JP7724019B2 - Game control device, game system, and program - Google Patents

Description

Patent Act Article 30, Paragraph 2 applies. September 17-20, 2015, Tokyo Game Show 2015, Makuhari Messe. September 17, 2015, http://www.konami.jp/. September 17, 2015, http://www.4gamer.net/, http://app.famitsu.com/, http://gamebiz.jp/, http://news.mynavi.jp/, http://www.gamer.ne.jp/.

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

Games are known in which a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent progresses automatically. For example, a baseball game is known in which a baseball match between a user's team and an opponent's team progresses automatically.

JP 2010-142441 A

However, in baseball games like those mentioned above, the match progresses automatically based on the parameters (such as ability parameters) of the user's team and the opposing team, so the difference in ability between the two teams is often directly reflected in the match outcome. For this reason, if the opposing team's ability is higher than the user's team's, it is difficult for the user's team to win. As a result, users' interest in the match can sometimes decrease.

In this regard, while baseball games such as those described above may provide users with opportunities to control player characters, these opportunities are limited to certain situations (such as when a particular player is at bat, or when a chance or pinch situation occurs), and so users are only able to participate in certain situations in the game. This makes it difficult to overcome the difference in ability between the user's team and the opposing team, and it is difficult for the user's team to win if the opposing team's ability is higher than the user's team's. As a result, users' interest in the game may decrease.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a game control device, game system, and program that can increase a user's interest in a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent in a game in which the match progresses essentially automatically.

In order to solve the above problem, one aspect of the present invention provides a game control device that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, and includes a progress control means that progresses the match based on a first parameter associated with the one or more first game objects and a second parameter associated with the one or more second game objects while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; an operation opportunity setting means that sets an operation opportunity during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects; and a forward operation opportunity setting means that sets a forward operation opportunity during the operation opportunity. The game includes a task setting means for setting a task to be achieved by the user by operating the one or more first game objects, a task output control means for controlling output means to output the task, a determination means for determining the result of the task being achieved based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects, and a modification means for modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of the task being achieved, and after the operation opportunity ends, the progress control means progresses the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified by the modification means, with the user's operation on the one or more first game objects restricted.

A game system according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, and includes a progress control means that progresses the match based on a first parameter associated with the one or more first game objects and a second parameter associated with the one or more second game objects while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; an operation opportunity setting means that sets operation opportunities during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects; and a game system that allows the user to perform the operation of the one or more first game objects during the operation opportunities. The game includes a task setting means for setting a task to be achieved by operating one or more first game objects, a task output control means for controlling output means to output the task, a determination means for determining the result of achieving the task based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects, and a modification means for modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of achieving the task, and after the operation opportunity ends, the progress control means progresses the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified by the modification means, with the user's operation on the one or more first game objects restricted.

1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of a baseball game. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game start screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic progression part screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an action part start screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an action part screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an achievement result screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the achievement results of a task and the changes to ability parameters. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an action part end screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an action part end screen image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of an automatic progression part screen image. 1 is a functional block diagram of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a match situation table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a team table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an assignment table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an achievement result table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing executed in the game system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of another process executed in the game system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a game start screen image. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of a modified example. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of another modified example. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of yet another modified example.

An example embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[1. Game System Configuration] Figure 1 shows the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, game system 1 according to this embodiment includes game terminal 10 and server 30. Game terminal 10 can communicate data with server 30 via network N.

The server 30 is, for example, a server computer. As shown in FIG. 1, the server 30 includes a control unit 31, a memory unit 32, and a communication unit 33. The control unit 31 includes at least one microprocessor (CPU) and executes information processing in accordance with an operating system and other programs stored in the memory unit 32. The memory unit 32 includes a main memory unit (e.g., RAM) and an auxiliary memory unit (e.g., non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive, or a solid-state drive). The memory unit 32 is used to store programs and data. The communication unit 33 is used to communicate data with other devices via the network N.

Server 30 is able to access database 34. Database 34 may be built within server 30, or may be built in a server computer separate from server 30.

A gaming terminal 10 is a computer used by a user to play a game. For example, a gaming terminal 10 may be a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a personal digital assistant (including a tablet computer), a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a home gaming machine (stationary gaming machine), a portable gaming machine, or an arcade gaming machine installed in an amusement facility, etc.

As shown in FIG. 1, the game terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, a memory unit 12, a communication unit 13, an operation unit 14, a display unit 15, and an audio output unit 16. The control unit 11, the memory unit 12, and the communication unit 13 are similar to the control unit 31, the memory unit 32, and the communication unit 33 of the server 30.

The operation unit 14 allows the user to perform various operations. The operation unit 14 includes, for example, a touch panel, buttons (keys), levers (sticks), or a mouse. The operation unit 14 may also allow the user to perform operations by voice or gestures. The display unit 15 displays various screen images and is, for example, an LCD display or an organic EL display. The audio output unit 16 outputs audio data and is, for example, a speaker or headphones. The operation unit 14, display unit 15, and audio output unit 16 may be provided within the game terminal 10 itself, or may be provided as external devices connected to the game terminal 10.

Programs and data are supplied to the game terminal 10 or server 30 from a remote location via the network N and stored in the memory unit 12 or memory unit 32. The game terminal 10 or server 30 may also be provided with components (such as an optical disc drive or memory card slot) for reading programs and data stored on an information storage medium (such as an optical disc or memory card). The programs and data may then be supplied to the game terminal 10 or server 30 via the information storage medium.

[2. Game Overview] Various games can be run on the game terminal 10. For example, the game is run on the game terminal 10 based on a program or data transmitted from the server 30.

In a game executed on the game terminal 10, one or more game objects (e.g., game characters) of the user compete against one or more game objects of an opponent. Below, a baseball-themed game will be described as an example of a game executed on the game terminal 10. Specifically, a game will be described in which a user organizes their own baseball team using game characters representing baseball players (hereinafter referred to as "player characters") and plays baseball matches against an opponent (e.g., a computer).

For example, in the baseball game according to this embodiment, the user can use game items or game points to draw a player character. After the player character is drawn, the player character selected based on the lottery process is granted to the user. The user collects the player characters granted in this way and uses the collected player characters to organize their own baseball team. The user then plays against an opponent using their own baseball team.

In addition, instead of a baseball team organized using player characters collected by the user, a baseball team selected by the user from among multiple baseball teams prepared in advance may be used in the match.

Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of a game between a user's baseball team and an opposing baseball team. For convenience, the user's baseball team will be referred to as the "user team" and the opposing team will be referred to as the "opponent team." The t-axis in Figure 2 is the time axis, with Ts and Te representing the start and end of the game, respectively.

Figure 3 shows an example of a match start screen image displayed on the display unit 15 at the start time Ts of the match. As shown in Figure 3, the match start screen image G100 includes screen elements P101, P102, and P103.

Screen element P101 shows the team name of the user team (Team A), and screen element P102 shows the team name of the opposing team (Team B). Furthermore, screen element P103 shows a comparison (large/small, high/low) between the overall strength value of the user team and the overall strength value of the opposing team.

The number (250000) displayed in association with the left edge of screen element P103 indicates the overall strength value of the user team. The overall strength value of the user team indicates the strength (level of ability) of the user team. For example, each player character belonging to the user team is associated with ability parameters related to various fielder or pitcher abilities (power, hitting, running ability, arm strength, defensive ability, pitch speed, control, curveballs, etc.). The overall strength value of the user team is calculated by executing a predetermined calculation process based on the ability parameters of each player character of the user team. For example, the higher the overall strength value of the user team, the stronger the user team.

On the other hand, the number (300,000) displayed in association with the right edge of screen element P103 indicates the overall strength value of the opposing team. The overall strength value of the opposing team is a numerical value that indicates the strength (level of ability) of the opposing team. The overall strength value of the opposing team is calculated in the same way as the overall strength value of the user team.

The length of the first portion P1031 (shaded portion) of the screen element P103 corresponds to the overall strength value of the user team, and the length of the second portion P1032 (unshaded portion) corresponds to the overall strength value of the opposing team. In Figure 3, the second portion P1032 is longer than the first portion P1031, indicating that the opposing team has superior ability to the user team.

In the baseball game according to this embodiment, the game begins after the game start screen image G100 is displayed. The baseball game according to this embodiment has two parts: an "automatic progression part" and an "action part," as described below.

The automatic progression part is a part where the game progresses automatically. That is, in the automatic progression part, the game situation is updated without the user having to perform batting or base running operations when attacking, or pitching or fielding operations when defending. In other words, in the automatic progression part, the game progress is automatically generated (determined) by the computer based on parameters related to the user's team (e.g., ability parameters of the player characters on the user's team) and parameters related to the opposing team (e.g., ability parameters of the player characters on the opposing team). In the automatic progression part, the user will view the game progress automatically generated by the computer.

On the other hand, the action part is when the user performs batting and base-running operations when attacking, and pitching and fielding operations when defending. In other words, during the action part, the player character performs actions in response to the user's operations. For example, when attacking, the player character performs batting or base-running operations in response to the user's operations (batting or base-running operations), and when defending, the player character pitches or fields in response to the user's operations (pitching or fielding operations). In this way, during the action part, the game situation is updated based on the user's operations on the player character.

As mentioned above, in the automatic progression parts, the game progresses automatically without the user having to perform batting or pitching operations. Also, as will be described later (see Figure 4), in the automatic progression parts, only an overview of the game progress is displayed on the display unit 15. For this reason, when a game progresses in the automatic progression parts, the time required to complete a single game is shorter than when the game progresses in the action parts (for example, when all or most of the game progresses as the user performs batting and pitching operations).

For example, if a user is busy, there may be times when the user has only a limited amount of time to play the game. Therefore, in order to enable a user to complete a match within that time even when only a limited amount of time is available to play the game, in the baseball game according to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the match basically progresses in an automatic progression part, and only an overview of the progress of the match (key points of the match) is presented to the user. Then, only when the match situation reaches a predetermined state during the automatic progression part, does the game switch from the automatic progression part to an action part, providing the user with an opportunity to control the player characters.

A "predetermined situation" is, for example, a situation in which the user team has a chance to score (for example, a situation in which the user team is at bat and there is a runner on third or second base), a situation in which the user team is likely to create a chance to score (for example, a situation in which the user team is at bat and there are no outs or runners on base), or a situation in which the user team is in danger of conceding a run (for example, a situation in which the opposing team is at bat and there is a runner on third or second base).

A predetermined number of operation opportunities are provided to the user during a single game. In Figure 2, the automatic progression part switches to the action part at times T1, T2, and T3, and operation opportunities are granted to the user. That is, in Figure 2, the user is provided with three operation opportunities during a single game. In this case, for example, one operation opportunity is provided between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning, one operation opportunity is provided between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the sixth inning, and one operation opportunity is provided between the top of the seventh inning and the bottom of the ninth inning. Note that the number of operation opportunities in a single game is not limited to the above example, and may be two or less, or four or more. Furthermore, the number of operation opportunities in a single game does not have to be fixed, and may vary from game to game. The timing at which operation opportunities occur is also not limited to the above example.

Figure 4 shows an example of an automatic progression part screen image displayed on the display unit 15 during an automatic progression part. As shown in Figure 4, the automatic progression part screen image G110 includes screen elements P111, P112, P113, P114, P115, P116, and P117.

