JP7728902B2 - Programs, information processing systems - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a program and an information processing system.

Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a game in which the objective is to annihilate all enemy characters by attacking them while moving through a first area. In this game, if the user's character dies, the user can attack enemy characters while moving through a second area.

"Bomberman 4: This is what happens when TAS and the CPU play against each other," [online], February 17, 2017, Oyatsu, [Retrieved January 10, 2021], Internet <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yNTNGZN3T8>

The game disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1 has gameplay in which the player attacks enemy characters both before the character's state changes (for example, before the character dies) and after the character's state changes (for example, after the character dies). In other words, the gameplay does not change before or after the character's state changes. This leaves room for increased enjoyment for the user.

A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to function as: state change means for changing the state of a character in a virtual space operated by a user from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met; movement means for moving the character in the virtual space in accordance with first operation information by the user; restriction means for restricting the movement of the character in the virtual space when the character's state is in the second state; and specific object placement means for placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in accordance with second operation information by the user when the character's state is in the second state; and the time from when the specific object is placed in the virtual space in accordance with the second operation information by the first user to when the specific object is removed from the virtual space is shorter when the character corresponding to a second user different from the first user performs a specific action on the specific object compared to when the character corresponding to the second user does not perform the specific action on the specific object.

This disclosure can increase user enjoyment.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a game system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the module configuration of a terminal included in the game system of FIG. 1 . FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a module configuration of a server included in the game system of FIG. 1 . 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of screen transitions in the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for executing a second part of a game in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for managing the behavior of an avatar in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for changing the state of an avatar in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for arranging an assist object in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for removing an assist object from a virtual space in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow for exerting the effect of the second system assist object in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual space in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an assist object in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a matching screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a battle screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a battle screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an assistance transition screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an assist screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an assist screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a battle screen on the terminal of FIG. 2 . 10A to 10C are diagrams showing examples of effects according to combinations of assist objects in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an assist screen in a modified example. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an assist screen in a modified example.

A game system according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.
(First embodiment)
[Game System Overview]
As shown in FIG. 1 , the game system 10 includes a network 90, a plurality of terminals 100, and one or more servers 200. The game system 10 is provided as a system for home use or a system for business use. The plurality of terminals 100 are configured to communicate with the server 200 via the network 90. As an example, the game system 10 provides a multi-user game. In the following description, when simply referring to a "game," it means a game provided by the game system 10. The plurality of terminals 100 are an example of a computer. The one or more servers 200 are an example of a computer.

[network]
For example, the network 90 is configured as the Internet and a mobile communication system including a wireless base station. For example, the mobile communication system can be realized as a 3G, 4G, or 5G mobile communication system, LTE (Long Term Evolution), or a wireless network connectable to the Internet via an access point.

[Device hardware configuration]
Multiple terminals 100 can be used as game terminals for playing games. Terminals 100 used as game terminals provide users with game functions for playing games provided by game system 10. In the following description, terminals used by users A to C may be referred to as terminals 100A to 100C, respectively. Users A to C are game players.

As an example, the terminal 100 is a smartphone. The terminal 100 may also be a mobile terminal device such as a feature phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a tablet computer. The terminal 100 may also be a fixed terminal device such as a personal computer (PC) or a workstation. For example, the terminal 100 includes a processor 110, memory 120, and storage 130. The terminal 100 may further include a communication interface (IF) 140 and an input/output IF 150. The terminal 100 may further include a microphone 160, a speaker 162, and a touch screen 164. Each of the multiple components included in the terminal 100 is connected to a communication bus 180.

The processor 110 executes a series of instructions contained in a program stored in the memory 120 or storage 130 in response to a signal provided to the terminal 100 or in response to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. For example, the processor 110 may be implemented as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or other computing device.

Memory 120 temporarily stores programs and data. As an example, programs are read from storage 130. Data may include data transmitted to terminal 100 and data generated by processor 110. For example, memory 120 is implemented as RAM (Random Access Memory) or other volatile memory.

Storage 130 permanently stores programs and data. For example, storage 130 may be implemented as a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive, flash memory, or other non-volatile storage device. Storage 130 may also be implemented as a removable storage device, such as a memory card.

Programs stored in storage 130 include game programs and communication programs. Programs may also include distribution programs and viewing programs. Game programs provide a virtual space and implement game functions that provide game play in the virtual space. As an example, game play includes manipulating objects placed in the virtual space. As an example, the object manipulated using terminal 100 is a player character corresponding to the user using terminal 100. The player character is an avatar of the user using terminal 100. Game programs may also implement a participation function that allows users to participate in other users' game play.

The communication program realizes the function of communicating with other computers (e.g., server 200). The distribution program realizes the distribution function of distributing content that includes at least game play in a virtual space. The viewing program realizes the viewing function of providing viewing of the distributed content. Programs stored in storage 130 may include an operating system, a simulation program, a user authentication program, and other programs.

For example, the data stored in storage 130 includes definition data for the virtual space and object data for various objects to be placed in the virtual space. Terminals 100A to 100C may share a single virtual space. The virtual space is not limited to a space expressed in three dimensions. For example, the virtual space may be a space expressed in two dimensions, or a space expressed by still images and input data such as sound, voice, and text data.

The communication IF 140 is connected to the network 90. The communication IF 140 communicates with other computers (e.g., the server 200) connected to the network 90. For example, the communication IF 140 is implemented as a LAN (Local Area Network) or other wired communication IF. For example, the communication IF 140 is implemented as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or other wireless communication IF. The communication IF 140 is not limited to the above.

The input/output IF 150 communicates with an external input/output device 190. For example, the input/output IF 150 is implemented as a Universal Serial Bus (USB), a Digital Visual Interface (DVI), a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI (registered trademark)), or other wired communication IF. For example, the input/output IF 150 is implemented as a Bluetooth (registered trademark) or other wireless communication IF.

As an example, the input/output device 190 is a controller. For example, the input/output IF 150 transmits an instruction output from the processor 110 to the controller. This instruction instructs the controller to vibrate, output sound, or emit light. Upon receiving the instruction, the controller vibrates, outputs sound, or emits light in accordance with the instruction. The controller has one or more operation parts. For example, the one or more operation parts include buttons, keys, switches, handles, bars, touchpads, or sticks. The controller transmits an output value to the terminal 100 based on the user's operation of the operation part. As an example, the controller may include a motion sensor such as an acceleration sensor or an angular velocity sensor. The controller may be configured to transmit the output value of the motion sensor to the terminal 100. The controller may be attachable to and detachable from the terminal 100.

The input/output device 190 is not limited to the above. For example, the input/output device 190 may be a camera. The camera may be configured to transmit an image of the user to the terminal 100. For example, the input/output device 190 may be a distance measurement sensor. The distance measurement sensor may be configured to transmit an output value based on the detection of the user's hand, a marker, or the like to the terminal 100.

The microphone 160 converts the user's speech into an audio signal (electrical signal) and transmits it to the processor 110. The speaker 162 converts the audio signal into sound and outputs it to the user. In addition to or instead of the speaker 162, each terminal 100 may be equipped with an earphone or an earphone jack to which an earphone can be connected.

Touch screen 164 includes monitor 166 and touch sensor 167. Monitor 166 is realized as a transmissive or non-transmissive display device. For example, monitor 166 is realized as a liquid crystal monitor, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor, or other display device. Monitor 166 displays various images. Images displayed on monitor 166 include various objects such as backgrounds, avatars, other characters, obstacles, windows, buttons, menus, lists, and icons. Monitor 166 is not limited to the above. For example, monitor 166 may be a 3D monitor including a sub-monitor that displays an image for the left eye and a sub-monitor that displays an image for the right eye.

The touch sensor 167 transmits an output value based on the user's operation on the monitor 166 to the processor 110. As an example, the touch sensor 167 is realized as a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor (pressure-sensitive touch sensor), an ultrasonic touch sensor, or any other type of touch sensor. As an example, the input surface of the touch sensor 167 is part or all of the display surface of the monitor 166. The touch sensor 167 can be used as an operation unit configured to accept a user's input operation. For example, if the operation unit is the touch sensor 167, the processor 110 accepts the user's physical contact operation on the input surface of the touch sensor 167 as the user's input operation. For example, the user's input operation on the touch sensor 167 can include a touch operation, a slide operation, a swipe operation, a tap operation, a drag operation, and operations in other modes.

The operation unit is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, if the operation unit is a communication IF 140, the processor 110 accepts signals transmitted from an operation device (not shown) connected via the network 90 as user input operations. For example, if the operation unit is an input/output IF 150, the processor 110 accepts signals transmitted from an external input/output device 190 as user input operations. For example, if the input/output device 190 is a camera and a distance sensor, when the processor 110 detects a user's hand in a received captured image, it accepts a gesture (a series of user hand movements) detected based on the captured image and output values as user input operations. For example, if the input/output device 190 is a controller, the processor 110 accepts output values transmitted from the controller as user input operations.

[Server hardware configuration]
The server 200 may be a workstation or a general-purpose computer such as a PC. The server 200 includes a processor 210, a memory 220, a storage 230, a communication IF 240, and an input/output IF 250. Each of the multiple components included in the server 200 is connected to a communication bus 280.

Processor 210 executes a series of instructions contained in a program stored in memory 220 or storage 230 in response to a signal provided to server 200 or in response to the establishment of a predetermined condition. For example, processor 210 is implemented as a CPU, GPU, MPU, FPGA, or other computing device.

Memory 220 temporarily stores programs and data. As an example, programs are read from storage 230. Data may include data sent to server 200 and data generated by processor 210. For example, memory 220 is implemented as RAM or other volatile memory.

Storage 230 permanently stores programs and data. For example, storage 130 is implemented as ROM, a hard disk drive, flash memory, or other non-volatile storage device. Storage 230 may also be implemented as a removable storage device, such as a memory card. Server 200 may use programs stored in an external storage device instead of storage 230. For example, in situations where multiple game systems 10 are used, such as in an amusement facility, programs and data can be updated all at once.

Programs stored in storage 230 include game programs and communication programs. The game programs provide a virtual space in game system 10 and a function for providing game play in which the virtual space is shared by multiple users. The communication programs provide a function for communicating with other computers (e.g., terminals 100A-100C). The programs may include distribution programs. The distribution programs provide a function for distributing content to terminal 100. Programs stored in storage 230 may include an operating system, a simulation program, a user authentication program, and other programs. For example, data stored in storage 130 may include data that defines the virtual space and object data for various objects to be placed in the virtual space.

The communication IF 240 is connected to the network 90. The communication IF 240 communicates with other computers (e.g., terminals 100A-100C) connected to the network 90. For example, the communication IF 240 is implemented as a LAN or other wired communication IF. For example, the communication IF 240 is implemented as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC, or other wireless communication IF. The communication IF 240 is not limited to the above.

The input/output IF 250 communicates with external input/output devices. For example, the input/output IF 250 is implemented as a USB, DVI, HDMI, or other wired communication IF. For example, the input/output IF 250 is implemented as a Bluetooth (registered trademark) or other wireless communication IF.

