the first mode control process increases. Furthermore, for players who do not require strict responses to operational inputs such as level, a small communication delay will not cause much disruption to game progress, whereas for high-level players, even a small communication delay can disrupt game progress.

Therefore, in this modified example, the specific situation detection unit 115 is configured to change the specific situation identified by the specific situation detection process depending on the amount of communication delay occurring or on conditions such as the player level.

Specifically, the communication control unit 110 measures the amount of communication delay with the game system of the second player.

In particular, the storage unit 170 stores a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating information about a plurality of specific situations, including at least one of the type of operation input by the first player and the content of the game situation, in association with the amount of communication delay with the game system of the second player with which it has a given relationship, and the specific situation detection unit 115 manages the specific situation information.

For example, a given relationship refers to the time difference caused by communication delays when returning from the second mode control process to the first mode control process being within a predetermined time difference, and to relationships based on the player's level, the communication environment, the game environment, etc.

Then, the specific situation detection unit 115 performs specific situation detection processing to detect the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information while the game is being played.

For example, when the specific situation detection unit 115 uses the specific situation division method shown in FIG. 5, if the communication delay is less than 30 ms, it performs detection as a specific situation detection process only for specific situation A; if the communication delay is less than 60 ms, it performs detection as a specific situation detection process only for specific situations A and C; and if the communication delay is 60 ms or more, it performs detection as a specific situation detection process for specific situations A, C, F, and G.

[3.5.2] Modification 2 (Switching operation for second mode control process)
Next, a switching operation for the second mode control process of the second modification will be described.

In the above embodiment, the second mode control process may be activated or deactivated based on the player's instructions.

Specifically, the game control unit 114 executes settings that enable switching to the second mode based on the accepted operation input from the first player.

[3.5.3] Modification 3 (Store-based Game System)
Next, a shop-based game system according to Modification 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which the game system of this embodiment is applied to a shop-based game system, and is an external configuration diagram thereof.

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

In other words, in this case, the above game control process is executed when a match is played between game systems at different stores, or between a store-based game system and a home game system.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8, such a store-based game system S includes a housing 12 that houses a processing unit (computer) that performs game processing, a display 13 that displays the game screen, a speaker 14 that outputs game sound effects and background music, a game operation unit 200, and a coin insertion unit 16 into which coins are inserted as a game play fee.

The game system S has a built-in system board 1000 on which a CPU, an image generation IC, a sound generation IC, etc. are mounted, and is configured to execute a fighting game based on game programs and game data read from a memory, which is an information storage medium on the system board 1000, or operation signals input from a joystick 32 and buttons.

The game operation unit 200 has the same functions as the controller 30 described above, and is therefore configured with a lever 210 and buttons 220, 221, 222, and 223.

For example, the right hand button 220 can be used to input a "right punch," the left hand button 221 can be used to input a "left punch," the right foot button 222 can be used to input a "right kick," and the left foot button 223 can be used to input a "left kick."

[3.5.4] Modification 4 (Server System)
Next, a server system according to Modification 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration in which the game system according to this embodiment is applied to a server system using a network.

In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a server system 300 may be constructed using a single server device 310, and the above game may be provided to one or more terminal devices 320 via a network N, or a server system 300 may be constructed by linking multiple server devices 310, and the game may be provided from the server system 300 to one or more terminal devices 320.

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

Furthermore, the server system 300 can execute first mode control processing, specific situation detection processing, second mode control processing, etc. while accepting operation inputs from each player, and provide the game data (including only image data) processed by these processes to the corresponding terminal device 320, thereby realizing the game system of the above embodiment.

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

[4] Operation of this Embodiment Next, the operation of the game control process, mainly the switching between the first mode control process and the second mode control process, executed by the game system S of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

Note that Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the game control process, which mainly involves switching between the first mode control process and the second mode control process, executed by the game system S of this embodiment.

This operation assumes that the first player and second player have already been matched and a match between the first player and second player is being carried out.