Screen elements P111 to P114 show an overview of the game situation. For example, screen element P111 shows a scoreboard that shows the progress of the game. Screen element P112 is displayed in association with the scoreboard (screen element P111) and shows events from the inning immediately preceding the current inning. In Figure 4, the current inning is the "top of the second inning," so screen element P112 shows events from the "bottom of the first inning." Screen element P113 shows the current scores for both teams, and screen element P114 shows the current inning, on-base status, ball count, and out count.

Screen element P115 is similar to screen element P103 of the game start screen image G100, and shows a comparison of the overall strength values between the user team and the opposing team. Screen element P116 shows each player character at bat in the current inning (top of the second inning) and their results. Screen element P117 shows the player character currently pitching.

In the automatic progression part, the computer automatically generates the progress of the match based on parameters related to the user team and parameters related to the opposing team. For example, in the automatic progression part, the computer automatically determines the progress of the match by virtually operating both the player characters belonging to the user team and the player characters belonging to the opposing team in a virtual space based on the ability parameters of those player characters. Note that the computer may also automatically determine the progress of the match by simply comparing parameters related to the user team (e.g., overall strength value or player character ability parameters) with parameters related to the opposing team.

During the automatic progression part, the display content of the automatic progression part screen image G110 is updated according to the progress of the match, which is automatically generated as described above. That is, the automatic progression part screen image G110 shows an overview of the match situation using screen elements P111 to P114, and the screen elements P111 to P114 are updated according to the progress of the match, which is automatically generated as described above. The user can see an overview of the automatically progressing match by looking at the screen elements P111 to P114 of the automatically updated automatic progression part screen image G110.

As mentioned above, if the match situation changes to a specific state during the automatic progression part, the automatic progression part will switch to the action part, providing the user with an opportunity to control the player characters.

For example, action parts are set per turn at bat or per inning. When set per turn at bat, the user controls a player character (batter or pitcher) from the start of an at bat until its end. When set per inning, the user controls a player character (batter or pitcher) from the start of the first or second half of an inning until its end. Note that action parts may also be set per out. When set per out, the user controls a player character (batter or pitcher) until the out count increases by one.

Figure 5 shows an example of an action part start screen image that is displayed on the display unit 15 at the start of an action part. Note that Figure 5 shows the case when the user team is on the attack.

In the baseball game according to this embodiment, when an action part begins, a task that the user must accomplish in that action part is set according to the current game situation. As shown in FIG. 5, the task is presented to the user in the action part start screen image G120. As shown in FIG. 5, the action part start screen image G120 includes screen elements P121, P122, P123, and P124.

Screen element P121 shows the current scores of both teams, and screen element P122 shows the current inning, on-base status, and out count. Furthermore, screen element P123 shows the opposing team's player character currently on the mound as pitcher.

In addition, screen element P124 displays the task that the user must accomplish in the action part as a request from the user's team's manager. In Figure 5, the task (request) displayed is "Get on base no matter what" in a "no outs/no runners on base" situation.

After the action part start screen image G120 is displayed, an action part screen image in which the user controls a player character is displayed on the display unit 15. Figure 6 shows an example of an action part screen image. Figure 6 shows an action part screen image when the user's team is on offense. In other words, Figure 6 shows a scene in which the user controls the player character PC1, who is the batter.

As shown in FIG. 6, the action part screen image G130 includes screen elements P131 and P132. Screen element P131 shows the current match situation, and screen element P132 shows the name of the player character PC1 controlled by the user.

The action part screen image G130 displays a player character PC1 controlled by the user and a player character PC2 who is the pitcher for the opposing team. The action part screen image G130 also displays a frame F and a contact cursor M as operation images for causing the player character PC1 to hit the ball. The frame F is displayed on home base and indicates the strike zone. The contact cursor M moves in response to the user's movement instruction operation and indicates the hitting position. When the user performs a swing instruction operation, the player character PC1 swings the bat toward the hitting position indicated by the contact cursor M.

When the user performs a swing instruction operation at or near the timing when ball B thrown by player character PC2 passes through the plane including frame F, player character PC1 will hit ball B according to the positional relationship between contact cursor M and ball B. For example, if contact cursor M overlaps ball B, ball B will be hit. In this case, if the center MC of contact cursor M overlaps ball B, the ball will fly hard. On the other hand, if contact cursor M does not overlap ball B, it will result in a swing and a miss. Note that a swing instruction operation performed at a timing away from the timing when ball B passes through the plane including frame F will also result in a swing and a miss.

By controlling the player character PC1, the user aims to accomplish the task displayed on the action part start screen image G120. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, if the task is "Get on base at all costs," the task will be accomplished when the player character PC1 gets on base through a hit, walk, hit by pitch, error, or the like.

Note that while Figure 6 shows the action part screen image G130 when the user team is on offense, when the user team is on defense, the action part screen image G130 is displayed so that the user can perform operations on the pitcher player character.

An action part ends when an end condition is met. For example, an action part ends when one turn at bat ends. For example, in the example shown in Figure 6, the action part ends when the player character "Yoshida" ends his turn at bat. Note that the action part may also end when the user team's offense (or defense) ends. For example, in the example shown in Figure 6, the action part may end when the user team's offense ends (when the top of the third inning ends).

At the end of the action part, an achievement result screen image showing the results of accomplishing the task in the action part is displayed on the display unit 15. Figure 7 shows an example of an achievement result screen image. As shown in Figure 7, the achievement result screen image G140 includes screen elements P141 and P142.

Screen element P141 is similar to screen element P124 of the action part start screen image G120, and shows the task that the user was to accomplish in the action part.

Screen element P142 shows the result of completing the task. In the baseball game according to this embodiment, for example, "GREAT!", "GOOD", or "MISS" are displayed as the results of completing the task. In Figure 7, "GREAT!" is displayed as the result of completing the task. "MISS" indicates that the user was unable to complete the task. "GOOD" and "GREAT!" indicate that the user was able to complete the task. Of these, "GREAT!" indicates that the user not only completed the task, but also achieved a greater result than was possible.

For example, if the task is "Just get on base," and the player character PC1 (see Figure 6) operated by the user fails to get on base, the task is not accomplished and the achievement result will be "MISS." On the other hand, if the player character PC1 gets to first base with a hit (single), a walk, a hit by pitch, or an error, the task is accomplished and the achievement result will be "GOOD." Furthermore, if the player character PC1 gets to second or third base with a double or triple, or hits a home run, an achievement that exceeds the task is achieved and the achievement result will be "GREAT!"

It is also possible to display the achievement result screen image G140 only when the task is completed, and not display the achievement result screen image G140 when the task is not completed.

In the baseball game according to this embodiment, the parameters of the user team are changed based on the results of completing the tasks. Specifically, the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team are changed based on the results of completing the tasks, improving the abilities of the player characters of the user team.

Figure 8 shows an example of the correspondence between the achievement results of a task and changes to ability parameters. In Figure 8, "1st time," "2nd time," and "3rd time" indicate the number of times the achievement result was "MISS," "GOOD," or "GREAT!". Additionally, Na, Nb, Nc, Nd, Ne, and Nf indicate predetermined percentage values. "+Na%" indicates that the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will be increased by Na%.

In the example shown in Figure 8, if the result of completing the task is "GOOD" or "GREAT!" (if the task is completed), the ability parameters of each player character on the user team will increase. On the other hand, if the result of completing the task is "MISS," the ability parameters of each player character on the user team will not increase.

Also, in the example shown in Figure 8, when the task achievement result is "GREAT!", the increase in ability parameters is greater than when the result is "GOOD".

For example, assume that the achievement results for the tasks in the first to third action parts are all "GOOD." In this case, according to the example shown in Figure 8, at the end of the first action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Na%, at the end of the second action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Nb%, and at the end of the third action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Nc%.

Also, for example, assume that the result of completing the task in the first action part is "GOOD," the result of completing the task in the second action part is "GREAT!", and the result of completing the task in the third action part is "GOOD." In this case, according to the example shown in FIG. 8, at the end of the first action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Na%, at the end of the second action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Nd%, and at the end of the third action part, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team will increase by Nb%.

After the achievement result screen image G140 is displayed, the action part end screen image is displayed on the display unit 15. Figures 9 and 10 show examples of the action part end screen image.

Figure 9 shows the initial action part end screen image G150 displayed on the display unit 15. As shown in Figure 9, the action part end screen image G150 includes screen elements P151, P152, and P153.

Screen element P151 is similar to screen element P103 of the match start screen image G100, and shows a comparison of the overall strength values between the user team and the opponent team. When the action part end screen image G150 is first displayed, screen element P151 shows a comparison before the parameter change was made. When the action part task is accomplished and the parameters are changed, screen element P151 is updated, and now shows a comparison after the parameter change was made.

Figure 10 shows an example of an action part end screen image G150 when screen element P151 is updated. As mentioned above, when a task in an action part is accomplished, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team are changed to increase the abilities of all player characters on the user team. As a result, the overall strength value of the user team increases. For this reason, in Figure 10, the overall strength value of the user team (Team A) has increased from "250,000" to "270,000", and the difference in overall strength value between the user team (Team A) and the opponent team (Team B) is smaller than in Figure 9. The action part end screen image G150 displays how the overall strength value of the user team is changing, allowing the user to understand how much the overall strength value of the user team has increased.

In the baseball game according to this embodiment, activity points are awarded to the user depending on the results of completing the tasks. The user is then awarded a reward (game item, etc.) depending on the cumulative total of the user's activity points. For example, if the task is completed, the user's activity points are added, and if the task is not completed, the user's activity points are not added. Note that the user's activity points may also be added even if the task is not completed. In this case, however, it is advisable to add a smaller amount than when the task is completed.

Screen elements P152 and P153 relate to the user's activity points. Specifically, screen element P152 shows the user's cumulative activity points. Screen element P153 shows the user's cumulative activity points, the rewards the user has earned, and the activity points the user needs to earn the rewards.

For example, screen element P153 includes a frame P1531 and a gauge P1532 (the shaded area shown in Figure 10) that extends from the left end to the right end of frame P1531 according to the user's cumulative activity points. The length of gauge P1532 is set to a length corresponding to the user's cumulative activity points.

Furthermore, with respect to frame P1531, reward images P1533-1, P1533-2, and P1533-3 are displayed in association with positions corresponding to the amount of activity points required to earn a reward. In Figure 9, reward images P1533-1, P1533-2, and P1533-3 are displayed in positions corresponding to 200, 500, and 700 points, respectively, indicating that the user will be awarded a reward when their cumulative activity points reach 200, 500, or 700 points.

When the action part end screen image G150 is initially displayed, screen elements P152 and P153 show the activity points, etc., before the activity points are added (i.e., when the action part begins) (see FIG. 9). Screen elements P152 and P153 are then updated, and display the activity points, etc., after the activity points are added (see FIG. 10). FIG. 9 shows that the user's cumulative activity points were 0 points when the action part began, while FIG. 10 shows that 300 points have been added to the user's activity points in response to the completion of the task in the action part. Also in FIG. 10, the reward image P1533-1, which was displayed in association with the position corresponding to 200 points, has changed to an acquisition image P1534, indicating that the user has earned a reward. This indicates that the user has been granted a reward because their cumulative activity points have reached 200 points.