The server 200 is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, the server 200 may include a game server 200A for providing a virtual space and a distribution server 200B for distributing content. The game program is stored in the storage 230 of the game server 200A. The game program is executed by the processor 210 of the game server 200A. The distribution program is stored in the storage 230 of the distribution server 200B. The distribution program is executed by the processor 210 of the distribution server 200B. The game server 200A transmits and receives various information and requests to and from the distribution server 200B via the communication IF 240. The game server 200A transmits and receives various information and requests to and from the terminals 100A to 100C via the communication IF 240. The distribution server 200B transmits and receives various information and requests to and from the terminal 100 via the communication IF 240.

[Device module configuration]
2, the terminal 100 includes a control module 101, a rendering module 104, a memory module 105, a communication module 106, and an input/output module 107. The control module 101 includes a game module 101A. The control module 101 may also include a distribution module 101B and a viewing module 101C.

As an example, the game module 101A and the rendering module 104 are realized by the processor 110. The distribution module 101B and the viewing module 101C are realized by the processor 110. The memory module 105 is realized by the memory 120 and the storage 130. The communication module 106 is realized by the communication IF 140. The input/output module 107 is realized by the processor 110, the touch sensor 167, and the input/output IF 150.

The input/output module 107 detects and accepts user input operations on the touch sensor 167, as well as user input operations on external operating devices via the input/output IF 150. As an example, when the input/output module 107 accepts a user input operation on the touch sensor 167, it identifies the type of input operation by detecting the coordinates of the input position. For example, the types of input operations that the input/output module 107 can identify may include touch operations, slide operations, swipe operations, tap operations, drag operations, and operations in other modes. When a series of continuously detected input operations is interrupted, the input/output module 107 detects that the contact input from the touch sensor 167 has been released.

The communication module 106 receives various data and various requests from one or more servers 200. As an example, the data received by the communication module 106 from the server 200 may include progress information and user information. The progress information may include first progress information and second progress information. The first progress information may include one or more types of avatars to be placed in the virtual space, avatar coordinate information, avatar action information, and other information. An avatar is an object controlled by a user in the virtual space and is a character that represents the user. As an example, the avatar coordinate information is information indicating a position in the virtual space. As an example, the action information is information regarding the avatar's action. As an example, the avatar's action may include the avatar's posture, use of an item, use of a skill, attack, defense, dodge, or jump. The first progress information may include setting information regarding the avatar's settings. As an example, the avatar's settings may be changed by the user in the virtual space or prior to moving to the virtual space. For example, avatar settings may include the avatar's equipment or appearance. For example, user information may include the username, account ID, gender, age, address, etc.

The second progress information may include type information of one or more assist objects to be placed in the virtual space, coordinate information of the assist objects, and other information. An assist object is an example of a specific object. As an example, an assist object may affect an avatar placed in the virtual space. Assist objects are classified into first-type assist objects and second-type assist objects. First-type assist objects exert their effects when placed in the virtual space. First-type assist objects exert their effects for a period from when they are placed in the virtual space until they are removed. When removal time T1 has elapsed since a first-type assist object was placed in the virtual space, the removal condition is met and the first-type assist object is removed from the virtual space.

Second-system assist objects do not exert their effects simply by being placed in virtual space. Second-system assist objects exert their effects when predetermined activation conditions are met. When removal time T1 has passed since the second-system assist object was placed in virtual space, the removal conditions are met, and the second-system assist object is removed from the virtual space. When the effect of a second-system assist object is exerted before removal time T1 has passed, the removal conditions are met, and the second-system assist object may be removed from the virtual space. As an example, assist objects may include objects that can exert an effect of assisting the avatar. As an example, assist objects may include objects that can exert an effect of hindering the avatar.

The communication module 106 transmits various data and various requests to one or more servers 200. As an example, the data transmitted by the communication module 106 to the server 200 may include play information and user information. The play information is output in response to input operations received by the input/output module 107. The play information may include first play information and second play information.

As an example, the first play information may include avatar coordinate information, action information, and other information as the operation details of the avatar. As an example, the first play information may include avatar setting information. As an example, the second play information may include assist object type information and coordinate information as the operation details of the assist object. As an example, the first play information and second play information are generated by the game module 101A.

Game module 101A performs processing to progress the game. Game module 101A reads definition data for the virtual space from memory module 105. Game module 101A defines the virtual space according to the read definition data. Game module 101A reads object data from memory module 105. Game module 101A places objects in the virtual space according to the read object data. Game module 101A identifies the user's instructions according to the coordinates of the input position accepted by input/output module 107, the type of input operation, and the progress of the game.

The game progress status may include coordinate information and action information of your own avatar in virtual space. The game progress status may include coordinate information and action information of other users' avatars in virtual space. The game progress status may include setting information of your own avatar. The game progress status may include setting information of other users' avatars. The game progress status may include type information and coordinate information of assist objects in virtual space.

Game module 101A makes various determinations regarding the progress of the game. Game module 101A performs various lottery draws regarding the progress of the game. Game module 101A generates various requests and play information in response to user instructions, various determination results, and various lottery results. The various requests and play information generated by game module 101A are transmitted to server 200 by communication module 106.

The distribution module 101B performs processing to distribute content including gameplay. The distribution module 101B identifies the user's instructions based on the coordinates of the input position received by the input/output module 107, the type of input operation, and the progress of the game. The distribution module 101B can generate a request to start distribution of content and a request to end distribution based on the user's instructions. The distribution module 101B can generate a request to change the content distribution content based on the user's instructions. The various requests generated by the distribution module 101B are transmitted by the communication module 106.

The viewing module 101C performs processing for viewing content distributed by a distribution user. The viewing module 101C reads definition data for the viewing space from the memory module 105. The viewing module 101C defines the viewing space according to the read definition data. The viewing module 101C reads object data from the memory module 105. The viewing module 101C places objects in the viewing space according to the read object data. The viewing module 101C identifies the user's instructions according to the coordinates of the input position accepted by the input/output module 107, the type of input operation, and the progress of the game. The viewing module 101C generates a request to start viewing the content and a request to stop viewing the content according to the user's instructions. The viewing module 101C generates a request to change the content distribution according to the user's instructions. The various requests generated by the viewing module 101C are transmitted by the communication module 106.

The rendering module 104 creates images of the game screen. The rendering module 104 creates images of the game screen in response to the progress information received by the communication module 106 and various requests. The rendering module 104 creates images of the game screen in response to the play information generated by the game module 101A and various requests. The rendering module 104 creates images of the game screen in response to the information generated by the viewing module 101C and various requests.

The rendering module 104 displays the created game screen image on the monitor 166. The rendering module 104 may be configured to display the game screen image on an external display device via the input/output IF 150. The rendering module 104 may be configured to display the game screen image on an external display device via the communication IF 140. The game screen is an image in which 2D or 3D objects are controlled and drawn. As described above, objects drawn on the game screen may include avatars (characters), assist objects, backgrounds, obstacles, etc.

The rendering module 104 may control and draw 2D or 3D game objects (UI objects) for constructing a UI (User Interface). The rendering module 104 creates a game screen including UI objects necessary for user input operations, such as icons, buttons, lists, windows, and menus. UI objects are information that assists user input operations necessary to progress through the game. UI objects are also information that assists user input operations necessary to obtain data generated during the progress of the game from the terminal 100. The various UI objects shown in this disclosure are merely examples and are not limited to these aspects.

Processing in the terminal 100 is realized by hardware and software executed by the processor 110. Such software may be pre-stored in the memory module 105, such as a hard disk. The software may also be stored on a computer-readable non-volatile data recording medium, such as a CD-ROM, and distributed as a program product. This software may also be provided as a downloadable program product by an information provider connected to a network such as the Internet. Such software is read from the data recording medium by a data reading device, such as an optical disk drive, or downloaded from another computer, such as the server 200, via the communication module 106, and then temporarily stored in the memory module. The software is read from the memory module by the processor 110 and stored in RAM or the like in the form of an executable program. The processor 110 executes the program.

[Server module configuration]
3, the server 200 includes a control module 201, a memory module 205, a communication module 206, and an input/output module 207. The control module 201 includes a game module 201A. The control module 201 may include a distribution module 201B. The game module 201A is implemented by a processor 210. The distribution module 201B is implemented by the processor 210. The memory module 205 is implemented by a memory 220 and a storage 230. The communication module 206 is implemented by a communication IF 240. The input/output module 207 is implemented by the processor 210 and an input/output IF 250.

The communication module 206 receives various information and various requests from each terminal 100. As an example, the information received by the communication module 206 from each terminal 100 may include play information and user information. The communication module 206 transmits various information and various requests to each terminal 100. As an example, the information transmitted by the communication module 206 to each terminal 100 may include progress information and user information. The input/output module 107 detects and accepts user input operations on external operating devices via the input/output IF 250.

Game module 201A performs processing to provide an environment in which a virtual space is shared by multiple users. Game module 201A reads definition data for the virtual space from memory module 205. Game module 201A defines the virtual space according to the read definition data. Game module 201A reads object data from memory module 205. Game module 201A places various objects, excluding avatars, in the virtual space according to the read object data.

The game module 201A places avatars corresponding to each of the multiple users according to the coordinate information included in the first play information received by the communication module 206 from the multiple terminals 100. The game module 201A determines interactions between avatars according to the action information and avatar setting information included in the first play information received by the communication module 206 from the multiple terminals 100. The game module 201A places assist objects according to the type information and coordinate information included in the second play information received by the communication module 206 from one or more terminals 100. The game module 201A generates each piece of progress information according to the results of these processes. The communication module 206 transmits each piece of progress information to each terminal 100.

If a distribution module 201B is present, the game module 201A may transmit each piece of progress information to the distribution module 201B. As an example, the distribution module 201B generates distribution information in accordance with each piece of progress information generated by the game module 201A. The communication module 206 transmits the distribution information to one or more terminals 100. The distribution information may include each piece of progress information. As an example, the distribution information may be each piece of progress information itself. The distribution module 201B transmits various requests to the game module 201A in accordance with various requests received by the communication module 206 from the terminal 100. The distribution module 201B transmits various pieces of information to the game module 201A in accordance with various pieces of information received by the communication module 206 from the terminal 100.

The server 200 is not limited to the module configuration described above. For example, the game module 201A may be provided by the game server 200A. For example, the distribution module 201B may be provided by the distribution server 200B. The game module 201A sends and receives various information and requests to and from the distribution module 201B via the communication module 206.

Processing in server 200 is realized by hardware and software executed by processor 210. Such software may be pre-stored in memory module 205, such as a hard disk. The software may be stored on a computer-readable non-volatile data recording medium, such as a CD-ROM, and distributed as a program product. This software may also be provided as a downloadable program product by an information provider connected to a network such as the Internet. Such software is read from the data recording medium by a data reading device, such as an optical disk drive, or downloaded from another computer, such as an external storage device, via communication module 206, and then temporarily stored in the memory module. The software is read from the memory module by processor 210 and stored in memory, such as RAM, in the form of an executable program. Processor 210 executes the program.