First, when a match between a first player and a second player begins (step S101), the game control unit 114 determines whether the match has ended, such as when the player character's stamina reaches "0" (step S102).

At this time, if the game control unit 114 determines that the match has ended, it ends this operation, and if it determines that the match has not ended, it proceeds to the processing of step S103.

Next, if it is determined that the match has not ended, the specific situation detection unit 115 determines whether a specific situation exists (step S103).

At this time, if the specific situation detection unit 115 determines that the specific situation does not exist, it proceeds to processing in step S102, and if it determines that the specific situation exists, it proceeds to processing in step S104.

Next, if it is determined that a specific situation exists, the game control unit 114 switches from the first game control process to the second game control process (step S104).

Next, the game control unit 114 determines whether the match has ended, such as when the player character's stamina reaches "0" (step S105).

At this time, if the game control unit 114 determines that the match has ended, it ends this operation, and if it determines that the match has not ended, it proceeds to processing in step S106.

Next, the specific situation detection unit 115 determines whether the conditions for transitioning to the first mode control process are met (step S106).

At this time, if the game control unit 114 determines that the conditions for transitioning to the first mode control processing are not met, it transitions to the processing of step S105; if it determines that the conditions for transitioning to the first mode control processing are met, it returns to the first mode control processing (step S107) and transitions to the processing of step S102.

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

In this embodiment, a fighting game is used for explanation, but it can also be used in games that involve player input operations, such as racing games, music games, puzzle games, shooting games, RPGs, or simulation games.

The present invention includes configurations that are substantially identical to the configurations described in the embodiments (for example, configurations with the same function, method, and result, or configurations with the same purpose and effect). The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects or purposes as the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible without substantially departing from the novel features and advantages of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

1: Server device 10: Game device main body 30: Controller 40: Display 100: Processing unit 110: Communication control unit 111: Object space setting unit 112: Action control unit 113: Operation input reception processing unit 114: Game control unit 115: Specific situation detection unit 118: Display control unit 119: Virtual camera control unit 120: Drawing unit 130: Sound processing unit 160: Controller 162: Read/write unit 170: Memory unit 172: Main memory unit 176: Image buffer 180: Information storage medium 190: Display unit 192: Sound output unit 196: Communication unit 200: Game operation unit 260: Input unit 300: Server system 310: Server device 320: Terminal device 1000: System board

Claims (18)