When the action part ends, the game switches from the action part to the automatic progression part, and the match progresses automatically again. However, in this case, the match progresses automatically based on the user team's parameters, which have been changed based on the results of completing the tasks in the action part, and the opponent's parameters.

Figure 11 shows an example of an automatic progression part screen image G110 in this case. In Figure 11, the overall strength value of the user team (Team A) has increased compared to Figure 4 (see screen element P115). Therefore, in the state shown in Figure 11, the match automatically progresses with the user team in a stronger state (in other words, with a smaller ability gap between the user team and the opposing team) compared to the state shown in Figure 4.

As mentioned above, a single match will have multiple action parts. Each time a task is completed in an action part, the ability parameters of the player characters on the user's team will change. In other words, each time a task is completed in an action part, the user's team will become stronger. Therefore, even if the user's team is inferior in ability to the opposing team at the start of the match, the user can close the ability gap between the user's team and the opposing team or even turn the tables by completing tasks in the action parts. After the match ends, the ability parameters of the player characters on the user's team will return to their original state.

As explained above, in the baseball game according to this embodiment, the game basically progresses in an automatic progression part to shorten the time it takes to complete a match. However, when the game situation reaches a predetermined state, the automatic progression part switches to an action part, allowing the user to directly participate in the match by operating the player characters. For example, the action part is activated in situations that are likely to affect the outcome of the match, such as when the user team has a chance to score (e.g., when the user team is at bat and there is a runner on third or second base), when the user team is likely to create a chance to score (e.g., when the user team is at bat and there are no outs or runners on base), or when the user team is in danger of conceding a run (e.g., when the opposing team is at bat and there is a runner on third or second base). Therefore, the user can operate the player characters in situations that are likely to affect the outcome of the match.

In addition, in the baseball game according to this embodiment, the ability parameters of the user's team's player characters are changed based on the results of completing tasks in the action parts, and in the automatic progression part after the end of the action part, the game progresses based on the changed ability parameters. Therefore, the user can indirectly participate in the action parts and beyond through operations on the player characters in the action parts. In this way, the user can participate in the game not only during the action parts themselves, but also in the action parts and beyond, by operating the player characters in the action parts. As a result, the user's interest in the game is heightened.

In the example described above, when a task in the action part is completed, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team are changed to increase the abilities of the user team, but the method of changing parameters based on the results of completing a task is not limited to this.

For example, instead of or in addition to the above, the ability parameters of all player characters on the opposing team may be changed to lower the abilities of the opposing team.

For example, if a task in an action part is not accomplished, the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team may be changed to lower the abilities of the user team. Alternatively, or in addition, the ability parameters of all player characters on the opposing team may be changed to increase the abilities of the opposing team.

Also, for example, rather than changing the ability parameters of all player characters on the user team (or the opposing team), the ability parameters of only some of the player characters on the user team (or the opposing team) may be changed.

Furthermore, for example, instead of or in addition to changing ability parameters, status parameters (e.g., parameters indicating good condition) may be changed.

[3. Functional Blocks] Next, the functional blocks realized in the game system 1 will be described. Figure 12 shows an example of the functional blocks realized in the game system 1. As shown in Figure 12, the game system 1 includes a data storage unit 100, a progress control unit 110, an operation opportunity setting unit 120, a task setting unit 130, a task output control unit 140, a determination unit 150, a change unit 160, and a change result output control unit 170. For example, the data storage unit 100 is realized by the storage unit 12, and the other functional blocks are realized by the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 (an example of a game control device).

[3-1] The data storage unit 100 stores data necessary to run the game. For example, a match status table TBL101, a team table TBL102, a task table TBL103, and an achievement result table TBL104 are stored in the data storage unit 100.

Figure 13 shows an example of the match status table TBL101. The match status table TBL101 contains data showing the current match status.

As shown in FIG. 13, the game situation table TBL101 includes fields for "Current Inning," "Attacking Team," "Current Batter," "Ball Count," "Out Count," "Runner on First Base," "Runner on Second Base," and "Runner on Third Base." These fields indicate the current inning, the team currently at bat, the player character currently at bat, the current ball count, the current out count, and the current on-base status (player characters at first, second, and third base).

The game situation table TBL101 also includes "First Batting" and "Second Batting" fields. The "First Batting" field indicates the first batting team's current overall strength, score, number of hits, and number of errors, as well as the player character who will be next at bat for the first batting team. Similarly, the "Second Batting" field indicates the second batting team's current overall strength, score, number of hits, and number of errors, as well as the player character who will be next at bat for the second batting team.

The match status table TBL101 also includes "Scorebook" and "Achievement Points" fields. The "Scorebook" field shows the match scorebook (match progress). The "Achievement Points" field shows the user's cumulative achievement points.

Figure 14 shows an example of the team table TBL102. The team table TBL102 is data showing information about the player characters belonging to a team. As shown in Figure 14, the team table TBL102 is stored for each user team and opposing team. As shown in Figure 14, the team table TBL102 includes fields for "Player ID," "Player Name," "Appropriate Position," "Rank," "Original Parameters," "Current Parameters," "Appearance Status," "Batting Order," and "Position."

The "Player ID" field indicates information that uniquely identifies a player character. The "Player Name" field indicates the name of the player character. The "Suitable Position" field indicates the player character's preferred position. The "Rank" field indicates the player character's rank. The higher the player character's rank, the higher the player character's ability. For example, player character ranks are expressed in alphabetical order: "S, A, B, C, D, E, F, G." "S" indicates the highest rank, and "G" indicates the lowest rank.

The "Original Parameter" field indicates the original value of the player character's ability parameter. As mentioned above, the player character's ability parameter may change during the match based on the results of completing tasks in the action part, but the "Original Value" indicates the value of the ability parameter at the start of the match (in other words, the value of the ability parameter in its unaltered state).

For example, original values for basic ability parameters and special ability parameters are registered in the "original parameters" field. Basic ability parameters are parameters that indicate the basic abilities of a player character (e.g., power, hitting, running ability, arm strength, defensive ability, pitching speed, control, curveballs, etc.). Special ability parameters are parameters that indicate whether or not a player character has a special ability (e.g., good at taking advantage of opportunities, etc.).

The "Current Parameters" field shows the current values of the player character's ability parameters. For example, the current values of the basic ability parameters and special ability parameters are registered in the "Current Parameters" field. At the start of the match, the contents of the "Current Parameters" field are the same as the contents of the "Original Parameters" field. If the player character's ability parameters change during the match based on the results of completing tasks in the action part, the contents of the "Current Parameters" field will be changed.

In addition, the "Original Parameters" field and "Current Parameters" field may also be configured to register the player character's status parameters (for example, parameters indicating good condition).

The "Participation Status" field indicates the player character's participation status in the game. For example, one of the values "0, 1, or 2" is registered in the "Participation Status" field. A value of "0" indicates that the player character is not participating in the game and is available to participate in the game as a substitute. A value of "1" indicates that the player character is currently participating in the game. A value of "2" indicates that the player character was participating in the game but is currently not participating in the game as a substitute. The "Batting Order" and "Position" fields indicate the batting order and position of the player character participating in the game.

Figure 15 shows an example of the task table TBL103. The task table TBL103 is data showing a list of tasks that can be set in the action part. As shown in Figure 15, the task table TBL103 includes fields for "Task ID," "Task Name," "Game Status Condition," and "Achievement Condition." The "Task ID" field indicates information that uniquely identifies the task. The "Task Name" field indicates the name of the task.

The "Game Situation Condition" field indicates the conditions related to the game situation in which a task can be set. For example, the game situation conditions for the task "Get on base at all costs" with task ID "1" are "Attack, no outs, no runners on base." This indicates that the task "Get on base at all costs" can be set when the user team is at bat and the game situation is "No outs/no runners on base."

The "Achievement Condition" field indicates the conditions that must be met in order for a task to be determined as accomplished. For example, the "Achievement Condition" field indicates the conditions for the achievement result to be "GOOD" and the conditions for the achievement result to be "GREAT!" For example, for the task "Get on base at all costs" with task ID "1," the achievement condition for "GOOD" is "Get on base (first base)," and the achievement condition for "GREAT!" is "Get on base (second base/third base)/home run." This indicates that the achievement result of the task is determined to be "GOOD" if the player character controlled by the user reaches first base, and the achievement result of the task is determined to be "GREAT!" if the player character controlled by the user reaches second base or third base or hits a home run.

Figure 16 shows the achievement result table TBL104. As shown in Figure 16, the achievement result table TBL104 contains data showing the achievement results of tasks in the first to third action parts.

[3-2] The progress control unit 110 progresses a match between one or more first game objects of the user and one or more second game objects of the opponent. Specifically, the progress control unit 110 progresses the match based on first parameters associated with one or more first game objects and second parameters associated with one or more second game objects, while restricting the user's operation on one or more first game objects.

Here, a "match" is a match between a user and one or more opponents to determine the outcome, such as victory or defeat or ranking. A win/loss result is not necessarily determined, and a draw is also possible. A "match" also includes a competition (such as a race) in which a user and one or more opponents compete for ranking. A "match" is not limited to sports matches or races, but also includes battles, etc.

The "opponent" may be a computer (CPU) or another user. The number of opponents may be one or multiple.

A "game object" is an object that can be used in a battle. For example, a game character is an example of a "game object." For example, multiple parameters are set for a game object. In other words, multiple parameters are stored in association with the game object's identification information.

"One or more first game objects of the user" refers to game objects that the user uses in a match. For example, the following game objects are examples of "one or more first game objects of the user."
(a) A game object selected by the user from among the game objects owned by the user as a game object to be used in a battle. (b) A game object selected by the user from among the game objects provided in the game as a game object to be used in a battle. (c) A game object set by the game system 1 (the game terminal 10 or the server 30) as a game object to be used by the user in a battle.

"One or more second game objects of the opponent" refers to game objects that the opponent uses in the match. For example, the following game objects are examples of "one or more second game objects of the opponent."
(a) a game object set by the game system 1 (game terminal 10 or server 30) as a game object that the opponent will use in the match; (b) a game object selected by the opponent as a game object that the opponent will use in the match; (c) a game object selected by the user as a game object that the opponent will use in the match.

"A match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent" includes the following:
(a) a match between one first game object of the user and one second game object of the opponent; (b) a match between multiple first game objects of the user and multiple second game objects of the opponent; (c) a match between one first game object of the user and multiple second game objects of the opponent; (d) a match between multiple first game objects of the user and one second game object of the opponent.

A "user operation on the first game object" is an operation performed by the user to operate the first game object. For example, a "user operation on the first game object" is an operation that indicates the type of operation the first game object should perform, the timing at which that operation should be performed, the position or direction of that operation, etc. A "user operation on the first game object" is performed using the operation unit 14 (touch panel, buttons, keys, stick (lever), etc.). In a situation where user operation on the first game object is possible, the first game object performs an operation corresponding to the operation performed by the user.

"User operations on multiple first game objects" may refer to operations on any one of the multiple first game objects, operations on multiple of the multiple first game objects, or operations on all of the multiple first game objects.