[Game Overview]
For example, a game according to the present disclosure may include multiple parts having different characteristics, such as a first part and a second part, in which a user may prepare for the second part.

As an example, the second part is a part where multiple users decide who wins based on some criteria. As an example, the second part is a part where multiple parties decide who wins based on some criteria. Each of the multiple parties may include multiple users. The entity to which the multiple users belong is not limited to a party, but may also be a group, team, camp, or group. As an example, a user may belong to one party.

As an example, the state of the avatar in the second part includes a first state and a second state. At the start of the second part, the avatar is in the first state. In the second part, the avatar changes from the first state to the second state when a specific condition is met. As an example, the first state is a state in which the avatar can participate in a first game, which includes moving the avatar in a virtual space. As an example, the second state is a state in which the avatar can participate in a second game, which includes placing one or more specific objects in a virtual space. As an example, the second state is a state in which the avatar cannot participate in the first game. The second state is a state in which the avatar cannot be moved in a virtual space.

As an example, the second part of the game has the following specifications:
The second part is a competitive game in which multiple parties compete against each other. The first game in the second part is a battle game in which a user's avatar battles against an opposing user's avatar. A user can participate in the battle game when their avatar is in the first state. The second game in the second part is an assist game in which an assist object is placed. A user can participate in the assist game when their avatar is in the second state.

As an example, the specific condition is when a specific parameter value among the avatar's parameter values becomes a specific value. As an example, the parameter value is hit points. As an example, the specific value is 0. The first state is a state in which the hit points exceed 0. In other words, the first state is a state in which the avatar is alive in the virtual space. The second state is a state in which the hit points are 0. In other words, the second state is a state in which the avatar has died in the virtual space.

The specific condition may be, but is not limited to, that a parameter other than hit points reaches a specific value. The specific condition may be that points that can be earned by meeting predetermined conditions reach a specific value. The specific condition may be that a predetermined lottery is won. Furthermore, the first state and the second state may both be survival states. For example, the first state may be a state in which stamina is not low and the avatar can move. In this case, the second state may be a state in which stamina is low and the avatar cannot move. For example, the first state may be a state in which a penalty that prevents the avatar from moving is not imposed. In this case, the second state may be a state in which the penalty is imposed. Both the first state and the second state may be death states. For example, the first state may be a state in which the avatar can move like a ghost. In this case, the second state may be a state in which the avatar cannot move like a ghost.

In the second part, the criteria for determining victory is whether one party meets predetermined victory conditions before the opposing party. Victory conditions include the death and annihilation of all of the opposing user's avatars. In other words, victory conditions include the fulfillment of specific conditions for all of the opposing user's avatars.

In a battle game, each user can move their own avatar and attack the avatar of an opposing user. The hit points of their own avatar decrease when an attack by an opposing user's avatar hits. The hit points of an opposing user's avatar decrease when an attack by their own avatar hits.

In an assist game, each user can place one or more assist objects in the virtual space. The one or more assist objects that a user can place in the virtual space include first-type assist objects and second-type assist objects. First-type assist objects exert their effects when placed in the virtual space. Second-type assist objects exert their effects when predetermined activation conditions are met after being placed in the virtual space. As described below, assist objects include objects for assisting the avatar of a friendly user and objects for hindering the avatar of an enemy user.

The second part ends when a predetermined time limit has elapsed, even if all of the opposing party's avatars have not been wiped out. Victory conditions include one party having earned more points than the opposing party at the end of the second part's time limit. In the second part, points can be earned by collecting designated objects placed in the virtual space.

In the second part, there is a limit to the number of users that can belong to a single party. As an example, the maximum number of users in a single party is six. The maximum number of users in a single party may be two to five, or seven or more. As an example, a party in the second part may include a small group formed in another part, or a small group made up of people who have a relationship such as friends. A party with a maximum number of six users may be formed by combining a group of two and a group of three with an individual user, or a party in the second part may include six individual users. When recruiting for a party in the second part, individual users may be recruited, or small groups may be recruited.

The second part is not limited to the specifications described above. For example, the second part may be a sport such as soccer, tennis, table tennis, boxing, or basketball. For example, the second part may be a race such as a car race, a yacht race, a ski race, or an aerial race.

As an example, the first part has the following specifications:
In the first part, the user prepares for the battle game included in the second part. The preparation for the battle game includes adding, exchanging, and deleting avatar equipment, avatar skills, and avatar items. The preparation for the battle game may include changing the appearance of the avatar. For example, the appearance of the avatar includes the race, gender, body shape, hairstyle, or facial expression. The preparation for the battle game involves changing the settings of the avatar.

[Overview of screen transitions on devices]
4, as an example, the display screens on each device 100 may include a home screen 40, a matching screen 50, a battle screen 60, an assist transition screen 65, an assist screen 70, and a result screen 75. An overview of the screen transitions will be described below. Specific examples of each display screen will be described later.

The home screen 40 is displayed when the game is in the first part. The matching screen 50 is displayed when the game transitions from the first part to the second part. The battle screen 60 is displayed when the game is in the second part of the battle game. In other words, the battle screen 60 is displayed when the game is in the second part and the avatar of the user using the terminal 100 is in the first state.

The assist transition screen 65 is displayed when transitioning from the battle game to the assist game in the second part. In other words, the assist transition screen 65 is displayed when the game is in the second part and the avatar of the user using the terminal 100 changes from the first state to the second state.

The assist screen 70 is displayed when the assist game is in the second part. In other words, the assist screen 70 is displayed when the game is in the second part and the avatar of the user using the terminal 100 is in the second state. The result screen 75 is displayed when transitioning from the second part to the first part. Note that if an operation is performed on the result screen 75 to instruct the player to continue playing the second part of the game, the matching screen 50 may be displayed without going through the home screen 40.

[Process flow for executing the second part of the game]
An example of the flow of processing for executing the second part of the game will be described below.
As shown in FIG. 5 , in step S100, when the game is in the first part, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 functions as the rendering module 104 to display the home screen 40 on the monitor 166. In step S102, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 functions as the game module 101A and receives a start operation instructing the start of the second part, the processor 110 transmits a matching start request to the server 200. As an example, the processor 110 receives the start operation when the party to which the user of the terminal 100 belongs includes multiple users. In other words, the processor 110 does not receive the start operation when the party to which the user of the terminal 100 belongs includes no multiple users. As an example, the processor 110 may receive the start operation when the party to which the user of the terminal 100 belongs includes the upper limit number of users. In other words, the processor 110 does not receive the start operation when the party to which the user of the terminal 100 belongs includes no upper limit number of users. When a matching start request is sent, the processor 110 functions as the rendering module 104 to display the matching screen 50 on the monitor 166 .

In step S104, the processor 210 of the server 200, functioning as the game module 101A, receives a request to start matching. In step S106, the processor 210 of the server 200 performs matching processing. In the matching processing, the processor 210, functioning as the game module 201A, searches for a party that meets the conditions for competing against the party to which the user using the terminal 100 belongs, from among one or more parties that are waiting to be matched. The waiting to be matched state is a state in which a request to start matching has been received, but the party that will be the opponent has not yet been determined.

In step S108, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, determines the parties that meet the conditions as enemy parties and completes the matching. In other words, the processor 210 determines the multiple parties that will participate in one second part game. These multiple parties include one or more friendly parties and one or more enemy parties. In the following description, the multiple parties that will participate in one second part game will be referred to as "participating parties."

Participating parties include at least one or more first parties and one or more second parties. Belonging to a first party is an example of a first attribute. Belonging to a second party is an example of a second attribute. Attributes are not limited to this, but may also be whether or not friends are registered, whether or not multiple users belong to the same guild, or whether or not multiple parties belong to the same union (camp).

In step S110, the processor 210 of the server 200 defines a virtual space as the game module 201A. Step S110 is an example of defining a virtual space. In step S112, the processor 210 of the server 200 places one or more objects in the virtual space as the game module 201A. The one or more objects include avatars of users who each belong to a plurality of participating parties.

An avatar of another user who belongs to a first party is an example of a first character that is different from the player character. An avatar of another user who belongs to a second party is an example of a second character that is different from the player character. In this way, the virtual space is provided with a first group that corresponds to a first attribute and includes one or more first characters, and a second group that corresponds to a second attribute and includes one or more second characters. A user may belong to either the first party or the second party. In other words, the player's attribute may be either the first attribute or the second attribute. A player character may be included in either the first group or the second group depending on the player's attribute. Users who belong to one or more friendly parties are friendly users who have the same attribute. Users who belong to multiple opposing parties are enemy users who have different attributes.

In step S112, the avatar of one user, the avatar of the one user, the avatar of the friendly user, and the avatar of the enemy user are placed in the virtual space as seen from the user's perspective. Step S112 is an example of placing a player character in the virtual space. Step S112 is also an example of placing a first character and a second character different from the player character in the virtual space.

As an example, the one or more objects may include a field object that forms the stage for a battle game. In other words, the virtual space may include a field that allows movement of player characters. As an example, the one or more objects may include an enemy character that is common to multiple participating parties. As an example, the one or more objects may include an obstacle or trap that is common to multiple participating parties.

In step S114, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends a battle start request to the terminal 100. The processor 210 sends the battle start request to all terminals 100 used by users belonging to the participating party.

In step S116, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, functioning as the game module 101A, receives a battle start request. In step S118, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, functioning as the rendering module 104, displays the battle screen 60 on the monitor 166. In other words, the game transitions from the first part to the second part on multiple terminals 100 used in a certain second part of the game.

In step S120, the processor 210 of the server 200 performs server-side battle processing as the game module 201A. As an example, the processor 210 may receive first play information from multiple terminals 100 used by multiple users participating in the same second part of the game. The processor 210 may receive second play information from multiple terminals 100 used by multiple users participating in the same second part of the game. The processor 210 generates each piece of progress information in accordance with the play information received from the multiple terminals 100. The processor 210 transmits each piece of progress information to all terminals 100 used by users participating in the same second part of the game. The progress information may include first progress information and second progress information.

In step S122, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, performs terminal-side battle processing. As an example, the processor 110 receives each piece of progress information. The processor 110, as the rendering module 104, displays the battle screen 60 or the assist screen 70 on the monitor 166 in accordance with the received piece of progress information. Each piece of progress information may include first progress information and second progress information. The processor 110 generates each piece of play information in accordance with the various operations received and transmits it to the server 200. Each piece of play information includes first play information and second play information.

In step S124, if the end condition for the second part is met, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends a battle end request to all terminals 100 used by users participating in the same game for the second part. As an example, the end condition for the second part is met if one or more parties meet the victory condition before the time limit for the second part has elapsed, or if the time limit for the second part has elapsed.