A game system for executing a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of a second player via a network and operated and controlled by the second player, comprising :
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Equipped with
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
A game system characterized in that the game control process of the second mode is executed during the set specific situation period . 2. The game system according to claim 1,
The first game control means
After the specific situation period ends, the game control process is switched from the second mode to the first mode, and
The game system enables second game control information and executes the game control process of the first mode from the timing of switching from the game control process of the second mode to the game control process of the first mode. 2. The game system according to claim 1,
The first game control means
After the specific situation period ends, the game control process is switched from the second mode to the first mode, and
A game system that enables or starts receiving second game control information in advance from a timing before switching from the game control processing of the second mode to the game control processing of the first mode, and executes the game control processing of the first mode after switching from the second mode using the enabled second game control information or the received second game control information. A game system for executing a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of a second player via a network and operated and controlled by the second player, comprising :
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
a management means for managing a storage means in which a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating a plurality of pieces of specific situation information, including at least one of a type of operation input by the first player and a content of the game situation, and a communication delay amount with the game system of the second player having a given relationship are stored in association with each other;
a measuring means for measuring a communication delay between the game system of the second player and the game system of the second player;
a determination means for determining specific situation information to be used in the detection process from among the plurality of pieces of specific situation information stored based on the measured communication delay amount;
Equipped with
The detection means
The game system is characterized in that the detection process detects the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information while the competitive game is in progress . A game system for executing a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of a second player via a network and operated and controlled by the second player, comprising :
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Equipped with
the storage means stores character state information that defines the state of the player character determined in accordance with the type of operation input by the player;
The detection means
execute the detection process to detect whether the state of the second player character at the current time, which is an object of operation by a second player, has switched to one of a floating state in which the second player character is floating in the air, a restrained state in which the second player character is restrained, or a rigid state in which the second player character is rigid, as the specific situation, in accordance with the state of the second player character that is an object of operation by a second player at the current time during the game control process in the first mode and at least the received second game control information;
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
A game system characterized in that the game control process of the second mode is executed during the set specific situation period . A game system for executing a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of a second player via a network and operated and controlled by the second player, comprising :
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
During the progress of the competitive game, the second player is selected based on a given operation input of the first player.
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether a specific situation has occurred, which indicates that the game can be progressed without a player's operation input , or whether a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Equipped with
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
set a period until an action of a first player character operated and controlled by a first player is completed or a period until a presentation related to the fighting game is completed as a specific situation period during which a game control process of a second mode is executed, according to the type of the detected specific situation ;
The game system is characterized in that a game control process of a second mode is executed during the set specific situation period. 7. The game system according to claim 5,
a management means for managing a storage means in which a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating a plurality of pieces of specific situation information, including at least one of a type of operation input by the first player and a content of the game situation, and a communication delay amount with the game system of the second player having a given relationship are stored in association with each other;
a measuring means for measuring a communication delay between the game system of the second player and the game system of the second player;
a determination means for determining specific situation information to be used in the detection process from among the plurality of pieces of specific situation information stored based on the measured communication delay amount;
Further provided with
The detection means
The game system is characterized in that the detection process detects the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information while the competitive game is in progress . In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
The detection means
The game system executes the detection process to detect whether or not the player character of the second player has entered the specific situation based on the continuous operation input of the first player. In the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
A game system, wherein both the game control processes in the first mode and the second mode are game control processes in a competitive game in which the first player and the second player compete one-on-one. 6. The game system according to claim 5 ,
The battle game is a fighting game,
The detection means
A game system that executes the detection process to detect that the game situation is the specific situation when the state of the player character of the second player at the current timing is a state in which the player character is attacked by a first player character that is the object of operation of the first player and is in the unable to act state. A program for a game system that executes a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of another player, a second player, via a network and operated and controlled by the second player ,
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred; and
a second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Make the computer function as
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
A program for a game system, characterized in that the game control process of the second mode is executed during the set specific situation period . A program for a game system that executes a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of another player, a second player, via a network and operated and controlled by the second player ,
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
a second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
a management means for managing a storage means in which a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating a plurality of pieces of specific situation information, including at least one of a type of operation input by the first player and a content of the game situation, and a communication delay amount with the game system of the second player having a given relationship are stored in association with each other;
a measuring means for measuring a communication delay between the game system of the second player and the game system of the second player;
a determination means for determining specific situation information to be used in the detection process from among the plurality of pieces of specific situation information stored based on the measured communication delay amount;
Make the computer function as
The detection means