A "state in which the user's operation on the first game object is restricted" refers to, for example, a state in which the user cannot perform any operation on the first game object. Alternatively, a "state in which the user's operation on the first game object is restricted" refers to a state in which instructions to the first game object are limited to general instructions (such as tactical instructions), and detailed instructions to the first game object, such as the type of action the first game object should perform, the timing of that action, or the position or direction of that action, cannot be given. Note that a "state in which the user's operation on the first game object is restricted" can also be rephrased as a state in which the computer does not accept operations on the first game object. Alternatively, a "state in which the user's operation on the first game object is restricted" can also be rephrased as a state in which the computer ignores any operations the user performs on the first game object.

"Parameters associated with a game object" are parameters stored in association with a game object. Parameters are not limited to numerical information, and may be information other than numerical information.

For example, "parameters associated with a game object" are information that indicates the performance of a game object. For example, information that indicates the magnitude or high/low of the performance of a game object. Or, for example, information that indicates whether a game object has a specific ability.

For example, "parameters associated with a game object" are information that indicates the state of the game object. For example, information that indicates whether the state of the game object is good or bad.

For example, if the game object is a player character in a baseball game, information indicating the level or high/low of the player's batting ability, defensive ability, base running ability, or pitching ability, or information indicating whether or not the player has a special ability, would be an example of "information indicating the game object's performance," and information indicating the level of stamina (or fatigue level) or information indicating the condition (good or bad) would be an example of "information indicating the state of the game object."

For example, if the game object is a player character in a soccer game, information indicating the level or quality of the passing ability, dribbling ability, shooting ability, defensive ability, or running ability, or information indicating whether or not the player has a special ability, would be an example of "information indicating the performance of the game object," and information indicating the level of stamina (or fatigue level) or information indicating the condition (good or bad) would be an example of "information indicating the state of the game object."

For example, if the game object is a game character that battles an opponent, information indicating the magnitude or high/low of its offensive or defensive power, or information indicating whether it has a special ability, would be an example of "information indicating the performance of the game object," and hit points would be an example of "information indicating the state of the game object."

"Proceeding a match based on a first parameter and a second parameter while restricting user operation of one or more first game objects" essentially means that the computer automatically progresses the match. For example, the computer determines the progress (intermediate results) or outcome of the match by executing a predetermined match process based on the first parameter and the second parameter. Specifically, the computer determines the progress or outcome of the match by executing a simulation process that virtually and automatically moves one or more first game objects and one or more second game objects in a virtual space based on the first parameter and the second parameter. Alternatively, the computer determines the progress or outcome of the match by comparing a numerical value obtained based on the first parameter with a numerical value obtained based on the second parameter. Note that when a match is progressed while restricting user operation of one or more first game objects, the time until the match is completed is shorter than when the match is progressed according to user operation of one or more first game objects.

In the case of a baseball game according to this embodiment, the player characters of the user's team correspond to an example of "one or more first game objects of the user," and the player characters of the opposing team correspond to an example of "one or more second game objects of the opponent." A baseball game corresponds to an example of a "match." The ability parameters of the player characters of the user's team correspond to an example of a "first parameter," and the ability parameters of the player characters of the opposing team correspond to an example of a "second parameter." The progression control unit 110 also executes the automatic progression part.

[3-3] The operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets operation opportunities during a match in which the user can operate one or more first game objects.

Here, an "operation opportunity" refers to a situation or period during which a user can operate one or more first game objects. In other words, an "operation opportunity" refers to a situation or period during which the computer can accept an operation on a first game object.

"Setting an operation opportunity during a match" means setting an operation opportunity in the middle of a match. In other words, "setting an operation opportunity during a match" means creating a state in which the user can operate one or more first game objects at a time (scene, period, etc.) after the start of the match and before its completion.

For example, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets an operation opportunity when a predetermined situation (a situation that satisfies predetermined conditions) occurs. Alternatively, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may set an operation opportunity randomly. In other words, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may decide whether or not to set an operation opportunity for each point in time (scene, period, etc.) during a match based on a predetermined probability, and may set it as an operation opportunity if it is determined to set it as an operation opportunity.

For example, in the case of a baseball game, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets as an operation opportunity a chance or pinch moment for the user's team, or a moment when a specific player is at bat. Note that the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may set operation opportunities on an inning basis rather than on an at-bat basis. For example, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may set as an operation opportunity a specific inning (an inning that satisfies a specific condition: an inning that starts with a specific batter, an inning in which a specific batter is at bat, etc.).

For example, in the case of a soccer game, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets a set play scene as an operation opportunity. For example, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may also set a chance or crisis scene for the user's team as an operation opportunity, or set a certain period of time during the game (for example, five minutes) as an operation opportunity.

Note that the opportunity to perform an operation may be set multiple times during a match, or may be set only once.

The operation opportunity setting unit 120 may also adjust the timing at which operation opportunities are provided based on the situation of the match. In other words, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may provide operation opportunities earlier or later based on the situation of the match (such as the score difference in the case of a baseball game or soccer game).

The operation opportunity setting unit 120 may also adjust the timing of providing an operation opportunity based on the results of the comparison between the first parameter and the second parameter. That is, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may provide an operation opportunity earlier or later based on the results of the comparison between the first parameter and the second parameter (e.g., the difference in ability between the first game object and the second game object). Specifically, when the difference in ability between the first game object and the second game object is large, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 may provide an operation opportunity earlier than when the difference in ability between the first game object and the second game object is small.

In the case of a baseball game according to this embodiment, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets an operation opportunity to perform an operation on a player character of the user team by switching from the automatic progression part to the action part when the game situation reaches a predetermined situation during the automatic progression part. For example, when the game situation during the automatic progression part satisfies one of the game situation conditions associated with a task, the operation opportunity setting unit 120 sets the above operation opportunity by switching to the action part.

[3-4] The task setting unit 130 sets a task to be achieved by the user operating one or more first game objects during the operation opportunity.

For example, "tasks" are set based on the situation at the time of operation. For example, in a baseball game, when the user's team is on offense, tasks such as "Get on base at all costs," "Advance the runners," "Score a run," or "Get a hit" are set; when the user's team is on defense, tasks such as "Don't pass to fourth batter," "Don't pass to leadoff hitter," "Hold down the cleanup hitters," "Strike out," or "Get a double play" are set. Also, in a soccer game, when the user's team is taking a free kick, tasks such as "Score directly" or "Aim at player XX" are set.

The tasks may be determined in advance. For example, the tasks may be decided at the start of the match.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, the tasks stored in the task table TBL103 correspond to an example of the above-mentioned "task." The task setting unit 130 sets a task associated with a game situation condition that is satisfied by the game situation at the start of the action part as a task that the user must achieve by operating a player character in the action part.

[3-5] The assignment output control unit 140 controls the output means to output the assignment set by the assignment setting unit 130.

Here, "output means" refers to, for example, a display unit or an audio output unit.

"Performing control to cause the output means to output the assignment" may mean, for example, generating a screen image showing the assignment and displaying it on a display unit. Alternatively, "performing control to cause the output means to output the assignment" may mean, for example, transmitting data for displaying a screen image showing the assignment to another device, thereby displaying the screen image showing the assignment on a display unit of that other device.

Note that "performing control to cause the output means to output the task" may mean, for example, causing an audio output unit to output a sound indicating the task. Alternatively, "performing control to cause the output means to output the task" may mean, for example, transmitting data for outputting an audio indicating the task to another device, thereby causing an audio output unit of the other device to output the audio indicating the task.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, displaying the action part start screen image G120 on the display unit 15 corresponds to an example of "performing control to cause the output means to output a task." Therefore, the task output control unit 140 displays the action part start screen image G120 on the display unit 15.

[3-6] The determination unit 150 determines the completion result of the task based on the user's operations on one or more first game objects.

Here, "task achievement result" refers to, for example, whether or not the task was achieved. Also, "task achievement result" may refer to, for example, the degree of achievement of the task (the extent to which the task was achieved).

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, "MISS," "GOOD," or "GREAT!" are examples of "task completion results."

The determination unit 150 determines whether the achievement condition for "GREAT!" associated with the task has been met. If the achievement condition has been met, the determination unit 150 determines that the achievement result of the task is "GREAT!".

The determination unit 150 also determines whether the achievement condition for "GOOD" associated with the task has been satisfied. If the achievement condition has been satisfied, the determination unit 150 determines that the achievement result of the task is "GOOD."

If neither the "GREAT!" nor "GOOD" achievement conditions are met, the determination unit 150 determines that the task achievement result is "MISS."

[3-7] The modification unit 160 modifies at least one of a first parameter associated with one or more first game objects and a second parameter associated with one or more second game objects based on the results of completing the task.

Here, "changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter" includes the following: (a) changing only the first parameter.
(b) Only the second parameter is changed.
(c) Changing both the first parameter and the second parameter.

"Changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the results of completing the task" means, for example, deciding whether to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the results of completing the task. Furthermore, "Changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the results of completing the task" may also mean, for example, deciding the degree of change, if any, to be made to at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the results of completing the task.

In the case of a baseball game according to this embodiment, a player character of the user's team corresponds to an example of "one or more first game objects of the user," and the parameters of the player character of the user's team correspond to an example of "first parameters." Furthermore, a player character of the opposing team corresponds to an example of "one or more second game objects of the opponent," and the parameters of the player character of the opposing team correspond to an example of "second parameters."

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, for example, the change unit 160 performs one of the following.
(a) When the task is accomplished, the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user team are changed so that the abilities or status of the player characters improve.
(b) When the task is accomplished, the parameters of the player characters belonging to the opposing team are changed so that the abilities or status of the player characters are reduced.
(c) When the task is accomplished, the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user team are changed so that the abilities or status of the player characters increases, and the parameters of the player characters belonging to the opposing team are changed so that the abilities or status of the player characters decreases.
(d) If the task is not accomplished, the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user team are changed so that the abilities or status of the player characters are reduced.
(e) If the task is not accomplished, the parameters of the player character belonging to the opposing team are changed so that the ability or status of the player character improves.
(f) If the task is not accomplished, the parameters of the player character belonging to the user team are changed so that the ability or status of the player character decreases, and the parameters of the player character belonging to the opposing team are changed so that the ability or status of the player character increases.

The modification unit 160 may set the degree of modification of the parameters of the user team's player character (or the parameters of the opposing team's player character) based on the degree of achievement of the task. For example, if the task "Get on base at all costs" is set when the user team is on offense, the modification unit 160 may change the parameters of the user team's player character (or the parameters of the opposing team's player character) to a greater extent when the player character gets to second or third base (when the achievement result is "GREAT!") than when the player character gets to first base (when the achievement result is "GOOD").

The modification unit 160 may modify the parameters of all of the multiple player characters on the user team, or may modify the parameters of some of the multiple player characters on the user team.

Similarly, the modification unit 160 may modify the parameters of all of the multiple player characters on the opposing team, or may modify the parameters of some of the multiple player characters on the opposing team.

[3-8] The change result output control unit 170 controls the output means to output information related to the change results made by the change unit 160.

Here, "output means" refers to, for example, a display unit or an audio output unit.

The "result of the change made by the change unit 160" refers to at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter after the change. The "result of the change made by the change unit 160" may refer to whether or not at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter has been changed, or may refer to the degree of change to at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter.

"Performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the change results" may mean, for example, generating a screen image showing information related to the change results and displaying it on a display unit. Alternatively, "performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the change results" may mean, for example, sending data for displaying a screen image showing information related to the change results to another device, thereby causing the other device to display a screen image showing information related to the change results on a display unit.