In step S126, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, functioning as the game module 101A, receives a battle end request. In step S126, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, functioning as the rendering module 104, displays the result screen 75 on the monitor 166. In step S128, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, functioning as the rendering module 104, displays the home screen 40 on the monitor 166. In other words, the game on the terminal 100 transitions from the second part to the first part.

[Process flow for managing avatar behavior]
An example of the flow of a process for managing the behavior of an avatar will be described. The process for managing the behavior of an avatar is included in the battle process on the terminal side (step S122) and the battle process on the server side (step S120). Note that the terminal 100 is a terminal used by a user whose avatar is in the first state.

As shown in FIG. 6 , in step S130, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives, as the game module 101A, an operation to instruct the player's own avatar to move, an operation to instruct an attack on another avatar, or an operation to instruct an attack on a predetermined object, the processor 110 transmits first play information to the server 200. The operation to instruct the player to move the avatar is an example of a first operation by the player or a predetermined operation. The first play information is an example of first information or operation information. In step S132, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives, as the game module 201A, the first play information. Step S132 is an example of receiving first information transmitted by the terminal 100 that has received the player's first operation. Step S132 is an example of receiving operation information transmitted by the terminal 100 that has received the player's predetermined operation.

In step S134, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, manages the movement of the avatar in accordance with the received first play information. The processor 210 does not move the avatar in accordance with the first play information when the avatar is in the second state. The processor 210 moves the avatar in accordance with the first play information when the avatar is in the first state. Step S134 is an example of moving the player character in virtual space in accordance with the received first information. Step S134 is an example of restricting the execution of moving the player character in virtual space when the player character's state is in the second state.

In step S136, the processor 210 of the server 200 manages attack actions by the avatar as the game module 201A. When the avatar is in the second state, the processor 210 does not cause the avatar to perform an attack action in accordance with the first play information. When the avatar is in the first state, the processor 210 causes the avatar to perform an attack action in accordance with the first play information. The processor 210 determines whether the attack has hit the avatar of the enemy user. If the processor 210 determines that the attack has hit the avatar of the enemy user, it reduces the hit points of that avatar. In other words, as an example, the processor 210 manages hit points as an example of parameter values corresponding to each of the avatar of the single user, the avatar of the friendly user, and the avatar of the enemy user, as seen from the perspective of that single user.

Step S136 is an example of causing the player character to attack in the virtual space in accordance with the received information. Step S136 is an example of restricting the execution of causing the player character to attack in the virtual space when the state of the player character is the second state. Step S136 is an example of managing parameter values corresponding to each of the player character, the first character, and the second character. Steps S134 and S136 are examples of causing a first event to occur in the virtual space in accordance with the received operation information when the state of the player character is the first state. In other words, the movement and attack of the avatar are examples of the first event.

In step S138, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, transmits the first progress information to the terminal 100. In step S140, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives the first progress information. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, updates the virtual space. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays the battle screen 60 or the assist screen 70 on the monitor 166 according to the updated virtual space.

[Process flow for changing avatar status]
An example of the flow of the process for changing the state of an avatar will be described. The process for changing the state of an avatar is a process for transitioning from a battle game to an assist game. The process for changing the state of an avatar is included in the battle process on the terminal side (step S122) and the battle process on the server side (step S120).

As shown in FIG. 7, in step S200, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, determines whether a specific parameter value for each avatar has reached a specific value. As an example, the processor 210 determines whether the hit points of the avatar have reached 0. Step S200 is an example of determining whether a specific condition has been met for each avatar.

If the hit points have not reached 0, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, repeats step S202. In other words, the processor 210 waits. If the hit points have reached 0, the processor 210 of the server 200 proceeds to step S202. In step S202, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, changes the status information of the avatar whose hit points have reached 0 from content indicating a first state to content indicating a second state. As an example, the status information is stored in the memory 220, which serves as the memory module 205. In other words, the processor 210 changes the state of the avatar from a alive state to a dead state. Step S202 is an example of changing the state of the player character from the first state to the second state when a specific condition is met. Step S202 is an example of changing the state of the first character or the second character whose corresponding parameter value has reached a specific value from the first state to the second state.

In step S138 described above, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, transmits first progress information indicating the avatar that has become dead to the terminal 100. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, removes the avatar that has become dead from the virtual space in accordance with the received first progress information. In other words, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, does not display the avatar that has become dead on the monitor 166.

In addition to this, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, may place one or more objects in the virtual space instead of removing the avatar from the virtual space. These one or more objects may be gravestone objects for the avatar being removed from the virtual space, or designated objects collected by the avatar being removed from the virtual space. Step S138 is an example of sending a request to the terminal 100 not to display the player character on the field when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state.

In step S204, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends an assist start request to the device 100 being used to control the avatar whose hit points have reached 0. In step S206, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives the assist start request. In step S208, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays the assist transition screen 65 and the assist screen 70 on the monitor 166 in that order. As will be described in detail below, the assist transition screen 65 includes information notifying the start of an assist game. In other words, step S204 is an example of sending a request to the terminal 100 to notify the start of a second game when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state.

As an example, in step S208, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 changes the viewpoint when generating a rendered image of the virtual space from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint. In other words, step S204 is an example of sending a request to the terminal to change the viewpoint when generating a rendered image of the virtual space from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state. As an example, the first viewpoint is a viewpoint corresponding to the player character. As an example, the second viewpoint is a viewpoint overlooking the field.

[Processing flow for placing an assist object]
An example of the flow of the process for placing an assist object will be described. The process for placing an assist object is included in the battle process on the terminal side (step S122) and the battle process on the server side (step S120).

As shown in FIG. 8 , in step S210, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 as the game module 101A receives a placement operation instructing the placement of an assist object, it transmits an object placement request to the server 200. The object placement request is included in the second play information. The placement operation instructing the placement of an assist object is an example of a second operation or a predetermined operation. The second play information (object placement request) is an example of second information or operation information.

In step S212, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives an object placement request as the game module 201A. Step S212 is an example of receiving second information transmitted by the terminal 100 that has accepted a second operation by the user. Step S212 is an example of receiving operation information transmitted by the terminal 100 that has accepted a predetermined operation by the user.

In step S214, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, determines whether the number of placed assist objects has reached a specified number N. The processor 210 counts the number of placed assist objects for each user participating in the second part. The specified number N may be 1, or may be 2 or more.

If the number of assist objects placed has not reached the specified number N, the processor 210 of the server 200 proceeds to step S216. In step S216, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, places the assist object in the virtual space in response to the object placement request. As one example, the processor 210 places the assist object at a position corresponding to the coordinate information included in the second play information. As another example, the processor 210 places an assist object of a type corresponding to the type information included in the second play information. Step S216 is an example of placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in response to the received second information when the player character's state is the second state. Step S216 is an example of generating a second event different from the first event in the virtual space in response to the received operation information when the player character's state is the second state. In other words, placing an assist object in the virtual space is an example of the second event. When step S216 ends, the processor 210 proceeds to step S218.

If the number of placed assist objects has reached the specified number N, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, does not perform step S216. In other words, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, does not place any assist objects in the virtual space. Step S214 is an example of restricting the placement of additional specific objects in the virtual space when the specified number N of specific objects have been placed in the virtual space.

In step S218, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends an object display request to the terminal 100. The object display request includes information indicating the attributes of the user who placed the assist object. The object display request is included in the second progress information. In step S220, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives the object display request.

When an object display request is received, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, places an assist object in the virtual space in response to the object display request. When displaying an assist object on each screen 60, 65, 70, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays attribute information indicating the attributes of the user who placed the assist object on the monitor 166. Step S218 is an example of sending a request to the terminal 100 to notify information indicating the attributes of the player who placed the specific object when second play information is received.

[Processing flow for removing an assist object from virtual space]
An example of the process flow for removing an assist object from the virtual space will be described below. The process for removing an assist object from the virtual space is included in the battle process on the terminal side (step S122) and the battle process on the server side (step S120).

As shown in FIG. 9, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, performs processing to remove each assist object placed in the virtual space from the virtual space. In step S230, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, determines whether or not a removal time T1 has elapsed since the assist object was placed. For each assist object placed in the virtual space, the processor 210 measures the elapsed time since the assist object was placed.

If removal time T1 has not elapsed, processor 210 of server 200, as game module 201A, repeats step S230. In other words, processor 210 waits. If removal time T1 has elapsed, processor 210 of server 200 proceeds to step S232. In step S232, processor 210 of server 200, as game module 201A, removes the assist object placed in the virtual space. In other words, the removal condition for the assist object may be satisfied when removal time T1 has elapsed.

In step S232, the assist objects removed from the virtual space include assist objects of the first system. In step S232, the assist objects removed from the virtual space include assist objects of the second system that have not been removed from the virtual space and for which removal time T1 has passed since they were placed. Step S232 is an example of removing each specific object placed in the virtual space from the virtual space when the time since the specific object was placed in the virtual space reaches a specified time.

In step S234, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends an object removal request to the terminal 100. The object removal request is included in the second progress information. In step S236, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives the object removal request. In step S236, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, removes the assist object placed in the virtual space. In other words, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, does not display the removed assist object on the monitor 166.

[Processing flow for exerting the effect of the second system assist object]
An example of the process flow for exerting the effects of the second-system assist objects will be described below. The process for exerting the effects of the second-system assist objects is included in the terminal-side battle process (step S122) and the server-side battle process (step S120).

As shown in FIG. 10, the processor 210 of the server 200 performs processing to activate the effect of the second system of assist objects for each assist object placed in the virtual space. In step S240, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, determines whether the activation condition for activating the effect of the second system of assist objects has been met.

As an example, the activation condition may be that a predetermined activation time T2 has elapsed since the assist object was placed in the virtual space. As an example, the activation condition may be that a specific avatar comes into contact with the assist object. As an example, the activation condition may be that a specific avatar enters a certain range centered on the assist object. As an example, the activation condition may be that an attack from a specific avatar hits the assist object. As an example, the specific avatar may be the avatar of an allied user from the perspective of the user who placed the assist object. As an example, the specific avatar may be the avatar of an enemy user from the perspective of the user who placed the assist object. As an example, the specific avatar may be both the avatar of an allied user and the avatar of an enemy user from the perspective of the user who placed the assist object.

If the activation condition is not met, the processor 210 of the server 200 repeats step S240 as the game module 201A. In other words, the processor 210 waits. If the activation condition is met, the processor 210 of the server 200 proceeds to step S242.

In step S242, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, exerts the effect of the assist object in the virtual space. As described below, the conditions for removing the assist object may be met when the effect of the assist object is exerted. In step S242, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, removes the assist object from the virtual space when the conditions for removing the assist object are met.

In step S244, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, sends an effect display request to the terminal 100. If the condition for removing the assist object is met, the effect display request includes information instructing the assist object to be removed from the virtual space.

In step S246, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives an effect display request. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, exerts the effect of the assist object in the virtual space. If the effect display request instructs the processor 110 of the terminal 100 to remove the assist object, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, removes the assist object from the virtual space. When displaying the assist object, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays information on the monitor 166 indicating that the effect of the assist object has been exerted.