The program is characterized in that, as the detection process, the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information is detected while the competitive game is in progress . A program for a game system that executes a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of another player, a second player, via a network and operated and controlled by the second player ,
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred; and
a second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Make the computer function as
the storage means stores character state information that defines the state of the player character determined in accordance with the type of operation input by the player;
The detection means
execute the detection process to detect whether the state of the second player character at the current time has switched to one of a floating state in which the second player character is floating in the air, a restrained state in which the second player character is restrained, or a rigid state in which the second player character is rigid, which is an inaction state in which the second player character is unable to act in the game, as the specific situation, in accordance with the stored character state information, a state of the second player character that is an operation target of the second player at the current time during the game control process in the first mode, and at least the received second game control information ;
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
A program that executes a game control process of the second mode during the set specific situation period . A program for a game system that executes a battle game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character connected to a game system of another player, a second player, via a network and operated and controlled by the second player ,
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred; and
a second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode, which controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
Make the computer function as
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
set a period until an action of a first player character operated and controlled by a first player is completed or a period until a presentation related to the fighting game is completed as a specific situation period during which a game control process of a second mode is executed, according to the type of the detected specific situation ;
A program characterized by executing a game control process of a second mode during the set specific situation period. A server system that provides a fighting game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character operated and controlled by a second player to a terminal device of a first player and a terminal device of a second player different from the first player, the terminal devices being connected via a network, comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
providing means for providing game data processed in the first mode and the second mode to the terminal device;
Equipped with
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
The server system executes the game control process of the second mode during the set specific situation period . A server system that provides a fighting game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character operated and controlled by a second player to a terminal device of a first player and a terminal device of a second player different from the first player, the terminal devices being connected via a network, comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
a management means for managing a storage means in which a plurality of pieces of specific situation information indicating a plurality of pieces of specific situation information, including at least one of a type of operation input by the first player and a content of the game situation, and a communication delay amount with the game system of the second player having a given relationship are stored in association with each other;
a measuring means for measuring a communication delay between the game system of the second player and the game system of the second player;
a determination means for determining specific situation information to be used in the detection process from among the plurality of pieces of specific situation information stored based on the measured communication delay amount;
providing means for providing game data processed in the first mode and the second mode to the terminal device;
Equipped with
The detection means
The server system is characterized in that the detection process detects the specific situation defined in the determined specific situation information while the competitive game is in progress . A server system that provides a fighting game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character operated and controlled by a second player to a terminal device of a first player and a terminal device of a second player different from the first player, the terminal devices being connected via a network, comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
providing means for providing game data processed in the first mode and the second mode to the terminal device;
Equipped with
the storage means stores character state information that defines the state of the player character determined in accordance with the type of operation input by the player;
The detection means
execute the detection process to detect whether the state of the second player character at the current time has switched to one of a floating state in which the second player character is floating in the air, a restrained state in which the second player character is restrained, or a rigid state in which the second player character is rigid, which is an inaction state in which the second player character is unable to act in the game, as the specific situation, in accordance with the stored character state information, a state of the second player character that is an operation target of the second player at the current time during the game control process in the first mode, and at least the received second game control information ;
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
A specific situation period corresponding to the specific situation is set as a period during which the game control process of the second mode is executed;
The server system executes the game control process of the second mode during the set specific situation period . A server system that provides a fighting game based on a player character operated and controlled by a first player and a player character operated and controlled by a second player to a terminal device of a first player and a terminal device of a second player different from the first player, the terminal devices being connected via a network, comprising:
a reception processing means for executing a reception process for receiving an operation input from the first player;
a communication control means for transmitting first game control information including at least the accepted operation input of the first player as first operation input information to the game system of the second player, and for receiving second game control information including at least the operation input of the second player as second operation input information transmitted from the game system of the second player;
a first game control means for executing a game control process in a first mode to control progress of the competitive game in accordance with the accepted first game control information and the received second game control information;
a detection means for executing a detection process for detecting whether or not a specific situation has occurred during the progress of the competitive game , which indicates that the game can be progressed without an operation input from the second player, based on a given operation input from the first player, or whether or not a given game situation has occurred and the specific situation has occurred;
second game control means for executing, when the detection process detects that the specific situation has occurred, a game control process in a second mode that controls progress of the competitive game in accordance only with the received first game control information;
providing means for providing game data processed in the first mode and the second mode to the terminal device;
Equipped with
The second game control means
When the detection process detects that the specific situation is that the connection to the game system of the second player via the network has been interrupted, the synchronization with the game system of the second player is interrupted;
set a period until an action of a first player character operated and controlled by a first player is completed or a period until a presentation related to the fighting game is completed as a specific situation period during which a game control process of a second mode is executed, according to the type of the detected specific situation ;
The server system executes a game control process of a second mode during the set specific situation period.