Note that "performing control to have the output means output information relating to the change results" may mean, for example, causing an audio output unit to output audio indicating the information relating to the change results. Alternatively, "performing control to have the output means output information relating to the change results" may mean, for example, sending data for outputting audio indicating the information relating to the change results to another device, thereby causing an audio output unit of the other device to output audio indicating the information relating to the change results.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, displaying the action part end screen image G150 on the display unit 15 corresponds to an example of "performing control to cause the output means to output information relating to the change result." Therefore, the change result output control unit 170 displays the action part end screen image G150 on the display unit 15.

[3-9] After the operation opportunity ends, the progress control unit 110 progresses the battle based on the first parameters and second parameters changed by the change unit 160, while restricting the user's operation of one or more first game objects.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, after the action part ends, the progress control unit 110 progresses the game (automatic progress part) based on the parameters of the player characters of the user team and the parameters of the player characters of the opposing team after the change by the change unit 160.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, multiple action parts are set in one game, including a first action part (an example of a first operation opportunity) and a second action part (an example of a second operation opportunity) that occurs after the first action part.

When the first action part ends, the modification unit 160 (first modification means) modifies at least one of the parameters of the player characters of the user team (an example of a first parameter) and the parameters of the player characters of the opposing team (an example of a second parameter) based on the results of completing the task in the first action part.

After the first action part ends, the progression control unit 110 progresses the match (automatic progression part) based on the parameters of the player characters of the user team and the parameters of the player characters of the opposing team after the parameters have been changed by the change unit 160 (first change means).

Furthermore, when the second action part ends, the modification unit 160 (second modification means) further modifies at least one of the parameters of the player characters of the user team and the parameters of the player characters of the opponent team after the previous modification by the modification unit 160 (first modification means) based on the results of completing the task in the second action part.

After the second action part ends, the progress control unit 110 progresses the match (automatic progress part) based on the parameters of the player characters of the user team and the parameters of the player characters of the opposing team after the parameters have been changed by the change unit 160 (second change means).

[4. Processing] Next, we will explain the processing executed by the game system 1.

Figures 17 and 18 show an example of the processing executed on the game terminal 10 from the start to the end of a baseball game.

As shown in FIG. 17, first, the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 displays a match start screen image G100 on the display unit 15 (S100). Thereafter, the control unit 11 displays an automatic progression part screen image G110 on the display unit 15 (S102). Then, the control unit 11 automatically progresses the match (S104). In other words, the control unit 11 executes the automatic progression part.

For example, the control unit 11 automatically updates the match situation by virtually operating both the player characters belonging to the user team and the player characters belonging to the opposing team in the virtual space based on the parameters of those player characters. The control unit 11 displays the match situation that is automatically updated in this way on the automatic progression part screen image G110.

During the automatic progress of the match, the control unit 11 monitors whether the current match situation satisfies any of the match situation conditions associated with the tasks (S106). If the current match situation does not satisfy any of the match situation conditions, the control unit 11 determines whether the match has ended (S108).

If the match has ended, the control unit 11 displays a match end screen image showing the match result on the display unit 15 (S110) and ends this processing. On the other hand, if the match has not ended, the control unit 11 returns to step S104 and continues automatically progressing the match. In other words, the control unit 11 continues the automatic progression part.

If the current match situation satisfies any of the match situation conditions, as shown in FIG. 18, the control unit 11 determines whether to switch to the action part based on probability information (S112). For example, the probability of determining to switch to the action part is set lower than the probability of determining not to switch to the action part. Based on the probability information set in this way, the control unit 11 determines whether to switch to the action part.

In step S112, the number of action parts during a single game is controlled to be three. Specifically, for example, one action part is always generated between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning, one action part is always generated between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the sixth inning, and one action part is always generated between the top of the seventh inning and the bottom of the ninth inning.

For example, if an action part occurs between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning, step S112 will determine not to switch to an action part from then until the end of the bottom of the third inning, regardless of the probability information. The same applies between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the sixth inning, and between the top of the seventh inning and the bottom of the ninth inning.

Furthermore, if the situation becomes such that the probability of an action part occurring between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning is low, control may be performed to make the action part more likely to occur. For example, if no action part has occurred by the start of the top of the third inning, it may be assumed that the situation becomes such that the probability of an action part occurring between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning is low, and control may be performed to make the action part more likely to occur. For example, the following may be performed. The same applies to the situation between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the sixth inning, and the top of the seventh inning and the bottom of the ninth inning.

For example, if no action part has occurred by the start of the top of the third inning, in step S112, the probability of deciding to switch to an action part may be increased above normal.

Alternatively, in step S112, it may be determined to switch to the action part regardless of the probability information. For example, if the user's team is batting first, the game situation condition "on attack/no outs and no runners on base" for the task "get on base at all costs" will be satisfied at the start of the top of the third inning. Therefore, if no action part has occurred by the start of the top of the third inning, it may be determined in step S112 at the start of the top of the third inning to switch to the action part regardless of the probability information.

Alternatively, the game situation conditions for each task may be changed (relaxed) to make the game situation conditions more likely to be met.

Alternatively, an action part may be generated regardless of the game situation (game situation conditions). In other words, an action part may be generated that has a general task that can be applied to any game situation (for example, "get a hit" when on offense, "get an out" when on defense, etc.).

It is not necessary to control the game so that one action part always occurs between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning. In other words, it is possible to have cases where no action part occurs between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning. If no action part occurs between the top of the first inning and the bottom of the third inning, it is sufficient to have three action parts occur between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the ninth inning. In this case, it is also possible to make it more likely that an action part will occur between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the ninth inning, to avoid three action parts not occurring between the top of the fourth inning and the bottom of the ninth inning.

For example, in step S112, the probability that a decision to switch to the action part will be made may be set to be higher than usual. Note that this probability may be set to increase gradually as the game progresses (towards later innings).

Alternatively, in step S112, it may be decided to switch to the action part regardless of the probability information.

Alternatively, the game situation conditions for each task may be changed (relaxed) to make them easier to satisfy. Note that the game situation conditions may be gradually relaxed as the game progresses (later innings).

Alternatively, an action part may be generated regardless of the game situation (game situation conditions). In other words, an action part may be generated that has a general task that can be applied to any game situation (for example, "get a hit" when on offense, "get an out" when on defense, etc.).

If it is determined in step S112 not to switch to the action part, the control unit 11 returns to step S104 and continues the automatic progression part. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S112 to switch to the action part, the control unit 11 sets a task for the user to achieve in the action part (S114). The control unit 11 sets the task associated with the game situation conditions satisfied by the current game situation as the task for the user to achieve in the action part. For example, if it is determined in step S106 that the game situation conditions associated with task X are satisfied, the control unit 11 sets task X as the task for the user to achieve in the action part.

After executing step S114, the control unit 11 displays the action part start screen image G120 on the display unit 15 (S116). Thereafter, the control unit 11 displays the action part screen image G130 on the display unit 15 (S118). While the action part screen image G130 is displayed, the control unit 11 executes the action part. For example, when the action part screen image G130 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, the control unit 11 causes the player character PC2, who is the pitcher of the opposing team, to perform an action (such as a pitching action) in accordance with a predetermined algorithm (such as AI). The control unit 11 also accepts user operations performed using the operation unit 14, and causes the player character PC1, who is the batter of the user team, to perform an action (such as a batting action) in accordance with the operation.

The control unit 11 monitors whether the action part has ended (S120). For example, if the action part is based on an at-bat turn, the action part ends when one at-bat ends. For example, if the action part is based on an inning, the action part ends when the first or second half of the inning ends.

When the action part is completed, the control unit 11 determines whether the task has been completed (S122). That is, the control unit 11 determines whether the task has been completed. The control unit 11 also determines the degree to which the task has been completed.

For example, the control unit 11 determines whether the achievement condition for "GREAT!" associated with the task has been satisfied. The control unit 11 also determines whether the achievement condition for "GOOD" associated with the task has been satisfied. If the achievement condition for "GREAT!" associated with the task has been satisfied, the control unit 11 determines that the achievement result of the task is "GREAT!". If the achievement condition for "GOOD" associated with the task has been satisfied, the control unit 11 determines that the achievement result of the task is "GOOD". On the other hand, if neither the achievement condition for "GREAT!" nor the achievement condition for "GOOD" has been satisfied, the control unit 11 determines that the achievement result of the task is "MISS". The control unit 11 registers the achievement result of the task in the achievement result table TBL104.

After executing step S122, the control unit 11 displays the achievement result screen image G140 on the display unit 15 (S124). Thereafter, the control unit 11 displays the action part end screen image G150 on the display unit 15 (S126). The control unit 11 also determines whether the achievement result of the task is "GREAT!" or "GOOD" (S128). In other words, the control unit 11 determines whether the task has been achieved.

If the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" or "GOOD," the control unit 11 increases the ability parameters of the player characters on the user team (S130).

For example, the control unit 11 obtains a percentage value (e.g., Na to Nf shown in Figure 8) corresponding to the achievement result of the task. The control unit 11 then accesses the user team's team table TBL102 and increases the basic ability parameter values of all player characters registered in the "current parameters" field by the obtained percentage value. Furthermore, the control unit 11 recalculates the user team's overall strength value based on the increased basic ability parameter values of each player character, and registers this in the match situation table TBL101.

The control unit 11 may access the user team's team table TBL102 and change the value of one or more special ability parameters from "0" to "1" for at least one of all player characters registered in the "Current Parameter" field. By doing so, at least one of the player characters belonging to the user team may acquire one or more special abilities.

The control unit 11 also adds the user's activity points (S132). For example, the control unit 11 accesses the match status table TBL101 and adds the user's activity points by an amount corresponding to the achievement of the task.

After steps S130 and S132 are executed, the control unit 11 updates the action part end screen image G150 based on the processing results of those steps (S134). That is, the control unit 11 updates screen elements P151, P152, and P153.

After executing step S134, or if it is determined in step S128 that the task completion result is not "GREAT!" or "GOOD," the control unit 11 executes step S102. In other words, the control unit 11 resumes the automatic progression part.

[5. Summary] In the game system 1 described above, in order to shorten the time it takes to complete a match, the match basically progresses in an automatic progression part, but when the match situation reaches a predetermined state, the automatic progression part switches to an action part, allowing the user to directly participate in the match by operating the player characters. For example, the action part is activated when a situation arises that is likely to affect the outcome of the match, such as a situation where the user team has a chance to score, a situation where it is easy for the user team to create a scoring opportunity, or a situation where the user team is in danger of conceding a goal, allowing the user to operate the player characters in situations that are likely to affect the outcome of the match.

In addition, in game system 1, the parameters of player characters belonging to the user's team are changed based on the results of completing tasks in the action parts, and the match progresses based on the changed parameters in the automatic progression part after the end of the action parts. This allows the user to indirectly participate in the action parts and beyond through operations on player characters in the action parts. In this way, the user can participate in the match not only during the action parts themselves, but also after the action parts, by operating player characters in the action parts. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the match.

Furthermore, in the game system 1, parameters that are changed based on the results of completing a task in a first action part (e.g., the first action part) are further changed based on the results of completing a task in a second action part (e.g., the second action part), resulting in cumulative changes to the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user's team. This allows the user to become more involved in the match through operations on the player characters in the first action part and the second action part. As a result, it is possible to further increase the user's interest in the match.