[Example of display screen on terminal and processing flow related to display]
[Outline of virtual space]
As an example, the virtual space defined by the server 200 and events in this virtual space can be reproduced simultaneously on all terminals 100 used by users participating in the same second part of the game. In other words, the virtual space managed by the server 200 and events in this virtual space are updated in accordance with the play information received from each terminal 100. The server 200 transmits progress information to each terminal 100 in accordance with the results of updating the virtual space and events in the virtual space. The virtual space managed by each terminal 100 and events in this virtual space are updated each time in accordance with the progress information received from the server 200. In the following description, when simply referring to a "virtual space," it refers to a virtual space shared by the server 200 and multiple terminals 100.

As shown in FIG. 11 , various objects that can be placed in the virtual space 80 include a user's avatar 81. Various objects that can be placed in the virtual space 80 include a terrain object 92 for constituting a field 92A. As an example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that affects the movement of the avatar. For example, the terrain object 92 may include objects that limit the movement of the avatar, such as trees, rocks, rivers, oceans, and mountains. For example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that reduces the movement speed of the avatar, such as a swamp. For example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that increases the movement speed of the avatar, such as an ice sheet. As an example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that affects the parameter values of the avatar. For example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that reduces the hit points of the avatar, such as a poisonous swamp. For example, the terrain object 92 may include an object that increases the hit points of the avatar, such as a healing spring.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the various objects that can be placed in the virtual space 80 include an assist object 94 .
A specific example of the first system of assist objects will be described.

For example, the first system of assist objects 94 may include a wall object 94A that has the effect of restricting the passage of avatars. The wall object 94A is an example of a first specific object. The wall object 94A may have the effect of preventing the passage of avatars of both friendly and enemy users. The wall object 94A may have the effect of allowing avatars of friendly users to pass through but not avatars of enemy users. The first specific object may be an object that restricts the passage of at least the second character. The removal condition for the wall object 94A may be met when a removal time T1 has elapsed since the wall object was placed in the virtual space.

A specific example of the second system assist object will be described.
For example, the second system of assist objects 94 may include a wooden box object 94B that can be destroyed when an avatar of a friendly user lands an attack and has the effect of restoring the hit points of that avatar. The wooden box object 94B may be destroyed when an avatar of an enemy user lands an attack and has the effect of restoring the hit points of that avatar. The wooden box object 94B may be an object that can be activated by at least the first character. The activation condition for the wooden box object 94B may be met when an avatar lands an attack. The removal condition for the wooden box object 94B may be met when the effect is activated or when a removal time T1 has elapsed since the wooden box object 94B was placed in the virtual space.

For example, the second system of assist objects 94 may include a hot spring object 94C that has the effect of restoring the hit points of an avatar of a friendly user that enters a certain range when that avatar enters the certain range. The hot spring object 94C is an example of a second specific object. The assist object 94 may have the effect of restoring the hit points of an avatar of an enemy user that enters the certain range when that avatar enters the certain range. The second specific object may be an object that can restore at least the parameter values corresponding to the first character. The activation condition for the hot spring object 94C may be met when the avatar enters the certain range. The removal condition for the hot spring object 94C may be met when a removal time T1 has elapsed since the hot spring object 94C was placed in the virtual space.

For example, the second system of assist objects 94 may include a bomb object 94D that explodes after a certain time has passed since it was placed. When it explodes, the bomb object 94D has the effect of reducing the hit points of the avatars of enemy users within a certain range. When it explodes, the bomb object 94D may also have the effect of reducing the hit points of the avatars of friendly users within a certain range. The bomb object 94D may be an object that can reduce at least a specific parameter value of the second character. The activation condition for the bomb object 94D may be met when a certain time has passed since it was placed in the virtual space. The removal condition for the bomb object 94D may be met when its effect is exerted.

For example, the second system of assist objects 94 may include a trap object that has the effect of immobilizing an enemy user's avatar for a certain period of time when it touches the trap object. The trap object may also have the effect of immobilizing an ally user's avatar for a certain period of time when it touches the trap object. The trap object is preferably an object that can restrict the movement of at least the second character for a certain period of time. The activation condition for the trap object may be met when an avatar touches it. The removal condition for the trap object may be met when the effect is exerted or when the removal time T1 has passed since it was placed in the virtual space.

For example, the second system of assist objects 94 may include a turret object that, when placed, attacks the avatar of an enemy user within a certain range. When the turret object's attack hits the avatar of an enemy user, the avatar's hit points decrease. The turret object may also have the effect of attacking the avatar of an allied user. The turret object is preferably an object that attacks at least the second character. The activation condition for the turret object may be met when an avatar enters within a certain range. The removal condition for the turret object may be met when a removal time T1 has elapsed since the turret object was placed in virtual space.

For example, the assist object 94 may include a poison object that has the effect of reducing the hit points of an enemy user's avatar when it touches that avatar. The poison object may also have the effect of reducing the hit points of an ally user's avatar when it touches that avatar. The poison object may be an object that reduces at least the hit points of the second character. The activation condition for the poison object may be met when it is touched by an avatar. The removal condition for the poison object may be met when its effect is exerted or when the removal time T1 has passed since it was placed in the virtual space.

[Home screen]
13 , in the first part of the game, a home screen 40 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100. The home screen 40 may include various objects. As an example, the home screen 40 may include an avatar window 401, a battle icon 404, and a character icon 406. The home screen 40 may also include a recruiting icon used when recruiting users to join a party, and a broadcast start icon used when broadcasting one's own gameplay.

As an example, the player's own avatar 81 is displayed in the avatar window 401. The appearance of the avatar 81 changes as the avatar's settings are changed throughout the first part of the game. As an example, the player can perform the aforementioned start operation by tapping on the area where the battle icon 404 is displayed. As an example, the player can perform an operation to command the display of a preparation window (not shown) for preparing for the battle game by tapping on the area where the character icon 406 is displayed.

[Matching screen]
14 , when the server 200 is performing the matching process (step S106), a matching screen 50 is displayed on the monitor 166 of each terminal 100. The matching screen 50 may include various objects. The matching screen 50 includes an avatar window 501 that displays the user's avatar. As an example, the avatar window 501 displays the user's own avatar 81. The matching screen 50 includes information such as text data indicating that matching is being performed.

[Battle screen]
15 and 16 , when the second part starts, a battle screen 60 is first displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100. The battle screen 60 is displayed on the monitor 166 when the first game of the second part is being played. The battle screen 60 includes various objects. As an example, the battle screen 60 includes an avatar 81 of each user using the terminal 100. As an example, the battle screen 60 may include a point display field for the party to which the user belongs, and an HP bar 61 that indicates the hit points of the user's avatar.

As an example, in step S122, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays the avatar 81 of the user using the terminal 100 in the center of the monitor 166. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 positions a virtual camera 98 above and behind the avatar 81 in the virtual space 80, and displays on the monitor 166 the range that can be contained within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. The viewpoint above and behind the avatar 81 is an example of a first viewpoint corresponding to the player character. However, the first viewpoint may be a first-person viewpoint in which the field is viewed from the head of the player character, or a bird's-eye view in which the field is viewed from the player character's center.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 places the avatars of friendly users and the avatars of enemy users in the virtual space 80 in accordance with the first progress information received from the server 200 (game module 201A). The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may display the avatars of other users on the monitor 166 if they fall within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. When these avatars are displayed on the monitor 166, they perform an action according to the action information. Furthermore, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 functions as the rendering module 104 to display the avatar of an enemy user, it displays an HP bar 63 indicating the hit points of that avatar on the monitor 166. When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 functions as the rendering module 104 to display the avatar of an friendly user, it displays an HP bar 63 indicating the hit points of that avatar on the monitor 166. As an example, the HP bar 63 is positioned above the head of the avatar 81.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 places one or more assist objects 94 in the virtual space 80 in accordance with the second progress information received from the server 200 (game module 201A). The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may display one or more assist objects 94 on the monitor 166 if the one or more assist objects 94 fall within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. When displaying the assist object 94 on the monitor 166, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays attribute information on the monitor 166 indicating whether the assist object 94 was placed by a user belonging to the first party or the second party. As an example, the attribute information is a frame 62 surrounding the assist object 94. The frame 62 may also be information indicating whether the assist object 94 was placed by a friendly user or an enemy user. Specific objects may be accompanied by different visual effects depending on the attributes of the player.

With reference to Figures 11, 15, and 16, a more specific example of the display mode of the battle screen 60 will be described. In the following description, it is assumed that users A and C belong to the first party, and user B belongs to the second party. The terminals 100 used by users A to C are referred to as terminals 100A to 100C, respectively. The avatars 81 of users A and B are referred to as avatars 81A and 81B, respectively.

The monitor 166 of the terminal 100A displays the area of the virtual space 80 that is within the field of view of the virtual camera 98A corresponding to the avatar 81A. As an example, the virtual camera 98A is positioned above and behind the head of the avatar 81A in the virtual space 80.

Here, objects 94A1 and 94B1 are objects placed by a user belonging to the first party. Objects 94A2 and 94B2 are objects placed by a user belonging to the second party. On monitor 166 of terminal 100A, objects 94A1 and 94B1 are displayed with a red-edged frame 62, as shown by a thick solid line. On monitor 166 of terminal 100A, objects 94A2 and 94B2 are displayed with a blue-edged frame 62, as shown by a thick dashed line.

The monitor 166 of the terminal 100B displays the area of the virtual space 80 that is within the field of view of the virtual camera 98B corresponding to the avatar 81B. As an example, the virtual camera 98B is positioned above and behind the head of the avatar 81B in the virtual space 80.

On monitor 166 of terminal 100B, objects 94A1 and 94B1 are displayed with a red-edged frame 62, as shown by a thick solid line. On monitor 166 of terminal 100A, objects 94A2 and 94B2 are displayed with a blue-edged frame 62, as shown by a thick dashed line.

[Assist transition screen]
17 , when the avatar state changes from the first state to the second state, an assist transition screen 65 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100. The assist transition screen 65 includes start information 66 that notifies the start of the assist game in the second part. As an example, the start information is text data that reads "Assist Start."

As an example, in step S208, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, changes the viewpoint when generating a rendered image of the virtual space 80 from the first viewpoint to the second viewpoint. As an example, the virtual camera 98 is set to a position that overlooks the field, with the position where the avatar's state has been changed to the second state as its center. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays on the monitor 166 the range that can be contained within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. Without being limited to this, the second viewpoint may be a viewpoint corresponding to the avatar of a friendly user, a viewpoint corresponding to the avatar of an enemy user, or a viewpoint corresponding to another object. Note that the first viewpoint may be the same as the second viewpoint.

[Assist screen]
18 , when the game is in the second part, an assist transition screen 65 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100, followed by an assist screen 70. The assist screen 70 may include various objects. As an example, the assist screen 70 includes an assist icon 71 and a viewpoint change icon 702. The assist screen 70 may also include a point display field for the party to which the user belongs. The assist screen 70 may also include a message from a user on the team whose avatar is in the first state.

As an example, the aforementioned placement operation can be performed by tapping the portion where the assist icon 71 is displayed. The assist icon 71 includes information indicating which of multiple types of assist objects can be placed in the virtual space 80 through the placement operation. As an example, the assist icon 71A for placing a wall object 94A includes a picture representing the wall object 94A. As an example, the assist icon 71C for placing a hot spring object includes a picture representing the hot spring object. As an example, the assist icon 71D for placing a bomb object 94D includes a picture representing the bomb object 94D. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, identifies the type of assist object 94 to be placed from the dragged assist icon 71. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 obtains the placement position of the assist object 94 from the dragged position. In step S210, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, transmits second play information (object placement request) including assist object type information and coordinate information to the server 200.

As an example, a viewpoint change operation that instructs a change of viewpoint can be performed by tapping on the area where the viewpoint change icon 702 is displayed. The viewpoint change icon 702 is displayed corresponding to each avatar of allied users that is in the first state.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 places the avatars of friendly users and enemy users in the virtual space 80 in accordance with the first progress information received from the server 200 (game module 201A). The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may display the avatars of other users on the monitor 166 if they fall within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. When these avatars are displayed on the monitor 166, they perform an action according to the action information. In other words, even when the avatar is in the second state, the processor 110 uses the same virtual space 80 as when the avatar was in the first state. Furthermore, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the avatars of friendly users or enemy users, it functions as the rendering module 104 to display HP bars 63 indicating the hit points of the avatars on the monitor 166. As an example, the HP bar 63 is placed above the avatar's head.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, accepts a viewpoint change operation. When a viewpoint change operation is accepted, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 changes the position of the virtual camera 98 to a position that overlooks the field, with the avatar corresponding to the viewpoint change icon that was tapped as the center. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays on the monitor 166 the range that can be contained within the field of view of the virtual camera 98.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 places one or more assist objects 94 in the virtual space 80 in accordance with the second progress information received from the server 200 (game module 201A). The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may display one or more assist objects 94 on the monitor 166 if the one or more assist objects 94 fall within the field of view of the virtual camera 98. When displaying the assist objects 94 on the monitor 166, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the above-mentioned attribute information on the monitor 166. In other words, it is preferable that a specific object be accompanied by a different visual effect depending on the attributes of the player.

11 , 19 , and 20 , a more specific example of the display mode of the assist screen 70 will be described. As shown in FIG. 19 , a virtual camera 98C is set on the monitor 166 at a position overlooking the field 92A. Assume that user C taps the assist icon 71D displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100C and drags it to any position in the field 92A displayed on the monitor 166. In this case, the processor 110 of the terminal 100C, as the game module 101A, identifies a bomb object 94D as the type of assist object instructed to be placed. The processor 110 of the terminal 100C, as the game module 101A, identifies the coordinates at which to place the bomb object 94D1.

As shown in FIG. 20, a bomb object 94D appears on the monitor 166 of terminal 100A. This bomb object 94D takes effect a certain amount of time after it is placed. When the bomb object 94D takes effect, it reduces the hit points of the avatars of enemy users within a certain range. When the bomb object 94D takes effect, it is removed from the virtual space.

The number of users who can participate in the assist game will be explained.
As an example, let P be the number of parties that can participate in one game in the second part, and Q be the number of users that can belong to one party. In this case, when the second part starts, the number of users participating in the battle game is P x Q. Hit points are managed for each avatar. When an avatar's hit points reach 0, the avatar's state changes from the first state to the second state. When the avatar's state changes to the second state, the user who owns that avatar ends the battle game and participates in the assist game. In other words, the number of users participating in the battle game among the party to which the user belongs decreases by 1. The number of users participating in the assist game among the party to which the user belongs increases by 1. As an example, the maximum number of users that can participate in the assist game for each party is Q-1. There may be multiple friendly users participating in the assist game, including the user himself/herself. There may be multiple enemy users participating in the assist game.

[Results screen]
When the second part ends and the game transitions to the first part, a result screen 75 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100. The result screen 75 may include various objects. The result screen 75 may include information such as an icon indicating the party that won the second part, an icon indicating the user who has earned the most points, or an icon indicating the user who has defeated the most other avatars.

The effects of the first embodiment will be described.
(1-1) When a specific condition is met and the state of the avatar changes from a first state to a second state, the movement of the avatar in the virtual space 80 is restricted. Instead, the user can place one or more specific objects in the virtual space. In other words, the gameplay changes before and after the state of the avatar changes to the second state. This increases the user's enjoyment.

(1-2) When the state of the avatar changes from the first state to the second state, the avatar disappears from the field, thereby making the change in gameplay more noticeable.
(1-3) Even when the movement of the user's avatar is restricted, the user can place at least one of a first specific object that restricts the passage of an avatar of an enemy user and a second specific object that can restore the parameter values of an avatar of an ally user. In other words, the user can influence the virtual space 80. This significantly changes the gameplay before and after the avatar's state is changed from the first state to the second state. This further increases the user's enjoyment.

(1-4) There is an upper limit to the number of specific objects that a user can place, so that the impact on the virtual space 80 is not excessive.
(1-5) A specific object placed by a user is removed after a specified time has elapsed. This allows a user to place a new specific object after the specified time has elapsed, even after placing a specified number of specific objects. This allows a user to continue intervening in the virtual space for a longer period of time.

(1-6) When the avatar's state changes from the first state to the second state, the viewpoint changes from a first-person viewpoint to a bird's-eye view. This allows the user to place specific objects while overlooking the virtual space 80.

(1-7) The start of the second game is announced, so that the user can prepare in advance for the change in the game characteristics.
(1-8) Information indicating the attributes of the user who placed the specific object is notified, thereby clarifying the status of the user's intervention in the virtual space 80.

(1-9) It is possible to identify which group a user who placed a specific object belongs to, thereby clarifying the status of the user's intervention in the virtual space 80.
(1-10) Even if the specific object is of the same type, its effect differs depending on whether it is placed by a first party user or a second party user. In other words, the effect of the specific object differs depending on whether it is placed by a friendly user or an enemy user. This prevents the effects of the specific objects from being uniform. This increases the enjoyment of the viewer.

(1-11) The player can distinguish whether a specific object was placed by a friendly user or an enemy user. This allows the player to visually understand the difference in the effects of specific objects placed in the virtual space.

(1-12) The effect of a first specific object placed by a user belonging to a first party is exerted on the avatars of users belonging to the first party, but is not exerted on the avatars of users belonging to a second party. On the other hand, the effect of a first specific object placed by a user belonging to a second party is exerted on the avatars of users belonging to the second party, but is not exerted on the avatars of users belonging to the first party. Therefore, users belonging to each party can selectively exert the effect of the first specific object on avatars corresponding to users who have the same attributes as themselves.

(1-13) The effect of a second specific object placed by a user belonging to the first party is not exerted on the avatar of the user belonging to the first party, but is exerted on the avatar of the user belonging to the second party. On the other hand, the effect of a second specific object placed by a user belonging to the second party is exerted on the avatar of the user belonging to the first party, but is not exerted on the avatar of the user belonging to the second party. Therefore, users belonging to each party can selectively exert the effect of the second specific object on avatars corresponding to users with attributes different from their own.

(1-14) In the second game (for example, an assist game), the user can select a viewpoint that corresponds to the avatar of the user of their choice from among the users who belong to the same party. This allows the user to effectively place specific objects while viewing the avatars of users who belong to the same party.

(1-15) In the second game (for example, an assist game), the user cannot select a viewpoint corresponding to the avatar of a user who belongs to a party other than the user. This prevents the user from easily grasping the movements of the avatar of an opposing user.

(1-16) The user can specify the type and position of a specific object, so that the user can place the specific object as desired.
Second Embodiment
In the game system 10, when an assist object 94 is placed in the virtual space 80 and a new assist object 94 is placed, the previously placed assist object 94 may change when a predetermined change condition is met. As an example, the change in the assist object 94 may include a change in the appearance of the assist object 94 and a change in the effect of the assist object 94.

[Processing flow for changing the assist object]
An example of the flow of processing for changing the assist object will be described.
8, in step S216, processor 210 of server 200, as game module 201A, determines whether or not the change condition is met. If the change condition is not met, processor 210 of server 200, as game module 201A, places a new assist object 94 in virtual space 80. Processor 210 of server 200, as game module 201A, does not change the appearance and effect of assist object 94 previously placed in virtual space 80.

When the change condition is met, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, changes the assist object 94 that was previously placed in the virtual space 80. In the following description, the assist object 94 that was previously placed in the virtual space 80 will be referred to as the "assist object to be combined." Additionally, the assist object 94 that is subsequently placed in the virtual space 80 will be referred to as the "assist object after combination."

As an example, the change condition is met when the original assist object 94 and the combined assist object 94 have a specific relationship. As an example, the specific relationship may be defined from a single perspective, or may be defined by combining multiple perspectives.

As an example, the change condition includes a specific relationship between the type of the original assist object 94 and the type of the combined assist object 94. As an example, the specific relationship may be that the type of the original assist object 94 and the type of the combined assist object 94 are the same or different.

As one example, the change condition includes a specific relationship between the attributes of the user who placed the original assist object 94 and the attributes of the user who will place the combined assist object 94. As one example, the specific relationship may be that the user who placed the original assist object 94 and the user who will place the combined assist object 94 are the same user, or that they are different users. As one example, the specific relationship may be that the user who placed the original assist object 94 and the user who will place the combined assist object 94 are the same party, or that they are different parties. As one example, the specific relationship may be that the user who placed the original assist object 94 and the user who will place the combined assist object 94 are friendly users to each other, or that they are enemy users to each other.

As one example, the change condition includes a specific relationship between the position of the original assist object 94 and the position of the combined assist object 94. As one example, the specific relationship may be that the position of the original assist object 94 and the position of the combined assist object 94 are the same, or that they are within a certain distance from each other. The certain distance may be a distance in the horizontal direction, a distance in the vertical direction, or a combination of these. As one example, the specific relationship may be that the effect ranges of the original assist object 94 and the combined assist object 94 partially overlap, or that the effect ranges of the two completely overlap, or that one effect range includes the effect range of the other.

An example of how the assist object 94 changes will be described.
21 , the manner in which the effect of the assist object 94 is changed may include strengthening that improves the effect of the assist object 94 and interfering that changes the effect of the assist object 94. As an example, strengthening the effect of the assist object 94 may include increasing or decreasing the amount of change in the parameter value of the avatar and increasing or decreasing the range in which the parameter value of the avatar is changed.

As an example, we will explain a case where the original assist object to be combined is a hot spring object 94C placed by an allied user, the combined assist object is also a hot spring object 94C placed by an allied user, and the positions of these two hot spring objects 94C match. In this case, the original hot spring object 94C to be combined changes into a large hot spring object with a luxurious appearance. The large hot spring object recovers hit points faster than the hot spring object 94C when touched by the avatar of the allied user.