Furthermore, in the game system 1, the results of parameter changes for player characters belonging to the user's team are displayed in the action part end screen image G150 (see Figures 9 and 10), allowing the user to understand the results of the parameter changes. After the action part ends, the match progresses based on the changed parameters, so by allowing the user to understand the results of the parameter changes, it is possible to increase the user's interest in what happens after the action part ends. For example, even if the user's team has lower abilities than the opposing team at the start of the match, the user can see by looking at the results of the parameter changes that the gap in ability between the user's team and the opposing team will narrow or even be reversed, which will give the user hope that they can beat the opposing team. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the match.

[6. Modifications] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[6-1] The user may be informed in advance of how much the parameters of the player characters on the user's team will increase if they complete a task in the action part.

For example, the action part start screen image G120 may display a comparison of the user team's overall strength value and the opponent team's overall strength value, assuming that the task indicated by screen element P124 is accomplished.

For example, the match start screen image G100 may display the overall strength value of the user team assuming that all tasks in all action parts have been accomplished.

Figure 19 shows an example of a match start screen image in this case. The match start screen image G100A shown in Figure 19 differs from the match start screen image G100 shown in Figure 3 in that it includes screen element P104A.

Screen element P103 shows a comparison between the user team's overall strength value and the opponent team's overall strength value when the match start screen image G100A is displayed (i.e., at the start of the match), while screen element P104A shows a comparison between the user team's overall strength value and the opponent team's overall strength value assuming that all tasks in the first to third action parts are accomplished.

In the case of Figure 19, in screen element P103, the user team's overall strength value is lower than that of the opponent team, but in screen element P104A, the user team's overall strength value is higher than that of the opponent team. In other words, at the start of the match, the user team's ability (strength) is lower than that of the opponent team, but if the user team can complete all of the tasks in the first to third action parts, the difference in ability between the user team and the opponent team will be reversed.

In this way, according to this modified example, even if the user's team's ability (strength) is lower than that of the opposing team at the start of the match, the user can see by looking at screen element P104A that by completing all of the tasks in the first to third action parts, the ability gap between the user's team and the opposing team will be reversed or narrowed. This gives the user hope that they can beat the opposing team. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the match.

Figure 20 shows a functional block diagram of this modified example. Figure 20 differs from Figure 12 in that it includes a prediction unit 180 and a prediction result output control unit 190.

The prediction unit 180 predicts at least one of the ability parameters (an example of a first parameter) of the player characters of the user team and the ability parameters (an example of a second parameter) of the player characters of the opposing team after the change by the change unit 160, assuming that the result of achieving the task is a predetermined result.

The prediction result output control unit 190 controls the output means to output information regarding the prediction result by the prediction unit 180 before the action part starts or when the action part starts.

Here, "assuming that the result of accomplishing the task is a predetermined result" means, for example, assuming that the task has been accomplished.

"Output means" refers to, for example, a display unit or an audio output unit.

"Performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the prediction result" may mean, for example, generating a screen image showing information related to the prediction result and displaying it on a display unit. Alternatively, "performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the prediction result" may mean, for example, transmitting data for displaying a screen image showing information related to the prediction result to another device, thereby causing the other device to display a screen image showing information related to the prediction result on a display unit.

Note that "performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the prediction result" may mean, for example, causing an audio output unit to output audio indicating the information related to the prediction result. Alternatively, "performing control to cause the output means to output information related to the prediction result" may mean, for example, transmitting data for outputting audio indicating the information related to the prediction result to another device, thereby causing an audio output unit of the other device to output audio indicating the information related to the prediction result.

For example, the prediction unit 180 predicts the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team after the change made by the change unit 160, assuming that the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"). Then, based on the prediction result, the prediction result output control unit 190 displays the assumed overall strength value of the user team on the action part start screen image G120, or displays a comparison between the assumed overall strength value of the user team and the overall strength value of the opponent team on the action part start screen image G120.

For example, if the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character are reduced when the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"), the prediction unit 180 may predict the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character after the change made by the change unit 160, assuming that the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD").The prediction result output control unit 190 may then display the assumed overall strength value of the opposing team on the action part start screen image G120 based on the prediction result, or may display a comparison between the assumed overall strength value of the user team and the overall strength value of the opposing team on the action part start screen image G120.

In this way, the change result of the change unit 160 assuming that the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD") is predicted, and the predicted result is output before or at the start of the action part, allowing the user to know in advance how the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team (or the opposing team) will change if the result of completing the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"). As a result, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to aim for the result of completing the task to be "GREAT!" (or "GOOD").

The prediction unit 180 may predict at least one of the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user team and the parameters of the player characters belonging to the opponent team after the change by the change unit 160, assuming that the achievement result of each task in the multiple action parts (an example of multiple operation opportunities) is a predetermined result. The prediction result output control unit 190 may also control the output means to output information relating to the prediction result by the prediction unit 180 before the first of the multiple action parts starts or when the first action part starts.

For example, the prediction unit 180 may predict the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team after the change made by the change unit 160, assuming that the achievement results of the tasks in all action parts are "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"). Then, based on the prediction results, the prediction result output control unit 190 may display the assumed overall strength value of the user team on the match start screen image G100, or display a comparison between the assumed overall strength value of the user team and the overall strength value of the opposing team on the match start screen image G100.

In addition, if the ability parameters of the player characters of the opposing team are reduced when the completion result of the task is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"), the prediction unit 180 may predict the ability parameters of the player characters of the opposing team after the change made by the change unit 160, assuming that the completion result of the tasks for all action parts is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD").The prediction result output control unit 190 may then display the assumed overall strength value of the opposing team on the match start screen image G100 based on the prediction result, or display a comparison between the assumed overall strength value of the user team and the overall strength value of the opposing team on the match start screen image G100.

In this way, the modification results made by the modification unit 160 assuming that the completion result of the tasks in all action parts is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD") are predicted, and this predicted result is output before or at the start of the first action part, allowing the user to know in advance how the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team (or the opposing team) will change if the completion result of the tasks in all action parts is "GREAT!" (or "GOOD"). As a result, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to aim for the completion result of the tasks in all action parts to be "GREAT!" (or "GOOD").

[6-2] In the example shown in FIG. 8, for example, if the achievement result of the task in the first action part is "GOOD," the achievement result of the task in the second action part is "MISS," and the achievement result of the task in the third action part is "GOOD" (hereinafter referred to as "Case A"), since this is the second time that "GOOD" has been achieved in the third action part, the ability parameter value of the player character belonging to the user team will increase by Nb% at the end of the third action part. On the other hand, if the achievement results of the tasks in both the first and second action parts are "GOOD" (hereinafter referred to as "Case B"), since this is the second time that "GOOD" has been achieved in the second action part, the ability parameter value of the player character belonging to the user team will increase by Nb% at the end of the second action part. In other words, the degree of parameter increase at the end of the second action part in Case B is equal to the degree of parameter increase at the end of the third action part in Case A.

In this regard, the degree of increase in the ability parameters of the player characters belonging to the user team may be varied based on whether the task achievement result is "GOOD" for two or more consecutive action parts.

For example, in the above case B, the task achievement result is "GOOD" for two or more consecutive action parts, so the degree of parameter increase at the end of the second action part in case B may be made greater than the degree of parameter increase at the end of the third action part in case A. In other words, the percentage increase in parameter at the end of the second action part in case B may be set to Ng (Ng > Nb).

Figure 21 shows a functional block diagram of this modified example. Figure 21 differs from Figure 12 in that it includes a continuity determination unit 155.

The continuity determination unit 155 determines whether the achievement result of the task set by the task setting unit 130 is a predetermined result for two or more consecutive operation opportunities. The modification unit 160 sets the degree of modification when modifying at least one of the ability parameters (an example of a first parameter) of the player characters of the user team and the ability parameters (an example of a second parameter) of the player characters of the opposing team, based on the determination result by the continuity determination unit 155.

Here, "setting the degree of change based on the determination result by the continuity determination unit 155" means, for example, that when the task is completed with a predetermined result for two or more consecutive operation opportunities, the degree of change is increased compared to when the task is not completed with a predetermined result for two or more consecutive operation opportunities. The change unit 160 may increase the degree of change the more consecutive times the task is completed with a predetermined result.

In the case of the baseball game according to this embodiment, the modification unit 160 sets the degree of increase in the ability parameters of the player characters of the user team based on whether the task achievement result is "GOOD" for two or more consecutive action parts.

For example, the modification unit 160 sets the degree of increase in the ability parameters of the player characters on the user team based on whether the task achievement result is "GREAT!" for two or more consecutive action parts.

In addition, in cases where the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character are reduced when the task completion result is "GOOD" (or "GREAT!"), the modification unit 160 may set the degree of reduction in the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character based on whether the task completion result is "GOOD" (or "GREAT!") for two or more consecutive action parts.

Alternatively, in a case where the ability parameters of the user team's player characters decrease when the task completion result is "MISS," the modification unit 160 may set the degree of decrease in the ability parameters of the user team's player characters based on whether the task completion result is "MISS" in two or more consecutive action parts.

Alternatively, in a case where the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character increase when the task completion result is "MISS," the modification unit 160 may set the degree of increase in the ability parameters of the opposing team's player character based on whether the task completion result is "MISS" in two or more consecutive action parts.

This modified example makes it possible to change the degree of change when changing the parameters of the player characters of the user's team (or the parameters of the player characters of the opposing team) based on the results of determining whether the task has been completed with a predetermined result (e.g., "GOOD") in two or more consecutive action parts. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to aim to complete the task with a predetermined result in two or more consecutive action parts.

[6-3] The action part start screen image G120 may present the user with multiple types of tasks, allowing the user to select from multiple types of tasks the task to be completed in the action part.

For example, the action part start screen image G120 may present the user with multiple types of tasks with different levels of difficulty. Furthermore, the action part start screen image G120 may display information regarding the difficulty of each task, allowing the user to grasp the difficulty of each task. The user may then be able to select a task from multiple types of tasks that suits their skill level, etc.

In other words, the task setting unit 130 may set a task selected by the user from multiple types of tasks as the task for the action part (an example of an operation opportunity).

This modified example allows users to select tasks taking into account their own skills, etc., making it easier for users to complete tasks.

In this modified example, the modification unit 160 may modify parameters taking into consideration the type of task selected by the user (e.g., difficulty level, etc.). For example, the degree of parameter modification or the criteria for determining whether to modify parameters may vary depending on the type of task selected by the user.

In other words, the modification unit 160 may modify at least one of the parameters of the player characters belonging to the user's team (an example of a first parameter) and the parameters of the player characters belonging to the opposing team (an example of a second parameter) based on the result of completing the task and the type of task selected by the user.

Here, "changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task and the type of task selected by the user" means, for example, deciding whether to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task, and if it is decided to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter, setting the degree of change based on the type of task selected by the user. For example, the higher the difficulty of the task, the greater the degree of change, and the lower the difficulty of the task, the smaller the degree of change.