As an example, let's consider a case where the original assist object to be combined is a wooden box object 94B placed by an allied user, the combined assist object is also a wooden box object 94B placed by an allied user, and the positions of these two wooden box objects 94B match. In this case, the original wooden box object 94B changes into a stacked wooden box object, which is made up of multiple wooden boxes stacked on top of each other. The stacked wooden box object has the effect of restoring the hit points of all avatars of all allied users within a certain range when an avatar of an allied user attacks. In other words, the range of effect is wider than that of the wooden box object 94B.

As an example, let's consider a case where the original assist object to be combined is a hot spring object 94C placed by an ally user, the combined assist object is a poison object placed by an enemy user, and the positions of these two objects are the same. In this case, the original hot spring object 94C changes into a poisonous swamp object with a poisonous appearance. The poison swamp object has the effect of reducing the hit points of an ally user's avatar when it touches it. In other words, it has different properties from the hot spring object 94C.

The effects of the second embodiment will be described.
(2-1) An effect is exerted according to the combination of a specific object placed by a user belonging to the first party and a specific object placed by a user belonging to the first party. In other words, the effect of the specific object can be changed by multiple users belonging to the first party working together. This provides multiple users with the enjoyment of working together.

(2-2) When a specific object placed by a user belonging to the first party and a specific object placed by a user belonging to the second party have a specific relationship, the effect is different from when these specific objects do not have a specific relationship. This allows users to enjoy the fun of working together to place specific objects.

(2-3) When a specific object placed by a user belonging to a first party and a specific object placed by a user belonging to a second party have a specific relationship, the effect of the specific object placed by the user belonging to the first party will not be exerted on the avatar of the first party. This allows users belonging to the first party to enjoy placing specific objects without being disturbed by users belonging to the second party.

(2-4) When a specific object placed by a user belonging to a first party and a specific object placed by a user belonging to a second party have a specific relationship, the effect of the specific object placed by the user belonging to the first party changes. This allows users belonging to the first party to enjoy placing specific objects in a way that is less likely to be disturbed by users belonging to the second party.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.
The HP bar 63 of an ally user is not displayed on the battle screen 60, but may be displayed on the assist screen 70. In other words, the HP bar 63 of an ally user is not displayed unless the game transitions to an assist game. The HP bar 63 of an enemy user is not displayed on the battle screen 60, but may be displayed on the assist screen 70. In other words, the HP bar 63 of an enemy user is not displayed unless the game transitions to an assist game.

- The HP bar 63 of the ally user may be displayed on both the battle screen 60 and the assist screen 70. In other words, the HP bar 63 of the ally user is displayed on the battle screen 60 and remains displayed even after transitioning to the assist game. The HP bar 63 of the enemy user may be displayed on both the battle screen 60 and the assist screen 70. In other words, the HP bar 63 of the enemy user is displayed on the battle screen 60 and remains displayed even after transitioning to the assist game. In this modified example, the display mode of the HP bar 63 may be different when displayed on the battle screen 60 and when displayed on the assist screen 70. As an example, the display mode of the HP bar 63 may be easier to see when displayed on the assist screen 70 than when displayed on the battle screen 60. For example, the size of the HP bar 63 may be larger when displayed on the assist screen 70 than when displayed on the battle screen 60.

- The display conditions for the HP bar 63 may be different when it is displayed on the battle screen 60 before the avatar enters the second state and when it is displayed on the assist screen 70 after the avatar enters the second state. As an example, on the battle screen 60, the HP bar 63 is displayed only for avatars that are within the field of view of the virtual camera 98 and that are within a certain distance from the virtual camera 98. Then, when the avatar enters the second state and the screen transitions to the assist screen 70, the HP bar 63 is displayed for avatars of friendly users and avatars of enemy users that are within the field of view of the virtual camera 98.

Also, as shown in FIG. 22, on the assist screen 70, the HP bar 63 is displayed for the avatar of an enemy user who is within the field of view of the virtual camera 98, but does not have to be displayed for an allied user. In this case, the hit points of the allied user's avatar may be indicated by an HP bar 703 displayed in a separate portion of the monitor 166 from the HP bar 63. As an example, the HP bar 703 may be displayed in correspondence with multiple viewpoint change icons 702. In this way, the hit points of the enemy user's avatar can be ascertained when that avatar is displayed on the monitor 166, but all of the hit points of the allied user's avatar can always be ascertained. Therefore, in an assist game, the user can easily ascertain which allied users should be assisted and which enemy users should be hindered. In other words, it becomes easier to formulate a strategy for the assist game.

As shown in FIG. 23, the operation for placing an assist unit may be the same as or similar to the operation for moving an avatar in a battle game.
As an example, when the assist icon 71 is tapped, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 temporarily places the assist object 94 at a position displayed in the center of the monitor 166 in the virtual space. When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 has temporarily placed the assist object 94 in the virtual space, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays a cancel button 706, a confirm button 707, and a rotate button 708 on the monitor 166. When an operation to cancel the temporary placement is performed by tapping the portion where the cancel button 706 is displayed, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, removes the temporarily placed assist object 94 from the virtual space. When an operation to rotate the assist object 94 is performed by tapping the portion where the rotate button 708 is displayed, the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, rotates the temporarily placed assist object 94.

As an example, the battle screen 60 and the assist screen 70 include a first virtual stick 710 and a second virtual stick 720. On the battle screen 60, the first virtual stick 710 can instruct the player to move the avatar 81 in virtual space. On the battle screen 60, the second virtual stick 720 can instruct the player to change the camera angle. As an example, by operating the second virtual stick 720, the virtual camera 98 can instruct the player to rotate around the player's avatar 81 while keeping the avatar 81 within its field of view. Meanwhile, on the assist screen 70, the first virtual stick 710 can instruct the player to move an assist object 94 that is temporarily placed in virtual space. On the assist screen 70, the second virtual stick 720 can instruct the player to change the camera angle. As an example, by operating the second virtual stick 720, the virtual camera 98 can instruct the player to rotate around the assist object 94 while keeping the assist object 94 within its field of view.

When the processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the game module 101A, receives an operation to move the temporarily placed assist object 94, it moves the assist object 94 in virtual space. The processor 110 of the terminal 100C, as the rendering module 104, causes the virtual camera 98 to follow the temporarily placed assist object 94 to a position that overlooks the field 92A, with the temporarily placed assist object 94 at its center. In other words, as an example, the display position of the temporarily placed assist object 94 is maintained in the center of the monitor 166. Note that, as described above, as an example, the display position of the player's avatar 81 on the battle screen 60 is maintained in the center of the monitor 166.

When the processor 110 of the terminal 100C, as the rendering module 104, receives a rotation operation of the virtual camera 98, it rotates the virtual camera 98 along a trajectory centered on the assist object 94. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, displays on the monitor 166 the range that can be contained within the field of view of the virtual camera 98 after the movement.

When an operation to confirm the placement of the assist object 94 is performed by tapping the area where the confirm button 707 is displayed, the processor 110 of the participating device 100C, as the game module 101A, acquires the type of the temporarily placed assist object 94 and the position of the temporarily placed assist object 94. Then, in step S210, the processor 110 of the device 100C, as the game module 101A, transmits second play information (object placement request) including the type information and coordinate information of the assist object 94 to the server 200.

In this modified example, the operation method in the first game (battle game) and the operation method in the second game (assist game) are the same or similar. In other words, the operation method is the same or similar before the avatar's state changes to the second state and after the avatar's state changes to the second state. This makes it possible to reduce user confusion caused by differences in operation methods.

- The game system 10 may be configured to place an assist object by consuming points owned by the user. The points consumed when placing an assist object in the virtual space may differ depending on the type of assist object, or some or all of them may be the same. As an example, when the processor 210 of the server 200 receives an object placement request (second play information) as the game module 201A, it identifies the points to be consumed based on the type of assist object instructed to be placed in the request. The processor 210 reduces the points owned by the user according to the identified points to be consumed. Then, in step S216, the processor 210 places the assist object in the virtual space. If the points owned by the user are less than the identified points to be consumed, the processor 110 does not place the assist object. As an example, the points owned by the user may increase over time.

- The game system 10 may be configured to shorten the removal time T1 until the assist object is removed. As an example, the processor 210 of the server 200, as the game module 201A, manages a durability value, which is an example of a parameter value, instead of managing elapsed time. The processor 210 of the server 200 reduces the durability value as time passes. The processor 210 of the server 200 reduces the durability value of the assist object in response to the actions of a user with attributes different from the user who placed the assist object. As an example, an action that reduces the durability value of an assist object is to have an avatar hit the assist object. As an example, an action that reduces the durability value of an assist object is to have the assist object exert the effect of a specified assist object. As an example, the specified assist object may be a bomb object 94D.

In step S232, the processor 210 of the server 200 removes the assist object whose durability value has reached 0 from the virtual space. The processor 110 of the terminal 100, as the rendering module 104, may display an image indicating the durability value of the assist object in association with the assist object.

The multiple terminals 100 may be realized as computers with different configurations.
One or more modules included in the control modules 101 and 201 may be realized by circuits such as ASIC, PLD, FPGA, and MCU.

- One or more modules included in the control modules 101, 201 may be implemented by software using a processor. A computer including at least one of the control modules 101, 201 includes a processor, memory, and storage. The above programs and various data are recorded in the storage so that they can be read by the processor. The programs are deployed in the memory. The processor then reads and executes the programs from the storage, thereby realizing the functions of the present disclosure. As already explained, the storage can be implemented as a non-volatile storage device.

The program may be supplied to the computer via any transmission medium capable of transmitting the program (such as a communication network or broadcast waves).
The program may be recorded on a recording medium such as a magnetic disk (floppy disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, MO, etc.), or a semiconductor memory (ROM, RAM, flash memory, etc.).

The present disclosure includes the following examples, in which reference numbers are provided to elements of the embodiments to aid understanding and not by way of limitation.
(Supplementary Note 1) A method for controlling a game system includes: defining a virtual space (80) in a computer (200) (S110); arranging a player character (80A, 80B) corresponding to a player operating a terminal (100) in the virtual space (S212); changing a state of the player character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met (S202); receiving first information transmitted by the terminal that has accepted a first operation by the player (S132); and controlling the player character in the virtual space in accordance with the received first information. moving a character (S134); restricting execution of moving the player character in the virtual space when the state of the player character is the second state (S134); receiving second information transmitted by the terminal that has accepted a second operation by the player (S212); and, when the state of the player character is the second state, arranging one or more specific objects (94) in the virtual space in accordance with the received second information (S216).

(Appendix 2) The program described in Appendix 1 further executes the following: the virtual space (80) includes a field that allows movement of the player character; and the computer (200) transmits to the terminal (S138) a request to not display the player character in the field when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state.