Alternatively, "changing at least one of the first and second parameters based on the achievement result of the task and the type of task selected by the user" means, for example, setting a condition based on the type of task selected by the user in a mode in which at least one of the first and second parameters is changed when the achievement result of the task satisfies the condition. Specifically, for example, in a mode in which it is decided to change at least one of the first and second parameters when the achievement level of the task is equal to or greater than a threshold, the higher the difficulty of the task, the smaller the threshold, and vice versa.

In addition, in this modified example, as described above, the action part start screen image G120 may inform the user that the degree of parameter change (or the criteria for deciding whether to change parameters) will vary depending on the type of task selected by the user.

In this modified example, the modification unit 160 makes changes based on the type (difficulty) of the task selected by the user, so when selecting a task, the user must also consider the impact on the changes made by the modification unit 160. In other words, it is possible to provide the user with the fun of selecting a task while comparing and considering the impact on the changes made by the modification unit 160 with their own skill level, etc.

[6-4] The user may be able to select the object of control during the action part (the player character to be controlled during the action part).

For example, at the start of a match, the user may be able to select the control target for the action part. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the turn at bat of a player character selected by the user may be set as an action part. Specifically, for example, the turn at bat of a player character selected by the user may be set as an action part regardless of whether the match situation has reached a predetermined situation (a situation that satisfies the match situation conditions), or the player character selected by the user may be reserved as a pinch hitter candidate, and when the match situation reaches a predetermined situation, the player character selected by the user may step up to bat as a pinch hitter, and that turn at bat may be set as an action part. Also, for example, if a free kick or corner kick scene is set as an action part in a soccer game, the player character selected by the user at the start of the match or the start of the action part may be set as the control target for the user in the action part.

Figure 22 shows a functional block diagram of this modified example. Figure 22 differs from Figure 12 in that it includes an operation target setting unit 115.

The operation target setting unit 115 sets a player character selected by the user from among multiple player characters (an example of multiple first game objects) belonging to the user team as an operation target to be operated by the user in an action part (an example of an operation opportunity).

This modified example allows the user to select the player character to control during the action part, allowing the user to control the player character of their choice and aim to complete the task. For example, the user can control a player character with high ability and aim to complete the task, making it easier for the user to complete the task.

In this modified example, the modification unit 160 may modify the parameters taking into consideration the operation target selected by the user. For example, the degree of parameter modification or the criteria for determining whether to modify the parameters may vary depending on the operation target selected by the user.

In other words, the modification unit 160 may modify at least one of the parameters of a player character belonging to the user's team (an example of a first parameter) and the parameters of a player character belonging to the opposing team (an example of a second parameter) based on the result of completing the task and the operation target selected by the user.

Here, "changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task and the operation target selected by the user" means, for example, deciding whether to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task, and, if it is decided to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter, setting the degree of change based on the operation target selected by the user.

For example, the degree of change may be set based on whether the operation target selected by the user is a specific player character. Specifically, for example, if the operation target selected by the user is a specific player character (such as the cleanup batter or ace pitcher in a baseball game), the degree of change may be increased (or decreased), and in other cases the degree of change may be decreased (or increased).

Furthermore, for example, the degree of change may be set based on the parameters (ability parameters, etc.) of the player character selected by the user as the control target. Specifically, for example, if the player character selected by the user as the control target has high ability, the degree of change may be greater (or smaller) than if the player character selected by the user as the control target has low ability.

Furthermore, "changing at least one of the first and second parameters based on the result of completing the task and the operation target selected by the user" may mean, for example, setting the condition based on the operation target selected by the user in cases where at least one of the first and second parameters is changed when the result of completing the task satisfies a condition.

For example, the above condition may be set based on whether the operation object selected by the user is a specific player character. Specifically, for example, in a mode in which it is determined that at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter will be changed if the task achievement level is equal to or greater than a threshold, the threshold may be increased (or decreased) if the operation object selected by the user is a specific player character (such as the cleanup batter or ace pitcher in a baseball game), and may be decreased (or increased) in other cases.

Furthermore, for example, the above conditions may be set based on the parameters (ability parameters, etc.) of the player character selected by the user as the object to be operated. Specifically, for example, in a mode in which it is decided to change at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter when the degree of achievement of the task is equal to or greater than a threshold, the above threshold may be set higher (or lower) when the ability of the player character selected by the user as the object to be operated is high compared to when the ability of the player character selected by the user as the object to be operated is low.

In this modified example, the change unit 160 makes changes based on the player character selected by the user as the operation target in the action part, so when selecting the operation target in the action part, the user must also consider the impact on the changes made by the change unit 160. As a result, it is possible to provide the user with the excitement of selecting the operation target in the action part while taking into consideration, for example, the ease of completing a task and the impact on the changes made by the change unit 160.

[6-5] Even if the user fails to complete the task, if the player character operated by the user in the action part has made some contribution, the change unit 160 may make a change or the user may be awarded achievement points.

[6-6] The game may be executed by the game terminal 10 communicating with the server 30. In other words, the game may be executed on the server 30 side. In this case, the functional blocks shown in Figures 12, 20, 21, and 22 (excluding the data storage unit 100) may be implemented by the control unit 31 of the server 30 (game control device). Furthermore, the data storage unit 100 may be implemented by the database 34.

[6-7] Games executed by game system 1 are not limited to baseball games. The present invention can also be applied to games other than baseball games.

The present invention can be applied to sports games other than baseball games. For example, the present invention can be applied to soccer games. Also, for example, the present invention can be applied to horse racing games. For example, in a horse racing game, a section from one corner to another may be set as an action part, and the task may be to complete that section within a predetermined time. Whether or not the task has been accomplished may be determined based on how the horse character is whipped, the speed, the number of times, and the course chosen. Furthermore, the horse character's parameters may be changed based on the completion of the task, and the race (competition) may proceed automatically from that section onwards based on the changed parameters.

The present invention can also be applied to games other than sports games. For example, the present invention can also be applied to games in which one or more game characters of a user battle one or more game characters of an opponent.

[6-8] While the above explanations have been given assuming that the match progresses essentially automatically, it is also possible to not assume that the match progresses essentially automatically. For example, in a game in which the match progresses in response to user operations on a game character (e.g., a game in which all or most of the match progresses in an action-like format), tasks may be presented to the user during the match, and depending on the user's success in completing the tasks, the abilities of the user's game character may be changed (increased) or the abilities of the opponent's game character may be changed (decreased) to continue the match.

Even when a match progresses based on user operation of a game character, the difference in ability between the user's game character and the opponent's game character is still reflected in the match outcome, although to a lesser extent than when the match progresses automatically. For this reason, if the user's game character is inferior in ability to the opponent's game character, the user may give up on beating the opponent, and their interest in the match may decrease. In this regard, by doing the above, the abilities of at least one of the user's game character and the opponent's game character are changed based on the results of completing the tasks, and after the change, the match progresses based on the changed abilities. Therefore, even if the user's game character is inferior in ability to the opponent's game character, the difference in ability may be narrowed or even reversed based on the results of completing the tasks. This gives the user hope that they can defeat their opponent. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the match.

[7. Summary of the Invention] From the above description, the present invention can be understood, for example, as follows. Note that to facilitate understanding of the present invention, reference numerals shown in the drawings are written in parentheses where appropriate, but this does not mean that the present invention is limited to the illustrated embodiments.

1) A game control device (10 or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device (10 or 30) that executes a match between one or more first game objects (e.g., player characters belonging to a user team) of a user and one or more second game objects (e.g., player characters belonging to an opponent team) of an opponent, and includes: a progress control means (110) that progresses the match (e.g., a baseball game) based on first parameters (e.g., ability parameters) associated with the one or more first game objects and second parameters (e.g., ability parameters) associated with the one or more second game objects, while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; and an operation control means (110) that provides operation opportunities (e.g., action parameters) during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects. a control opportunity setting means (120) for setting a task part (a task part) to be completed by the user operating the one or more first game objects during the control opportunity; a task setting means (130) for setting a task to be completed by the user operating the one or more first game objects during the control opportunity; a task output control means (140) for controlling output means (15 or 16) to output the task; a determination means (150) for determining the result of completing the task based on the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; and a modification means (160) for modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task, and after the end of the control opportunity, the progress control means (110) progresses the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified by the modification means, with the user's operation of the one or more first game objects restricted.

11) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, and includes: a progress control means (110) that progresses the match based on a first parameter associated with the one or more first game objects and a second parameter associated with the one or more second game objects while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; an operation opportunity setting means (120) that sets an operation opportunity during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects; and a game system (120) that allows the user to operate the one or more first game objects at the operation opportunity. The game includes a task setting means (130) that sets a task to be achieved by operating a plurality of first game objects, a task output control means (140) that controls output of the task to an output means, a determination means (150) that determines the result of achieving the task based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects, and a modification means (160) that modifies at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of achieving the task, and after the operation opportunity ends, the progress control means (110) progresses the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified by the modification means, with the user's operation on the one or more first game objects restricted.

12) Furthermore, a program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as a game control device (30 or 10) described in any one of 1) to 10), or as a game system (1) described in 11).

13) Furthermore, an information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the program described in 12) recorded thereon.

14) Furthermore, a control method for a game control device (10 or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a game control device (10 or 30) that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, the control method including: a progress control step (S104) of progressing the match based on first parameters associated with the one or more first game objects and second parameters associated with the one or more second game objects while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; an operation opportunity setting step (S106, S112) of setting an operation opportunity during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects; and a control method for controlling the user to operate the one or more first game objects during the operation opportunity. Alternatively, the game includes a task setting step (S114) of setting a task to be achieved by operating multiple first game objects; a task output control step (S116) of controlling output means to output the task; a determination step (S122) of determining the result of achieving the task based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects; and a modification step (S130) of modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of achieving the task, and the progress control step (S104) includes a step of progressing the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified in the modification step (S130) after the end of the operation opportunity, with the user's operation on the one or more first game objects restricted.

15) Furthermore, a control method for a game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a game system (1) that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, the control method comprising: a progress control step (S104) of progressing the match based on a first parameter associated with the one or more first game objects and a second parameter associated with the one or more second game objects while restricting the user's operation of the one or more first game objects; an operation opportunity setting step (S106, S112) of setting an operation opportunity during the match in which the user can operate the one or more first game objects; and a control method for controlling the user's operation of the one or more second game objects during the operation opportunity. The game includes a task setting step (S114) of setting a task to be achieved by operating a first game object; a task output control step (S116) of controlling output means to output the task; a determination step (S122) of determining the result of achieving the task based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects; and a modification step (S130) of modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of achieving the task, and the progress control step (S104) includes a step of, after the operation opportunity ends, progressing the battle based on the first parameter and the second parameter modified in the modification step (S130) while restricting the user's operation on the one or more first game objects.

According to the inventions described in 1), 11) to 15) above, the user can operate the first game object during the operation opportunity, thereby being able to directly participate in the battle during the operation opportunity. Furthermore, parameters of at least one of the first game object and the second game object are changed based on the results of completing the task during the operation opportunity, and after the operation opportunity ends, the battle progresses based on the changed parameters. Therefore, the user can indirectly participate in subsequent operations through operations on the first game object during the operation opportunity. Thus, according to the present invention, the user can be involved in the battle not only during the operation opportunity itself but also in operations following the operation opportunity by operating the first game object during the operation opportunity, thereby increasing the user's interest in the battle.

2) In one aspect of the present invention, the battle may be set to have a first operation opportunity (e.g., a first action part) and a second operation opportunity (e.g., a second action part) that occurs after the first operation opportunity. The change means (160) may include first change means that changes at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task at the first operation opportunity. The progress control means (110) may proceed with the battle after the first operation opportunity ends based on the first parameter and the second parameter changed by the first change means (160). The change means (160) may include second change means that further changes at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter changed by the first change means (160) based on the result of completing the task at the second operation opportunity. The progress control means (110) may proceed with the battle after the second operation opportunity ends based on the first parameter and the second parameter changed by the second change means (160).

According to the invention described in paragraph 2), at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter, which has been changed based on the result of completing the task in the first operation opportunity, is further changed based on the result of completing the task in the second operation opportunity, resulting in cumulative changes to at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter. This allows the user to become more involved in the battle through operations on the first game object in the first operation opportunity and the second operation opportunity. As a result, it is possible to further increase the user's interest in the battle.

3) In one aspect of the present invention, the system may include a change result output control means (170) that controls the output means (15 or 16) to output information regarding the change results made by the change means (160).

According to the invention described in 3), information relating to the results of the changes made by the change means is output to the output means, allowing the user to understand the results of the changes made by the change means. After the operation opportunity, the battle progresses based on the first and second parameters changed by the change means, so by allowing the user to understand the results of the changes made by the change means, it is possible to increase the user's interest in what happens after the operation opportunity.

4) In one aspect of the present invention, the system may include a prediction means (180) that predicts at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter after the change by the change means (160) assuming that the result of achieving the task is a predetermined result, and a prediction result output control means (190) that controls the output means (15 or 16) to output information related to the prediction result by the prediction means (180) before the operation opportunity starts or when the operation opportunity starts.

According to the invention described in 4), at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter after being changed by the change means, assuming that the completion result of the task is a predetermined result, is predicted, and information regarding the predicted result is output before or at the start of the operation opportunity, allowing the user to know in advance how at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter will change if the completion result of the task is a predetermined result. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to aim for the completion result of the task to be the predetermined result.

5) In one aspect of the present invention, the battle may be set with multiple operation opportunities (e.g., first to third action parts). The prediction means (180) predicts at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter after modification by the modification means (160) assuming that the achievement result of each task in the multiple operation opportunities is a predetermined result, and the prediction result output control means (190) may perform control to cause the output means (15 or 16) to output information relating to the prediction result by the prediction means (180) before the start of the first operation opportunity (e.g., the first action part) of the multiple operation opportunities or when the first operation opportunity is started.

According to the invention described in 5), at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter after modification by the modification means is predicted assuming that the achievement result of each task in the multiple operation opportunities is a predetermined result, and information regarding the predicted result is output before or at the start of the first operation opportunity, allowing the user to grasp in advance how at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter will change if the achievement result of each task in the multiple operation opportunities is a predetermined result. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to aim for the achievement result of each task in the multiple operation opportunities to be a predetermined result.

6) In one aspect of the present invention, multiple operation opportunities may be set in the battle. The game control device (10 or 30) may include continuity determination means (155) that determines whether the achievement result of the task is a predetermined result over two or more consecutive operation opportunities. The change means (160) may set the degree of change when changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the determination result by the continuity determination means (155).

According to the invention described in 6), the degree of change when changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter varies based on the result of determining whether the task has been completed as a predetermined result for two or more consecutive operation opportunities. This increases the user's motivation to aim for the task to be completed as a predetermined result for two or more consecutive operation opportunities.

7) In one aspect of the present invention, the task setting means (130) may set a task selected by the user from among multiple types of tasks as the task for the operation opportunity.

According to the invention described in 7), the user can select the task for the operation opportunity. As a result, for example, the user can select the task taking into consideration their own skill level, making it easier for the user to complete the task.

8) In one aspect of the present invention, the change means (160) may include means for changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task and the type of task selected by the user.

According to the invention described in 8), changes are made by the change means based on the type of task selected by the user, so when selecting a task, the user must also consider the impact of the changes made by the change means. In other words, it is possible to provide the user with the fun of selecting a task while comparing and considering their own skill level, etc., with the impact of the changes made by the change means.

9) In one aspect of the present invention, the match may be between a plurality of first game objects of the user and one or more second game objects of the opponent. The game control device (10 or 30) may include an operation target setting means (115) that sets a first game object selected by the user from among the plurality of first game objects as an operation target to be operated by the user at the operation opportunity.

According to the invention described in paragraph 9), the user can select the first game object to be operated during the operation opportunity, allowing the user to operate the first game object selected by the user in order to achieve the task. For example, the user can select a first game object that makes it easier to achieve the task as the first game object to be operated during the operation opportunity, making it easier for the user to achieve the task.

10) In one aspect of the present invention, the modification means (160) may include means for modifying at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter based on the result of completing the task and the first game object selected by the user as the operation target.

According to the invention described in paragraph 10), the change by the change means is based on the first game object selected by the user as the operation target, so when selecting the first game object to operate at the operation opportunity, the user must also consider the impact on the change by the change means. As a result, it is possible to provide the user with the enjoyment of selecting the first game object to operate at the operation opportunity while taking into consideration, for example, the ease of completing the task and the impact on the change by the change means.

16) Note that a game control device or game system according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device or game system that executes a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent, and includes a progress control means that progresses the match based on first parameters associated with the one or more first game objects and second parameters associated with the one or more second game objects, a task setting means that sets tasks to be achieved by the user by operating the one or more first game objects during the match, and a control means that outputs the tasks to an output means. a task output control means for outputting a task output based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects during the match (in the middle of the match); a determination means for determining the completion result of the task based on the user's operation on the one or more first game objects during the match (in the middle of the match); and a change means for changing at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter during the match (in the middle of the match) based on the completion result of the task, wherein when a change is made by the change means during the match (in the middle of the match), the progress control means progresses (continues) the match based on the first parameter and the second parameter after the change by the change means. Furthermore, a program and information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention may be a program for causing a computer to function as the above-mentioned game control device or game system, or a computer-readable information storage medium having the program recorded thereon.

Even when a match between one or more first game objects of a user and one or more second game objects of an opponent does not proceed with user control of the one or more first game objects restricted (i.e., when the match proceeds automatically), the difference in parameters (abilities, etc.) between the first game object and the second game object is reflected in the match outcome. Therefore, if the first game object is inferior in parameters to the second game object, the user may give up on beating the opponent, and their interest in the match may decrease. In this regard, according to the invention described in 16), the parameters of at least one of the first game object and the second game object are changed based on the results of completing the task. After the change, the match proceeds based on the changed parameters. Therefore, even if the first game object is inferior in parameters to the second game object, the difference can be narrowed or even reversed based on the results of completing the task. This allows the user to have hope of beating the opponent. As a result, it is possible to increase the user's interest in the match.

1 Game system, N Network, 10 Game terminal, 11 Control unit, 12 Memory unit, 13 Communication unit, 14 Operation unit, 15 Display unit, 16 Audio output unit, 30 Server, 31 Control unit, 32 Memory unit, 33 Communication unit, 34 Database, 100 Data memory unit, 110 Progress control unit, 115 Operation target setting unit, 120 Operation opportunity setting unit, 130 Task setting unit, 140 Task output control unit, 150 Judgment unit, 155 Continuity judgment unit, 160 Change unit, 170 Change result output control unit, 180 Prediction unit, 190 Prediction result output control unit, G100, G100A Match start screen image, G110 Automatic progress part screen image, G120 Action part start screen image, G130 Action part screen image, G140 Achievement result screen image, G150 Action part end screen image, P101, P102, P103, P104A, P111, P112, P113, P114, P115, P116, P117, P121, P122, P123, P124, P131, P132, P141, P142, P151, P152, P153 screen elements, PC1, PC2 player characters, B ball, M meet cursor, MC core, F frame, TBL101 match status table, TBL102 team table, TBL103 task table, TBL104 achievement result table.

Claims (7)

A game control device that executes a match between a user team including a plurality of first game objects of a user and an opponent team including a plurality of second game objects of an opponent,
a progress control means for progressing the match by generating a progress of the match based on a first total strength value based on each of the plurality of first game objects included in the user team and a second total strength value based on each of the plurality of second game objects included in the opponent team , while restricting the user's operations on the plurality of first game objects, and for changing the score of the user team or the score of the opponent team when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the match;
an operation opportunity setting means for setting an operation opportunity during the battle in which the user can operate at least one first game object among the plurality of first game objects;
a change means for changing at least one of the first total strength value and the second total strength value during the battle based on a result of the user's operation on the at least one first game object during the operation opportunity;
a determination means for determining the outcome of the match based on the score of the user team and the score of the opponent team after the match ends ,
after the operation opportunity ends, the progress control means causes the battle to progress again by generating a progress of the battle based on the first total strength value and the second total strength value changed by the change means , while restricting the user's operations on the plurality of first game objects;
Game control device. 2. The game control device according to claim 1,
a display control means for causing a display means to display a comparison image showing a comparison between the first total force value and the second total force value,
After the operation opportunity ends, the display control means updates the comparison image from an image before at least one of the first total force value and the second total force value is changed by the change means to an image after at least one of the first total force value and the second total force value is changed by the change means.
Game control device. 3. The game control device according to claim 1,
the operation opportunity setting means sets a plurality of operation opportunities as the operation opportunities,
the game control device includes a continuity determination means for determining whether or not the result of the user's operation has been a predetermined result in two or more consecutive operation opportunities;
the change means sets a degree of change when changing at least one of the first total force value and the second total force value based on a determination result by the continuity determination means.
Game control device. 4. The game control device according to claim 1,
an operation target setting means for setting a first game object selected by the user from the plurality of first game objects as an operation target to be operated by the user at the operation opportunity;
Game control device. 5. The game control device according to claim 1,
the operation opportunity setting means sets a plurality of operation opportunities including a first operation opportunity and a second operation opportunity,
The change means changes at least one of the first total force value and the second total force value at a first rate when a result of the user's operation at the first operation opportunity is a predetermined result, and changes at least one of the first total force value and the second total force value at a second rate different from the first rate when a result of the user's operation at the second operation opportunity is the same as the result of the user's operation at the first operation opportunity. A game system for executing a match between a user team including a plurality of first game objects of a user and an opponent team including a plurality of second game objects of an opponent,
a progress control means for progressing the match by generating a progress of the match based on a first total strength value based on each of the plurality of first game objects included in the user team and a second total strength value based on each of the plurality of second game objects included in the opponent team , while restricting the user's operations on the plurality of first game objects, and for changing the score of the user team or the score of the opponent team when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the match;
an operation opportunity setting means for setting an operation opportunity during the battle in which the user can operate at least one first game object among the plurality of first game objects;
a change means for changing at least one of the first total strength value and the second total strength value during the battle based on a result of the user's operation on the at least one first game object during the operation opportunity;
a determination means for determining the outcome of the match based on the score of the user team and the score of the opponent team after the match ends ,
after the operation opportunity ends, the progress control means causes the battle to progress again by generating a progress of the battle based on the first total strength value and the second total strength value changed by the change means , while restricting the user's operations on the plurality of first game objects;
Game system. A program for causing a computer to function as the game control device described in any one of claims 1 to 5 or the game system described in claim 6.