(Appendix 3) The program described in Appendix 1 or 2 further causes the computer (200) to place a first character and a second character different from the player character in the virtual space (S112); manage parameter values corresponding to each of the player character, the first character, and the second character (S136); and change the state of the first character and the second character whose corresponding parameter value has reached a specific value from the first state to the second state (S202), wherein the specific condition is met when the parameter value corresponding to the player character reaches the specific value, the one or more specific objects (94) include at least one of a first specific object and a second specific object, the first specific object is an object that restricts at least the second character from passing through, and the second specific object is an object that can restore at least the parameter value corresponding to the first character.

(Appendix 4) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3 further causes the computer (200) to restrict the placement of additional specific objects in the virtual space (80) when a specified number of the specific objects (94) have been placed in the virtual space (80).

(Appendix 5) The program described in Appendix 4 further causes the computer (200) to remove each specific object (94) placed in the virtual space (80) from the virtual space when a specified time has elapsed since the specific object was placed in the virtual space.

(Appendix 6) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 5, further causing the computer (200) to send to the terminal (S204) a request to change the viewpoint from a first viewpoint to a second viewpoint when generating a rendered image of the virtual space (80) when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state, wherein the virtual space includes a field that allows movement of the player character, the first viewpoint is a viewpoint corresponding to the player character, and the second viewpoint is a viewpoint overlooking the field.

(Appendix 7) The program described in Appendix 6 further causes the computer to execute the following: (1) the first state is a state in which the player can participate in a first game including moving the player character in the virtual space (80); (2) the second state is a state in which the player cannot participate in the first game but can participate in a second game including placing the one or more specific objects in the virtual space; and (3) when the state of the player character is changed from the first state to the second state, the program causes the computer to send a request to the terminal to notify the start of the second game (S204).

(Appendix 8) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 7, further causing the computer (200) to, when receiving the second information, send to the terminal a request to notify information indicating the attributes of the player who placed the specific object (94).

(Appendix 9) The program described in Appendix 8, wherein the virtual space (90) is provided with a first group corresponding to a first attribute and including one or more first characters, and a second group corresponding to a second attribute and including one or more second characters, the player's attribute is the first attribute or the second attribute, the player character is included in the first group or the second group depending on the player's attribute, and the specific object has a different visual effect depending on the player's attribute.

(Appendix 10) A program that causes a computer (200) to define a virtual space (80) (S110), place a player character corresponding to a player operating a terminal (100) in the virtual space (S212), change the state of the player character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met (S202), receive operation information transmitted by the terminal that has accepted a predetermined operation by the player (S132, S212), cause a first event to occur in the virtual space in accordance with the received operation information when the state of the player character is in the first state (S134, S136), and cause a second event different from the first event to occur in the virtual space in accordance with the received operation information when the state of the player character is in the second state (S216).

(Appendix 11) A computer (200) comprising a storage device (230) storing the program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 10, and a processor (210) that executes the program stored in the storage device.

(Supplementary Note 12) A system (10) comprising the computer (200) described in Supplementary Note 11.
(Supplementary Note 13) A computer (200) defines a virtual space (80) (S110), places a player character (80A, 80B) corresponding to a player operating a terminal (100) in the virtual space (S112), changes the state of the player character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met (S202), receives first information transmitted by the terminal that has accepted a first operation by the player (S132), and performs the first operation in the virtual space in accordance with the received first information. A method for executing the steps of: moving a player character (S134); restricting execution of moving the player character in the virtual space when the state of the player character is the second state (S134); receiving second information transmitted by the terminal that has accepted a second operation by the player (S212); and, when the state of the player character is the second state, placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in accordance with the received second information (S216).

(Appendix 14) A program that causes a computer to function as: character placement means for placing a character corresponding to a user in a virtual space; state change means for changing the state of the character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met; movement means for moving the character in the virtual space in accordance with first operation information by the user; restriction means for restricting the movement of the character in the virtual space when the character state is the second state; and specific object placement means for placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in accordance with second operation information by the user when the character state is the second state, wherein the character placement means places a character corresponding to a first user, a character corresponding to a second user, and a character corresponding to a third user in the virtual space; and when the state of the character corresponding to the first user is the first state, the state of the character corresponding to the second user is the first state, and the state of the character corresponding to the third user is the second state, when the specific object is placed in the virtual space in accordance with the second operation information by the third user, the specific object is displayed to the first user and the second user.

(Appendix 15) The program described in Appendix 14, wherein the virtual space includes a field in which each character placed in the virtual space can move, and a character placed in the virtual space that has been changed from the first state to the second state is not displayed in the field.

(Appendix 16) The program described in Appendix 14 or Appendix 15, wherein the one or more specific objects include at least one of a first specific object and a second specific object, the first specific object being an object that restricts the passage of at least a character corresponding to the second user, and the second specific object being an object that can restore a parameter value corresponding to at least a character corresponding to the first user.

(Appendix 17) The program described in any one of Appendices 14 to 16, further causing the computer to function as placement restriction means that restricts the placement of additional specific objects in the virtual space when a specified number of the specific objects have been placed in the virtual space.

(Appendix 18) The program described in Appendix 17 further causes the computer to function as removal means that removes the specific object placed in the virtual space from the virtual space when a specified time has elapsed since the specific object was placed in the virtual space.

(Appendix 19) The program described in any one of Appendices 15 to 18, further causing the computer to function as viewpoint change means for changing the viewpoint from a first viewpoint to a second viewpoint when generating an image that is displayed to a user corresponding to a character that has been changed from the first state to the second state and that is a rendered image of the virtual space, the virtual space including a field in which a character placed in the virtual space can move, the first viewpoint being a viewpoint corresponding to the character placed in the virtual space, and the second viewpoint being a viewpoint that overlooks the field.

(Appendix 20) The program described in Appendix 19, wherein the first state is a state in which participation in a first game including moving a character placed in the virtual space is possible, and the second state is a state in which participation in the first game is not possible but a state in which participation in a second game including placing the one or more specific objects in the virtual space is possible, and further causes the computer to function as start notification means for notifying a user corresponding to a character changed from the first state to the second state that the second game has started.

(Appendix 21) The program described in any one of Appendices 14 to 20, further causing the computer to function as information notification means for notifying information indicating the attributes of the user who placed the specific object.

(Appendix 22) The program described in Appendix 21, wherein the groups into which characters placed in the virtual space are classified include a first group into which characters corresponding to users with a first attribute are classified, and a second group into which characters corresponding to users with a second attribute are classified, and the specific object has different visual effects depending on the attributes of the users.

(Appendix 23) A program that causes a computer to function as: character placement means for placing a character corresponding to a user in a virtual space; state change means for changing the state of the character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met; first event generation means for generating a first event in the virtual space in accordance with operation information by the user when the character state is the first state; and second event generation means for generating a second event different from the first event in the virtual space in accordance with the operation information by the user when the character state is the second state; wherein the character placement means places a character corresponding to a first user, a character corresponding to a second user, and a character corresponding to a third user in the virtual space; and wherein, when the state of the character corresponding to the first user is the first state, the state of the character corresponding to the second user is the first state, and the state of the character corresponding to the third user is the second state, and the second event is generated in the virtual space in accordance with the operation information by the third user, the second event is displayed to the first user and the second user.

(Appendix 24) An information processing system comprising: character placement means for placing a character corresponding to a user in a virtual space; state change means for changing the state of the character from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met; movement means for moving the character in the virtual space in accordance with first operation information by the user; restriction means for restricting the movement of the character in the virtual space when the character state is the second state; and specific object placement means for placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in accordance with second operation information by the user when the character state is the second state, wherein the character placement means places a character corresponding to a first user, a character corresponding to a second user, and a character corresponding to a third user in the virtual space; and when the state of the character corresponding to the first user is the first state, the state of the character corresponding to the second user is the first state, and the state of the character corresponding to the third user is the second state, when the specific object is placed in the virtual space in accordance with the second operation information by the third user, the specific object is displayed to the first user and the second user.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, some of the components described in the embodiment (or one or more aspects thereof) may be omitted, or several components may be combined. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

10... Game system, 40... Home screen, 50... Matching screen, 60... Battle screen, 61... HP bar, 62... Border line, 65... Assist transition screen, 66... Start information, 70... Assist screen, 71... Assist icon, 71A... Assist icon, 71C... Assist icon, 71D... Assist icon, 75... Result screen, 80... Virtual space, 81... Avatar, 81A... Avatar, 81B... Avatar, 90... Network, 92... Terrain object, 92A... Field, 94... Assist object, 94A, 94A1, 94A2... Wall object, 94B, 94B1, 94B2... Wooden box object, 94D... Bomb object, 98, 98A to 98C... Virtual camera, 100... Terminal, 101... Control module, 101A... Game module, 101B... Distribution module, 101C... Viewing module, 104... Rendering module, 105... Memory module, 106...Communication module, 107...Input/output module, 110...Processor, 120...Memory, 130...Storage, 140...Communication IF, 150...Input/output IF, 160...Microphone, 162...Speaker, 164...Touch screen, 166...Monitor, 167...Touch sensor, 180...Communication bus, 190...Input/output device, 200...Server, 200A...Game server, 200B...Distribution server, 201...Control module, 201A...Game module, 201B...Distribution module, 205...Memory module, 206...Communication module, 207...Input/output module, 210...Processor, 220...Memory, 230...Storage, 240...Communication IF, 250...Input/output IF, 280...Communication bus, 401...Avatar window, 404...Battle icon, 406...Character icon, 701...Avatar window, 702...Viewpoint change icon

Claims (2)

Computer,
a state changing means for changing a state of a character in the virtual space operated by a user from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met;
a moving means for moving the character in the virtual space in response to first operation information by the user;
a restricting means for restricting movement of the character in the virtual space when the state of the character is the second state;
when the state of the character is the second state, the device functions as a specific object arranging means for arranging one or more specific objects in the virtual space in accordance with second operation information by the user;
The specific object is different from the character,
a time period from when the specific object is placed in the virtual space in response to the second operation information by a first user to when the specific object is removed from the virtual space is shorter when the character corresponding to a second user different from the first user performs a predetermined action on the specific object than when the character corresponding to the second user does not perform the predetermined action on the specific object ;
The specific object exerts its effect when an activation condition is met after the specific object is placed in the virtual space . a state changing means for changing a state of a character in the virtual space operated by a user from a first state to a second state when a specific condition is met;
a moving means for moving the character in the virtual space in response to first operation information by the user;
a restricting means for restricting movement of the character in the virtual space when the state of the character is the second state;
and specific object placement means for placing one or more specific objects in the virtual space in response to second operation information by the user when the state of the character is the second state,
The specific object is different from the character,
a time period from when the specific object is placed in the virtual space in response to the second operation information by a first user to when the specific object is removed from the virtual space is shorter when the character corresponding to a second user different from the first user performs a predetermined action on the specific object than when the character corresponding to the second user does not perform the predetermined action on the specific object ;
The specific object exerts its effect when an activation condition is met after being placed in the virtual space .